The Mighty Power Of God

"We sing the mighty power of God,
That made the mountains rise,
That spread the flowing seas abroad,
and built the lofty skies,
We sing the wisdom that ordained
The sun to rule the day.
The moon shines full at His command,
And all the stars obey."

I was singing that beautiful hymn in my mind this morning, while I listened to the wind barrel and scream through my neighbourhood. I woke peacefully before my alarm this morning, and just relaxed in bed, listening to the "Mighty Power" and thought of the strength of Our Lord, of His mercy and quiet Peace. Then there was a sudden BUMP! I ignored it. How He can make the great winds, and the slight rustling breeze in the summer, and the huge snow storms that the Northern hemisphere has received this last week. We in Southern Ontario are now experiencing a fast melt, and this morning, high winds. Who knows what Our Mighty Lord has planned for next week!



My oldest son and his family came in from out of town on Christmas Eve, and had to leave after a too short time!! Still, I got to play a duet on the piano with my granddaughter, Izzie! Who knew "O Little Town Of Bethlehem" had such an intricate bass? Still, we had a wonderful time opening presents, and just playing and visiting. My joys and blessings abound this year, and I am grateful for all the blessings He has bestowed upon me.

My mind goes to a friend and his wife on the other side of the world, who are suffering the sudden loss of their only daughter. Better times will come, and I know they cannot see it now. I have some other friends who have lost their children, to disease and accident, and it doesn't matter how it happens, we all know children should outlive their parents! One of my girlfriends, who lost her son to a car accident eight years ago, came to my house last evening, after visiting the cemetery; her son's grave had sunk, and the marker was now under water due to the fast melt, she was heartsick. She said she felt like it just happened, and her son had just died. Feelings come and go, but I know, she knows, God will continue to comfort her.

I pray I never know that pain, but I know that whatever happens in my life; God will be there to hold and comfort me. He has been the only constant in my life, and will continue to be there for me. Even when He is silent, He is there!

I hope and pray that you all had a Blessed Christmas, and will have a wonderful, God Filled New Year!

P. S. :The BUMP was my garbage can which blew over in the wind! No big deal, in comparison
to what it might have been!


Phoebe

Off And Running For Christmas!!

These are called Topsy Turvy Dolls. They were made by slave mothers for their daughters who wanted to play with black dolls. As you can see, the skirts are reversible, so the skirt can hide the doll the slave owner didn't want to see. I add the notes to each doll to tell their story. I wanted to finish these dolls before my friend came to Canada this winter, for her to take home with her.

Now that all my "prerequisites" are done, I am charging full steam ahead into Christmas! Unfortunately, Scary is not ready for the holiday! Too many changes have been made in the last three weeks! First, one Friday in late November, the kitchen table had to be replaced, not fun for a cat who likes to be in charge of the house. Second, the following week, when I opened the back door, a local feral cat tried to run in the house! It didn't succeed. Scary screamed, that horror movie ear-piercing cat scream. Within a week there was trouble with the locks on my front and back doors. It was solved with some lubricant, but there was a delivery man, Paul and his worker who tried the door, and when I got home, I was at the front and back door before I finally got in. Scary screamed again just like the first time. Since then, she has been very touchy about everything in the house.

Last weekend, we set up for Christmas, which means changing furniture around, as well as the tree, and other decorations, and she was still miserable. Now, even though things are relatively calm, she is still very touchy. I am open for suggestions! She eats and used the litter box as usual, and doesn't seem to be in pain, just miserable! My girlfriend has suggested a cat psychiatrist, and tranquilizers! Another friend has suggested rum! (I don't drink, but she says it's worth a try, does she mean for me or the cat??)

Bye for now, and pray for me!

Phoebe

Finished the Painting!!!

I did it! Finally, I finished the painting, now I just have to finish some dolls I am making for a friend, and then we can set up for Christmas!



The cove in the painting is on the Detroit River in West Windsor off Russell Street near Brock, if your around and want to find it. As you can see the Canada Geese like to stay there. Under the tree you can see the goslings, (the scene takes place in the spring).

This will be a short note today, I have lots to do!

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Phoebe

My 'Secret' Folly

This is a public answer to 'Uneek Musings' it is just too long to put in her response lines! A few years ago, after a long day at work, I picked Paul up at Maggie's house, I forget why the usual staff was off that day. On the way home I decided we should have MacDonald's for supper because I was tired. After discussion of our order, I pulled into the drive-thru and ordered two Big Mac meals with Coke.

After a long silence the young man said: "We don't have Big Mac's" Astonished at this response, I said, "We'll have Mc Chickens", after another long silence he said: "Please drive up." I drove up.

When I got to the window, he pointed to the sign and said: "This is Tim Horton's!" Sure enough, I looked up and that's where I was! I had driven past MacDonald's and slid into the Timmies drive-thru! Now, for the Americans reading this, I don't know if you are familiar with this Canadian chain, but Tim Horton's are like belly buttons here, they are everywhere! They have great coffee, donuts, baked goods; wonderful sub sandwiches and soup. NO hamburgers, and NO french fries! I quickly ordered two chicken salad sandwiches.

I looked over at Paul, he was staring straight ahead with a stone face. I said: "I drove past MacDonald's." he said "Yep." I said "You didn't tell me." he said : "Nope." Autism is wonderful. I could be assured that he would not volunteer this information to any living soul. Our chicken salad sandwiches came quickly, and I thanked the young man, and immediately left the lot.

When I got home, the phone was ringing, and I assumed it would be Maggie checking up on us. Not so!!!! It was my friend Judy, who immediately said: "What were you doing asking Matthew for Big Mac's at Timmies???"

The very polite young man who I had been too embarrassed to look in the face was Judy's grandson, who immediately before I was even out of the parking lot called to report to his grandmother!!! Judy has a large family, and they were already having entirely too much fun with this explosive information! No secret here!

I won't get into all the times Judy and I were on the road, and my sick lack of direction got us into trouble. She has too much information on my major follies!

Hope all had a good laugh!

Bye for now,

Phoebe

Closer!

What a funny time of year this is! I received an e-mail from my daughter-in-law the other day, it was pictures of that branch of my family; minus J. R., my daughter-in-law, (guess who took all the pictures) decorating for Christmas! The two of them are suited very well, I usually don't decorate until December, but when Bob was young, he was always trying to talk me into decorating early! Paul, on the other hand, has never welcomed change (one of the joys of Autism). He loves our Lord Jesus Christ, and freely celebrates His birth, but does not care for the changes in decor; wait! He loves to 'be in charge' of the nativity scene, and place the baby Jesus, on Christmas Eve. That's about the extent of the change he welcomes.

I am also in full swing with my present making/buying/preparing. The most exciting, change at this time: my painting is finally starting to come together! After looking at the blogs of other artists, I feel very inadequate slaving over my single painting, when others seem to do much more than me! When it is finally done, I will have to take a picture and post it!

Meanwhile, back at the homestead; when I returned home from work on Friday, I found my kitchen table had mysteriously broken! When asked, Paul told me: "It broke." The worker who was in charge seemed to miss what happened. It is easy enough to miss things, he will have bruises, cuts, and I'll never know what actually happened. He only reports blood, not pain or mishaps. Sometimes you just have to realize you can't protect them from everything, and as much as you try, you will never really know everything either.

Well, needless to say, that planned my Saturday! The new-to-me kitchen table and chairs was delivered on Monday afternoon. Do you ever think when you finally make two steps forward, life slips you back three?

On to happier things, as I've mentioned before, I correspond with friends from Kenya. One of my friends got a new job and has invited me to go there to visit with him and his family. All I need now is the money! One of my longest-standing dreams is to go to Kenya and participate in a painting/camera safari! He said his new job has him living on the Indian ocean. Well, if I get that far, I should be able to take in the safari too!

His cousin, whom I also correspond with, is thinking of coming here for a visit also! I've been praying I would get to meet this, my newest Sister-In-Christ! Praise God from whom ALL Blessings Flow!

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Phoebe

Remembering.....

Remembrance Day is always a thoughtful day for me. My maternal grandfather was a veteran from the First World War; and also, both my mother and my father were vets from the Second World War. My father was one of eight brothers, all of whom joined the armed forces, and my mother and her brother, the only ones in her family who were old enough, volunteered; her in the Air Force, and him in the Navy. All came home safe! What a blessing.

I was brought up in a neighbourhood where new houses were built for vets from the Second World War. As a result, most of we kids were similar ages, and all the parents had at least one thing in common! We were taught respect for the sacrifices made by our parents, and especially those who did not return. Unspoken, but present, we were also taught respect for authority, our parents, teachers, police, lawmakers, and the government. Our parents showed us that it was our responsibility to be involved, that our involvement would make a difference in this world.

That leaves to think about some sad news I heard yesterday. One of the many current events discussed when I was young was apartheid in South Africa. All the parents and young people had opinions. Back in the early sixties, when I started becoming aware of the bigger world out there, many of those opinions were coloured by personal prejudices, but there were also more open-minded thinkers. In South Africa at that time many of those who opposed the the laws of the day were banned, or if they left the country and spoke up against apartheid they were refused re-entry to South Africa.

Two of those people are musicians, and they are the ones I am most familiar with: Hugh Masekela, a jazz trumpeter, and Miriam Makeba, a singer, who was lovingly referred to as "Mama Africa". Both left South Africa in the late fifties, and after speaking out during their tours, were refused re-admittance into their own country. They spent over 27 years in exile. During that time they were both active in speaking out against the regime, and participated in the global concerts which cried out against apartheid. They also participated in Paul Simon's African Concert in Zimbabwe. When Nelson Mandella was released from prison in 1990, and it was safe, they both went home to live.

Yesterday, I heard the sad news that Miriam Makeba died after collapsing during a concert in Italy. At 76 years old, she died of a heart attack. It is my opinion that the world lost a bright star, she was not just a singer, but as one of those very special people who non violently resist against oppressive regimes, she is just as much a veteran as the brave soldiers we are honouring today.

God bless all those bright and shining stars who fight and in many cases give their lives so others may live in peace.

Good night,

Phoebe

Christmas Sale 'Season'

Wow! I can't believe it's been more than a week since I wrote. How 'life' can creep in to the things we plan! I had a birthday this week! Things were quiet, I spent the day baking (bread and rolls, not cake) and answering the phone. There was also a call from my oldest son and his family, they all sang Happy Birthday together for me. More importantly, my granddaughter told me she drew me a picture, well, there's still a spot on my refrigerator!

It's Christmas 'church sale' season again. The local Baptist church is having a 'Poinsettia Tea' with all the crafts, bake sale, etc. as well as a tea room. Also, several blocks away, there is a 'Christmas Walk Through'. Every weekend this month, one of our historical homes has opened for the public to see their decorations, and of course there will be many 'Unique Christmas Ornaments and much more' to buy. The proceeds go to their local church.

Personally, I have started adding Christmas devotionals to my usual daily study time. I feel I have to 'steel myself' for the upcoming onslaught of Christmas sale pitches. My oldest son, "Bob" works in a department store, and said they started to put up the 'Seasonal Decorations' before Halloween was over. It bothers him that all the store music and decorations have to be 'non denominational'. Isn't the whole idea of Christmas about the virgin birth of our Saviour? If you don't believe that, where is the reason for the celebration? I may be showing my age, but, I long for the day when singing praise to The Lord was acceptable in public, on the street, in a store, as well as in church!

Last night Paul was listening to an Oak Ridge Boys, Christmas Carol CD on the computer, he likes watching the colour 'swirls' that move with the music. Later in his room I could hear him singing O Holy Night a Capella. Both my boys have beautiful voices, and I feel God's great blessings whenever I hear them, WOW!! Both boys in one day, as well as my daughter-in-law and my granddaughter!

My painting is coming along, not as fast as I would like. I find there comes a time in each painting when the struggle stops, and the thing just comes together, hopefully that time will come soon!

May all God's blessings come your way, and may the true Spirit of the Season fill your heart from today until the Day itself. Have a great day, until we meet again,

Phoebe

Doing Lunch!

Yesterday was The Day! I met Maggie, my lifelong friend, and our babysitter, "Anne" whose family moved up North in 1960, at Swiss Chalet for lunch. When it has been so long and the friendship and love is pure, time is irrelevant. We were brought up three houses in a row in the neighbourhood; Anne's, mine, and Maggie's. It was my first time to see Anne since her family moved away. The three of us reminisced, caught up, compared notes on how and what we are doing now, laughed, and ate too much!

I don't 'do lunch' often it takes away from my job, which usually takes up the normal lunch hour, but sometimes, we just need to relax, visit, and freely express ourselves. It's good to share with people from our past. It can be amazing how we find our lives have crossed along the way, and we didn't even know! Maggie was talking about the time she was living in Toronto, and Anne said she was working almost around the corner from Maggie at the same time! There is a relaxing, familiarity with meeting friends from our past. Without really thinking about it we share history; values and mores from our common youth.
I enjoy and treasure all my friends, people to work with, pray with, relax with, share good and sorrowful times.

Today I received an e-mail from a fellow Christian correspondent from Nairobi, Kenya. I haven't met her in person yet, she is the cousin of one of my past-student friends. She has been reading this blog, and mentioned that she also has a life-long friend. Unlike my friend, they no longer live in the same area, but they communicate by phone. What a blessing from God! I think true friendship is just that, God's plan to help us survive. How else would we be able to stand living in this world, which can be full of pratfalls; without a true friend to help us along the way?

My most trusted friend is Jesus. I pray that every reader of this blog knows that he/she has at least one true friend, Jesus is the someone to call in the night when you can't stand it any more, or better still, someone to call when the joy is overflowing. Who do you call first? Second, I call my earthly family and friends.

Talking about calling. I just got a call from Maggie, she heard from Anne, who returned home safely, this afternoon. Praise God!

See you next time,

Phoebe

Priorities And Promises!

I have come to the conclusion that I will not force myself to publish five times a week! I want every blog I write to actually SAY SOMETHING!!! So I may publish more often, but I will try to publish at least once a week.

This week I have been faced with several conflicting priorities! There's my faith growth and enrichment, family responsibilities, work, friends, and home business. Sometimes all seem to be rushing in together! I put most pressure on myself when I make a vow to The Lord, or a promise to another person. I am not a person to take a promise lightly, I will not promise unless I pretty sure I can actually fulfill that promise.

Sometimes, however, 'the world' comes rushing in to confront us with unforeseen circumstances! Some of the circumstances this week were wonderful, others, not so much, and very serious. Mental illness is a serious problem that the world on a whole does not understand, (and I am one of them), but is very real for the person suffering. Many people I work with suffer from mental illness, (Depression is a very real part of the suffering of many older people). Aside from Depression, in my job, I have also dealt with people who suffer from Bi-Polar Disorder and several kinds of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. In most cases, the family is left to deal with the sufferer, and without proper supports, they can become very overwrought, and in time, burned out.

This week, one of my 'special friends' with Depression had a crisis. I hope and pray my visit with her was helpful, and she will seek the extra help she needs. This crisis also refers back to the article I did on "Hurtful Comments" and my exasperation on the general lack of manners, and compassion in this world today. It is my feeling that making a joke or a sarcastic remark at the expense of someone who is different, be it with mental illness, disorder or disease, is cruel. As I also mentioned in an earlier blog, my youngest son, Paul is Autistic. When he was younger, and harder to manage, I had to endure hurtful comments directed both at me (who was subjecting the general public to him) as well as to him: 'the freak'. There were also, stares and sometimes rude behaviours of people who were ignorant of the problem, and apparently, not willing to learn why he was different. Even if you don't want to get involved, a little bit of compassion and kindness go a long way!

Like I said before, there were blessings this week also! God has granted me inspiration and the time to do some extra crafts for Christmas, I have been going through what I have done in other years, and decided to do some small Christmas crocheted stockings as gift wrap, and knitted neck warmers. I was also able to do more work on my painting. I haven't got to the Canada Geese families in the painting yet, maybe this week!

I have also been talking to Maggie, and noticed her comments on the games and events of our childhood I forgot! We will be meeting with our old babysitter from 'way back when' for lunch this week! Another thing to schedule, but a most happy one! I haven't seen her for about (****) years! I have to not only remember my camera, but to TAKE PICTURES!!!!

Have a great day!

Phoebe

Friendships

Today I received a letter from a friend I met at work about eight years ago. My job is really not conducive to getting to know fellow workers. We work in our client's homes, and meet our co-workers at support meetings at the office or on the rare occasions that a client will need more than one of us at a time. Some clients (ie: Alzheimer's) require two workers to one client. That is how I met Fergie. Over the years, we forged a solid friendship, alas, upon her retirement, a little over a year ago she decided to move back to her home town.

She grew up in a small town about four hours north of Windsor. Unlike many people who move home after many years, she is having the 'time of her life'! Her letters are full of her volunteer job, family (she is one of many children), and re-uniting with old friends from her childhood. Today she sent pictures of her with some of her siblings. She is not computer literate, as a result I hear more often from my friends overseas than her! But I welcome receiving her letters, as much as I welcome composing my replies to her. It is nice to receive 'snail mail' and in order to receive you must send!

Some of my friends from overseas, I have known for many more years than her (one 38 years! He used to babysit my oldest son), most were at one time students at the University of Windsor, and moved home after graduation. These are the ones I communicate with via e-mail, and occasional telephone calls. Some of my closest friends are the ones with whom I share my faith. Many of my overseas friends are included in this grouping. We share prayers for each other, our respective families, and countries, and a close bond that cannot be explained, except to say that Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ is our greatest Love.

I also have a most cherished friend, a lifelong friend. I only have the one, we grew up together next door to each other, when we met, I was three, and 'Maggie' was two! She says we came out of the womb together, I say not quite, but close enough! As life goes, we grew further apart while we were raising our children, but closer as we grew older. Never far apart, always in touch. We have shared childhood games; in our neighbourhood, we kids liked to play "Spin and Marty", and "Annette"; Walt Disney children's feature from the fifties. First dances, rollerskating, ice skating wounds, cried together over our children, operations, injuries, marriages, family problems, health problems. Shared joys: births, marriages, triumphs and of course, heartaches, taken up defences for each other, and in short it's been her and me against the world! At every turn in the road, we have dissected and talked to death every decision and large and small event in life.

I have discussed this special friendship with many of my other friends, and most say they cannot remember anyone who has been a friend for their whole life like Maggie and me. We both cherish our special friendship, we know each other, and in some ways, are even closer than sisters, although we both have only sisters, and we love them dearly, we have a close relationship, not sisters, but in many ways better!

I am reading a book which quotes Aristotle:
"What is a friend? A single soul dwelling in two bodies." I guess that's us!

Have a great weekend, see you Monday,

Phoebe

Kittie's Playground!

Tonight my neighbour from down the street, called me to her house.
"You won't believe what's going on in my yard tonight!"
Actually, she told me about the neighbourhood kittens using her yard as a playground a few days ago. She was trying to count them, but they wouldn't stay still long enough. We figured about nine! They were different sizes, so they must be from at least two litters. It was fun watching the kittens run, play, and wrestle with each other with absolute abandon! We 'oohed' and 'aahed' and tripped over each other at her sun room window while I took pictures. We knew as soon as we opened the door they would scatter.

The kittens jumped around, and ran in all different directions. It seemed when I was ready to take a picture, all at once they would scatter. One picture didn't even have one kitten! By the time the shutter clicked, they ran off! This picture was one of the better ones, one getting ready to hop down the deck, two wrestling on the top stair, and one getting ready to join the fun! I missed the squirrel who was watching the fun and running back and forth across the back fence.

Alas! There was one unhappy being around! My neighbour's cat, Chrystal, she was pouting in the living room, head drooping and hunched over, absolutely dejected while we paid attention only to the 'invaders'. Chrystal's reaction to the kittens reminded me of Scary's reaction to my granddaughter, Izzie's visits! Oh, the invaders who come and 'take over' the personal, private domain of domestic cats!

Today's bright spot will last for a few days, I think I might go back another time with Paul, he was at the "Y" tonight, and so missed the fun. I'm sure he will enjoy the show when we next visit the "Kittie's Playground"!

See you tomorrow,

Phoebe

Back Where We Started!

I guess Canada is almost back where we started, with another Conservative minority government. Some of the players have been changed, and the totals different, but we are primarily back where we started. Except for the price of this exercise, it wouldn't bother me as much, but the voter turnout was so dismal, I wonder what would have happened if more of us turned out to let our voice be heard? One of my clients told me in Australia you are fined if you don't vote! I wonder if that is true?

Whatever the answer, I would like to see more of a turnout for elections. To my knowledge, only one of the parties running in my riding came to my house, and I didn't hear any of my clients say their building was visited. In my riding, the incumbent was favoured to win, and it turned out that way. Does that mean the others should just give up? Maybe they went to other parts of my riding, but how about getting something going in the rest of the neighbourhoods?

The timing of the election also concerns me. In Canada where we are deluged with American media, should we choose have our elections in the middle of theirs? Some of my poor clients were confusing the messages! I'm sure there are some people who like me, live near the border who had a hard time finding the message our politicians were sending out!

To a more pleasant topic! Today I saw the two clients that had big plans for the holiday. The one who went for a visit was so tired from her holiday she only wanted to sleep after her bath. She was a good tired, but very tired. The other was just bubbling over with joy at seeing her brother this weekend. They ate out.

In my family, we have always had special family dinners, hosted by one member or other of the family, the rest would contribute special foods, or condiments. Lately, I noticed among my friends, and other acquaintances, there is a tendency to visit restaurants. I guess time marches on, or maybe my family are just lovers of baking, or cheap!

So much for tonight! See you tomorrow.

Phoebe

Back To Work - Voting

Today was the day all in Canada went, not only back to work after the long Thanksgiving Weekend but to the polls! It's interesting to me how some people explain away their decision to neglect the great privilege we have in this free country to vote. Both my parents were in the service during WWII and ingrained in my sister and me, to research carefully, think about our decision and then VOTE!! I won't be able to stay up and watch the results tonight, but you can be sure that I will check the results in the morning! P. S. I voted at the advance poll!

We had a mostly quiet time this weekend, quiet company on Sunday, and a phone call from Bob, my oldest son and his family, wife, J.R. and daughter Izzie. They live in Kitchener, where there was a large Thanksgiving Day parade. I suppose Izzie was impressed, with the parade, but I think she was most impressed with another opportunity to talk on the phone! The words are not all there yet, but she tries.

The highlight of Thanksgiving Day was an altercation between one of the neighbourhood cats in my backyard, and a squirrel. There was a zig zag race, back and forth across the yard, before the said squirrel ran up the tree. The cat did not follow, but after the altercation, one of the babies came out from behind the tree. Question answered. The squirrel had gone to the wrong place at the wrong time and was soundly warned off the premises! Scary missed that one; I don't know how, she is usually up on all the drama the local outside cats afford.

My neighbourhood is overrun with feral cats, who propagate often. Our local Humane Society is doing their best, but funding is low, and the cats are very busy! Scary will sit outside the windows and watch their every move. Sometimes, they get brave while she is at the door (in the warm weather) and come up to the porch, Scary doesn't like that, I guess she knows I can't take them all in! We don't allow Scary outside, there are just too many cats, and I am afraid she might catch something from them.

I haven't seen all my clients yet, since the holiday, I will see the rest tomorrow, but the times seem to be quiet. The one doing the visiting, and the one receiving a visitor, I will see tomorrow. I hope and pray that your holiday was wonderful, and that you spent it just the way you wanted. I was up for peace and quiet and an opportunity to get caught up on some rest, and a little work around the house. I had a good time.

See you tomorrow,

Phoebe

The End Of Week Two!

Today was a good day. Two of my clients were busy planning for the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. One was packing to visit her sister for the weekend, and another was expecting her brother's visit for the holiday. It was good to see them involved, with some of my people, all they do is sit, watch television, or listen to the radio. They either cannot or will not get out of the house. If their family doesn't make an effort to engage them, they just sit alone. It's good for the soul to keep in touch with family and friends.

Personally, sometimes I feel I get too involved with my projects, and I forget to keep in touch the way I should. The painting is going well, and after the 'Christmas music' incident, I have been getting my things together, to plan for the holiday, including the presents. I don't send many cards, but I like to send some 'special' cards with small books or music suitable for the occasion. I usually send these to close friends or relatives from out of town. I will be thinking, and going through my craft books also. Every year I like to do a project of small gifts for some of my older, 'special' friends!

One year I made refrigerator magnets shaped like a teapot, they had a little poem on them and a tea bag, with an offer to have tea; each at our own home on Christmas Day at three o'clock. Most are still on the refrigerators! Another year I made small stuffed cows. They went over well also! So now it's back to the craft books! When Paul is in a good mood, he will consent to help, he doesn't really care for crafts, so he usually tells me "You're on you're own!"

I'll see you on Tuesday, I'm taking Thanksgiving off!

Phoebe

The Best Laid Plans!

Well, it was beautiful today, after work, I looked at my garden, which needs to be put to bed for the winter, and my long grass, and said to myself, "It can wait!" I was just too tired to go out there today! Work was good, and things went well at home, but I just felt tired today. The weather calls for clear for the next several days, so I have time to go out.

Sometimes, we just have to stop and rest, "smell the roses", read, paint (that comes after the blog), catch up with friends, write letters, in other words, live our life. I have learned through the years to listen to my body, and obey it's promptings. I find if I push myself when it's not necessary, (I will push myself to go to work, take care of my children, or honour promises), I will either burn out, get sick, or make mistakes.

Now that I think of it, maybe it was the Christmas music! One of the people I saw today will play Christmas music all year long! She just loves to hear it, and today was no exception, she just had it going like it was the week before Christmas! She says Christmas music makes her happy, and is soothing to her soul. When I hear this music, I think of holidays past, my childhood, when my children were young, usually happy, magical times. Maybe that's why I didn't feel like doing the yard work today!

So, it's a short blog today, I will spend some time with my painting.

Have a great day, and see you tomorrow.

Phoebe

God's Plans

How was Wednesday? It was a little hectic for me today, but as usual things worked out and everything essential got done! It's amazing; I like to pray that God's Will be done in my life, and then plan for every little detail; but, when God shakes things up, as I asked Him to, I am surprised! As usual, His results are the best!

I have come to the conclusion that when I plan anything, it should be considered a fluid account! I'm not always as graceful as I try to be when things don't work out as I planned, but I like to think I'm getting better! I can only believe that God is intervening in my plans! I know this because, when my way does not work out, I am usually saved from something, or am blessed by a new idea, or way of doing things.

I don't think anyone can live to be an adult and have everything work out as originally planned, but if you think about it, even the most devastating thing in your life can be a blessing in the long run. After my marriage broke up, I couldn't breathe, and I thought it would be the end of my life. But God stepped in and helped me put my life back together. After my son was diagnosed with autism, I didn't know where to turn; every time in my life I didn't know where to go or what to do God has been faithful, and showed me a new way of doing things, and a new way to go on.

Hopefully, after work tomorrow, since we have a good weather report, I will get some gardening done for the year end! Today was a little soggy! I did get some more done on my painting after dinner. It is starting to look familiar.

See you tomorrow,

Phoebe

Finally--Painting!

I finally got to meditate and do some more work on my painting! After Sunday's nature walk, I was motivated and inspired to continue a painting I started before this work on the blog! It is a close up of one of the coves we visited on Sunday. One of the things I love about painting over photography, and I love photography also, is that in my paintings I can move things around for the sake of composition, or delete things I don't want in the painting.

There is an interesting tree by the cove with the Canada Geese. Gnarled and misshaped trunks interest me, and to my mind, this is a beautiful tree. I took several photos at the cove last spring, when there were goslings with their parents milling around the area (on Sunday everyone was all grown up and healthy). I hope to finish the painting soon (at my speed, maybe a month or so). I will be doing a close up of the scenery in this case, because I'd rather not show the buildings in Detroit, I feel they will harm the serenity of the scene. I know the case could be made for showing the contrast of serene beauty near the big city, but I have chosen my path for this work.

This week I will be closing my garden; the first frost will be coming soon, and the time has come! With any luck, I will only have to cut my grass one more time this year! Are you ready for Thanksgiving this weekend? I found my door decoration while I was up in the attic getting our winter coats today, YIPPEE that's how far I got!

My oldest son and his family probably won't be down until Christmas, so unless I decide to have company, it will be a quiet holiday. I'm sure several pictures will come via e-mail after the holiday, I guess long distance families are the way things are now days. I do miss not having them close by, especially since my granddaughter is so young, she is only two and a half years old, and I know I am missing all her fun 'firsts'. The last time I called them she answered the phone with "Hiaaa Grammaaa".

Well, It's getting late, and my day starts early, have a good night, and I'll see you tomorrow!

Phoebe

Walk In The Parks

On Sunday afternoon, my neighbour and I decided to take advantage of the clear and not-too-cold weather. This summer has been busy with personal projects, and we decided to take some time to refresh and renew our spirit, and in my case at least, much needed relaxing aerobic exercise! Sometimes you just have to get out of the house, and meet God in His Playground! There are many places around West Windsor to commune with nature. My favorite is Ojibway Park which is not the closest, but it has several trails, some short, some longer, some are paved for wheelchairs, and there are streams (when the water level is good) and foot bridges.

Yesterday they were hosting a children's outing. As a result, we heard more birds than we saw, and the usual inhabitants (deer, rabbits, etc.) had left long before we arrived! We were, however, able to enjoy the trees, grasses, and the season. Some of the trees were turning, and the grasses and flowers were just starting to change. I always marvel at the tree canopies when I look up! The sky peeks through. The uppermost branches kiss the wind. I just think about the power, the love, and the provisions that God has made for us in this world.

Since we desired some quiet, we went to Tim Horton's for some lunch, and discussion of our next destination for the day's nature trek! After another false start, we ended up down by the Detroit River, and explored a couple of small coves, one with a large population of Canada Geese, and the other the most beautiful rock formations just off the shore! On one, grew a weeping willow tree! As usual, I forgot my camera!

After about three hours of wandering around, we went home, me to get supper ready before Paul came home from his weekend away, and my neighbour, to her own business at home! Scary was comforted when Paul returned and grabbed her and carried her around for a while. All is now right with her world!

As I sit here now, I think of all that my God has done for me! I have two wonderful sons, daughter-in-law who has given me a granddaughter, a sister, and niece and nephews. I grew up in a loving home, with a supportive extended family. I have health, a roof over my head, live in a safe and peaceful country, I have a job which helps to supply provisions for food, and shelter for the winter.

Most importantly, I have the opportunity to visit 'God's Playground' and see the miracles that abound! No matter where we live, we can visit there, each country, or region of this wonderful world has nearby places where we can see the power of His Workmanship! Be it mountains, sea, lakes, desert, icebergs, wherever we are, so is God's work!

Hope you had a blessed weekend. See you tomorrow!

Phoebe

Ah Friday, My First Week!

One whole week! So far so good!

Today, work was good. I saw three clients, and all were doing okay. I was able to help one lady do some organization of all her 'stuff', actually, in her case only some of her 'stuff'. It seems that when we get older, it is very hard to give up possessions. In some cases, when people have to move into smaller homes, or apartments, it is hard to make such decisions. Hence, I go to some very crowded places!

"Oh, so-and-so gave me this, it is precious. That belonged to my husband/daughter/mother." All I can do is to just help them find places to put their 'stuff', shut my mouth, and most of all, listen to the stories. After all, my time is coming! With God's grace, I will live as long as my clients.

I have so much fun listening to the stories, the trip across the Atlantic from England during the First World War, escape from Germany during the Second World War, depression stories, so many lives, and wonderful stories! Maybe I should be paying them for my further education!

I live in a very historical part of Windsor, Ontario, known as Olde Sandwich Towne. In this place, originally, there were the First Nations, then, the French, English, and finally, American slaves escaped here from the south. In the twentieth century, Olde Sandwich welcomed people from all over Europe, and many other continents. I love learning more about our rich history, and participate in our local celebration every September. Many of the buildings in this area also have historical significance. Maybe more about that another day!

In the meantime, Scary, the cat is officially depressed, and made herself busy, eating my hair, and pulling it. My girlfriend's cat sits in her lap, quietly, and sleeps. Ours likes to eat and pull my hair after I wash it! Is that called "personality plus"??

Well, see you on Monday!

Phoebe

The Dance!

Today was 'the day of the dance'. About once a month, my son "Paul" goes to a weekend respite, it gives both of us a rest from each other. Unfortunately, the cat, "Scary" knows she is his cat, not mine. She wants to know where he is at all times, and after four years, she hasn't figured out that he returns from these visits.

Every time Paul pulls out his duffel bag to pack, Scary crawls in, at first it was with feline stealth, but lately, she will dive in. Removing her from the depths of the bag is usually a struggle. I tried to pack around her, but she just crawls further in the depths of the bag. We will let her stay in for awhile, but the time usually comes when she has to be physically removed from the bag! Claws out! Clinging to the ends of the bag! That's Paul's job, not mine!

The last few months, we have taken to putting the bag out in the morning of 'packing day' she will then jump in, although this morning, she sniffed around it, and tested several avenues of entry, before finally climbing in. After she has calmed to the idea of it being in the living room , usually by late afternoon, it is free for us to start packing. Today, although she had left the bag, we still had to contend with her close supervision of the whole event.

The weekend continues with a depressed cat, culminating with the 'joyful return', well; as close as it gets with a cool cat; on Sunday evening!

See you tomorrow!

Hurtful Comments

Just what is it with the world anyway? Is it me or (and I hate to say this) but are people more cruel with their comments now than thirty (okay forty-five) years ago. Maybe I was just oblivious to what was going on around me when I was growing up. As I write this now, there are election campaigns going on in the United States, and Canada. The politicians on both sides of the border are guilty of this practice.

It seems people now think in order to make people choose one, he/she feels the opponent must be humiliated, undermined, and in some cases personally destroyed. I don't know why the opponents cannot just accentuate their own platform without making personal destructive comments. I am also concerned about how some prognosticators use dismissive comments toward their opponents. Just because the opponent is from a smaller party, it doesn't mean they cannot have great power if they are elected. We have seen that in Canada. Even more important in my view, not one human being should be dismissed as not important, in a democracy, every person, even in a minority party, has the right to be heard.

Why I have jumped on my soap box today; I had it brought to my attention that this practice has been filtering down to the general population. Where are our manners? How many people give seats in buses, or waiting rooms anymore? When you pass people on the streets, what kind of language do you hear in conversation? Are sales people, wait people, bus drivers, office workers polite to you? I find sometimes okay, sometimes not, and I will remember the not.

I am a 'people person', it is a part of my job to think of how the people around me are doing, and to help when I can. Maybe we should all think of others a little more, before we run off at the mouth, make a gesture, or, dismiss an old person who is a little slow walking, or having trouble getting on or off a bus.

Well, there's my blog for today, I hope my frustration didn't get you down, maybe I gave you a challenge for today! See you tomorrow!

Time Management

Well! If I am going to continue this, and I have decided to do my best, I am going to have to re asses my scheduling! Since I have started, I haven't done any painting! I have to go to work, do a certain amount of housework, and errands, I also have other regular necessary elements to my day and week.

I quit work several years ago thinking I could spend more time with my art. WOW!! Once my friends and church members found out I 'wasn't working' I was the only one who had time to do all their favorite jobs! I had to go back to work to get more time!

I think our whole life is a balancing act. Not just women, maybe we just think more about it than men, we all have to schedule: work, family, spiritual life, leisure, the trick is to prioritize, and make room for all the essentials. As we grow older, the priorities change and the elements of the day, or schedule change.

As our families grow, there is less time needed for, say, child care, but maybe more for exercise class, crafts, or whatever our passion is! I think it is necessary to have a passion, be it, art & music, like mine, or whatever we can and like to do. I have a client who loves to do crossword puzzles. Wonderful! She is involved, and having fun.

Well, after considering my quandary, I think I will take two or three evenings a week, and devote them to my painting. Look out drop in company!!!

Daily Challenge

Today, my personal challenge was to bring some joy into at least one person's life.

My job is a Personal Support Worker. This is to go into people's homes, help them bathe, and get ready for the day: dress, grooming, breakfast, etc. Most of my clients are over 80 years old, usually very physically challenged. Sometimes, depending on what is going on in my client's life, this can be a challenge with people who find it hard to even get out of the house. Arthritis is acting up, depression sets in, family disappointments. Sometimes it is hard to say the right thing, and sometimes you can only be quiet and listen.

Today was a good day. I was able to encourage my clients, and even made one laugh, and one other smile! One lady is going through a deep depression, and wants to sleep all the time. I was able to cajole her into wanting her bath, and even dressing afterward! Many times she likes to just put on a clean nightdress and go back to bed! With another lady, I was able to tell her a humorous story, that made her laugh, that made me feel good when I know she is in pain most of the time.

Some days, it is hard to help people see humour; the pain is too bad, they might be just too depressed with their own physical situation to even want to hear. My personal feeling is that through humour, people can feel hope for the future, and lets face it. When you have lost hope, you have lost all.

Have a GREAT day!

Phoebe

Sun. Sept 28/08 Wow! Look Mom! I'm Blogging!

Well, here's today!

I didn't think I would get started this fast, but here I am! Today has been an exercise in patience, learning how to get this site up and running. My computer skills are not that strong, but I hope someone out there will read this and enjoy my future blogs. Though the weather today has been good; I should have been out in the garden, fall is fast upon us. I figure this blog will be longer when the 'snow starts flying'.

My housemates have been very patient with me, (well, not so much the cat). I live with my 30 year old son (high functioning autistic), and his cat, I'll call her Scary. Her fun today has been to run around, jumping on and off furniture, banging into doors, and 'killing' her toy duck.

I am a boomer, not quite retired, and looking forward to sharing my thoughts and feelings about this world, family, mostly people. I love people, and love to learn and explore.

This is it for my first blogg, see you tomorrow!

Pheobe