Away for a few weeks - HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Away for a couple of weeks leaving later today.
Son and DD-I-L are still asleep and will be leaving today, then we will finish packing the RV and go too.

I have most of the time scheduled, with visits to all the family members on the Central Coast, and Blue Mountains, including my daughter and Grandaughters, and Barry's son, granddaughter and brother. That includes a Grandaughter who lives in UK that I have not seen for more than 10 years.  Praise God for Facebook!

I will be meeting Lowana (a workmate from about 1983-4) in Sydney next Tuesday and we will be going to the Mawson Antartic Diaries Exhibition.
 
We are having a 'holiday' with one of the motorhome groups too, joining them at one of the Hawkesbury River Leisure Parks for nearly a week.  Then we will have a leisurely trip home via the Pre (free part) of the  Tamworth Country Music Festival.

A Blessed, Peaceful, Contented and Healthy NEW YEAR to all Blogger friends.

O Holy Night

With love and blessings for Peace, Joy and Love at Christmas.

Countdown to Christmas

Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a Child is born,

      Unto us a Son is given;
      And the government will be upon His shoulder.
      And His name will be called
      Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
      Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

As we meditate on these awesome words this week, we push aside the images of Santa Claus, snow and reindeer that  are the norm for most people at this time of the year, even in our hot and sunny climate in Australia. We are blessed that the media are playing the traditional carols and it is  "Merry Christmas" rather that Happy Holidays or Seasons Greetings.

We have our last concert for the year tomorrow, and while some would think it is the most depressing place to go as it is a dementia ward, we know we are helpful as the activities office is trying to run the men's shed out in the grounds as well as the ward, although there are other staff about.

My christmas gift to myself came today and I am thrilled with it, though I do not have the musical expertise to do it myself.

A guide to playing healing music at the bedside

Leaving the Readers who call in here with love and prayers for a blessed Christmas Season.

So exciting to see that our Australian blog friend Crystal Mary Lindsey's book "Shadows of Time" is now out and available at Amazon and  Barnes and Noble, and is an Editors Choice, no less.  Congratulations!!

For my friends who have not been over to Crystal's, click for Crystal's Blog and a synopsis of Shadows of Time or the link to the book on  Amazon or  Barnes & Noble, though I'm sure you will want to read about it first.  Wonderful to see that Crystal's daughters had a hand in the attractive cover.

The contemporary Christian tale is about:
"Twenty-seven-year-old Ariana Ross has not had an easy life.......................
She has no idea how many surprises await to change her life forever."

Congratulations again, Crystal, and with every Blessing that your book will reach a wide audience and be a great encouragement to your readers.


With love, Jan

Thankful

Very thankful for our Christmas this year, and where we are in life. There have been some very quiet Christmases in the past.

I have a day to spare today to edge a little closer to being organised. Cards to send to people I did not include in my mailout, gift wrapping and finishing up there, and shopping for the main meal.

This year is very special as my son and D-I-Law are coming, and as far as I can remember, I have not had Christmas with my son since 1983 due to various circumstances.  He was overseas for a number of years, and since returning, they have worked (Registered Nurses) on Christmas Day every year.

He was reminiscing about the hams that our family was given in his childhood, and I said yes we will have ham. Now I have never bought a ham before, let alone glazed one, so I have been looking out for a good recipe.  Some of them have masses of ingredients, but there was a recipe in the paper this week that I like. I will only buy a fairly small one, as I don't want much leftover.  All it needs is cranberry sauce or redcurrent jelly, balsamic vinegar and cloves.

Cranberry & Balsamic Glazed Ham

I will also be making his favourite dessert, which isn't plum pudding.  Actually I confess here that I have never made a plum pudding, and now the thought of boiling one for hours puts me off, and I don't like the taste of the bought ones. The recipe was in a church recipe book back in the 1970's under the heading Continental Dessert.

It looks and tastes luscious, but it actually very economical. Anyone who would like the recipe, please email me.

So, away from the computer to get started on the day.

Love and  Blessings, Jan

How Great Thou Art

Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God,

in the mountain of his holiness. Psalm 48:1

Outside my window... Cloudy, might be another storm. Temp in here is 22C, very pleasant.

I am thinking... how good life is.

I am thankful... for all the plans and good things to look forward to over Christmas
In the kitchen... a quick meal of steamed veges for lunch.

I am wearing... old Christmas T-shirt and 3/4 navy pants

I am creating... clean house, Christmas menu etc.LOL, plans for our trip south after Christmas, contacting the people we wish to see and setting up times etc.

I am going... to a country village for a Carols evening tonight.

I am wondering... if any more Christmas cards will turn up from people I haven't sent one to.

I am reading... still reading the Mawson book... not enough time

I am looking forward to... Christmas Day with son and D-I-Law

I am hearing...  actually my ears are ringing a bit today.... no silence!

Around the house... Christmas is coming, I spent two half days cleaning the bistro blinds on the deck, we were ready to give up on them, had tried a few things, and planned to get rid of them and put in another product, but suddenly the cleaning worked.

One of my favorite things... At this time of year...people who let you know what gift they would like.
A few plans for the rest of the week..... we still have another concert tomorrow, a family Christmas party from 5.30 to 8pm.   We need to pull out some more songs to cover that.

Yesterday as we wrapped up our Christmas concert, one of our regulars sidled up and said, you can't go home until you sing "How Great Thou Art".    We usually do that one for them, but I thought with all the Christian content among the Carols, they would be happy without  "How Great Thou Art". 

A few of the residents had to go back to their rooms to prepare for lunch a few minutes before we finished and I gave the first one that went past me a peck on the cheek, then they all stopped for a peck and a pat on the shoulder.  It was so sweet.

Here is a link to the history of How Great Thou Art

With Love and Blessings
Jan

Have a list of things to do around the house today, but raining this morning.


I got a couple of photos from our concerts on Thursday

 and Friday

The residents are enjoying singing the old Christmas favourites.. Silent Night, Away in a Manger, Little Town of Bethlehem, Mary's Boy Child, When a Child is Born etc and some of the Christmas songs Jingle Bells, Australian Jingle Bells, Silver Bells, White Christmas etc etc.

 

At the Aged Care, one of the Activity Officers, Margaret was putting the finishing touches to a 'handprint' Christmas tree. They had drawn around every resident's hand on yellow card, and cut them out and added their name.  Featuring bright green glitter on the fingers, it was very effective, and lovely for the residents to see their hand on the tree.  I will get a photo of it when we go there next Thursday to entertain at their family Christmas Party.

We parked behind the music shop on the way and while Barry nipped in,  I thought the bridge we had just travelled over looked interesting from  this aspect so took this pic through the windscreen. It was too bright really for a good shot.

 Trusting all going well with you and yours in this Christmas Season.

Love and God Bless xx

PS: if you are wondering why the photos are just of us, I took a couple of photos at a home last year and was then reminded not to post any photos with faces showing, so have not taken any more of residents.

Out again today

Today we attended another volunteers thank you, for the musicians who  entertain, and "Friends" of the Aged Care Home.  It was a lavish afternoon tea, slices with icing, caramel, chocolate etc, and also cream puffs (round eclairs or profiteroles).  Hope we sleep well tonight as don't usually eat sugar, preferring coconut sugar, stevia and raw honey.

We were presented with a certificate, and I didn't expect that, as we were only  there once, on a recommendation, possibly when they had a cancellation, though they have indicated they want us a lot more in the future. All our invites have come from recommendations, we have not chased up any concerts ourselves.

This week the main thrust in any spare time has been to get the Christmas cards in the mail, and I have always enjoyed sending them to people that we don't see these days, neighbours and friends from earlier times, and relatives that live in other parts of the world.

Increasingly I am finding that some don't send cards any more, and ignore the one I have sent, though one or two have the opposite opinion and say they don't count cyberspace greetings and are blessed when they receive a card they can hold in their hands.

So it is a challenge to please everyone, and also to be prepared for a card or small gift received  locally and unexpectedly.

Other years I have included a short letter, just outlining some of the things that have happened to us over the year, in the hope that the recipients will include a few lines in their card, as I feel short-changed when I get a card that just says to..... from...... I feel it is a waste of a card and stamp.

      Quote: Don't worry if your Christmas card list seems to be growing each year.  Instead, be grateful!  It just means you're making friends faster than you are losing them.

A little child
a shining star
a stable rude,
the door ajar.
Yet in that place
so crude, forlorn,
The Hope of all
the world was born.
--Anonymous

My list is getting shorter as some people, including my sister and her family, are no longer interested in snail-mail cards!

I am also wrapping the few gifts that we exchange, and planning our trip away in January, contacting the people we wish to see and it is all coming on in a very satisfactory way.

Love and Blessings, Jan

A DAY AT "A TAPESTRY of LIFE"

Outside my window... A cloudy, cool day, I even have a cardigan on. Every cloud has a silver lining, I can hear birds singing, and that ususally only happens in the early hours before it gets too hot.
I am thinking... where has the year gone, here we are preparing for Christmas again
I am thankful for... doing my gift shopping yesterday.... all done. Also for friends and my life here, I was at Care and Share with Val and friends this morning, where we bring along the items we have made for Missions without Borders in Eastern Europe and have a morning together, and my Friend Lynn just brought back my banner that she used at the Carols on Sunday night.
Val played this on her laptop from youtube



From the kitchen... Barry bought a new Rouge French Oven for the cooktop yesterday, and has offered to prepare dinner in it tonight
I am wearing... my oldest black slacks, 3/4 sleeve cotton shirt in orange/pink tones, and the cardigan
I am creating... well not really, just writing Christmas cards.
I am going... to a Volunteers thank you at one of the homes tomorrow
I am reading... a new release borrowed from our local library:

It marks the 100th anniversary of his voyage to Antartica. Click here for synopsis

I am hoping... for safe travel for loved ones.

I am hearing... traffic in the distance and the joyful calls of birds in the garden.

Around the house... Christmas gifts waiting to be wrapped, christmas cards not finished.

One of my favorite things... seeing my little plants thriving.

A few plans for the rest of the week.... Us giving Christmas concerts for Aged Care Thursday and Friday

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

Thanks to Peggy for this format. To see more Daybooks click here.
With love and Blessings,
Jan

CHALLENGES OF THE CHRISTMAS SEASON

"CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT"

I remember wth nostalgia wonderful "Carols by Candlelight" evenings years ago. People of all ages, families, singles, elderly would gather at the open air venue, in the balmy evening air as dusk fell. We would recieve carol sheets as we arrived and light our candles in their protective cardboard sleeves. I especially treasure the memory of one such occasion in the grounds of Taronga Zoo overlooking Sydney Harbour.

They still call these occasions Carols by Candlelight in our town, and advertise  a Christmas message, but last year it was read out a few minutes before the end of the night when all the families with young children had long departed, and only the last few items were waiting their turn. The carols were only on at the end too, the evening was all Santa orientated. One of the local service clubs runs it, with their raffles and chocolate wheels, and this year markets are being held in conjunction with it.

No we aren't attending, but one of my Christmas banners is, my friend who will be singing just phoned and asked to borrow my Christian one.  We have spoken about putting on Carols and hope to organise it for next year, thought of it too late and have too many commitments this year.

 Love and Blessings
Jan

Into the "End of Year" functions

I do wonder why so many end of year functions, even "Carols by Candlelight" are held at the end of November, early December, and for many people, particularly elderly, coming up to Christmas there are a lot of days with nothing much to do, as many meetings and activities in Australia close down until beginning of February as it is the hot season with many taking their annual holidays. 

We are getting ready for the concerts and Christmas parties at the Aged Care homes now. We have 23 Christmas Carols and Christmas Songs and will include most of them. 

Changing the subject, we have been trying to keep up with the garden (and have not been able to complete the plans outlined in the previous post), and busy with our singing and activities, and Barry has been struggling with some health issues..... he just said "I take one step forward and two backwards" so somehow I was unable, in myself, to come here, I just didn't seem to have anything to say and felt particularly guilty not being able to get around all the posts that I "follow".

I think too, having my son and daughter-in-law move back to Queensland has given me a contentment that I didn't know I was missing, we've seen them every month since then, so we have been away a bit, when not keeping up our singing commitments, though we had to cancel some due to Barry's illhealth.

( Rob, Emi and Rob's daughter)

However I was admitted to a group on Facebook that has inspired me to reactivate this page, (Thank you Dorothy) and I look forward to writing my humble thoughts here again.

With love and Blessings,
Jan

September Already

Have to keep pinching myself to remember we are now well into September.   Remember when we were young and the year seemed to take an eternity, now the days are spinning by at 1000 miles an hour!!!

It is a beautiful Spring day, 23C at 4pm, and the sun has been shining all day.  We have had showers of rain lately, but it dries out very quickly, reminding me I am planning on doing some mulching.   We have spent a lot of time in the yard, and not finished yet.  I have been getting rid of all the bushes that need pruning and taking to the tip regularly, the ones that grow like the 'beanstalk'' again in no time at all.

We want to put a 'properly constructed fireplace' in the backyard too, and Barry fancies a pizza oven type thing, as we like to make our own pastries, pasta, dampers etc. so we have been googling and hoping to find something that we both like.

We had Barry's brother here, and when they left, they were going to Yamba.  The next night they were in Lightning Ridge,  up to the north west of NSW, so we will be interested to here what inspired that trip.

When they left we packed up and went to QLD to see my son and Emi.  We took the plants they left with us for safekeeping for their move from Sydney back to QLD, and thankfully we delivered them safe and sound and alive, plus a new mandarin for them as a Happy Birthday, Happy Move back to QLD gift. We have a good time there, lovely to see them, and Emi makes the most scrumptious crepes, and Barry and Rob have a jam, and I ventured to play the ukulele with them this time.

Talking of jams, a lovely friend who has a long necked mandolin has moved into town, and she has a little cabin in her yard for her spinning and music, and she invited us over to play during last week, and also made another time, so we are thrilled about that, as it is not easy to find compatible people to share music and just play along with. She has done an awesome amount of work on the home and garden they bought, her hubby can't help as he is fairly restricted in his movement, in fact they were building a ramp in the backyard for his wheelchair.

We sing again tomorrow and Friday, then I go to the North Coast Christian Womens Convention at Ballina on Saturday. Quite a few of the ladies from our church are going, in fact transport is provided in our church's school bus. Ladies from my Know Your Bible group (another church) were also invited and a few of them are coming too. There will be lots of chatter all the way, and we start early as the sessions are from 9-5. Morning and afternoon tea and lunch are provided.

That is about all the news for today.

Take care and God Bless.

PS: Pic is my Cymbidium orchid, the only one I have, my boss's wife was repotting her's when I left work in Sydney and I was lucky enough to be there to say 'yes I would love one'  at the right time. xx

Halfway through August!

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... Beautiful clear blue sky, no wind, lovely 'winter' day and I'm in short sleeves.  I see on our weather site it is 22C.... perfect, and 22C in here too.
I am thinking... about a few things as usual, the projects I have started in the garden, Barry thinks I have started too much at the same time, but the various components depend on each other.
I am thankful for... family and friends, everyone going well at the moment,  son and family going to Bali for a week, they are excited.
From the kitchen... I've just been through the vegetables, and there is cauliflower that need using up, cauliflower and cheese soup coming up.
I am wearing... gaardening clothes, short sleeve mauve shirt and jeans
I am creating... new areas in the garden, veges planted and new outlook at the front, then we are working towards an outdoor living area.
I am going... to a retreat, but just on Saturday, not staying this year.
I am reading... nothing new this week.

I am hearing... peace and quiet
Around the house... it is all happening outside!
One of my favorite things...photos.  So grateful we can have wonderful photos so easily these days.
Here is a pic of a surprise basket my daughter sent.

A few plans for the rest of the week: We sing again tomorrow and Thursday. We sang to about 200+ people from Fri 5th to 12th.
Here is picture for thought I am sharing... the trailer I filled yesterday, Barry has just driven it away now.  I would say there is one more load to go. It was time for a change, to plants that do not need so much pruning. 

"I Come into Your Presence" lyrics:

I come into Your presence
With nothing in my hands
I only bring thanksgiving
For Jesus, God and Man
I cast myself on mercy
I cast myself on love
I trust Your gracious promise
To wash me with Your blood
I will not fear Your judgment
For me, no wrath I dread
For it was spent on Jesus
Poured out upon His head
When Satan’s accusations
Make my poor heart afraid
I hear my King declaring
“Father, that debt is paid”
Jesus my only hope, my only plea
My righteousness, my Great High Priest
Who intercedes for me before the throne
Jesus, I trust in You alone.

Thank you to Peggy for the headings. I don't link mine, but if you wish to see more to see more Daybooks, just click here.

With love and blessings, Jan

Today's Thoughts

Hard to believe how quickly the year is racing away.

We are spending a lot of time in the garden, totally revamping it.  We were inspired by the amount of foliage we have to cut off our trees and shrubs and the high cost of taking it to the tip, when several adjacent councils offer a 'green waste' bin.  I have also been noticing homes that don't have messy shrubbery and garden beds can look quite classy, and the potential to use less water, whereas ours gets quite sad after an extended dry period, as I don't water much. Our garden looks after itself a fair bit of the time because we are away.

Barry has been very busy building a green house too, and has his version of hydroponics in it, trying a few different methods.  I have planted some vegetables in the ground, but Barry has more growing than me at the moment.  He has been trying a raw food diet, and very keen to have his own organic veges.

Apart from completely getting rid of a  couple of trees and large bushes (all legit, I checked) which we have done over the past couple of days, and an unsuccessful herb bed, which I did this afternoon, I an also totally changing our front yard, but it is a larger project.

We sang again today, and I have tomorrow at  bible study in the morning and the rest of the day at home, then singing in the next city Thursday and Friday.  Usually after we sing we have the rest of the day fairly quietly, but our energy levels have been very good lately.  Perhaps it is because we are pleased with what we are planning in the garden anand want to see it through!!!

It is census night here, and I did it online this morning, didn't take long.  I do think some of the questions could be better, apparently they are exactly the same as the previous census.  Anyway I said yes to putting our details online in 99 years time.  99 years sounds like a long time away, and we don't know what will happen by then, still my father was born in 1913, so I hope I live to see immediate family details online soon, and I knew all four of my grandparents, who  were born during the latter part of the 1800s and when I get around to looking, I am hoping I will see their details, particularly on my maternal side, which I have not pursued so far.

(Pic from internet)

Hope all well at your place too.

Love and Blessings, Jan

Special Sings My Soul

Yesterday we had an unexpected "Sings my Soul" moment. We were told the concert was for the farewell of a particular person at the home we were going to, and we didn't know who the person was and  these sometimes occur when residents are moving to another home, but this time we found out when we got there it was the CEO of the whole of the organisation, covering homes throughout the State. He was going from one to another and being farewelled at each one and introducing the new CEO.

When we walked in the tables were set with the best  white linen and beautiful deep pink camellias and maroon table runners, and all the residents were there for the concert and they, pastoral care team, and  community care team were having lunch together, over 100 people, and we were invited as well. The activities officer and staff were a bit edgy at first, but when everything was ready they settled down and joined in our singing and enjoyed it, one of the biggest groups we have had. We played from 10.30 til nearly 12 noon when the CEOs arrived. They could only stay one hour and they had to eat lunch and do the speeches and receive gifts and hand out certificates to the community care team before moving on to the next home for afternoon tea on their round of farewells.

In his speech the outgoing CEO talked about The Holy Spirit as well as humorous remarks and then one of the staff led the CEO's favourite hymn

It was a privilege to be included in the day, and I hope we remember it for a long time.

For more Then Sings my Soul Saturday with Amy, click here
Love and Blessings,
Jan

Simple Joys and thankfulness

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 1 Thess 5:18

This is easy when things are going well, and we do try to find something to be thankful for even if we have health issues or other troubles, however life is good andit is a joy to be very grateful and  thankful every day.  I woke this morning listing in my mind the many things we have to be thankful for, and continued to think along those lines during the day.

We are always thankful to wake to the new day. I am grateful for our warm bed and refreshing sleep  and that we can please ourselves what time we get up now that we are retired.

I am thankful for my Bible and ability to read it, and also the freedom.  I think of Linda from our Church who has gone to Taiwan as a missionary, and also the other locals who have gone overseas as missionaries that we have been praying for at our bible study.  Our leader is just back from a short mission trip to Indonesia and we were very interested in recollections of her time there, in such a different culture, and the many blessings and her awareness of Him looking after them.

As I tidied up I appreciated my health to be able to do all my own housework, and having a home, however modest, to live our life in.

It was another glorious day, and soon our Tilda (dog) was waiting for us to take our coffee out the front and sit together and contemplate the day.

Getting on with the day after a smoothie for breakfast and a lovely warm shower, then a walk in the sunshine along to the church hall to join the ladies meeting there, with a cheery hello to neighbours along the way.

Chat and laughter with sisters in the Lord there. It was devotions and fellowship today as our secretary broke her ankle this week, just a simple slip in her back garden, and of course, the President didn't bother her hubby for the books etc.

We are thankful that Heather is getting the best of care in hospital, free under our system, and has a devoted hubby and family,  and we pray for her smooth recovery.

Then Barry and I went for our weekly shop, thankful that everything we need is available to us, and we don't have to worry about being able to pay for it.

It was good to meet people we know around the shops, one of the joys of living in a country town. I had a chat with Laura who is just handing out the leaflets for a ladies convention coming up (just one day) and learnt our minister has made our church's Christian School bus available to take us there.

Now we have worked together on the program for the concerts at the homes this month, and it has all come together, first one tomorrow, and will finish the day with a fresh salad and pleasing ourselves whether we watch a little TV or read.

For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. Acts 17:28

 (Pic from internet...source unknown)

With love and blessings,

Jan

Last week of July

FOR TODAY
Outside my window...It is dark now, but it has been a lovely day and week, with the temperature right on the average for Winter in our area, 21C.

I am thinking... about a lot of things, but particularly the census form, and that the details will be released in 99 years time. I haven't thought of looking for my grandparents there, and they would all be available by now, and my grandchildren would be able to see our details in the 2040s if they are interested.  My children and grands haven't shown interest in our geneaology as yet, though I have given them copies of my research.

I am thankful for...travelling mercies and all the joyful times we have had.

From the kitchen... not much happening, we just had a snack tonight.

I am wearing... winter house clothes, cord jeans, windcheater and ugg boots.

I am creating... knee rugs to giveaway as a love gift, perhaps when someone has to go into Care, or has a terminal diagnosis. My sister had quite a few made up made when I was there last month (pictured). I have finished my first one, and have another 20 or so squares knitted. They are joined by crochet.

I am going... to enjoy seeing everyone again this week.

I am reading...for our new Bible Study this term 1 Samual. 

I also enjoyed some gentle fiction by Sally Stewart from the library while I was away. I have read a few of hers now, including two set in Venice.  Click here.

I am hoping... that everything works out for son and d-i-law after their move back to QLD.

I am hearing... the TV

Around the house...I haven't put everything away after returning home from our little trip, and I see the floors need a good vacuum.

One of my favorite things... Family

A few plans for the rest of the week.... Just the meetings that occur in the first week of the month, garden club tomorrow, Care and Share on Tuesday, Bible Study on Wednesday and Church ladies and their Bible Study on Thursday. We haven't been to tennis for a while, we haven't been getting up so early with the cooler mornings.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...


Thanks to Peggy for hosting The Simple woman's Daybook.  To see more Daybooks, click here

Love and Blessings,
Jan

Little trip July

On our previous trip which included seeing my Sis in Brisbane, and Barry's nephew at Mt Tambourine, we called in at a lovely seaside village and decided to spend some time there regularly in future, and we had our first midweek break there this past week, after our singing commitments for July were over.

We have had a few bleak days, after all it is Winter, but I knew we were due for some lovely days, as our average Winter temperature is 21C, and we were fortunate to spend those days on the banks of the beautiful Brunswick River, not far from the lovely beaches in that area.

Must admit I was pleased  to catch up with some reading, and Barry tried his hand at a spot of fishing. He only caught one fish, and put it back as he thought it would be too small. However I picked up some information at the local fishing shop later, and it was of a legal size.

We had a few games of Scrabble and Rubicub in the evenings, we always enjoy those quiet evenings, also Barry enjoys his guitar and I took the ukulele.  As this is the off season, it was fairly quiet and we appreciated it.

However the best part was to come, as my son and daughter-in-law moved back to QLD on Thursday, and we went along to stay a few days in a lovely townhouse with them on Friday afternoon. They had hoped to  move directly into their own home, but that was a bit ambitious, and now they will have time to find just the right place, though they seemed keen to stay in the current complex, even though that was not their original idea.

They did a barbecue outdoors on the terrace in the evening and the men enjoyed jamming. I had not heard my son sing before, and he was very clever on the guitar.  They were so thrilled to be back in QLD, commenting that it seemed to be windy cold or wet so much while they were in Sydney, they had not bbq'd even once.  Certainly there may have been some good weather in Sydney, but it has made the headlines with the wild, windy and wet weather time after time.

My son took us all to the Currumbin Surf Club for a lovely lunch on Saturday, then we left them with the promise that we would see them again next  month, as we are going to do it all again.

Photo: My view Monday to Friday last week.  A pair of lorikeets lived in this nesting box provided for them.

Good Evening Friends

Dear Friends,
Thank you for your kind thoughts and comments. Without going over previous posts, I think I mentioned I lost the use of my laptop, after about 13 months as the connection to the battery failed just after the warranty ran out, and somehow it seemed wasteful to buy a new battery for $132 when I have a usable PC, however slow and frustrating it may be loading.  Also being winter I have been getting up later which has disposed of the time I was spending on the internet, and I have been seeking the company of more local friends and taking a bit more interest in my home and garden. In the past I depended so much on my blogging friends and life, and find my indifference(?) in recent months very difficult to comprehend, though the fact I ran out of photos may have something to do with it also.

We have had a couple of nice trips, including this past week, and I will start afresh with an account of it. Thank you again to those who have stayed with me.   Lots of love, Jan

Tuesday Daybook

FOR TODAY
Outside my window.. . It is dark after 9.00pm, but I imagine it is cloudy as it has rained a few times today.  Although it has felt a little cooler at times over the last week or so, it can still be quite warm.

I am thinking... about how the power adapter for my laptop has a problem, and I am back on a PC, and it takes so long to open my friends blogs, I have given up in frustration, so I have really let people down who have commented, as I have not returned the visit. I have a quote for $132 for a new one, but want to see if an electronic friend can do anything with it before I go ahead.

I am thankful for... peaceful times with friends, especially the campfire on the weekend

From the kitchen... I rearranged a cupboard and got rid of an untidy corner.  Also we have continued to make our own butter, and then we make pancakes with the buttermilk, a real treat.

I am wearing... nightwear.

I am creating... a fresh living room. We are painting it.

I am going... to just the usual this week.

I am reading... my bible.  Apart from my main one I also have an illustrated bible and I am enjoying that one. As we are studying Isaiah  I made up a laminated sheet with current territries in the Middle East on one side and Bible Times on the other to save flipping to the backs of our Bibles, particularly as we have a bit of trouble remembering which country is which.

I am hoping  ....just the usual things, nothing special.

I am hearing... the TV in the background at the other end of the house, as Barry is preparing a wall for painting and watching a show.

Around the house... The lawn needs mowing as it has been wet again lately, I think we missed the window of opportunity this morning.

One of my favorite things... I have been playing the ukulele more lately, it is my instrument of choice when we go along to the jams in recent times. At the campfire we had a fiddle, several guitars, penny whistle, banjo, mandolin, ukulele lagerphone and clapsticks.

A few plans for the rest of the week..... very quiet week, apart from Bible Study tomorrow, and taking the opportunity to do some cleaning, such as the bistro blinds on the deck.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing... oh dear, I only have old pics on here!! No wonder I can't find what I am looking for. Never mind, I will find a youtube.I was inspired by a new Hymns and Gospel songbook for ukulele that I received in the post this week.

If you would like to see more Daybooks at Peggy's place, click here
Love and hugs,
Jan

Sunday night again!

I am joining in with Charlotte and Ginger again today for Spiritual Sunday, and invite you to visit them, and the other participants, here.

It was a lovely surprise and very exciting to see 100 listed in my Followers File, and to see that number 100 is Charlotte..... what a blessing and encouragement.  Welcome, and welcome and thankyou to all who take the time to read my posts.


I hardly looked at the computer all week.  I have been overwhelmed making a banner for a friend who ministers through her gospel music.  Somehow it took a lot longer than previous ones I have made, the material more delicate and more detail. I am not trained in sewing at all, and perhaps the years are catching up as well. DH took quite an interest too, and helped with measuring etc.

Of course the big news is the horrific situation in Japan, and my heart goes out to them, apart from the losses, the threat of the meltdown at the nuclear plants adding to their nightmare. We did not have the TV on for a couple of days so initially missed it, but caught up with it today.

We sang twice this week, including an early St Patricks Concert. Apart from that nothing unusual, except that we went to see The Kings Speech this evening, as some internet friends have mentioned it and recommended it, and it was great to see that such a simple story, with limited budget has done so well and is so enjoyable.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY
Stepping Stones BJ Hoff
God makes stepping-stones of all our days
to guide us on life's pathway.
When we would stand where we are,
in the safety of this hour,
He bids us move, step out, and follow Him.
I run in the path of your commands,
for you have set my heart free. Psalm 119:32



I'll try to get around some other posts now, then get started on my bible study homework, we are still in Isaiah.
Love and Blessings,
Jan

Thoughts on Sunday Night.

Joining in at Spiritual Sunday, do visit for Charlotte and Ginger and the participants.

Eventually I am getting around to posting some photos from last weekend, though I have posted more pics on 50+ and Loving Life.  This is a spot we arrived at in the late afternoon and stayed for $8 per night. There was only one other RV there, a woman living permanently, with her dog, in her Winnebago. Actually this is in the area that Russell Crowe has his rural property, Glenreagh NSW.
There were kookaburras and magpies, and a shy kangaroo that hopped away as I approached

It was such a wonderful time, which I am slowly getting around to relating, and a very blessed week back home as well, with Care & Share on Tuesday, Bible Study Wednesday, Church Ladies meeting, Thursday, World Day of Prayer Friday (I did a bible reading), Flower Show Saturday morning, and a new musical group we have joined on Saturday afternoon, and a trip to join the church camp today, then friends calling in, lovely people to be with and talk to all through the week, as well as our time with each other.

A LEGACY OF LOVE.... BJ Hoff

We have been given all things from above,

a legacy gained from a treasury of love,

endowed by a King

who owns heaven and earth,

yet sees us as precious, of infinite worth.

The Father has qualified you to

share in the inheritance of the

saints in the kingdom of light

Corinthians 1:12

We finished our service today with an old favourite, beautiful scenery on the clip:

With love and Blessings for a joyous and contented week.
Jan

Watery Wednesday

One of the spots we visited on the weekend, Dangar Falls Dorrigo.

It has been so hot since we got home, 36.4C today, I'm a bit slow getting back into routine.

Do visit here for more Watery Wednesday.

With love

We are away for a few days.

Just have to say our thoughts and prayers with New Zealanders  in the face of their devastating tragedy.

Azalea from my backyard... the bush is gnarled and old, but it surprises me with beautiful blooms.

CHERISH EVERY MOMENT  BH Hoff
Teach me to cherish
every momentof my life...
to recognize the blessing
and the gift of the here and now,
instead of raing through my days
on the way to the future.

Encourage one another daily,
as long as it is called today.
Hebrews 3:13


Look forward to catching up next week.  Take care and God Bless.


Love Jan.

Spiritual Sunday

 I'm joining in again at  Spiritual Sunday with Charlotte and Ginger. when am I going to remember that it starts on Thursday my time!

Today I want to mention my Bible Study which is such a blessing to me.  This term it is Isaiah Chapters 1-39, headed The God who judges and saves.  It is with CWCI and known as Know Your Bible.  It is available in a number of countries, and may be familiar to some readers.

The book of Isaiah has many well known quotations, even if we can't remember from whence they came.  Here are a few:

Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow. Isaiah, 1. 18


 And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory. Isaiah, 6. 1

Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. Isaiah, 7. 14

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Isaiah, 9. 6

 The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.Isaiah, 11. 6

Let us eat and drink; for to morrow we shall die. Isaiah, 22. 13

There are so many more but my all time favourite:

But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew [their] strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; [and] they shall walk, and not faint. Isaiah 40:31

Our mornings together are special too because of the wonderful group of women that participate and it is fellowship time as well.  We start at 10am with a cuppa and chat and then turn to the study by 10.30am.

We do have to read the questions carefully, it is easy to jump in too quickly... for example:  What time span do Isaiah's prophecies cover? The quick answer is 'about 40 years' as some answered..... but when we think about it a little longer, we realise  that the question is deeper than that - some of the prophecies were for his generation, others through the ages especially in Jesus' time, and others yet to be fulfilled.  After we have all shared in the study, taking turns to answer the questions and joining in the discussions, around 11.30 we have a time of prayer together.

A STRENGTH THAT NEVER FAILS BJ Hoff

Lord, You are my hope, my consolation...
In the gentle warmth of Your love,
there is strength that never fails,
a fortress and a hiding place
where I need never hear.

Isaiah 40: 29 He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.

I've been singing some of the scripture songs from early in my Christian walk, but most aren't on youtube.  Still I am very grateful to find some that I know.


 



With love and blessings for joy and peace.
Hugs
Jan

End of Week Thoughts

The main thing is that we finished our AgedCare commitments for the month today, we limit them to the second and third week of the month.

It was great to hear a family of Kookaburras or Laughing Jackass this morning. Here is a youtube I found.

Received a newsletter in the mail today, and it took a while for the 'penny to drop'. I could not remember accessing their site etc, then saw it was because I was one of 428,856 who signed the petition concerning the Defamation of Religions Resolution.   Link to their Womens Ministry

Our church supports missionaries in Taiwan, and recently our Youth Pastor has started her training to take up her position there later in the year.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

GOD KNOWS BEST BJ Hoff

Be content,  my heart,

though you cannot see

God's vast eternal mystery,

Be at peace, my soul,

like a child at rest,

in the simple truth

that God knows best.

Be still, and know that I am God Psalm 46:10

Have a very pleasant joyful week.
God Bless,
Jan

Thankful Thursday

We are very thankful today, for many things......

..........we had a wonderful answer to prayer..... I mentioned my car has been at the mechanic's for some weeks now, and they dropped it back late yesterday with its replacement motor, and Barry went to ask for the bill today, and it was less than we expected..... other times we have had work done there it has always been more.

.........While I am talking about material things, thankful also for the Solar Panels sucessfully connected to the grid, could have waited a lot longer.

........ For bills paid phone calls made and and things up to date.

..........My dear one who was depressed does sound as if she has turned the corner and is a bit better for now, and I continue to pray.

.........My friend is recovering from her operation, I spoke to her this morning and she is out of hospital, but not allowed to come home yet, she is staying with her daughter in Brisbane area, in case she needs more treatment.


..........We have enjoyed our singing, tomorrow the last day in this bracket, then no more til the second week of March.

...........We had planned a trip to Sydney to see family in this break, but instead we are just going to take a short trip to see three of my siblings, just thought of it today so haven't checked with them yet, but I am planning stops at scenic areas to take photos.

......... for local friends who drop in and phone, and for online friends too.... for kindnesses and friendship. 

......... for our garden too, and the fledgling vegetables we are growing.  We also  have fresh lemons and limes every day, herbs and our own lettuce at the moment. And I am hoping the zuchini do OK, lots of flowers on the tomatoes.

And just all round thanks for all the provisions for us in our life.

One of my favourites from way back.



For more Thankful Thursday, do visit Laurie and join in there, and yes Laurie, I am very thankful too that God knows our names..

Have a Blessed week!
Hugs,
Jan

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... the sun is shining brilliantly now at 6pm. It has been cloudy, sunny, then 5 minutes later a heavy shower of rain, an unusual day for our area. I was down near the PO when it started  to rain, but I had my trusty umbrella, so .... no worries.
I am thinking... it has been a good day, walking this morning, then to a morning tea put on by our local member to honour our annual Woman of the Electorate for her community work,  probably an Australia Day thing. I went along with a few ladies from our church group, then a friend called in this afternoon unexpectedly... a lovely day.
I am thankful for... my friend's operation, I heard from her hubby late last night, and thankful for a lot of other things too. 

From the kitchen... DH made our first home-made butter, and it only took a few minutes, and it is so sweet and tasty... and no chemicals or additives. I was making some delicious pumpkin soup while that was happening.  I've saved some of the Jap pumpkin seeds, hope to plant some later.

I am wearing... a sleeveless top and gym pants.
I am creating... nothing special
I am going... singing Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, then two weeks clear.
I am reading... nothing new this week. I did finish Chaff Upon the Wind though, I had put it aside for a few days..

I am hoping... still hoping and praying for my family
I am hearing...the evening news on TV
Around the house...could do with a little picking up
One of my favorite things... today....sweet homemade butter..... I will take some pics next time
A few plans for the rest of the week: Saturday we are going to a new music group in the area. I have been keeping up with them on Facebook.
Here is picture for thought I am sharing... I've been posting some scenic photos on the other blog 50+ and Loving Life
Here.... a youtube today

I won't be posting to The Simple Woman's Daybook, but if you would like to visit Peggy and see more Daybooks, click here.

And have a very pleasant week.
Love and blessings,