Sunday Citar ♥ Soldiers and Families

"Our Soldiers, civilians and their families share the burden of service to this Nation with honor and focused resolve that their time, purpose and turn in history does not happen without profound meaning. The measure of their sacrifice is found in the realization of another’s human potential." David G. White, Deputy Chief, Well Being Division "We must ensure each Soldier is equipped and trained to fight and win. We must also provide for our families. We will not be successful if we fail to care for our loved ones waiting for their Soldiers to return. We must fight for their healthcare, children, housing, and Well-Being with the same vigor we fight with on the battlefield. They deserve nothing less." SMA Kenneth O. Preston – Sergeant Major of the Army I have written about my nephew, sharing with you the pride I feel. He is an Army man, which seems impossible to me ... as just yesterday, he was a skinny little kid. My sis and favorite bro-in-law are facing good-byes, as their son prepares for deployment. So take all this pride, stir in fear, stir in bits of confusion, mix in gratitude, liberally pour in a full bucket of the unknown, then sprinkle some more pride into the pot. Shake it up. Vigorously. Add in dozens of months of separation. And the inability to touch or hug, Or go to a movie together. Or just hang out doing nothing together. And then, top it all off with war. What do you have? I am so proud of this family. Their bravery. Their sacrifice for me and for you. I have sons, but I never sacrificed this way. So I can't say, "It'll be okay. You can handle it. I did." But sending him off is like sending my own sons off. I weep with my sister. I pray. And I know that many of you understand the mixture of fear and sadness and joy and pride and gratitude that I feel. Life is an unknown. All of it. So we take each day, one at a time, loving as we can, trusting in God, and serving one another. There are soldiers out there who are serving ... standing in between the enemy and me. Between the enemy and my neighbor. Thank you. May God put a hedge of angels around you. And may you come home soon. There are families out there who are missing their soldiers. Serve those families as you can. Step into their shoes for a moment, feel what they feel, and do for them what you would like to be done for you ... if you were the one who was saying good-bye. Welcome to Sunday Citar, when we share our photo(s) ... and a quote to go along. It's rewarding and meaningful! Won't you join us? Visit Tabitha right HERE to learn more about it!

FLASH 55 FICTION ♥ NIGHT TERRORS

Intense, searing pain.

Had she bitten her tongue?

Broken a tooth ... or bone?

Thankfully, no.

In the dark, she awoke.

Kneeling on the floor at the end of her bed.

Shocked and in pain.

She’d injured herself again.

Cut her lip.

How had she leapt over the foot-board like that?

Her night terrors were intensifying.

Mr. Know-It-All hosts Flash 55 Fiction every Friday ... challenging bloggers to share a story in just 55 words.

If you decide to participate in Flash 55, be sure to let G-Man know, visit the other participants ... and see where it leads you.

The Man Rules

I'm not sharing this because I believe it ... I'm sharing it because I want women to understand how men think it is ...

The Man Rules­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­
At last a guy has taken the time to write this all down

Finally , the guys' side of the story.
( I must admit, it's pretty good.)
We always hear " the rules "
From the female side.

Now here are the rules from the male side.

These are our rules!
Please note.. these are all numbered "1 "
ON PURPOSE!

1. Men are NOT mind readers.

1. Learn to work the toilet seat.
You're a big girl... If it's up, put it down.
We need it up, you need it down.
You don't hear us complaining about you leaving it down.

1. Sunday sports. It's like the full moon
or the changing of the tides.
Let it be.

1. Crying is blackmail.

1. Ask for what you want.
Let us be clear on this one:
Subtle hints do not work!
Strong hints do not work!
Obvious hints do not work!
Just say it!

1. Yes and No are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question..

1. Come to us with a problem only if you want help solving it. That's what we do.
Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.

1. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument.
In fact, all comments become Null and void after 7 Days.

1. If you think you're fat, you probably are.
Don't ask us.

1. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of the ways makes you sad or angry, we meant the other one

1. You can either ask us to do something
Or tell us how you want it done.
Not both..
If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.

1.. Whenever possible, Please say whatever you have to say during commercials...

1. Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.

1. ALL men see in only 16 colors, like Windows defaul t settings.
Peach, for example, is a fruit, not A color. Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have no idea what mauve is.

1. If it itches, it will be scratched.
We do that.

1. If we ask what is wrong and you say "nothing," We will act like nothing's wrong.
We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle.

1. If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, Expect an answer you don't want to hear.

1. When we have to go somewhere, absolutely anything you wear is fine... Really .

1. Don't ask us what we're thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as baseball or motor sports


1. You have enough clothes.

1. You have too many shoes.

1. I am in shape. Round IS a shape!

1. Thank you for reading this.
Yes, I know, I have to sleep on the couch tonight;


But did you know men really don't mind that? It's like camping.

Sunday Citar ♥ A Soft Kiss

Now a soft kiss --

Aye, by that kiss, I vow an endless bliss.

~ John Keats

Welcome to Sunday Citar, when we share our photo(s) ...

and a quote to go along.

It's ever so much fun!

Won't you join us?

Visit Tabitha right HERE to learn more about it!

Above: daughter & her hubby

FLASH 55 FICTION

on the hard wooden bench

inside the ancient depot

she sat alone

disturbed

by the moldy smells

and the blends of noise

and textures

and disorganized commotion

like a cloud descending

she felt surrounded, engulfed

smothered

with deliberate

slow breathing

she forced calm inside

this was

her last bus ride

never again

vowed she

solemnly

Mr. Know-It-All hosts Flash 55 Fiction every Friday ... challenging bloggers to share a story in 55 words. If you decide to participate in Flash 55 Fiction, be sure to let G-Man know, visit the other participants, share your thoughts ... and see where it leads you.

Loving While You Can & Second Chances

When something is on my heart, I have to stop right then, right there, and let it out.

Yesterday, Hubby Man and I spent the day with family. We left early Sunday morning, with my dad and his wife, R, in the backseat of my Hylander, and drove about three hours north. After church, we went to the ranch home of E and MA. I'll call them that for privacy sake.

MA is my aunt ~ my dad's only sister. She is 81 or 82, give or take. My uncle died a few years back, but somehow ... by the sweet grace of God ... MA didn't have to stay alone.

One day she met E at a medical clinic -- of all places! They visited for a bit before going their separate ways. But, E, whose wife had also passed away, asked the medical personnel who that nice lady was he'd been talking with. The front desk lady saw to it that the next time they were to be there, she would set their appointments on the same day about 1/2 hour apart, and then hold E back there just a little longer than necessary ... so they could run into each other again.

Long story, short ~ actually ~ a short story short ~ E and MA married a year and a few months ago.

Yesterday I got to visit in their home for the very first time ~ and my, my my. Love burns bright. E is quite a gentleman, and as we gathered around the island in the kitchen, he said he wanted to say something.

He told of the loss of his wife ... and then expressed his gratitude to God, that he did not have to be alone ... that God had seen fit to allow MA into his life and him into her life ... and that we were there as his family to share in their love and their home.

It was so touching. I was afraid I might cry, or that, even worse, E was going to cry. But we didn't. But I could hardly tear my eyes away from E and MA. And they could hardly tear their eyes away from one another.

As we drove back home, I thought about them. The brightness is MA's eyes. She is loved. She is not having to face a sunrise alone or crawl into bed by herself at night. E is taking care of her, and she, him.

And I thought about Dad in the backseat who had been absolutely devastated when he lost Mother, but then found R. And I thought about R who had lost her husband, but then found my dad.

It was a sentimental day for me. A day of reflection and growth.

I'm thinking that life is very short ... and that we should make every day count. We don't know when we will lose the one we love ... so we'd better love them while we can. Love them as we want to be loved.

Sitting behind E and MA in church yesterday morning, I saw that love. Maybe not the same as their first loves ... but absolutely, indubitably, undeniably spectacular. I'm thanking God for the second chance he gave them, and my Dad and R, to love again.

Sunday Citar ♥ Holes in the Sole ♥ Stars through the Soul

"I met in the street a very poor young man who was in love. His hat was old, his coat worn, his cloak was out at the elbows, the water passed through his shoes, - and the stars through his soul."

Victor Hugo

I know, I know. It's a strange Sunday Citar. But I had an odd thing happen this week. I'd like to tell you about it.

One day, I knew I was going to be doing some printing ... mass printing of letters. So instead of wearing more business shoes, I wore my casual loafers. I was going to be doing a lot of walking back and forth, office to office.

So I put on these comfy, black leather loafers my sister had handed down to me a few years ago. I knew they were old, and across the ball of the feet, there was a small crack in the sole. But no matter. Who would see that?

There were no open, torn spots as you see here.



I have never had a pair of shoes fall apart, literally, before my eyes or definitely while on my feet! First, a small plug about 1/2 inch in diameter fell out. I thought I had tripped on something when I bent down to see what it was.

Alas ... it was a small piece of the sole ... which I threw away quickly lest anyone see.

A few minutes later when I was walking to the other office, the outside of the heel started unraveling from the other shoe, and the heel suddenly popped off. I could not believe it!! Suddenly, I was walking with a hitch. You know, higher, lower, higher, lower ... foot to foot.

I pulled the loafers off and went sock-footed for a bit, until lunch, when I thought I should get my shoes back on when my office mates gathered in the break area. Afterward, walking back to my office, the other heel popped off. I immediately tossed it into the trash can, briefly considering the possibility that I should drive home and change shoes. But that would have been a 25-mile round trip. There was only another three hours before the day would end.

Surely, I could deal with this embarrassment...




As the afternoon wore on, I left rubber gibbers ... or smibbers or whatever you want to call crazy rubber sole droplets ... everywhere I walked. Rubber came off all the way down to the nails, or whatever it is that holds the shoes together. More came off the ball of the foot, as you can see. It was absolutely crazy. And rather hilarious.




Well, the end of the story is that I laughed all the way home at the close of the day. It was an invigorating experience for me. I had to share the ridiculous pictures I took ... that still don't capture how bad the deal was. When I got out of the car, I stepped in a big puddle of water on the driveway because Hubby Man had washed out the garage. I laughed again.

And then I found the Victor Hugo quote ... about a poor man whose shoes had holes that let water pass through ... yet, he had stars in his soul because he was in love.

I knew this had to be my

when we share our photo(s) ...

and a quote to go along.

It's ever so much fun!

Won't you join us?

Visit Tabitha right HERE to learn more about it!

FLASH 55 FICTION

Snuggled deep under thick covers, she offered herself mercy. Making resolutions was, after all, an imperfect way to reach perfection. Tonight, it was way past her goal of "reasonable bed-TIME."

Since it was only the first day of the year, she forgave herself for being so late. She’d do better tomorrow night … or the next.

Mr. Know-It-All hosts Flash 55 Fiction every Friday ... challenging bloggers to share a story in 55 words. If you decide to participate in Flash 55 Fiction, be sure to let G-Man know, visit the other participants ... and see where it leads you.

Happy 101 ♥ Sweet Friends Award

Elizabeth Bradley at Elizabeth Bradley Bits and Bytes bestowed upon me Happy 101. I am to share ten things that make me blissfully happy. Then I’m to tag ten bloggy friends. So they might see fit to repeat history.

But that's so tough for me. I really think ANYONE who would like to pick up this cute award -- provided they share ten things that make them happy --should just go for it!!!

The world could use more happy stuff!! If you do pick it up, please link back to me so I'll know what makes you happy!

Well, here I go ...

BLISS INDUCING STUFF

1. I love waking up on a Saturday morning and discovering that I slept till 10 or 11. That's almost a never! So you can see why that would make me pretty blissful!!

2. I love it when Hubby Man brings me fresh, brewed coffee in the morning.

3. I love having little grandkids in my lap, getting their smoochy kisses, and hearing their tiny voices and important words.

4. I love getting into a really good mystery. That's hard lately, because I read all day at work and come home tired. When a great mystery captures me and I'm not too tired to read, I'm HAPPY!

5. I love when the cleaning mood hits me ~ and I start getting things done around the homefront, organizing, throwing out, or sharing.

6. I love catching a really good movie with Hubby Man, holding his hand, enjoying the moment in his company.

7. I love studying the Bible with my sisters in the Lord, learning about people who lived long ago, and how their lives changed the world. On Wednesday nights, we're doing a Beth Moore study of Esther.

8. I love going on a road-trip with Hubby and (as we're driving down the road) popping in an audio book, drinking Fresca, counting yellow VWs, and making up stories in my head about people " ... who lived long ago in that old farmhouse over there ..."

9. I love remembering happy times, my mother's big smile, the birth of my babies, icicles hanging off the roof in North Carolina where I grew up, and three nightgowns I had when I was a very little girl: yellow, blue, and pink.

10. I don't know Him as I should, but I know that God knows me. He's known me since I was in my mother's womb. And He knows all of the hurts in my life, the joys, the mistakes ... and He loves me anyway. And that makes me very happy.

Memories of "Special" Friends

Short and sweet today -- quick thoughts about doggy and kitty friends, special ones that loved us no matter what.

Even if we forgot to put food in their dish one day. Even if they accidentally got left out in the rain. Even if we yelled at them because of muddy paw prints in the carpet.

They loved us.

Do you remember the names of those special friends you have had through the years? I remember lots of them ~ probably not all of them. As a child, we had Texa -- but then discovered 'she' was he, and so he became Tex. Mimi was the first doggy the Hubby Man and I ever had. She followed us home one day. She lived a long and happy life.

Other special pets that come to mind were Smoky (cat), Smoky (dog), Patches, Lady, Buddy, Muttly, Bubba, Red, Pepper ... on and on I could go.

My sister has an adorable stuffed puppy who greets you from a bench in their foyer. Who proudly wears the collars and tags of pets they cherished through the years, and who helps bring those sweet memories to mind. How do you keep pets in your heart, or help your children remember them with happy thoughts?

Sunday Citar ♥ Secrets

No one ever keeps a secret so well as a child.

Victor Hugo (1802-1885) French poet, dramatist and novelist.

Can you believe that it is already time again!

for ...

It's time to share your photo(s) ...

and a quote to go along.

It's ever so much fun!

Won't you join us?

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FLASH 55 FICTION

Eyes closed, her tired mind floated over the day. In the dark, Mimi smiled, remembering the grandbaby in her arms. He’d seen his ma-ma and da-da hugging and couldn’t bear not being "in" the hug.

When he went, “Unnngh,” Mimi had carried him to their circle of love.

Together they embraced him ...

... and he giggled.

Mr. Know-It-All hosts Flash 55 Fiction every Friday ... challenging bloggers to share a story in 55 words. If you decide to participate in Flash 55 Fiction, be sure to let G-Man know, visit the other participants ... and see where it leads you.

WoRdLeSs WeDnEsDaY ♥ Happy Anniversary!

Sunday Citar ♥ Friend

Can you believe that it is already time again!

for ...

It's time to share your photo(s) ...

and a quote to go along.

It's ever so much fun!

Won't you join us?

Visit HERE to learn more about it!

This is a cute quote, no telling how old, from J.P. McEvoy. It hung in the home of my Great Aunt Lucile since my childhood, and now is on the wall of my sister Sarah.

Homer Simpson and Ridiculous Family Fun

It all began on May 26, 1991. We had just moved into our Misty Brook home in Austin, Texas. Relatives, especially noted would be sister Sarah and her hubby Larry, gathered to celebrate the new home, two birthdays, and our anniversary.

My nephew, G-Man, who I wrote about right here, was born on Mother's birthday. On Mother's birthday, Hubby Man and I had been married -- which I shared right here. And so we gathered to celebrate ...

I was delighted at having new tea towels from my sister. Who ever goes out and buys tea/dish towels for their own kitchen? It was nice to open that gift.

And then I opened Larry's special gift:

Homer Simpson. Whaaaaa???

But, naturally, I oooo'd and ah'd. It was so perfect (not). Thank you so much. Fact of the matter is, I never watched The Simpsons, because -- after watching it a couple of times and seeing the seeming lack of respect for parents and overall MIA family values -- I didn't watch it again. However, with The Simpsons celebrating their 20th year, I have a feeling the family is getting along better now! :-)

But ... here we are ... 2010. Nineteen years later ... I have Homer.

Seeing that I could never keep such a valuable and sentimental gift, the Christmas that followed that May 1991 gathering, I wrapped Homer up and put him under Larry's Christmas tree. Of course, laughter rocked the house when he opened his gift.

The following Christmas, I was the lucky recipient. Do you see how this has gone?

One sneaky Christmas, we had given Homer to Larry, but he and my sister had to leave suddenly before we left their house. We finished packing our bags, and I spied Homer and packed him, too. They didn't even think about it, because when they got home, they had to put away all of the stuff and tree and packages.

Homer was far from thought ... until Larry's birthday, when he received Homer.

A few days ago, I received a package from Larry and my sister. I was naturally suspicious. With good reason ...

Homer.

Collections ~ Enjoying and Then Letting Go

As far back as my memory will carry me, I've loved this painting. It hung on the guest room wall at 1501 Ocean Drive in Corpus Christi, Texas, where my family roots are. That was the home of my great grandmother and great aunt Lucile.

When Lucile moved away from Corpus, my mother inherited the painting, because she had loved it so. When she passed, it came to me.

Imagine the curiosity of a young child studying the painting. Had the little girl gone skinny dipping with her dog? How could she feel such freedom? It must be wonderful to have found such a beautiful and private place to share a moment with her 'best friend' ... to be free to sit in perfect confidence wearing not one stitch ... to whisper sweet nothings into his fur and know that he would protect you to the death. But weren't there splinters in the old bench? On and on the thoughts would tumble.

My kids worry that I keep too much "stuff." Well, since it's a New-Year tradition for me, I spent quite a bit of time clearing out some collections last week -- but not this painting. I will not clear this one out. And I have to tell you ... there are moments when I'm browsing through flea markets and thrift shops that I feel a sadness at seeing the things that have been donated or sold by family members who didn't get to know "the story." I believe family stories are important.

One son who had just seen the movie, "Hurricane Season," told me he was glad he didn't have many sentimental things -- because if something happened to his home, he wouldn't be as devastated.

My response to that? Mementos of loved ones passed on can bring such comfort ... something my kids might understand more fully when I am gone. Enjoy collections while you can; let them go when you can ... or when you must. If someone comes along and admires something that you have, make note of that. Give it to that person when the time is right.

I shall never forget what happened one day when I was a teenager. My younger sister had complimented a gorgeous brooch a lady we had just met was wearing. That lady thanked my sister Sarah ... then reached up, removed the brooch, and gave it to Sarah ... right then and there. It was remarkable. It made such an impression on me.

So I like to listen to my kids when they are around, or friends who drop by. If something I have brings special joy, I pay attention.

But ... I just can't share this painting ... not yet.

It was Lucile's. It was Mother's. For a little while longer, it will be mine. And for now, I will enjoy the memories of my childhood ... spending summers at 1501 Ocean Drive ... staring up at this painting ... and worrying about splinters and silly things.

A great way to share is through www.freecycle.org. Check it out.

Reminisce with faithful friends Love your neighbor Bubble over Burst with Joy Be amazed

As the sun sets for the very last time in 2009 ...

... may you reminisce with faithful friends

in safety & in good health.

May the New Year, 2010,

bring new life & fresh hope.

May you love your neighbor

as you love yourself.

May you bubble over

with a positive & creative spirit.

May your mornings

burst with love & joy

And may you never cease

to be amazed ... to absolutely marvel

at the little things.

HAVE A HAPPY NEW YEAR ♥♥♥ CHERISH YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS ♥♥♥ FORGIVE ♥♥♥ KEEP THE VOWS YOU HAVE MADE ♥♥♥ NEVER GIVE UP ON YOURSELF ♥♥♥ LIVE LIFE ONE DAY AT A TIME

Time with My Brother and Sister

Then ... (1956) ...

Now (Christmas 2009)

It's always nice to spend time

with my brother

and my little sister ...

L to R: Boomer, Brother, Sister

Well ... I suppose we're all boomers!

Prayer request: Please pray for my sister's hubby. He just had back surgery, and he now has a blood clot on his spine that the doctor has to clean out tomorrow (Tuesday). Please pray for him.

Angels

We were trying to remember when we bought the angel. Hubby thinks over 30 years ago, when he was in the Coast Guard and we lived in Virginia -- at FEDCO, he thinks. I simply can't remember.

But she has been our tree topper for a long time. And if we did, indeed, find her in Virginia, she has lived with us in many places, in Virginia, California, two homes in Colorado, and six homes in Texas. There were many times, I confess, that I struggled to put her back into the box.

Do you believe in angels? I do. I believe it was angels who announced the birth of the One who would have more impact on the world than any other.

I pray that you and your loved ones and friends enjoy the music, the memories, family, and love over these precious few holidays ...

... that when you are out in the crowds -- the hustle and bustle -- you will see everyone through the eyes of the Savior ...

... that if you are alone and feeling blue -- you will see yourself through His eyes and feel His love for you ...

... and that, perhaps, you will even feel one of His angels watching over you.

When I received this beautiful link ... not once -- but twice ... I knew I needed to share it with you. [Just click on it.]

Peace.

H.O. Electric Miniature Train - Up and Running - A Christmas Delight

He may have grumbled just a little bit setting it up again, but Hubby Man got the job done. I love this little train. I know it is at least 25 years old -- at least -- because when my grown sons were small, they enjoyed it at the home of my aunt and uncle.

Several years ago, it was handed down to me. The engine light turns on as it makes its way around the track, followed by a coal car, a red car, a log car, and the caboose.

Pennsylvania is printed on the sides. Anyway, it's the perfect size for our little breakfast table, and I can't wait for the three local grand-boys to see it for the very first time.

I'm not doing as much decorating this year, but this is one thing I really wanted up and on the tracks. Anyone who plays with little trains may know the length of time it takes to set up this one.

I was out and about a bit today; traffic is already getting thick out there! Let the countdown begin. FOUR MORE DAYS!!! No pressure ... no pressure.

As Helen Keller said, "I am only one; but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; I will not refuse to do the something I can do."

Nostalgia ♥ Memory ♥ Reconnecting ♥ and all of the above ...

I've been feeling very nostalgic lately.

Right around Thanksgiving, I FINALLY broke down and registered on Facebook ... certainly NOT to meet new people, but to reconnect with friends from long ago.

Imagine my surprise, my delight, at finding kids I had taught Bible classes to when they were 5th graders ... when my family moved to Australia ... all grown up now, married, with grown kids no less!

I found Hubby Man's nieces ... and then some of their kids wanted to be 'friends' ... cousins and their children ... people from workplaces years before ... it's simply amazing.

Then came the high school friends. That's when I pulled out my Senior year, high school yearbook.

Yep, I know ... it's black and white. That tells you something, doesn't it? I'm old!

Then, I started reading what some of the classmates had written:

High ideals are nothing without the ability to live by them. You have that ability, and you will live your life content that you have followed your beliefs -- maybe not always doing what you'd like to, but sure that the minute amusements you must forsake are never worth the satisfaction you will experience by relinquishing these pleasures. May you always be sure and true in what you believe, for all respect you now for it. God bless you.

That was written by a high school senior. I'm thinking my son-in-law who teaches college rhetoric/journalism, etc., might raise an eyebrow at what that young lady wrote. Pretty mature writing.

I'm realizing more and more that I missed many opportunities in high school to befriend some really amazing people. Blame it on inferiority complex. Blame it on whatever. I just hope that kids today, though they may not write as well as the example above, are unafraid of reaching out to other kids and truly connecting on the levels that matter.

One young man, a foreign exchange student from Germany, wrote:

How could I have made it this year without your "OOOH ... YOU's" to make me feel as though I was having some effect ... Although I may seem pretty irreverent at times, I'm not really that bad. You almost got me! It's been a lot of fun knowing you this year, and I wish you all luck and happiness in Texas. PS -- Tell your father he gave a real inspiring Bac. Service. Love, JR '67 "UberAlles!

That guy was probably the most brilliant student in the entire high school, and we bantered over many things, mostly about faith in God. He claimed he did not believe -- and I 'almost' had him. I doubt that. But guess what? He's one of my FB friends now. All grown up.

Many of my high school classmates have died ... no, not from old age! But from cancer. Vietnam. Auto accidents. Diving accidents. Some of those kids wrote wonderful things in my yearbook. And they are gone now.

And I am here, blessed beyond measure, to be alive, to have children and grandchildren ...

When I graduated, I moved from North Carolina to Texas, to Australia, then back to Texas. I lost track of one of my best high school friends. I've tried every which way but loose to find her. How can you lose touch with someone who was so important?

Anyway, for the past several days I have been on a roller coaster. As I shared in my last post, my son, my middle child, is going to be a 'Daddy' in July. He and his wife are giving me my 7th grandchild. How is that possible, when inside me are all of these high school feelings rolling around?? There's a new baby 'in development' with some of my bloodline in him or her -- and that is way beyond exciting for me.

One last thing. I have not been around much lately ... commenting, etc. I'm really sorry, because I know I have missed some great posts. But I'll catch up. Every day at work has been full, and every night, committed ... for several weeks. So please bear with me.

And tonight? Well tonight, I'm just letting the words tumble out. Unplanned. I hope you can feel the burst of joy and the mixture of loss I feel ... and know that I appreciate life.

Deeply.

BIG NEWS BIG NEWS BIG NEWS

♥ Laura ♥

and my firstborn son

♥ Scott ♥

are having a baby!!!!!!

And that's BIG NEWS!!!

Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night, a lone figure stood...

A Christmas Poem

The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,
I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.
My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,
My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.

Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,
Transforming the yard to a winter delight.
The sparkling lights in the tree I believe,
Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.

My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,
Secure and surrounded by love, I would sleep,
In perfect contentment, or so it would seem,
So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.

The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,
But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear.
Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know,
Then the sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.

My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,
And I crept to the door just to see who was near.
Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,
A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.

A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old,
Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.
Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,
Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child.

"What are you doing?" I asked without fear,
"Come in this moment, it's freezing out here!
Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve,
You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!"

For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,
Away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts,
To the window that danced with a warm fire's light.
Then he sighed and he said "Its really all right,

I'm out here by choice. I'm here every night."

"It's my duty to stand at the front of the line,

That separates you from the darkest of times.

No one had to ask or beg or implore,
I'm proud to stand here like my fathers before.

My Gramps died at Pearl on a day in December."

Then he sighed, "That's a Christmas Gram always remembers."

"My dad stood his watch in the jungles of ' Nam ',
And now it is my turn and so, here I am.
I've not seen my own son in more than a while,
But my wife sends me pictures, he's sure got her smile."

Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag,
The red, white, and blue... an American flag.
"I can live through the cold and the being alone,
Away from my family, my house and my home.

I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,
I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat.
I can carry the weight of killing another,
Or lay down my life for my sister or brother,

Who stand at the front against any and all,
To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall."
"So go back inside," he said, "Harbor no fright,
Your family is waiting and I'll be all right."

"But isn't there something I can do, at the least?
Give you money," I asked, "Or prepare you a feast?
It seems all too little for all that you've done,
For being away from your wife and your son."

Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret,
"Just tell us you love us, and never forget
To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone,
To stand your own watch, no matter how long.

For when we come home, either standing or dead,
To know you remember we fought and we bled
Is payment enough, and with that we will trust,
That we mattered to you as you mattered to us."

This blessing came to me today; I've seen it before. But every time I read it, I feel the same feeling as today. Gratitude for those who stand up for us in the name of freedom.

Sunday Citar ♥ Four Generations

Each generation goes further than the generation preceding it because it stands on the shoulders of that generation. You will have opportunities beyond anything we've ever known.

~Ronald Reagan

Can you believe that it is already time again!

for ...

It's time to share your photo(s) ...

and a quote to go along.

It's ever so much fun!

Won't you join us?

Visit HERE to learn more about it!

FLASH 55 FICTION -- THE FINALE AND "THE BEGINNING"

Mr. Know-It-All hosts Flash 55 Fiction every Friday ... challenging bloggers to share a story in 55 words. If you decide to participate in Flash 55 Fiction, be sure to let G-Man know, visit the other participants ... and see where it leads you.

I'd like to personally thank G-Man, Mr. Know It All, for encouraging this creativity. I hope that he is having a good birthday, despite the physical pain he may be suffering tonight. We all wish you the best, G.

♥ ♥ ♥

I began this latest series of Flash Fiction 55s several weeks ago.

To be honest with you (as I always try to be), I'm thinking this may the finale. I'm not sure where to go from here; after all, healing begins with the steps.

My dear brother Raymon coined a very clever title for his column long ago in a college newspaper. He called it "Some Truth Some Shuck."

What it indicated was that which several have expressed when it comes to 55s. Much in the 55s we read, though fiction, is based on truth, life experience, people we knew, things they experienced. It all rolls together, becoming some truth, some shuck.

The final truth of the past several 55s I've written is that there is hope. Always.

And as long as we believe that, we can find the way out of a dark time.

To catch up, go right here before you read today's 55. And thank you for staying with me through this.

Wretched memories

rocked her body.

I allowed time

for her anguished moans.

Seeking relief

from the millstone that had

cruelly bound her,

she wept bitterly.

After the rain

comes the sunshine.

She was ready, at last,

to “step” into the light.

“Grief ends tonight,”

she whispered finally.

“I am powerless …

… my life has become unmanageable …”

If you have friends or family that find the holiday season an especially difficult time, encourage them; let them know you are there for them; share the steps. And honestly ... anyone who believes that life is manageable has another think coming ... ♥

WoRdLeSs WeDnEsDaY ♥ Pure Joy

FLASH 55 FICTION

Mr. Know-It-All hosts Flash 55 Fiction every Friday ... challenging you to share a story in 55 words. If you participate, let him know, visit the other participants ... and see where it leads you.

Because I had to skip a Friday or two, I am publishing the 55s which will help you catch up and/or remember ... before reading today's 55 Flash Fiction in purple below.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

1.

Apprehensive, as many first-time patients, she cast quick, sideways glances right, left; looking for escape?

“Where should I sit?” she asked quietly, glancing nervously toward the couch and wingback chairs.

“Anywhere you wish,” I smiled, wanting to ease her pain.

Once she sat down, I hoped she would breathe … and begin her journey to healing.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

2.

She fled to a wingback and began picking at imaginary lint from her suit. I waited, letting the quiet settle around us.

“Where should I begin?” She didn’t look up, but continued fiddling with her hands.

Considering her question only briefly, having heard it from others many times before, I gently prompted, “Begin with today.”

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

3.

Her eyes closed tightly, as she pressed her head against the back of the wingback and took a slow, deep breath.

Sixty silent seconds escaped the room.

“Nothing today is significant,” she finally whispered. “I am here; that is all.”

I drew a heart on my notepad. For even me, it was difficult to breathe.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

4.

Life: timeline of past

events leading to the

‘now’ person

sitting in the wingback …

mourning, regretting, but

breathing.

Timeline travel can be

treacherous, but

in the end …

just bring it:

forgiveness, sweet.

She sat …

staring down the barrel

of her timeline …

painfully aware

of the doodling stranger

who waited silently

for her unraveling

to begin.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

5.

Why? she began,

Did we take him in?

How could we be

Conned by an addict such as he,

Intent on destroying what love had built;

Set on creating unrelenting guilt,

Lasting through this day …

Burying me in ungodly sorrow that will not go away?

She finally stopped; took a breath.

I stopped drawing hearts.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

6.

"How could I let him slither into my head?

Allow that sociopath,

Addict,

To demean?

To control the day with laughter …

The night, with fear? ..."

She babbled on, asking terrible questions that had no answer ...

"... Allow myself to succumb to his insulting lies?

Turn me into just another fool

Who truly believed

She could help?"

WoRdLeSs WeDnEsDaY ♥ Sweet Slobber Kisses

What I Left in Nebraska

I'm home. I'm exhausted.

I'm unpacking. I'm washing clothes.

I'm going through a pile of mail.

I'm loving on two doggies who missed me.

I'm thankful. I'm blessed.

I'm off the highway at last.

I'm safe.

I'm home.

And I'm looking at pictures of what I left in Nebraska ...

(Did you ever notice that the word

"I'm"

quits looking like a word

when you use it so many times?)

This Morning, the Day After Thanksgiving, at Chadron State Park, Nebraska

This was the view this morning looking out the front door of our little cabin in Chadron State Park. I kid you not. It was simply gorgeous.

We are at the end of our wonderful Thanksgiving 2009. Tomorrow we say good-bye to our three little grandbabies up here and start our long trek homeward.

Our daughter reserved two little cabins side by side in Chadron State Park. I can't tell you how beautiful it was to be surrounded by pine trees, wake up the first morning to a beautiful snowfall, and end our stay this morning with this view. It was peaceful. It was refreshing.

I hope that you enjoyed this Thanksgiving, feeling grateful for whatever you have, wherever you are, and for the ones you have in your life.

We would appreciate your prayers for our safe trip back home. I'm going to be crying the first few moments of our journey, but I'm taking with me some precious memories.

♥ Road Trip to Get Some Sugar ♥

If you're wondering where I am ...

I'm on a road-trip to get some sugar ...

from this one ...

... and this one ...

... and this one ...

... from all three of 'em.

They're waiting for Mimi and Papa.

Please pray for our safety. It's a 21-hour drive.

I hope that you and yours have a blessed Thanksgiving.

I'll see you in December.

Sunday Citar ♥ HaPpInEsS

If you want to be happy, be.

~Leo Tolstoy

Visit Tabitha right HERE to learn about Sunday Citar -- when you get to pick out a photo, find a quote to go along with it, and then share.

Award ♥ I'm Glowing ♥ And I'm Sharing

Isn't this just precious? It's been a while since I have accepted an award This one is just adorable. Sad thing is that I feel like I haven't been able to comment as much lately because of work and other commitments. Perhaps after the Thanksgiving holiday, I can remedy that.

But in the meantime, I'm going to enjoy this little lovely ~ and share it. It came to me from a very special lady named Kathleen, who writes so beautifully, shares so deeply, and moves my feelings in all directions.

I hope that you will visit her right HERE as soon as you can.

There are some fabulous supporters in the blog-world ~ BlueViolet has always shown such support ...

On Fridays, I've started sharing with a group of folks who write stories in 55 words. That group is so talented and so supportive ~ all of those who comment, sharing feelings about something I've written every 55 Friday, need the panda ...

Stony River Susan, Jane, Sandi, Lou, Gumbo, Georgie, Mamamiller, Sunday Citar groupies, Willow, my Aussie buddies, the Duchess, Karen, Liz, Claire, Shadow ...

Anyone who has EVER paid me a visit and shared a thought ~ thank you! Please take the panda and know how much your comments mean, every time you stop by a blog and give a little nod. Sometimes, the littlest thing written in a comment box is EXACTLY what the writer needed! So thank you.

We're into the weekend and I'll be working. May not be able to post much until after Thanksgiving. I'll miss that and you, but I'll tell you after the holiday what I've been doing.

I hope you stay well. That you will be with friends and family. That you will feel loved. Or, more importantly, that you will love.

FLASH 55 FICTION

Mr. Know-It-All hosts Flash 55 Fiction every Friday ... challenging you to share a story in 55 words. If you participate, let him know, visit the other participants ... and see where it leads you.

HERE you will find where this journey started. Within that link, you can begin at the beginning. Today, continues the 55.

Why? she began,

Did we take him in?

How could we be

Conned by an addict such as he ...

Intent on destroying what love had built ...

Set on creating hideous guilt,

Lasting through this day ...

Burying me in ungodly sorrow that just won't go away?

Finally, she stopped ... took a breath ...

... I stopped drawing hearts.

♥ Veterans Day ♥ November 11, 2009

"It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen may cry, Peace, Peace--but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field!

Why stand we here idle? What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery?

Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!"

-- Patrick Henry

March 23,1775

We honor our Veterans

November 11, 2009.

Grandfather

US Army "Mule Skinner"

World War I

Father

US Army, First Lieutenant, 50th General Hospital USAFBI

World War II

Brother, US Coast Guard, Retired

Husband, US Coast Guard Photojournalist

Vietnam Era

I consider myself blessed

to live in a family of Veterans.

On this VETERANS Day,

we remember and thank those who served

for the love of country

and for the cause of freedom.

Veterans are in our hearts today.

We remember what you did,

how you served,

and what you sacrificed.