My Week - #11

 

DATE:  September 5, 2025

WEATHER:  Calm now but we had a big storm come through yesterday afternoon - severe thunderstorm warnings, tornado warnings. No problems but for a few minutes it was intense. Today we have another storm coming later this afternoon - hopefully not as intense. 

READING:  The Secret Keepers of the Old Depot Grocery by Amanda Cox

BIBLE STUDY:  Still plugging away with my Gospel of John study. 

LISTENING TO:  The New Testament NIV version narrated by David Suchet. Just began Revelation.

SO THANKFUL:  Safety from the storm yesterday. I'm so thankful that God holds me in the palm of His hand.

PRAYING FOR:  My daughter-in-law and her mom who are on a road trip to Colorado for some mother/daughter bonding time. I'm praying for safety and no health issues. Also praying for my son who now has charge of the care and feeding of several cats.  Praying for my health issues, for our country, for Israel. 

HIGHLIGHTS:  I have a new great granddaughter - Elizabeth Grace - born on the 3rd of September. Not many details known yet and I'll have a photo here eventually. This makes 5 for my granddaughter - 1 boy and 4 girls!

I had a great lunch with my friend Barbara on Wednesday. We went to Cracker Barrel to see what all the fuss was about. No change at this location and it was as crowded as ever. We always have a great time when we're together.

FOR A GIGGLE:

A PEEK INTO MY LIFE:

Some protein shakes I just discovered. The vanilla one takes like melted vanilla ice cream. 15 carbs but a great way to supplement protein.

QUOTE:

A FINAL THOUGHT:  A suspect many of us are going through a lot right now. Sometimes the things of life feel overwhelming. Sharing with a friend is helpful, especially one who will pray for and with you. I've been reminded lately that despite what people may say to me or the circumstances that surround me, that I am held by my Heavenly Father who loves me and sees the beginning to the end. I can worry and fret which does no good at all. Or I can remind myself that I'm held by the same hands that calmed the storm and carried the cross.

Friday Fave Five - March 21

 

Hello, everyone! Yesterday we celebrated the first day of Spring. And then we shivered in low 30s for an overnight temp. Somehow the temperature person didn't get the memo! Nevertheless, here are the things I have been thankful for this week. Thank you, Susanne at Living to Tell the Story for giving us this spot every week. Come join us!

1. Gift from a friend: This was a lovely surprise. I was gifted two Lebkuchen tins from my friend, Dianna. One belonged to her German friend's grandmother. Treasures for sure.

The top of the largest one. So pretty!

I looked up Lebkuchen and per Wikipedia, Lebkuchen are honey-sweetened German cakes, moulded cookies or bar cookies that have become part of Germany's Christmas traditions. They are similar to gingerbread.

2. Safety from the weekend storms: This past weekend was a horrible time for some of the country! Tornadoes ripped through Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana. I was under a tornado watch for most of Saturday night and my two sons were under warnings. Thankfully, although a tornado funnel was detected in the air about 45 minutes from me, we had no issues. Just heavy rain and wind. 

3. Healing: The cyst that I've been treating on my back seems to be healing finally. I know I'll have to have it looked at by a doctor in the future but for right now.... things are okay.

4. A meal out: Thursday evening I had dinner put with my son and his mother in law. My daughter in law and her sister have been in the Outer Banks this past week so those of us not lucky enough to join them ate great meal. We ate at the Stock and Barrel, a fantastic burger place on Market Square in downtown Knoxville. Great food and great company

5. Good sleep: I have nights when I either can't get to sleep or wake up during the night and can't drift back to sleep. This week, I've had good sleep nights, and it makes world of difference in my muscle and joint pain, as well as more energy.

Hoping you have a great weekend. 

photo courtesy of Shutter Stock

Friday Fave Five - a bit late

 

I'm a bit late to the party this week. It's been cold, colder this year than I remember other Januarys. But in the midst of ice and cold, there is so much to be thankful for. Some weeks I have to think a bit to list my blessings here. This week, it's come easy. Thank you, Susanne at Living to Tell the Story 

 for giving us this spot each week. Come join us!

1.  A fall. . .not a blessing in itself but a blessing that I came out of it relatively unharmed. A slip or a trip, I can't remember which, but I fell heavily on some concrete. My only injury was a skinned knee and some abrasions on three of my fingers. I'm sore today - this being the third day afterwards but not at all what I thought I would feel. 

2.  Breakfast and kitties. . . Thursday, I took my daughter in law to the vet to drop off the girl kitties to be spayed. Thankfully, she's been able to find a non-profit that does this for a minimal cost. All four girls were dropped off and then we headed for breakfast. I always enjoy spending time with my daughter in law. She is a treasure and a blessing - and the one who helped me up off the street when I fell. The kitties came through the procedure doing well. 

3.  All Creatures Great and Small. . .  

photo courtesy of PBS website

I've read all of James Herriot's books and watched the 1970s TV series. This new adaptation is, to me, even better! Season 5 premiered last Sunday and I was very excited. The vets and Skeldale House are in the throes of World War 2, and it promises to be a great season. It can be found on PBS - for me Sunday's a 9 pm. Since I subscribe to PBS Passport, I can watch it any time.

4.  Upcoming trip to Florida. . . In less than a week, I'll be winging my way to Florida for a few days of family time. My extended weather forecast has it with possible rain and snow on the day I leave so I'll be glad to go south for some sunshine. With that said, Florida is having unseasonably cold weather as well. I'll just be thankful to be with my daughter and son in law before they head to France.

5.  Lunch with a friend. . .Barbara and I had a delightful lunch yesterday at Red Lobster. It was fun to catch up since Christmas and share laughs. I think it's amazing that some of my best friends I originally met on a blog. Barbara and I visited each other's blogs while I still lived in Florida and since she was living in the same area I was moving to; it was just natural to meet up that first time. What has continued is a wonderful friendship (and great lunches!)

My thoughts and prayers are with Southern California and the out of control wildfires. The winter storms this year have also been brutal for parts of our country. Sometimes it's hard to get online and find any good news. But it comes - like the cease-fire between Hamas and Israel and the soon release of the hostages. And every day, I hear of people donating campers to those living in tents in NC and that area.

It all reminds me . . . .

Have a good weekend! 

Weekly Chat - September 30

 

TODAY:  September 30, 2024

WEATHER:  Cloudy with some sprinkles. It's 70 degrees at the moment. Rain and wind most of the weekend from a tropical system but all is calm now.

READING/LISTENING TO:  Body of Proof by Jeremiah J. Johnston (on audible). If anyone is even a bit skeptical about the truth of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, this might convince them! Also reading through the Book of Revelation using a commentary by David Guzik. 

VIEWING:  I'm going to begin watching seasons 1-4 of All Creatures Great and Small in preparation for season 5 being released in January.

KNITTING/CROCHETING:  I've been crocheting a blanket but need to find some specific colors of yarn to continue.

THANKFUL FOR: All my family and friends in Florida and western NC are present and accounted for. The Florida bunch all live along the west coast of Florida but were far enough inland to be spared any problem. The remnants of Helene didn't cause any significant issue for me in eastTennessee. 

PRAYING FOR:  There are so many things to pray for - the upcoming elections, our country and the needs of family. My heart has been breaking to hear of the damages and flooding and loss of life that Helene left in her path. I've been to Asheville and the surrounding area, and I can't imagine what it's like there now. 

A PEEK INTO MY LIFE:  

Taken last Tuesday at the parking area of Clingman's Dome

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

QUOTE:

SCRIPTURE:

"God is our refuge and strength. A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be moved, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though its waters roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with it swelling."

Psalm 46:1-3

Wishing everyone a good week.

Friday Fave Five - September 27

 

I'm writing this about 11:30 am watching the wind. Today, we are supposed to be feeling the remnants of Hurricane (now Tropical Storm) Helene. So far, it's just raining and breezy. Latest update from the National Hurricane Center (11am) has it just crossing into Tennessee, but the worst of the weather seems to be east in North Carolina. My heart breaks for those in Florida. Being a former Floridian, I feel it acutely whenever things like this happens. My family and friends along the Gulf coast are all doing fine. I'm very thankful. 

But, enough of the weather report. I'm thankful to list the blessings that have come to me and am joining with others here to share the things that make life a blessing. Come join us at Living to Tell the Story. Thanks, Susanne for hosting this!

1.  Protection: This past week I had a blow out of one of my tires. It didn't happen while I was driving, thank goodness and it was a rear tire which is less dangerous, I was told.

My left driver's side now has a new tire and more will be coming!

2.  Family safe: As I mentioned earlier, my Florida family and friends are all safe from Hurricane Helene. No power outages or flooding in their immediate area. They all live along the Florida west coast (Venice, Sarasota, Tampa, and inland Citrus County) Very thankful for their safety but so sad to see the damage in places I know so well.

3.  A trip to the mountains: My son was off work this week and so we took a trip to the Smoky Mountain National Park on Tuesday. Fall colors are just barely making themselves known in the foothills but in higher elevations, ywe could see some pretty yellows and a bit of red. We stopped at the parking area at Newfound Gap where President Franklin Roosevelt gave his speech to open the Smoky Mountains National Park. Then it was up to the Clingman's Dome parking area where we ate our picnic lunch. For those who aren't familiar with Clingman's Dome, it is a half mile hike up a very steep incline to the top of an observation tower where you can see several states. Clingman's Dome, whose name has recently been changed to Kuwohi, its original Cherokee name, is a favorite of Great Smoky Mountain National Park visitors. My son and daughter-in-law have climbed to the top. But although the hiking path is paved, the incline is quite steep, so I didn't attempt. However so that I could say I hiked at least a bit of the trail, my son and I walked to this point....

I can't really tell you just how far that was but probably not quite a quarter of the way. I was huffing and puffing as it was! But at least I can get the t-shirt that says "I TRIED" ! 

We did see some beautiful sights though. 

The Smokies are beautiful! 

4. Working on fall decor: I've been wanting to get some more autumn decor, and I found this sign at Walmart.

I have yet to get the rest out from their plastic tote, but I think I will this weekend. I'd like to get a wreath for the door and some pumpkins. 

5.  Playing with kitties: Last Sunday, I spent the afternoon at my son and daughter-in-law's home playing with kittens. They are 7 weeks old now and Momma is much less vigilant with other people's attention of them. I think she's ready to let others watch them for a while. They are adorable and all over the place. They were a bit skittish with me but one of them has adopted my son as her own special person. Here are a couple of the cuties.

Photos taken by my daughter-in-law. 

BONUS: Wednesday my son and daughter-in-law celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary. Since this guy is my last born - I officially feel old! but God has blessed me with a very special daughter-in-love and friend.

Wishing everyone here a good weekend. And if you have been affected by Helene, you are in my prayers.

Friday Fave Fives

 

I enjoy joining with others each Friday to share the lovely things I have enjoyed each week. Come join us over at Living to Tell the Story and share yours. And thank you, Susanne for giving us this place each week.

1. My granddaughter is home: My granddaughter has been in Europe for the past few months, volunteering at a youth hostel-type of facility in Austria. This has been a wonderful experience - run by Calvary Chapel and she has really enjoyed it. From there, she visited a friend in London for a few weeks and today she flew safely to JFK in New York. From there, she's flying to Nashville to visit with her sister and husband for a few days and then home. I'm so proud of her. 

2. All Creatures Great and Small:  One of my favorite PBS programs is the newest adaptation of All Creatures Great and Small, adapted from the books by James Herriot (Alf Wight). I enjoyed the earlier adaption in the 70s but I think I like this one even better. It will premiere in the UK in December but here across the pond, we'll have to wait until January. I'm excited!

3. Two week old kitties:  The little ones are now 2 weeks old, eyes open and are a squirmy bunch. Occasionally one will try to escape their momma's watchful eye. Momma has let my daughter in law pick up three of them but she's watching the whole time. Pretty soon the place will be swarming with kittens. The other cats in residence - Ziggy and Gus are not liked by Momma at the moment and so they stay clear.

4. A quiet week:  It's been a calm, quiet week. No appointments, no obligations. I've been able to relax with my coffee and breakfast, even in my night clothes. I've been very unproductive this week and it's felt wonderful. I do eventually get dressed and do the chores but I'm not in any hurry.

5. Cooler temps: It's been wonderful! It's even cool-feeling outside and I've enjoyed this so much. Next week we're supposed to have temps in the 90s again but hopefully that will end soon. We've had some nice rain as well. 

The next two weeks are filled with medical appointments, a hair cut and who knows what else. So, I have really enjoyed this week and the rest. I hope you all are having a great weekend!

Friday Fave Five

 

It's been a wild week for some! A storm named Debby is wreaking havoc along the west coast of Florida and now working her way up the eastern seaboard. Flooding and tornados. Loss of lives and homes. I almost feeling guilty during times like this to talk about my blessings. But I tell myself that even, in the midst of tragedy and pain, storms and loss, it's even more important to remember all the blessings that come our way. And so, as I pray for those out there who have had their lives turned upside down, here is what's going on in my world.

1. My family safe: I have family and friends all up and down the west coast of Florida - Venice, Sarasota, Tampa, Crystal River. All are safe. My grandson's back yard was a lake for a while, but the water never reached the house. His wife couldn't make it to work one day because of flooding in the streets. Minor inconveniences and I'm thankful that there was no damage.  

2. A good doctor appointment: I was nervous about this one. I had several elevations in my blood work last time and this time, I had to confess to some abdominal pain which my retired-nurse-self diagnosed as gall bladder issues. You know how it is with nurses - they diagnose themselves and then go to the doctor for a second opinion! It seems this time, my doctor agreed with my diagnosis but we're going to do some tests just to make sure. My diabetic numbers are much better and other concerns seem to be better as well. It's amazing what you can accomplish when you begin eating in a healthy manner!

3. Kittens!: My sweet daughter in law is the Cat Whisperer. She feeds the feral cats in her neighborhood and they love her - even if only for the food she puts out. One such momma cat has come around for over a year. My daughter in law estimates that she's had a litter of kittens about every 3 to 4 months. Lately, she showed up again heavily pregnant and so Stephanie was able to sweet talk her into letting Steph bring her inside. The plan is after the kittens arrive, that they will be adopted out and Momma will be spayed and remain a loved member of the Cook household. Yesterday after 2 days of a lot of pacing and meowing and clawing everything she could to get out, 4 healthy kittens were born. I was over there yesterday to see them, but momma is keeping them in her nesting box under a chair and has not allowed visiting hours. My son stuck my phone under the chair to get a photo of the kittens and came away with this.

The expression says it all! "Back away, buster! We're not havin' it!"

Stephanie was able to get a quick shot though soon after the kittens were born. Here is her Instagram post.

Momma hit the mother lode when she found Mike and Stephanie!

4. Lunch with a friend: Tuesday, Barbara and I had our lunch at Cracker Barrel. Lots of talk and catching up. We probably outlast our welcome because we stay a long time, but no one has thrown us out of anywhere yet! Always a fun time. As a bonus, she gave me a sampling from her garden.

I've already eaten some of the yellow squash. Thanks, Barbara!

5. A couple great books!: I'm reading a couple great books at the moment. Both came to me at a time when I really needed to read them.

This is a re-read actually. The first time I read it, I enjoyed it. This time around, it has really impacted me.

I came out of a religious background that taught an unscriptural view of

the Holy Spirit. Costi, Hinn had a similar experience, and I really relate to what 

he has to say.

I may in the future do a book review, but I still have unpleasant memories of high school book reports. So, we'll see.

My prayers to any of you affected by the storms. Have a blessed rest of the week.

Friday Fave Five

 

Good morning! It's Friday and that time of the week to transfer my blessings from my heart to here. "Praise God from whom all blessings flow". The Doxology encourages us to thank God for all the things He does for us. Thank you, Susanne at Living to Tell the Story for this space. Come join us!

1, Rain: We had rain Wednesday night. More than just a shower. We are in drought conditions here in east Tennessee and any bit of rain is welcomed. Our forecast for all next week is rain. Wednesday evening, I just stood at the window watching the rain ala Gene Kelly. I would have gone out and 'sung in the rain' if the neighbors didn't think me strange.

2. Cooler temps: Along with the rain has come cooler temps. A cold front is coming through, I'm told, and I'll take it!

3. Energy back: Being sick for so much of July, I've had no energy for anything. I did what I had to around the house and that was it. Thankfully, my energy is back and I'm enjoying puttering around the house. I rearranged some things on tables and shelves yesterday. Sometimes even small changes can lift your spirits!

4. Going through bookshelves: Parting with a book is like parting with an old friend. But I did some "wish list: shopping with Amazon and Thriftbooks.com yesterday and I'll order next week. Which means I need to make room on my almost- full shelves. I do get books on Kindle but I wanted print versions of these books, So, some decisions had to be made. I now have a bag ready for our local thrift store. It's said that "diamonds are a girl's best friend" but I disagree. It's a good book!

5. Passing things down: Seven years ago, I moved from a 2-bedroom house in Florida to a 1-bedroom apartment here in Tennessee. I began weeding things out as I packed, and I am still doing it. Yesterday I decided it was time to give away my quilt rack. It was big and took up too much space. My quilts could be neatly folded and displayed elsewhere. My daughter in law said she'd love it so it will find a new home this weekend. I'm so glad it will be a blessing to someone else.

I'm thankful that this month of not feeling well has slowed me down and I've had time to reflect on things and be thankful for even the smallest of blessings. Sometimes we need that time to just rethink how we look at life and begin to cherish the blessings we already have - a safe home, food on the table, family and friends. Wishing everyone a blessed weekend!

Fridays Fave Five

 

We're halfway through the sixth month of the year. Can you believe it? This morning, I sit down and think about the blessings that have come to me this week. Many thanks to Susanne at Living to Tell the Story. Come on over and join us! 

1.  Air conditioning: We've been having some hot days here in Tennessee, like a lot of the country so I really am so thankful that my home has air conditioning! When and I have to go outside, it's such a joy and relief to come back in where it's cool. I know Apollo really loves it!

2.  June birthdays: June reminds me what a blessing I have with family. I have 2 children and 2 grandchildren all born within 2 weeks of each other. One daughter was able to spend her birthday with her daughter whose birthday was also coming up soon. 

3.  Scripture memorization:  I have a dear friend who got me into doing this. I've tried in the past and it hasn't stuck. This time, I write my verse of the week on an index card, and it sits near my computer. 

"Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You."

Psalm 119:11

4.  Borrowing books:  I am so thankful for Libby through my local library and Amazon Kindle Unlimited who give me such a great selection of books. Libby is free, while Kindle Unlimited is a subscription service, but between the two I rarely ever have to buy a book I want to read. I really enjoy reading and this is a blessing.

5.  I'm a fitful sleeper and if I wake up during the night, sometimes I can't get back to sleep. But this week, I have had some wonderful nights of sleep. It makes a big difference with my fibromyalgia and energy when I sleep well.

Hurricane season is up and running and with several children / friends / grandchildren living in Florida, I have the  National Hurricane Center in my favorites again. I checked it daily when I lived all those years in Florida and even though I've moved to Tennessee, my habit hasn't changed. I certainly remember those days of looking at "spaghetti tracks" and predictions. 

Have a great weekend!

Weekly Chat

 

DATE: March 11, 2024

WEATHER: A chilly 29 degrees but by Wednesday it will be 76. There's frost on the windshield of my car. I'm prepared for the week though - I have my warm socks or flip flops, hot chocolate or iced tea, sweats or shorts and a t-shirt. Bring it on!

READING: "The End" by Mark Hitchcock. If you enjoy Bible prophecy, this is THE book to read). Also beginning "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austin. I've never read this classic. It's time I do.

FUNNY OF THE WEEK: 

THANKFUL FOR: The comforts of home.

A PEEK INTO MY LIFE: 

  

My mother, Halsey Jean Borst. Today would have been her 97th birthday. She graduated to heaven 7 years ago - 1 week after her 90th birthday. She was a remarkable woman, full of life and courageous in what she believed in.

PONDERING: Prayer needs for those around me and around the world.

QUOTE: 

SCRIPTURE:

Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be

content in whatever circumstances I am.

Philippians 4:11

Wishing you a wonderful week full of possibilities and good things. 

Friday Fave Five

 

Just when I thought I would use a spring FFF image for this week, it's turned cold again. When I lived in Florida, we had a saying - "If you don't like the weather, wait a minute and it will change."  I think that's been the case everywhere, hasn't it? Nevertheless, it's the day of the week when I get to list my blessings here on my blog courtesy of Susanne at Living to Tell the Story. And I get to read about all your blessings too! Come join us!

1. I finally have a knitting project going again. My daughter and I are knitting a scarf together.

The pattern:

Photo courtesy of 

The yarn:

Progress so far:

This project is going to teach me all sorts of skills including yarn overs (which makes those eyelets).

2. A visit: On Wednesday, I had a visit from my brother and his wife. This was such a blessing. They live in Florida and we've just not been able to connect. We realized that the last time I saw my brother was at my mother's memorial service almost 7 years ago. We've tried to connect in the past, but it just didn't happen. This week, they were vacationing in Gatlinburg, and it finally happened.

He is my baby brother, who towers over me now!

It was a short visit, unfortunately. but we're going to make sure we get together again sometime this year. 

3. A new Bible: I've wanted a wide margin Bible for quite some time but had been deliberating over what translation to choose. I finally decided on the Legacy Standard Bible, which is a bit of an update from the NASB 1995 edition. It is advertised as one of the closest word-for-word translations from the original text that we now have.

4. My annual eye exam: My annual eye exam today. All went well. Only a small change in my lens prescription. I have mild cataracts which don't require surgery yet. Done for another year.

5. Surprise visit from my older son: Jim happened to be in the area, so he dropped in. What a nice surprise. We live 30 minutes away from each other but don't see each other very often. It was wonderful to chat and catch up.

BONUS: Yesterday we had a storm come through. Lots of rain and wind. There were reported wind gusts of 75 mph not far from me and near where my oldest son lives, there were downed trees and power outages. Except for rain pounding the window for a few minutes, my area was fine. 

 

Wishing you all a very pleasant weekend coming up. I think we're all ready for spring! 

Friday Fave Five

 

How many of you have NOT seen snow around your home this year? I suspect very few. My area of East Tennesse was hit Monday with (at last count) almost 10 inches of snow. That's unusual for us! Along with snow, we've had below freezing temps with minus zero wind chills during the night. Needless to say, I've not gone anywhere this week. 

Even inclement weather couldn't stop the blessings that have come my way this week. . Let me tell you about a few. Thank you, Susanne at Living to Tell the Story

1. Peaceful stillness: There is just something about snow fall and the quietness and stillness that it brings. After the worse of the snow fall Monday evening, I stood outside and breathed in the peace and quiet as well as the crisp, fresh air. Granted, it's caused a lot of disruption with icy roads and multiple businesses and schools closed. But, to me, who hasn't needed anything or to go anywhere, it's given me time to slow down, read, knit and pray.

2. No power outages: There have been some who've lost power for a few hours, but I count my blessings that my power has not been disrupted. In a home that depends on electricity for cooking and heating, I'm very thankful.

3. Knit project done and another one started: The fingerless gloves, after a false start and having to change yarn, is now complete. They aren't masterpieces and they are a bit big but they're warm and that's what counts. 

4. Candles: To me, a candle adds such cheer to a rainy, cloudy, snowy day. I've kept one going beside me all week. This week, it's been my wisteria-scented candle from the Mitford Museum Gift Shop. It's named "Cynthia" after Father Tim's wife in the Mitford series by Jan Karon. 

5. Blessings in disguise: Even inclement weather has a silver lining. My younger son has been very sick with a cold. This is the guy who will report for work even with his arm half hanging off! Because of the snow and icy roads, his work shut down, giving him time to rest at home. The special services at our church this week have also been called off. That's disappointing but that has kept him from having to play for praise and worship. You have to see the blessings in everything, I suppose.

Next week, we will be back to seasonal temps so there should be a thaw beginning on Monday. Tuesday, I'll venture out and get the car going and by then I'll need to go to the grocery store. Prayers and thoughts for you who are dealing with these winter storms. As far as Tennessee, we're ready for spring!