13 September 2024 FRIDAY THE 13th!!! WOOHOO!!!

Writer hasn't written in awhile as we have been extremely busy at The Hermitage.

This "could" be a long write, as there is SO much involved and it "could" reasonably cover 35 years. BUT alas, she will try to sum up.

Life is messy. Never let anyone tell you otherwise. AND when you "think" something is the way it should be, more often than not, it makes unexpected turns. 

In the last 35 years we have left what we knew. Regrouped several times. Got back on track, only to be derailed several times. A few months ago, the kids were over for dinner and left this sage advice. "Stay in your own lane. Mind your own business." However, it seems that there are times when you are in your own lane, minding your own business, doing exactly what you should be doing AND someone sideswipes you! Throwing the status quo completely OFF! AND it wasn't YOUR fault, OR, YOUR choice!. Nevertheless, you keep rolling on. NOT like anything didn't happen, but you dust yourself off, keep going, and make the most of it. We have learned SO much!

Well, in the last 35 years we were sideswiped countless times by others. Because of this, ALL of us in The Hermitage were afraid to make any decisions as we were afraid of the outcome. SO, we were putting up with things, dealing with things, and trying our best to keep the ship afloat. 

We've learned about plans. Ours vs God's. His is ALWAYS the right plan. When our plan went out the window in 1986, we were devastated, distraught, frustrated, panicked, suicidal, and much more. Everything we thought we knew no longer made sense, and it seemed as though nothing really mattered anymore. We didn't care about life, as it seemed meaningless. We were lost and had four children to mother. 

Disciple was the one who tried to make things make sense. She put up a scripture--Proverbs 3:5-6. “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” We had to start somewhere AND that is where we started. We had NO CLUE what was going on or why for several years, but kept going...on trust. 

Then we learned about timing. God's timing. We learned there was a time for everything, a purpose, and a reason. Trust God. Trust the timing. Check out Ecclesiastes 3:1-8.  

Life went on. We bought a new Hermitage built in 1895. A HUGE Hermitage. AN awesome Hermitage. Six bedrooms, three floors above a full basement. Victorian. The works. We loved it. BUT life went on and changed in multiple ways. 

We made a decision in 2008 and left this HUGE empty Hermitage. Packed everything up with the help of about 35 people and put it all in a 53' semi. Then everything went in storage for what was only supposed to be about 6 months at the most. That 6 months turned into 16 years. ALL of us in The Hermitage could sympathise with Maureen O'Hara in The Quiet Man when she married and said "I just want my things about me." For years we have wanted our things. All of our things. But the timing wasn't right. Something was always amiss. 

Then last month Organizer got things figured out. Disciple was off for two weeks at the Temple. Weather was good up there. Cousins were able to help. So, Chauffeur got the carriage ready and on Friday, September 6th she drove us up to Payson, Utah. We stayed with our cousin. Then on Saturday, at 9 we picked up a 26' Penske truck and drove to the storage unit. It took 8 of us less than 6 hours to load the truck, counting the time we took to eat pizza, visit, laugh and enjoy the company we were with. Half of us were over 70 or close to it. The others in their 30's or 40's we think. Those of us in The Hermitage were emotional and SO thankful to get this done. Curtis, the obvious "Tetris Master," and Charisse filled every nook and cranny. Absolutely amazing! The rest of us loaded dollies and Bruce and Mike ran them up and down the ramp from the storage to the truck. Efficiency at its finest!!!

There are many ways to show love, TIME is one of the biggest ways. When you give of your time, you are giving all and showing the greatest love ever. ALL of us in The Hermitage are deeply indebted to and give THANKS to Bruce, Charisse, Debbie, Curtis, Mikol, Mike, AJ. YOU ALL are the heroes of all of us in The Hermitage.

We played Farkle many times. Spent Sunday doing Family History with Debbie. We stayed up WAY too late, laughed and talked about life and lives. Farmer helped feed the chickens. Gardener helped sprayed weed killer on the yard. We went to have "Utah" Chinese food. We felt like a burden had been lifted. We felt like we were free from trials of the past. We could feel the cover of that book being closed.

Jessica and Jason came up from Cedar on Monday morning and Jason drove the truck back to Vegas. Chauffeur followed Jessica.

As Chauffeur headed down the on ramp getting on the 15 southbound, ALL of us in the carriage cried. We cried for several miles. We are SO grateful. Disciple prayed and gave thanks for everything that happened, how it happened, the timing, the help, the amazing family we belong to. She prayed that all of those who helped would be blessed in their lives and health. We were back in Vegas at 4:30. Jason unloaded a few BIG things, then they left to be back with their children. 

Tuesday was TOO smokey outside from the California fires, so we all stayed in The Hermitage most of the morning, taking care of things inside and arranging things. Angelo came over and moved much of the BIG stuff off the truck, leaving just a couple of big things. Some of us took boxes in since the wind came up and blew the smoke somewhere else. WE HATE the wind here, BUT that was a godsend! Jenny came by and helped with stuff that still needed to be put away before we quit at 9. 13,627 steps.
We have learned that Advill PM is our "friend." THANK YOU Angelo and Jenny.

Wednesday we had help from an AWESOME stranger who's in-laws live at the end of the street, the neighbor next door, Lora, as well as friends from Church, Colleen and Don, and Gina. The sister missionaries borrowed cookie sheets...and then brought cookies over. Another neighbor brought over frozen mangoes! OH MY GOSH!!! We'd never had them, but they were amazing! She also brought dinner over for those of us in The Hermitage! 8,981 steps.

By 4 PM on Thursday the truck was unloaded and swept out. Thank you to Lora, Dennis and Dave!!! Then another hero from Church, Garrick (Paula) Burden helped us take everything into The Hermitage, garage, and back patio. He moved so fast and was so amazing! It is done. The kitchen is filled. The living room is filled. We probably have two dozen chairs, etc. and nowhere to sit. HAHAHA...kind of a drag. 12,911 steps.

Organizer did a great job. We have amazing family and friends! We have opened and worked with things in at least 3 dozen boxes today. We have learned which ones to open and which ones to deal with later. We found that there are MANY boxes that came from Vegas, to Missouri, to Payson and back to Vegas that have NEVER been opened since 1996!!! THOSE we don't want to deal with at this time. They have "memories" in them that brought tears today...although some brought laughter. We've found random stashes of money in boxes. We found a real shark in a bottle. We have NO IDEA who that belongs to yet. We found 6 Christmas trees in 6 different boxes ranging from 2' tall to 7' tall! We already had two ironing boards and two irons here at The Hermitage, BUT in storage there were two more ironing boards, a steamer, and three more irons! AND the only two who use an iron are Seamstress and Quilter!!! We had two waffle irons here at The Hermitage, and now another one. We found LVHS swim team and football team gear. We found dresses Seamstress made for the girls when they were growing up. We found M.C. Hammer pants from the 90's! We found birdhouses that Artist painted. We've found treasures lost long ago, and now found. Every box has at least one surprise in it, IF NOT MORE! It IS Christmas in The Hermitage. We have EVERYTHING we ever wanted and more. We are blessed. AND because we have SO much more than we need, we have been giving things away. Clothes that no longer fit, but are back in style. We would LOVE to fit into them, but don't see that happening in the near future. We have huge bags of towels, pillows, and blankets ready to go to the animal shelter. We are sorting things for the garage sale, DI, kids, etc. 

Angelo drove the truck back today and Chauffeur followed. That is done! 

We've found that we have multiple bruises on our legs, today we have shin splints, AND we have a black eye from a board that fell. We really DO NOT think we are cut out to go into the moving business AND hope this is the end of our moving episode. 

Tomorrow Laundress is going to have to get a handle on washing ALL sorts of things. The counters are full, so Kitchen and Scullery Maids will be busy with things in there. Organizer is reorganizing cupboards and cabinets. Disciple will be going to a funeral in the morning. 

So this is the short story, the "sum up" of the last 35 years. Writer left out the difficult parts and gave some of the rest. Life is NEVER normal in The Hermitage and won't be for months. BUT we have our "things about us" and we are moving forward. We have NO idea what the future holds, but we know we have survived things we never thought we would. We know we have loving family and friends. This storm has passed. This part of our book is shut. A new chapter lies ahead. We don't know what, BUT Disciple knows that GOD knows and has prepared us for whatever it is. We have peace in The Hermitage. We have hope. We have been SO blessed!!!

 18 August 2024

Disciple didn't move, however our ward boundaries did. She attends the same chapel at the same time. She does have A LOT of new faces to put names to. She also has a NEW calling!!! She is a co-Activity Leader with another sister...Linda Burden. Disciple is in good hands!

This is our directive:Activity LeadersPrimary activity leaders minister to children as they plan service and activities beginning in January of the year children turn 8 (see 12.2.1.3). Service and activities focus on God’s work of salvation and exaltation. They are fun and engaging. They build testimonies, strengthen families, and foster personal growth."

So, we will be figuring things out for this and meeting all of the girls who will be participating.

Our lesson in Sunday School Was Alma 43-52, the War chapters! With that we discussed Ephesians 6:11-18 "Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;"

Disciple found this interesting as yesterday she was explaining this to the youngest grandson. He has a fascination with her "armor," swords, mace, and various other things reminding her, and others that we are warriors, and need to put on the armor of God. To be prepared at ALL times. He particularly likes her swords and mace. So she had a short discussion about the armor of God. And today in Sunday School we really dove into this. No swords though.

We had a "Linger Longer" after Church. Chef prepared tortilla pinwheels with cream cheese and diced green chilies. They must have been a hit, as there were none left. That's always a bonus! And we were delighted with the party crashers!

Disciple was set apart for her new calling and is hoping to be a good influence on these young girls who are 8-11. We are new to this, but she remembers at that age she was taught embroidery, cooking, baking, crafting and so many other things she continues to help, and encourage others with, in The Hermitage. Now to incorporate that with gospel teachings and Christ. This will be exciting and fun.

When Disciple was growing up, Sunday was no different than any other day of the week, other than attending Church, which is different now than it was then. NOT that the doctrine has changed, but meetings have, etc. When she was a child, she attended Sunday School on Sunday morning, and Sacrament Meeting in the evenings. There were a few years that her step-father tried to forbid her from attending Church, but the Queen Mum interfered with that for the most part. She would drop Disciple off with her brother, then she would pick them up. Her step-father also made sure Disciple, and her brother, attended other religious groups, to be instructed "properly."

Then, in 1972, when she was in high school the Church began the "Three-hour block." She was in California; there were "gas" issues, this saved gas, time...anyway, Sacrament was first, then Sunday School. We could take the sacrament in both meetings, except on Fast Sunday. After the Sacrament meeting we had RS/Priesthood/YM/YW/Primary. This became the norm for decades, up until 2019 when we went to the two hour block.

So, in Disciples life growing up Sunday was only different because she went to Church. However, 50 years ago she decided Sunday should be a "special" day. It should be more than all the other days of the week. She should "DO" things differently. So she studied scriptures on the subject. Isaiah wrote in 58: "13 If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honourable; and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words: Then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it." Moses said in Exodus 20:8 "Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy."

She thought a lot about how she could change things in her life so Sunday would be "different" from all the other days of the week. What could she do to make it more holy? She doesn't get crazy by her thinking, but others may think so. She never worked on Sunday, and when others in The Hermitage worked jobs that required working on Sunday, she told them to request it off. That was always honored. There is no shopping on Sunday. With a few exceptions there is no dining out on Sunday at restaurants. We don't do any swimming or boating. NOT that these activities are WRONG! They aren't. AND she doesn't look differently or criticize those who do these things. BUT for her, and those in The Hermitage, we have made other choices that work for us, and how we want things to be. We have gone hiking or for drives in nature. We don't listen to the radio in the car, nor do we watch TV shows that we would watch during the week. We have Movie Buff put on religious documentaries, videos or movies that bring in the spirit. She wears a dress. NOT because she has to. That is NOT a requirement. No one makes her wear a dress. She knows God loves her no matter what she is wearing. However, there have been non-church functions parties, activities, etc. where certain "clothing" is requested or suggested. It might be casual, black tie, cocktail, dressy. Maybe camping or hiking.

Things are FAR different from when Disciple was growing up. As a child she wore gloves to Church. Her mother wore a hat and gloves. Sometimes Disciple DOES wear a hat. She gets spunky and loves to do that. But the dress is something she "chooses" to wear. She "chooses" this because she WANTS the day to be different from the other days. She WANTS to "feel" different than she does on the other days. She wants God to know that she is choosing to be different. Choosing to make an effort to make Sunday a special day, a different day.

Disciple had suits for her boys when they were growing up at The Hermitage. They wore them to Church, or on other special occasions. These were not "play clothes," they knew the suits were important, and they felt "different" than they did in their play clothes or school clothes. The girls had dresses.

The clothing you wear reflects you, your attitude about what you are doing, where you are going, and how you are going to act. We make choices reflecting on, and with respect to those things.

Those in The Hermitage have tried to make Sunday a special day. A holy day. A day to show honor to God, and the Savior. A sacred day. We rejoice in the Sabbath day. We look forward to it, and resting from the things of the world. We hope you are having a blessed day.

 16 August 2016

I moved a lot growing up...something no one has tried to explain or make excuses for; fourteen schools and as many, if not more, homes. While I learned a lot about many cultures and people, I grew to hate it more and more each time it happened.

Seems that I am destined to move again; I knew it was coming, I've known for a long time. I've lived out of boxes for the last few years. Yes, it's a drag, but someone has to do it. HAH! Anyway...time seems to be closing in on this move. Last week a friend told me about a home two streets over from where I am now. We all have dreams, hopes, desires, etc. While this isn't any of those, it IS something I can handle for the most part. For the last few nights I haven't slept much; and when I wake up, I am anxious and sick to my stomach. I haven't been sure what it was, but one morning I realized it had to do with "moving" and everything involved with it...and I pondered all the moves in my life, and hated them all over again. At least most all of my things are already in boxes...makes things easier. However, I'm going to have to open those boxes. I'm going to have to face life, the past, the present and the future. I'm going to have to sort through the past. I have boxes here, I have boxes in storage here and I have the rest of my things in storage in Utah…about 5 hours from here.

The last home I owned had six bedrooms and five bathrooms; a big Victorian home built in the 1880’s, there were three stories above the ground and a basement…which the kids wouldn’t go in. HAHAHA! Whatever. It was wonderful for the most part…but far from my treasures. Now I am close to my treasures and have been without a home for 8 years.

The inevitable will come, the sorting through “things” which I’ve had in my possession…some for a relatively short time, and then there are the things which will be hard to deal with. I had to deal with some of those a few years ago. The kids asked, “Mom! What the heck are you doing with this?!?!?” As tears welled up in my eyes, I said, “I kept hoping things would change…I didn’t want to get rid of them just in case.”

Well, this “new” home will be a third of the size of my last home. Much will have to go. I’ve pondered the things in storage and in my mind it has been easy to say…THAT is going…but then there are things that I can’t seem to part with…I will probably need some impartial help…those old Beatle cards…maybe they are worth something. They are like baseball cards; they came in a package with gum, but I always threw the gum away. I have a stack of those cards. Most of them are black and white, but there are a few that are color. There might be 75 of them. A bassinet I’ve had since I was about 8…not sure where it came from, but I have 1960 Eloise Vogue “Baby Dear” doll which fits perfectly in it. She belonged to my Great Aunt Cora…she and her husband…my Uncle Gundy, never had any children. They wanted children, but never did. Sixty years of random things…and it will be interesting to say the least.

Moving makes me melancholy, hurts my heart and tears at my mind. The thoughts, the memories all come rushing past my eyes…and lately have been leaking all over. But, there are things I know I will find and be surprised. Things I’ve forgotten and will either bring a smile or a tear. Who knows? It will be an adventure for sure.

So, when I saw this a bit ago, about the past, present and future, this is what came to mind. Just thought I would share something different. "Cleaning out the past...Packing up the present...And preparing for a much better future..."

 14 August 2024

Wednesday wondering. Who we worship. We wonder not. We know. We believe what Elder Holland is saying. We KNOW and believe ALL of these things ARE TRUE! We are thankful for the unshakable knowledge of these truths.

We know that GOD the Father is the father of ALL our spirits. He created all of us for a divine purpose. He is also the spiritual and physical Father of our Savior, Jesus Christ, the Messiah and Redeemer of us ALL. We glorify BOTH the Father and the Son of God.

We are also thankful for revelation. We believe in continuing revelation. For IF God no longer speaks to us, WHY would we have a need for one? What purpose would there be for a God? Why would we pray? Who would we look to for answers? Why would we even be here? Why would He have even created the earth? This would make the atheists correct. BUT He still speaks! He lives! He IS real. He knows EACH of us personally, and individually, as we are His spirit children! We KNOW this! There is NO luck. There are no coincidences. ALL things happen for a reason and purpose according to His timing and His plan.

Wonder not. Find out. Test this. Experiment on this. Know for yourselves the mysteries of God the Father, and His Son, Jesus Christ.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=te65c-pgXFQ

 12 August 2024 - Monday Musings

Patriot and Disciple work hand in hand, and heart to heart, within The Hermitage. This country is EXTREMELY important to both of them. Family Historian has a LOT to say about it as well, with many of the ancestors coming to this country in the 1600's. Queen's 10th great-grandparents were John Alden and Priscilla Mullins. Queen also has Sioux heritage here in North America dating, at present, to the 1500's. Disciple knows that this country was saved for the last days. It is a "promised" land. A land of liberty and freedom. This country wasn't "discovered" for a random purpose. There were already groups of people here when other "visitors" came from across the waters. This was a prophecy in action. This is a sacred land. So, there are MANY things Patriot thinks about when it comes time to vote. These "things" are important for MANY reasons affecting The Hermitage and our heritage, beliefs, and faith.

Alma 46:12 "In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children."

So, when Patriot votes, these are the things that matter the most. These are the things that are vitally important to her. There are other things that may be important, on a local/state level, but when it comes to this country, these are the things we cherish. So, IF there is someone running, who chooses to protect as many of these as possible, THAT person will earn our vote. God bless this GREAT country and those who want to keep it that way.

I'm voting for the First Amendment and freedom of speech.

I'm voting for the Second Amendment and my right to defend my life and my family.

I'm voting for Freedom of Religion.

I'm voting for the next Supreme Court Justice(s) to protect the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.

I’m voting for the continued appointment of Federal Judges who respect the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

I’m voting for the continued growth of my retirement and reducing inflation.

I’m voting for a return of our troops from foreign countries, and the end to America’s involvement in foreign conflicts.

I'm voting for the Electoral College, and for the Republic in which we live.

I'm voting for the Police to be respected once again and to ensure Law & Order.

I am tired of all the criminals having a revolving door and being put back in the street.

I’m voting for keeping our jobs to remain in America and not be outsourced all over the world - to China, Mexico, and other foreign countries. I want USA made.

I’m voting for secure borders and legal immigration. I can’t believe we have actually flown 380,000 illegal immigrants into our country. Let them enter our country the legal way. Out ancestors did that. Others have done it.

I am voting for doing away with all of the freebies given to all of the illegals and not looking after the needs of the American citizens.

I'm voting for the Military and the Veterans who fought for this Country to give the American people their freedoms.

I'm voting for the unborn babies that have a right to live. Respect your body and your choices, and make the choice BEFORE you get pregnant. You have that right and choice. It is very easy.

I’m voting for peace progress in the Middle East.

I’m voting to fight against human/child trafficking.

I'm voting for the right to speak my opinion and not be censored.

I am voting for the return of teaching math, history, and science instead of indoctrination of our children and pronouns. Some things should be kept within the boundaries of a home.

I'm not just voting for one person, I'm voting for the future of my Country.

I'm voting for my children and my grandchildren to ensure their freedoms and their future.

https://bookofmormonevidence.org/the-united-states-is.../...“But%2C%20said%20he%2C%20notwithstanding,the%20inheritance%20of%20my%20seed.

 9 August 2009

Two months ago I became another year older. 

It doesn't seem to have affected me mentally. I'm still a little loopy. OH alright...more than a little! When I was in my teens I thought I knew everything. Heck. I knew I knew everything. I wasn't arrogant over it, or think I was better than everyone else, but just didn't feel the need to take any advice from anyone. WHY!!! I graduated! I have one of those memories where I can look at something and remember it. I wouldn't say it's quite photographic, but I do appreciate what my mind can do, and I take no credit for it personally. I marvel at it for the most part and it 's like my mind has a mind of it's own. Like when I play the piano or type and my fingers just play or type. It amazes me to the point that I sit there and ponder...and screw up what I'm doing. LOL!!! It is just something I was blessed with. God did it. My birth parents probably had something to do with it. There are rumors... =D BUT I take no credit for it. I have always loved to read and always had the desire to learn. It helps that I have kept a journal for literally eons...well, at least forty years. That has helped me remember a lot also. Good therapy too. 

Physically...well, I haven't gained any weight in the last year, in fact I have lost some. That's a nice thing. Although I have found that the older I get, the HARDER it is to lose those little extra pounds that seem to have crept in here and there. As a teen I weighed in, soaking wet, at 105 pounds; weighing 225 at the birth of each of my children. I always lost the weight, so never dreamed I would not weight 105 for the rest of my life. But life continues on and things change. I no longer weight 105 pounds, soaking wet or otherwise. In fact, I look at some of these young girls, who probably do weigh 105 soaking wet and I find it abhorring. My gosh...I must have looked like a waif! Now I look healthy...maybe a little too healthy. =D
Emotionally...well, here's something that IS constantly changing. The older I get, the weepier I get. As a child I was very sensitive and compassionate. When my brother got in trouble, he never cried. BUT I cried for him. I felt bad for him. I am forever rooting for the underdog. One of the first movies I saw as a child was 101 Dalmatians. I was six. Every time Cruella DeVil came on the screen I ran off to the bathroom. I cried for the puppies. It has only gotten worse as the years have marched on. Right now we are watching The Sound of Music. I first saw this in 1965 when I was 10. I would make an estimated guess that I have seen it at least 50 times since then...and still cry throughout the movie at the designated "cry" parts. Dumbo, Bambi, 7 Brides for 7 Brothers--you name it, I'll bet I cry in it. I cry watching the fireworks during the Fourth of July...as well as during the patriotic songs. I am a weeper. I always have been, I always will be. So sue me! Driving back to Vegas from Missouri, I cried when I saw the Rocky Mountains!!! I'm going home. As I got to Apex and saw the lights of Vegas, I cried. There are commercials that touch me and, yes, I cry. The older I get, the more sentimental I get. Things seem to touch my heart in more ways than they used to. Maybe it's the thought that someday these things may be gone. Maybe it's because I wonder why they don't touch others the same way. I'm not sure. BUT I am more of a weeper than I used to be. This I know.

Spiritually...I can not deny it. As I learn more mentally, and feel more emotionally, I grow more spiritually. It has been a cycle. Situations arise. You learn about it. You ponder it. Pray about it. Get a feeling about it. Make a decision regarding it. If it's right, your spirit is overwhelmed and seems to expand the bounds that before were holding it back. The more situations you are in, the more you grow. It is an incredible process for which, yes...I cry! This spiritual growth is THE most awesome thing. To know that God is there to help you if you just "raise your hand" and ask. HE'S right there. ALWAYS!!! He always wants to help you. He always loves you. You can screw up big time and HE still loves you! I am so thankful for that knowledge. What a blessing! Who better to have on your side. A myriad of things touch my heart more than ever before. Tears come much more easily. I"m not afraid to cry.

Financially...w e l l...alas, I am not one of those people who made their first million by the time I was 30. AND it doesn't look like I'll make it by the time I'm 60! HECK! I don't even think I will by the time I'm 90. I live in Las Vegas...and don't gamble. I've seen more people lose everything they have in life than I care to think about. AND I don't play the lottery. AND Ed McMahon died! So...I'm thankful when my pay check pays what bills are due! That's a blessing I'm sure that's linked to tithing. => Not to mention that material things don't seem to have the worth they did years ago. We had a boat, cars, all kinds of toys, etc. We had it all...but it didn't mean anything. Now I don't have it and have come to realize that family and friends mean more than all the material things in the world.

Life in general to this point...you have to find out your own self-worth, then find someone of equal worth...and don't sell yourself short. AGAIN...I'm not being arrogant, BUT I've been schmoozed by the best, and it's no good. NO more schmoozing. AND even if that isn't a word, I like it and I'm sure there are a bunch of you who can relate! For those of you not willing to look it up, I just did..and it means just what you think it does...

Don't settle. I've been divorced for 18 years. NO, I'm not proud of it. I would have loved to stay married. We would have celebrated our 34th anniversary this last July. Marriage is GREAT. I still highly recommend it. However...I figure since things screwed up the first time, and then there was this relationship that I thought was incredible and turned out to be the biggest disaster of late...Well, I have a list now. Yeah...it got a little long. BUT I know what I want now and I'll just stay single until that special guy comes along. 

Know who you are, where you came from and where you are going. Something I've known for as long as I can remember. Some people have no idea who they are. I don't just mean "human" or "woman" or what ever label you stick on yourself, I mean find out who you are. Physically and spiritually. AND by "where you came from"...not where you were born, or where you just moved from. Where did you come from before you came here??? AND Where are you going??? Do you know? Do you care to know. These are things I know. Things I'm thankful I know. I "know what I know." Quoted from someone who knows... =>
Look for the positive in ALL things. Yeah, sometimes life is a drag. BUT so what. BE POSITIVE!!! Look for the lesson. There is a reason for everything. Every thing that happens is for a purpose. There are NO coincidences. In this town of chance, there are no chances...BOLD HUH??? Well, I believe there is a reason for everything. I know there are more skeptics out there that don't believe it, but this is my note. They can write their own.

Don't blame others. There are always three choices in EVERY situation. Sometimes more, but there are always three. Do you want Hot Fudge on your ice cream or not? You may think this is a yes or no questions. BUT there is another choice. NO...I don't want the ice cream...hot fudge or not. A little rash in my opinion, but still a choice. 

Pleasure is NOT happiness. Happiness is something that comes from within. Pleasure is fleeting. It's great for the moment...and then it's gone. I've never had an alcoholic drink. I've never done drugs. I've never smoked. I have heard that these are "pleasures" to some people. Whatever. BUT they won't make you happy. YOU have to make yourself happy. No matter what the situation is...only YOU can make yourself happy...or sad. Your choice. 

Children. My children mean more to me than anything else. I know people who don't have children that would do anything to have some. I know others who never wanted children and now wish they did. I know others who, from their outward signs, are "stuck" with their children. How SAD I am for them. What a blessing my children have been to me. How they have inspired me to be more. Always "thinking" I am more than I realize I am. They give me hope. They have brought more challenges than I can count. More joys than challenges. More incredible memories than I have time to write. Never would I have thought as a young woman of 21 how having children would change my life. They are awesome. I treasure my children. The older I get, the more they mean to me. WE have an awesome relationship. They have relationships with each other that blesses our family more than anything I could have imagined. I love them. They are wonderful. They are not perfect, but they are darn close...at least in my eyes.
So...these are my thoughts this Sunday evening...August 9th, 2009. And now you know the rest of the story...Yeah! I love Paul Harvey!!! He's cool!

The Story of the Wheelbarrow; it's Sentimental Value and Lessons

 6 August 2017

The Story of the Wheelbarrow; it's Sentimental Value and Lessons

As a newly, young married "woman" of 21, I received a wheelbarrow from my equally young husband. We hadn't quite been married a year yet. The struggle was real. We would walk the streets of Wichita Falls, Texas, looking for bottles to turn in for cash so we could buy gas so he could go to work. I walked to work. We were Air Force, and money was very tight. $300.00 a month. I would say, "IF only we made $100.00 more a month, it would be great." We ate a lot of hot dogs, biscuits and mac and cheese. Once a month, on payday, we would GO OUT to eat; the local Dairy Queen Brazier was where.

So, 11 months after we were married, we needed a wheelbarrow for a project at the rental house. It became my "birthday" present. Over the years, this wheelbarrow has been involved in my family in many ways. It's hauled dirt, manure, and had concrete mixed in it. It has been a "swimming hole" for my children when they were toddlers. It's hauled flowers from the car to the yard; the kids have given each other rides in it. It’s been part of wheelbarrow races.

A few weeks ago I was asked by my son why I don’t just get a new one and get rid of this one. When I said it had sentimental value, scoffs followed along with raucous laughter. Whatever…I’m old. A LOT of things have sentimental value…for just as many reasons.

During my short summer, this was one of my projects. I haven’t repainted it yet, but the wheel is fixed.

Somewhere I'm sure there is a picture of this when it was brand new. Somewhere there are pictures of two little blond girls “swimming” in it. The pictures are in albums in storage, but the memories are vivid in my brain.

The lessons learned…sometimes in life you struggle and sacrifice. You make ends meet somehow. IF all you get is a wheelbarrow, make the most of it. Remember the times when you couldn’t afford things. Remember how you got by and overcame the difficulties. We did make more than $100.00 more a month not long after that. We were more than able to buy gifts and go places. But I remember the struggles of those first years; working together to make things work. Not “wanting” more than was needful, taking care of certain things first, living within our means, and using a budget. I’m thankful now for the struggles and hard times. They help me appreciate how blessed I was then and now. So, yes, I’ve got sentimental attachments to a wheelbarrow. But it reminds me of a time when things were hard and we worked together. It reminds me of fun, crazy and happy times. NO, I’m not going to bronze it because I still use it. I took the wheel off and took it to Bobby, who helped get the old tire off and the new tire on. Then I brought the wheel home and put it back on. The leopard duct tape is just added style. I love my wheelbarrow. Love the memories and especially the lessons I’ve learned over the years from this wonderful gift.

 5 August 2024

Time for Tuesday's thoughts and trivial things.

How did we ever survive? Lead piping, no refrigerator, no sell by/use by dates, asbestos, no seat belts, coal fires, no fat content warnings. No dishwashers or microwaves. "Solar" clothes dryers! 

We played outside all day; at the playground on DANGEROUS slides, rockets, swings, jungle gyms and monkey bars, and the MOST dangerous or all, the merry-go-rounds. No warning. No danger signs. We lived life on the edge! We played in the gutters and drank out of the hose. NO ONE had a water bottle. Our hands were too busy carrying treasured rocks or other things we would find. We puddle jumped! We rode in the back of pickup trucks! We rode bikes for miles and no one knew where we were. We "investigated" what was behind the "No Trespassing" signs of closed mines. We built forts out in the desert. We hunted for lizards, snakes, horned toads and salamanders. We climbed trees. We played with hula hoops and jump ropes, and played red-rover, tag and hide-n-seek. We played in the, dare we say it, DIRT!

We didn't EVER carry our phones with us, AND we had cool maps in the glove compartment! They were THE BEST! On trips we would track where we were and learn about all the different places. We used our brains. We weren't led around.

Life was simpler and expectations were realistic. People were kinder and grateful to be alive after two world wars. People were patriotic. They cared about their neighbors and neighborhoods. They respected themselves and others. They had manners and were polite. They worked hard. They weren't extravagant. They lived within their means.

All we have are memories now. GREAT memories of a different time. In many ways, a better time. Nevertheless, a time long ago, but not forgotten.

 3 August 2016

OH the lightning, thunder and smell of rain outside! It's awesome!

On another note, work this evening was pretty much the usual. We did corner a woman last night, and she put the stuff down on the floor she had gathered and ran out. Total contents of the bag...$197 and some change. She's one of the regular thieves...but diligence paid off this time.

While on the register this evening, a woman who might have been my age was buying one thing...and using her coupon. No problem. She had a little girl with her; said child had one of the TY Beanie Babies...and she WANTED it. Oh my gosh!!! The woman told her no, that she said she wanted an ice cream and that's what they were going to do. The girl pitched a fit and said she didn't want the ice cream she wanted "this" and that was it. The woman said no again. Said child swung her arm back and whacked this woman in the back. Woman was calm...I wasn't...but didn't say anything. She told the girl to put said Beanie Baby back. Child said no. Woman finished paying for her item and told child next time she wasn't coming with her and said child shoved the woman who became off-balance and I thought she was going to fall over. I handed her her change. She told said child again to put the animal on the counter. Child said..."SHUT UP!!!!!" ON NO!!!! I thought. Not only would that child not get the animal, but she wouldn't be getting any ice cream and quite possibly a swat. Very possibly.

Then two women...a mother and her daughter, who had a toddler, were trying to get the toddler to sit in the cart seat. BOTH women had a hold of him and he was kicking and screaming and pitching a fit...unbelievable.

These were just two instances of my interesting night with children out of control.

I hear the storm getting closer. Sounds like it is right over the strip now, which is only about 3 miles away. I think we might get wet this time. How awesome is that?!?!?!?!

Glad to be done for the day.

 2 August 2024

What a rollercoaster of a week this has been! SO many ups and downs AND none of us in The Hermitage are into rollercoasters. Not since the episode of 1995 at Magic Mountain. Nevertheless we pressed on.

Chauffeur is still concerned about the door latch on the driver’s door of the carriage that is broken. This leads to a circus of events to get OUT of the carriage. Unlock the door, roll the window down, reach out and open the door, roll the window back up, then get out. ALL without the door closing again while you are trying to collect things. This DID happen. Insert eye roll! Fortunately we don’t go too many places, BUT we have and it is comical. Enter the Court Jester!

The power was out twice on Monday for repairs and such in the neighborhood. We weren’t that concerned, as several of us were going to be running a LOT of errands with Chauffeur. FIRST was the circus at SW Medical. Queen was having a yearly x-ray done. The appointment had been made back in June. Her appointment was at 9:30 and Chauffeur had us there at 9:10. We presented our ID and UH card. Unaccepted. Red error button. WHAT THE HECK?! We used this last year. There was a conversation. And more conversation. “Okay. Fine. Have a nice day.” And we all left.

Still shaking our heads. We went over to have the battery checked in the carriage. After 45 minutes, we were told it was “fine,” BUT they did put a charge on it. The heat here wears those batteries out. Chauffeur was assured the battery was fine. BUT while sitting and waiting, we pondered the episode at the medical center. We wondered, “Should we have presented our Medicare card??? ”Hmmm…

Back at The Hermitage Correspondent called about the appointment and IF the Medicare card should have been used. “YES!” OH MY GOSH!!! So, now we go back on the 11th of September. UNLESS we call to see if there has been a cancellation!

Board Member was notified that someone removed the pool light she reattached to the pool wall. Anger set in. There seems to be spurts of anger here at The Hermitage. None of us really get angry anymore. At least not for more than a few minutes. There is NO point in it. No purpose. We had phone calls from both of Queen’s boys, the oldest daughter, and the brother in Oregon. ALL of this is semi unusual, but very welcome.

The mood in The Hermitage was slightly better today. Board Member found out that the pool light was fixed and the valves for the pool pumps. She is glad that it is taken care of.

Gardener is trying to save plants in the backyard. The heat has been relentless and taking its toll on everything green. She is somewhat heartbroken, but hopeful that some of them will make it.

Laundress and Scullery Maid were busy with their obligations. Others in TheHermitage carried on with other things.

Queen had a date Tuesday night. The Handsome Oldest Prince picked her up in his coach and off we went to the Aloha Sunrise Café! WOW!!! The cuisine was wonderful and so was the company. It was SO nice to just beable to sit and visit. Not something we get to do often.

Mid-week, Chauffeur piloted the carriage to the local fueling station. Banker got the card out and paid $3.44 for each gallon! Shopper went into the mega guild and made two purchases! This was an unbelievable undertaking! Normally she goes in for one or two things and comes out with a dozen or more! We were all in shock! We stopped at a Battery &Bulb store, but they couldn’t help us with our plight. We made a short stop at the Salon to visit Queen’s oldest daughter. Then we were off to the cash repository. Actually two of them. Banker and Financier were taking from one and putting in another. They also found out about some things, and will be regrouping. We then stopped at the local builder’s guild! They have moving trucks, so Organizer was able to discuss the rental of a HUGE truck to transport things from far away to The Hermitage. She found out that the rental place is the exact same place where things have been stored for FAR TOO LONG!!! This has relieved a lot of stress and given us some hope. All the time performing the circus of getting out of the carriage at every stop.

We all went to the pool to swim, and it was very good. Very good indeed. On the way home we visited with one of the neighbors. His mother is 91, and had a heart attack. She is not doing well. He asked if Disciple was “going to be doing her Mormon thing tomorrow? And if so, would she pray for his mom to not suffer, and for him to have comfort?” She said she certainly would. AND did take care of that.

Chef spent some time with Baker planning the first Sunday dinner. They asked for ideas, and came up with what they believe will be delightful and tasty.

Chauffeur had Disciple to the Temple right on time. The circus ensued as she excited the carriage, only to have the window NOT go back up. WHAT THE HECK?!?! JEEZ!!! Enter a new ring at the circus! We figured since it was the Temple parking lot, and NOT Walmart, it would be fine. Unless it rained. And if it did, we would be thankful…and maybe a little wet. Inside we left the world behind and concentrated on holier things. There were many things we left outside. One was the 33rd anniversary of THE worst day everin 1991. Then a lot of other things of various sizes. BUT Disciple is SO thankful to work with some of THE MOST amazing people. The spirit within the Temple is overpowering and the feelings you receive from that lifts you. This is such a blessing. As we left, the Oldest Beautiful Princess wanted to know if the window was still fussy from the heat, or mad. Chauffeur told her it was still mad.

Chauffeur drove over to Oldest Beautiful Princess’s. The drive took them past Horseman’s Park. This brought back difficult memories. BUT at Oldest Beautiful Princess's she came out and together they got the window back up. This means that to exit the carriage, we all need to use one of the other three doors. YES, the circus is in town and it is at The Hermitage. This too shall pass.

We were up early this morning. Some of us weren’t too excited. SOME of us stayed up FAR too late last night. But Board Member had a meeting at the clubhouse at 7:30 to discuss the trimming of some trees. That didn’t last long, and Chauffeur took Shopper and Financier to two of the local guilds. The first stop was at the local La Mercado where they picked up all the produce. They returned to The Hermitage and put things away, then they purchased the rest of Chef and Baker’s lists, at the local All-American guild. After gathering everything, and a few extras, they were headed back to The Hermitage.

Keep in mind the circus of getting out of the carriage every stop. BUT we are all home. All kicking around doing various things. Preparing things for cooking and baking prep tomorrow. Sometimes when you “think” you are making something easy, IT IS easy to eat, BUT the prep involved takes time. It will be good though. Chef is planning the following: tacos (various size/types shells), taco salads (we bought the tortilla bowls), burritos, nachos, Mexican street corn, AND all of the toppings—the taco meat, and jalapeños, lettuce, tomatoes, cheeses, sour cream, sauces, black beans, green onions, refried beans, and homemade guacamole. For dessert we are having two kinds of cupcakes and cherrycheesecake. We are getting hungry just thinking about it.

There is rarely a dull moment at The Hermitage. We live for the excitement. Have a great week.

29 July 2023

More thoughts from the Hermitage so we can clean off the desktop, which has had these for quite awhile now.Parenting is a tricky thing. Queen started babysitting when she was 11 for a couple of families in the neighborhood. Everyone has ways of parenting. Ex-Employee will tell you there isn't much "parenting" going on out there. At least viewing the students in schools. Parenting is NOT easy. Sadly, and much to her dismay, Queen was left with this duty early on, which made things even more difficult. Queen LOVES to have fun with children, but that didn't happen as often as she would have liked it to happen. Babies need food, sleep, attention, love, changing, and snuggling. Not necessarily in that order. Sitting quietly, with a baby on your lap teaches them a LOT. They learn there is a time to sit quietly. That it is okay to sit quietly. MUCH can be learned from this quiet time. Eventually it leads to reading, and other learning skills. Talking to them helps them with speech and learning to speak. Crawlers need all of the above, but now that they are mobile, they need to learn the word "no." This is helpful for many reasons. Safety. That mom knows what she is talking about. That she loves them and wants to help them. ETC. Learning the word no is a must. Reading to them every night before bedtime is something Queen always did. Voices were a must. ALL voices, inflections, and accents. All reactions to words. Toddlers need all of the above, but sitting time can become a longer period. Teach them the letters, numbers, and punctuation. Teach them colors, numbers, shapes, etc. Teach them their address. Teach them to hold a pencil or crayon...without breaking it. Teach them to care for things. Get a pet. Show them how to care for a pet. Be loving. Queens children are all a little less than two years apart. Each new baby brought a responsibility for the older child/children. They learned to be helpful, do chores, learned to cook, etc. They were all potty trained before the next one came. They need to learn rules, boundaries, consequences, and much more. There is a time to run free and a time to be still. Disciple always reminded Queen of the scriptures in Ecc 3:1-8...A time for everything. Everything they learn from birth to age three will take them through their life. THIS is THE MOST valuable time in their lives. YOU are setting them up to succeed during this time. Queen took parenting seriously. She was doing the best she could, and even though she tried to quit many times, she always came back. It isn't easy. There are still times, even though Queen's children are ALL successful adults in their 40's, when she feels she wasn't the best, didn't do everything, maybe wished things would have been different. But some of them have told her she is AWESOME! She DID the best. Was great. One thing is, thankfully NONE of them were lost on her watch. Well, one at the mall. But that is another story. THIS IS NOT meant to compare our parenting with the parenting of others. Each child is different. Each child was born to YOU for what you will teach them and bring to their lives. While Queen always wanted children, she also wanted them to turn out well. We believe they all did. Are they perfect? Darn tootin! Well, we are biased. We know they aren't, but only one person was ever perfect. Queen is thankful they all chose her to be their Momma, MA, Mom, Mommy. They are ALL a blessing to her, and ALL of us in the Hermitage are thankful for them and ALL they do for us. They are the jewels in Queens crown.