WEDNESDAY HODGEPODGE #669

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1. What's something you wanted to do this summer that you never got around to doing? 

Travel to see Amber and Dylan in Montana. My health issues kept us home. We usually go three times a year. 

However, they will be here in a few weeks. I can't wait to see them. 

2. Were you the student who sat in the front row or hid in the back of the class? If you could go back and take one high school class again just for fun, which would it be? 

Honestly I don't remember where I sat. 

I think it would be Home Economics. 

Does anyone remember that class?

3. What characteristics do you think are essential in a good teacher (this can be applied to anyone who teaches, not just classroom teachers)?

Listening to the questions that students have when they raise their hand. Everyone should be treated equal. 

4.  September 2nd is National Grits Day. Have you ever eaten grits? Are you a fan? If so how do you like yours? Would people describe you as 'having grit'? 

I'm not sure if I have ever had them. 

Looking up what "having grit'' means, I may have had that years ago but I don't seem to have it now. 

5. What's something you're never too old or too young to enjoy? 

I'm really not sure how to answer this one. One thing I can think of are dogs. I do enjoy them. 

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

Happy 45th Birthday to our son in law Dylan.

His Birthday was yesterday. 

We love you so much.

Look at the Watermelon from our garden.

WEDNESDAY HODGEPODGE #642

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1. America celebrates turning 250 years old this year. Primary cities set to lead the celebrations on July 4th are Boston, Philadelphia, New York, and Washington D.C. Other significant locations for celebrating will be Charleston SC and the 'historic triangle' which includes Jamestown-Willimasburg-Yorktown Virginia. 

Of the cities listed how many have you seen in person? Of the cities listed which would you most like to visit this year? Any plans to do so? What's one place in America you think everyone should see? If you're not American what's one place in the US you'd like to see? 

I have only seen New York in person. I really loved seeing New York but I think Washington D.C. would be nice to visit. 

2. Three sounds you love to hear? 

The voices of my family members, I like hearing an owl in the middle of the night and a crackling fireplace. Also Mark suggested hearing the car start on a cold morning.

3. Three sounds you hate to hear? 

Ambulance, Police car and Crying. I would say HELP also. 

4. February 24th is/was National Tortilla Chip Day. Are you a fan? With salsa, guacamole, queso, or just plain please? Do you like nachos? With what on top? Is there anything (besides nachos) you make that calls for tortilla chips? 

Sure, I like tortilla chips. Definitely like Queso and Guacamole. Yes I like nachos. Mainly cheese and salsa. I can't think of anything else that I make that I use tortilla chips for. 

5. We March into March with next week's Hodgepodge...what's one thing on your March calendar that makes you smile? 

Nothing on my list yet that will make me smile. I have a colonoscopy in March and who would smile about that?

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

We finally celebrated Gabby's 42nd Birthday on Friday night which was a nice celebration and a delicious meal. We also picked up a coconut cream pie but we were all too full to eat it when we got back to their house so we took some home.

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I have been having a lot of issues with my lungs lately. I saw my doctor on Monday but wrote this post on Sunday before that appointment. 

I also saw my podiatrist on Tuesday this week. I'm having way too much pain now in my ankle and have to see what we do next. Ankle surgery vs  ankle debridement. I will keep you posted. 

 

WEDNESDAY HODGEPODGE #637

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1. Ice skating, skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, playing in the snow, or a snowy walk...which winter activity do you choose? Have you done any of these activities so far this winter? 

I haven't done any of those in years. I used to like ice skating, sledding and playing in the snow. I did go skiing a few times but it wasn't a favorite of mine. However, for me, I would love to play in the snow with James. 

2. Everyone is posting pictures from ten years ago on their social media sites so let's jump on the bandwagon too. Share one photo and one thought to go with said photo from the year 2016. And maybe everyone isn't doing this, but many are and we're going to be part of the fun.

I'm sharing this photo from 2016 of Adam, Gabby, Amber and Dylan. The reason I'm sharing this one is that Adam and Gabby were a new couple and got married in 2017. Amber and Dylan were married and moved to Montana in 2016. 

Happy Birthday to Adam who turned 47 yesterday!

3. What's a trend you hope disappears in this new year?

For me it is AI. I don't like it at all. I am very concerned for the young children like James having to grow up with this. It disturbs me greatly.

4. 'They' say there's a day for everything and January 21st proves it. National Granola Bar Day. Do you like granola bars? How about just regular granola? Do you like bars of other kinds? 

I like granola bars but haven't had any in years. I used to make granola years ago. I do eat a Kirkland protein bar from Costco. 

5.  A frozen lake, a trickling stream, a raging, or a deep well...which one describes something about your life right now? Elaborate as much or as little as you like. 

I'm going to go with a deep well because of the health issues I've had. However, I have made a decision to push myself to get out of that well this year. 

I need to exercise and get stronger. I haven't been able to do much for a whole year and I'm frustrated with myself. I pray that my body will give me the opportunity to go along with me on this journey. I am not ready to give up on life. Your prayers are welcomed. 

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

WEDNESDAY HODGEPODGE #629

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1. Let's do our gratitude question first this week...what's the best thing about your home, and have you taken time to enjoy it lately? 

We love our home and we especially love that we have a view lot. There are times when I want to move because it is just to much for me to take care of. However, we refinanced during the pandemic at 3% so it would be hard to leave that. 

No, I don't believe I have taken time to enjoy it because I haven't been feeling well. I am so tired of all the issues I have faced this year. I just want me back. 

2. Do you like squash? Of the varieties listed, which one's your favorite and how do you like it prepared? Is squash of some sort on your Thanksgiving menu?? 

I don't mind squash but I rarely have it. I can't really give an answer on them. We do make spaghetti from time to time but we don't make it from scratch. 

acorn, butternut, delicata, spaghetti, zucchini, crookneck (yellow squash), patty pan

3. Last time you were 'squashed in' somewhere, or felt squashed? 

I'm just feeling squashed now because of my lung issues. I just want my life back. I'm sorry that I mention this all the time. I love you guys. If you didn't read my last post, the Dupixent messed my lungs up. This should never have happened. 

4. Have you ever played squash? What about other 'racquet sports' such as racquetball, tennis, pickleball, badminton, table tennis (ping pong)? Are these sports something you enjoy? 

I can't ever remember playing squash. I know that I did enjoy badminton and ping pong. Amber and Dylan play ping pong all the time in there garage. 

5. Something in today's society or culture that feels like a 'racket' to you? If you don't like that one, tell us about a place you've been recently where there was a lot of 'racket'. 

Most likely I would say Tic Toc. 

6.  Insert your own random thought here. 

Mark turned 74 yesterday on the 18th.

We are going to be celebrating on Saturday.

Love you so much.❤

WEDNESDAY HODGEPODGE #603

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1. May 20th is World Bee Day...what's something that's kept you 'busy as a bee' lately? 

Not too much lately, however keeping the house dusted does keep me busy and of course the never ending doctor's appointments. 

2. Do you like honey? What's something you make or enjoy that calls for honey? 

I like honey but I seldom use it. 

3. "Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body." Proverbs 16:24

What's a proverb you love, or one that speaks to you or has helped you in some way? 

The Bible is full of Proverbs, a whole book in fact, if that helps with your answer. The word proverb is defined as 'a short pithy saying in general use, stating a general truth or piece of advice'. 

Proverbs 3:5 " Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding."

Proverbs 4:23 "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it."

4. Tell us about a 'sweet' moment in your life recently that filled you with joy, gratitude, or peace. 

Actually seeing James on Friday night. We played Bunko and he was on a roll for sure. He won almost every game we played and that made him so happy. The excitement in his face is priceless when he wins. 

Also we went in and said our goodnights to him in bed but when we were actually leaving he came out and hugged us at the door. It was so precious. 

He plans on having his birthday party in San Diego in cabins that you rent and the kids can ride their bikes all around. He was recently there with his cousins. Anyway, he told Papa Friday night to make sure that grandma brings the dice! 

5. When you were a child, what did you want to 'be' when you grew up? How close did you come to that? 

All I ever wanted to me was a wife and mother, and that is exactly what I got. (Except for the six years we were divorced and I was a single mom.) 

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

James has a book that you match up the pieces with numbers on them to create pictures. He had this one waiting for me when we arrived. 

HAPPY 44th BIRTHDAY

Happy 44th Birthday to our daughter Amber today. 

Dad and I love you and miss you so much.

Can't wait to see you in June in Montana.

Have a wonderful day and God Bless You.

Love Mom and Dad

Amber with her Grandpa Ray

Some photos from summer's at Grandpa's cottage

Amber and Dylan

WHAT'S GOING ON, WHAT'S GOING ON, WHAT'S GOING ON....

We celebrated Gabby's birthday on Monday night. Her birthday was on Valentine's Day. We went out and had a lovey dinner in the town of Orange where they live. Then, back at the house, we played Bunko with James. It was so much fun. 

Amber and Dylan's dog Finley taking a nap in my favorite chair at their house. They rent now but they are in the process of buying their very first home. They live in Great Falls, MT. It is very exciting for them. Hopefully in the next few months they will be able to move in. They are actually painting the walls now. 

However, I have been worried about Dylan. For a very long time now he has been working 6 days a week to pay off some debts they have. He is an RN and those are 12 hour shifts. He works nights and sleeps all day. They have very little time together but they will reach their goal and things should be better after they move into the house. 

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So what's been going on with me lately? Lots of phone calls and lots of anxiety to say the least. My ankle does hurt but I've been able to live with it. If I spend a day doing a lot of housework it really hurts the next day. I am trying to exercise each day, which is not easy but has to happen. 

I can't be sitting on my butt all day. Sadly I can't do my treadmill. This ankle started back in November of last year. Had the x-ray December 4th. Getting appointments is the worst thing of all. I see a podiatrist on March 17th. I did however see one doctor before this one but he doesn't do this type of surgery. 

I am having cataract surgery. My first eye is being done on March 11th with a follow up the next day. The second eye is being done on April 3rd with a follow up the next day. I'm definitely nervous about it. 

Then on March 14th I am getting shots in my back and spine. Then I talk to a doctor from pain management following the shots. They also sent me for an MRI. Did I tell you how nice it is to be in an MRI machine with open sides.

This particular issue has been going on since early last year and I had an x-ray done. I have osteoarthritis. The typical steroid shots worked the first time from my rheumatologist but then months later, the second time didn't take. (Similar to what's happening now with my ankle)

Because of a missed phone call, which I never got a message for, this is the new date. This should have been done this month. This is through a Pain Management doctor that I went to because those other shots didn't work. 

I'm not sure what they are using but there are three sheets of things you can't take for 7 days before the shots and I have to be off my blood thinner for a few day, not to mention that Mark also has to drive me. I'm a bit concerned about all of this. 

Anyway, I'm  praying that these things will all go well and I can get back to a somewhat normal life again. It's been to long of a wait. Certainly plays with my anxiety. 

The one thing that I am concerned with is that the ankle doctor would want to do surgery on my ankle right away. I've waited almost 4 months, however I need another 3 months before that happens. I realize that may sound crazy to you guys but I am hoping that maybe, just maybe, we could do something else that will help for now and get surgery in July. 

Here's the deal....

1. A family wedding August 29th in Georgia. We would be seeing our Florida family who we haven't seen since before the pandemic. Also, Adam, Gabby and James might be going too so the family could meet him and Gabby. This is my sister's oldest grandchild, Amanda, and I really want to go. 

2. Next up is visiting Amber and Dylan in Montana, hopefully in May because they should be moved into the new home. 

3. Mark goes fishing every year with his brother. They generally go in June for about 10 days to Canada. A dear friend of his brother has a house on a little island and they have a wonderful time fishing. They drive there from Chicago. 

I know this is long, but this is what is going on for me at this time. So technically the ankle is the big issue here and yes, I am in pain, but I can deal with it for these special moments in our life. 

I also realize that I have to be thankful in everything, because things could always be worse.

Praise God

FYI: I was not feeling well at all on Thursday so I didn't read email comments and I didn't read any posts. Praying I feel better on Friday(today) so we can go to Adam, Gabby's and James for dinner and maybe some Bunko with James. 

WEDNESDAY HODGEPODGE #589

Thank you Joyce.

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1. Did you watch the Super Bowl? Did your team win? What's your favorite game day snack for  whatever sport is happening? 

Yes, we went to Adam and Gabby's to watch the game. No my team didn't win but I did win one the games we played with questions that we answered and Mark won the game points. I usually make queso and onion dip. 

2. What's your 'superpower'? 

I'm going to say that I keep up with everyone's birthday and all the holidays with sending cards out to family and some friends. 

3. Will you do anything special on Valentine's Day? If so do share. Any thoughts on/about this particular holiday? Share a favorite verse or quote relating to love.

We don't have any special plans at this time. I do like Valentine's Day. 

"I'm also just a girl, standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her" from Notting Hill. 

4. Are you a fan of the rom-com genre? If so what's one of your favorites? If you're not a movie go-er then what about a book you love that features a great love story? How about a favorite love song? 

Yes, I am a fan., that's mostly what I watch. There are too many to list. "Sleepless in Seattle", "When Harry Meet Sally", "Notting Hill", "The Holiday", The Family Stone", "While You Were Sleeping", " Crazy Stupid Love" and hundreds more. 

5. Let's get creative...write an acrostic using the word L-O-V-E. 

L - Loyal 

O - Overjoyed

V - Valued

E - Expressive

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

Friday is Gabby's Birthday. She will be turning 41. This first picture is from her party last year. She is a kind, loving person. Loves Adam and James with all her heart. They are so blessed to have her in their lives and so are we. 

A fun day at Disneyland.

At Knott's Berry Farm around Christmas 

with snow falling down.

WEDNESDAY HODGEPODGE #586

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1. What's a winter memory you treasure (can be from any winter in your lifetime)? 

There are so many growing up in a suburb of Chicago. However, I'm going to go with the day we brought Adam home from the hospital. He was born January 20, 1979. I wish I had the picture to share. They are in a box in the cabinets in the kitchen. Anyway, Chicago got 20 inches of snow! 

2. Tell us about the last time or a recent time you were caught up in red tape. Does it send your frustration level off the charts or is it something you've come to expect when dealing with any sort of bureaucracy?

I was going to say I didn't have an answer for this one but I think I will go with the length of time I have to wait to see doctor's. Two issues that I am in pain with and the appointments are not until March!

3. Do you eat/like fish? Do you cook fish at home? What's your favorite fish dish? Ever been ice fishing? 

I eat salmon. I do make salmon at home in the oven. The favorite thing about it is that I take smashed avocados mixed with salsa which we put on top of our salmon when it comes out of the oven. No, I have never been ice fishing. 

4. Did you watch any of the US President's Inauguration coverage on Monday, Jan 20? On a scale of 1-10 (with 1 being not at all and 10 being very very) how interested are you in politics in general? Do you follow/keep up with/ get involved with local politics? 

Yes, I watched. I would say an 8. I will probably be more interested in politics now with President Trump in office. No, I do not get involved with local politics. 

5. What's the coziest thing you own and what makes it so?

I don't have anything that stands out. I like sitting in my leather chair with the matching hassock, in our family room, with a blanket on watching TV. 

6. Insert your own random thought here.

James went to the dentist last week. He actually likes going, but that of course is probably because he hasn't had any cavities yet. Adam and Gabby definitely make sure he brushes his teeth every day.

We did celebrate Adam's birthday on Sunday but I didn't get any pictures. I don't know why! However, we had a wonderful time. We got to their house early to watch some football and we ended up playing several games of Bunko with James. Then we went out and had a wonderful dinner.

We might be going to see him play soccer this coming Saturday morning and then go to their great farmers market in Orange. 

Speaking of birthday's, my mother in law, Vivian, turned 97 on the 19th. She is pretty amazing. She is living in a retirement community. We had visited with her at the end of September last year with Adam, Gabby and James. 

This was her on her birthday.

WEDNESDAY HODGEPODGE #585

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1.  It's been said January is 'the month of opportunity, inspiration, and change." Which of the three do you need most right now? Elaborate.

I'm going to go with change. That would be regarding my health. I need help for my back issues to be taken care of. I need to see someone about my ankle and I have to have my cataracts removed. 

Things are pending on all of them and I do have appointments set up, it's just the fact that they are months out and that is frustrating. 

2. Do you consider opportunity as something that comes to you or something you create for yourself? 

I'm not sure about this one. I think it can go either way. 

3. The British Museum opened on this date (January 15th) back in 1759. Do you like visiting museums? Do you have a favorite? 

I have been to several over the years, but haven't been to any in a long time. I always liked the Field Museum in Chicago. I was also very impressed with the Louvre Museum in Paris and another museum in London. 

4. It's National Oatmeal Month (yes, apparently it gets a whole month as opposed to a single day). Do you like oatmeal? How often do you eat a bowl of oatmeal? How do you like yours? What about an oatmeal cookie? Is that a sweet treat you enjoy? 

I do like oatmeal but I forget to eat it. I haven't had it in awhile. I like it by itself but I also like it mixed into yogurt. Yes, an oatmeal cookie would be a sweet treat to enjoy. 

5.What's something useful you learned in high school?

When I was in high school they had two great classes that I believe were useful. Home Economics was one of them. I also liked a class that taught you typing, shorthand and copy machines at the time. It prepared me for my office job after high school. 

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

On Monday the 20th our first born, Adam, is turning 46. We will be celebrating with him this coming weekend. Where does the time go? Adam is just amazing, extremely kind and a wonderful husband to Gabby and a amazing father to James. We are very proud of him. 

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY ADAM!

WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH AND

WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU.

LOVE, MOM AND DAD