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6/19/13 7:08 A

Good morning! The sun is finally out and the heavy rain has moved on.

Fran, so glad that no one was hurt with your lightning storm.
As for Les Brown and the quotes you give us, I love him and had the pleasure of hearing him give a motivational speech at a conference I went to once. Wonderful!

Marsha, a business trip to Key West! How wonderful. Had one of the best vacations there, many years ago. Ah, the sunsets. Your son will find time to enjoy, I am sure.

Glad that your AC is fixed. Up here we use it as much for the humidity as for the heat.

Mary, I hope that you have your ducks in a row, this morning. Blood work done? Ready for Sunday? Then Monday will be here before you know it.

Our dear friend Fay has a blog that will fill you in on where she has been.
She could use our prayers as her DH has had his second stoke.

SO, for me, it is back to work, today, although I will not over do.

Hope you all have a good day and stay healthy!

Edited by: CVRONEK at: 6/19/2013 (07:10)

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6/19/13 4:28 A

Good morning, friends.

Irene! Your post "Sitting on the Fence" was wonderful! I forget sometimes that Satan owns the fence! THANKS so much for the reminder! Such a great way to start the day!

My day is off to an early start, too. And yesterday ended so late. LOL! But, this busy season at work will end soon. It helps to remember that this busy project has a deadline and we won't be working this hard forever.

Hope you all have a good day!
Cathy

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6/18/13 11:57 P

Sitting on the Fence
There was a large group of people gathered. On one side of the group stood a man, Jesus. On the other side stood another, Satan. Seperating them was a fence running through the group. The scene set, both Jesus and Satan began calling to people in the group. One by one, each having made up his or her own mind, went to either Jesus or Satan. This kept going for a time. Soon enough, Jesus had gathered around him a group of people from the larger crowd, as did Satan.

One man joined neither group. He climbed the fence that was there and sat on it. Jesus and his people left and disappeared, and so too did Satan and his people. The man on the fence sat alone. As this man sat, Satan came back, looking for something which he appeared to have lost. The man said, "Have you lost something?" Satan looked straight at him and replied, "No, there you are. Come with me." The man said, "But I sat on the fence. I chose neither you nor him." Satan said, "That's okay; I own the fence."

"Whoever is not with me is against me." - Jesus in Matthew 12:30



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6/18/13 11:52 P

late check in didn't sleep good last night the neighbors tree was hit by lightening boy that was loud and left the drive way smoking and lots of tree limbs all over the yard she was out cleaning it this morning and said her son was going to check it out more this week end its a huge evergreen tree she guesses its over a 100 feet tall. she was gone and the poor dog was out side in the yard he fine thankfully. was sure glad when she got she said. showed me some of the burnt limbs from the tree. they will have it checked out to see how much damage was done to the tree. another neighbor said it hit her out side antenna and turned her TV off
she unplugged it and waited and hour and plugged it in thankfully it worked. I was lucky the rain came down so hard after the lightening and thunder it flooded the garden in places where i planted my tomatoes . made some cookies for a friend for her birthday wrapped them for mailing and gave the left overs to the neighbor to enjoy after she cleaned up her tree mess shopping done and checked in on the team sounds like everyone is busy and enjoying the nice weather. thanks for the reminder Chris to de germ the house its on my list for tomorrow. glad you are feeling better so you can enjoy your sons Birthday.


Help others achieve their dreams and you will achieve yours. Les Brown sounds very sparky to me


Goals help you channel your energy into action. Les Brown


You must remain focused on your journey to greatness. Les Brown



Edited by: FRAN533 at: 6/19/2013 (00:06)

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6/18/13 9:21 P

Evening Ladies, I hope you all had a good day.
Mine was busy.

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6/18/13 9:03 P

Thanks Chris. waited on the AC man to get here today, got some papers shredded, clothes done and dusted while waiting. I go to help put the bags out at the church in the morning as the lady that usually does that was in a car accident after church Sunday and totaled her car. Thank goodness she wasn't hurt. Until she gets wheels I will pick up this lady that is 92.
Thurs is food bank day, and had to change my hair appt to Fri. morning. Then another week is gone.

Geo. Jr. will be here in the morning. He is bringing Spade for me to watch while they go to Key West on his business trip. He will do a couple things while he is here. After he leaves then I will pick up Lew and we will do the bags at church.

Hope everyone has a good evening. I will be turning in earlier as tomorrow is going to be a busy day. Hugs and prayers to all.

Marsha

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6/18/13 8:50 P

Kathyrn with bad knees you just can't work out like you used to.

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6/18/13 8:48 P

Hi Chris. Thank you for the kudos.

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6/18/13 10:11 A

Good Morning Ladies
Sorry I have been so busy. Getting so much done. I want to be ready to roll on down the road by Monday, I have my physical on Sunday and still have not went to do my blood work yet.
I forget every morning, have my coffee then I can't go, to morrow I just have to

I read and caught up but sorry I don't have time to answer everyone but know I care.

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6/18/13 8:42 A

Ah, the valley. What a beautiful place, but Georgia is beautiful, too! Atlanta is so full of life.

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6/18/13 8:04 A

Chris, I'm originally from VA ... Shenandoah Valley. But I live in Georgia now. Work in Atlanta and live in metro-Atlanta.

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6/18/13 7:59 A

Cathy, what part of the South are you in? I missed that.

I am in Virginia and we are to get more storms, today.

Oh how the gardens are loving the rainy Spring.

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6/18/13 7:56 A

Marsha, I love to hear about your days, family and love of life.

We both have the from one thing or another, but I know it will be gone in a flash and we will be making good progress, this week!

I am all about taking it slow, but steady as I recuperate.
Will not over do, but breath deep, enjoy the process and take good steps toward the goal.

I truly am appreciating better health, craving water, salads and fruit and have my oldest son's birthday party to plan. I can't believe he will be 33 on the 24th!

Need to de-germ my house, before Saturday, so cleaning is a priority. Ah to have the freshness of it all. Healthy in itself!

Are you still able to enjoy your garden, with all the heat and humidity? We are getting nice breaks.

Have a wonderful day, everyone!

Fran, thank you for being my personal cheerleader.

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6/18/13 7:48 A

Good morning, everyone!

Kathryn, hope your knee is feeling better, soon. They are such easy things to throw out of whack.
Just think how much better off it is, because of all the weight you have lost! SO much less pressure.
Many of us have knee things.
Wishing our Irene the best as she prepares for her second knee replacement.
She is such a wonderful roll model as she does just what they tell her to do, no whining.

Feeling well enough that I will be doing some leg strengthening exercising to work those muscles that support the knees.

Taking the steps to better knees!

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6/18/13 7:37 A

Heal those knees, Kathryn! I've torn a meniscus in each knee. Once I got them back in shape, I still am cautious as to what knee related exercises I do.

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6/18/13 7:06 A

I did not post yesterday because I was at the doctor's office. I went there so we could talk about why my knee hurts when I do lunges and ballet exercises. Well he said I hurt my tendon and needed to take pain pills and go to physical therapy. Also he wants me to wear a brace when I walk. Guess you won't see me waiting in line doing exercises and I was getting in to such a habit of it. Maybe I can do my

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6/18/13 6:25 A

What a blessing that they took care of all your needs in one visit! I like a doctor that meets my needs while I'm there. Going back is not fun.

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6/18/13 6:15 A

The reason it took so long Cathy is because I only went in for my 3 month check on my operated knee. When they said it was good I asked the PA about my hip and other knee so back to wait for more x-rays, then wait for the PA again. Actually I had two appointments in one. I was glad to get it finished so I didn't have to go back.

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6/18/13 4:56 A

Good morning all,

It was another night of storms for us! Sure sign that summer is on it's way to the South!

Irene, sounds like some relief coming your way! I'm so glad you got good news at the doctor ... even though it was a long appointment! Our time is just not our own when we show up at their offices, is it? LOL!

Marsha, I bet you'll have a loss next week. Chinese always causes me to show a gain too. But I love it all the same!

Yesterday was such a busy day! My first day back in the office after vacation. Oh my!!! We're in the midst of a very large project with a seemingly impossible deadline. But, I work with a terrific staff. They are so diligent. They were all glad to see me back and grateful for my help. I worked a very long day with more of those in store for the next week. I hope we meet our deadline!

Wishing you each a wonderful day!
Cathy

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6/18/13 12:42 A

Hope everyone had a great a busy day here and then a thunder lightening storm passed thought so got off the computer. a quiet break so popped in to say good night and glad to see Chris is feeling better. and was able to get out to the store.
Sounds like everyone has bird stories to share none form me how ever see everyone tomorrow hugs to all and good night to all .

Edited by: FRAN533 at: 6/18/2013 (00:46)

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6/18/13 12:12 A

If you read the blog I wrote today you will find out why I haven't been on Spark too much except to get points to give away.
3 1/2 hours in the doctor's office. Wonderful news.

Then I watched the Voice tonight. They are down to the last 3.

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6/17/13 11:07 P

Good night to all. Sorry I haven't been on the computer today, just a busy day, and then tonight I had my TOPS meeting. Had a .75 gain, but I am ok with that as Geo, Karen and I ate Chinese Saturday evening.

Have the AC man coming tomorrow, Hope everyone has a great night's rest. Hugs and prayers to all.

Marsha

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6/17/13 8:21 P

Yum, yum, yum!!! Your yogurt and berries sound delicious, Chris. I'm so glad you are feeling so much better.

About to call it a night here. Morning is going to come so early tomorrow! Have a wonderful evening all!

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6/17/13 7:49 P

Ah! One of those hawk stories! I am familiar with those.

I am just as impressed with the mockingbirds that attack anything if babies are near.

Caught myself, with my usual smile, so I know I am truly on the mend.

Enjoying my stretches, iced green tea and looking at my beautiful flower garden.

Did venture out to the store and got good healthy food. Can't wait to dive into the plain yogurt with fresh strawberries, flaxseed and a touch of honey!

Have a wonderful evening, everyone!

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6/17/13 10:53 A

Oh Chris, you won't like this hawk tale so much! We have a pair of returning hawks in Atlanta. They didn't bother a soul for years. But, the tree they nested in died and was cut down. Now, they nest on the other side of our parking lot when they return each year. When the female lays her eggs, they become very possessive and swoop down and attack people from our office! It's horrible! I've cleaned up more injured heads to the point of losing count. As I clean them up, I assess for depth of wounds and rather or not people need sutures, send them on to their doctors because they need tetanus shots and antibiotics. Some have required pain medication because the lacerations are deep enough or have involved nerves. They fly away once the babies have gotten big enough to fly on their own.

I did see the female this morning. She'd flown away from the nest and was sitting on a light pole. She looked so regal. She is beautiful. Just don't let her think you are coming near her baby. Of course, most mothers of young feel that way!

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6/17/13 8:24 A

Good morning everyone! Whew! I am up and have the energy to get on the computer.
Been a rough week, but slowly getting back in gear.

Thank you all so much for your concern an well wishes.

Marsha, your bird bath sounds lovely. I, too enjoy bird watching and all the antics they come up with.

I will have to tell you the story of the adolescent heron fishing, while his Papa looked on. Hilarious!

Cathy, do tell about the hawk. One of my favorite birds.

Mary, you sound so relaxed, so you must be settling in nicely.

Kathryn, those books both sound good.
I am so proud of your hubby for overcoming his obstacles. I know that you set a shining example for him.

Irene. Your Father's day sounds lovely. I had a wonderful conversation with my Papa, as I know he is watching over me, always.

Everyone have a good Monday!

As Gloria would say, New day, new week, new beginning! I love Monday's!
Hope Gloria is getting some rest, while on her break.


Edited by: CVRONEK at: 6/17/2013 (08:25)

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6/17/13 7:28 A

Good morning Ladies

Have an awesome Monday.

So far the birds are singing the sun is coming up , it looks like a nice day weather wise. The rain was so bad here around 700 last night I thought we were going to need canoes.

Some town around here did, their storm sewers were plugged with debree and all the streets were flooded.

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6/17/13 5:06 A

Good morning!

Marsha, birds are so much fun to watch. Glad you are enjoying your bird feeder!

We had strong thunderstorms during the night. I was sleeping so well before that. The storms woke me, but I was able to get a little sleep afterward.

Vacation is over and I'm back to work today. There will be lots of emails to catch up on this morning and lots of reports to run. It will be a busy morning!

Hope everyone has a GREAT Monday!
Cathy

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6/16/13 9:46 P

Good evening to all. Been a busy day, went to church first thing, then coffee hour, and then to Walgreens. I came home and my phone has been ringing off the hook. A lady church member had taken a lady home and on her way home she had an accident and it totaled her car. So in the morning I will pick up Lew for Food bank until Melinda gets some wheels.

I am going to turn in a little earlier hoping I can sleep. Last night I had a hard time sleeping. Hope everyone has a great day.

I am enjoying my bird bath so much. I put cubes of bread all around it and the birds get the bird and dip it in the water. So smart.

They love to take a bath and spash water everywhere. I have to fill it everyday. Last evening when Geo Jr. , Karen and I ccame back from eating out there were 3 birds sitting on the edge. We sat in the car and watched them. They would take a bath, get some bird and then dip it in the water, and on and on. It was so amazing to watch. God is everywhere we look.

Hugs and prayers to all.
Talk tomorrow.
Marsha

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6/16/13 9:26 P

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6/16/13 8:33 P

Girls I always appreciate so much your commenting on the reads I put on.

I have wondered what happened to the " if you huddled today"

Today was church and we had a wonderful father's day service to honor our father's then lunch with my friends I eat with often and two of their sons and their families. I think ten of us.

I knew three other tables of people in the restaurant also and went and greeted them and prayed with one lady who has had bad headaches for months.

God bless all of you.

Irene

Edited by: DIDMIS at: 6/16/2013 (20:35)

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6/16/13 12:48 P

Kathryn, I'll have to let you know about the hawk. I've been on vacation for a week, so haven't been to the office. When I left, it had settled down a bit. The baby hawk is flying a bit, so Momma isn't as protective, so not attacking nearly as much. I hope they are ready to fly off soon. Then, our grounds guy can get up there and take the nest down. Hopefully, it will nest some place else next year!

My sister was all excited that they have hawks nesting in a grove of trees right across the road from their new house until I told her stories of our hawks. LOL! They are beautiful birds ... until they start to attack!

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6/16/13 11:34 A

Chris I got two books one a diet book from AARP that I did learned a little bit from. What I will use is not giving Hubby Mar. on his toast giving low fat peanut butter. I also got a novel called "The Good Father" it is about a father of a son who killed a nominate for president. Hubby is still out doing me on the bike, he got up three times last night and rode it. He takes pain pills for pain in his leg and he has been out for three days. He says riding the bike helps with the pain.

Irene-great read makes me think

Cathy what ever happened with the hawk at work?

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6/16/13 10:52 A

Good morning!

Thank you all, for the get well wishes.

I can't remember when I have slept so much!

Irene, the dart was. Really one to give one pause. Thank you.

Kathryn, you and hubby are really showing us how it is done! Great job.
Enjoy going uptown and let us know what you are reading as you ride.

Mary. We will be getting rain on Monday. It sure is a wet Spring.

Nice to see your cheery posts, Cathy.


Still on the mend , but feeling better.

Let's remember our fathers today. I do miss my Papa but have already had a talk with him this morning.:-)

Edited by: CVRONEK at: 6/16/2013 (10:54)

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6/16/13 10:33 A

Good morning.
Computer issues with me, must be all the rain.

Edited by: RAINBOWMF at: 6/16/2013 (10:54)

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6/16/13 8:31 A

Good morning all! It's a bright sunny day here ... but the weather man says we're in for a rainy week after today.

Irene, I'm glad your knee is feeling better. Hope that continues!

What a moving piece "The Dart Test" is. I wonder how often we think that we affect Jesus' heart with our actions? Irene, I hope your post makes me think more often before I do things!

Today is my last day of vacation. Back to work tomorrow and my team is in the middle of a big project. I hope I'm ready! LOL!!!

Have a wonderful day!

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6/16/13 1:28 A

The Dart Test
A young lady named Sally relates an experience she had in a seminary class given by her teacher, Dr. Smith. She says that Dr. Smith was known for his elaborate object lessons.

One particular day, Sally walked into the seminary and knew they were in for a fun day.

On the wall was a big target, and on a nearby table were many darts. Dr. Smith told the students to draw a picture of someone that they disliked or someone who had made them angry, and he would allow them to throw darts at the person's picture.

Sally's friend drew a picture of a girl who had stolen her boyfriend. Another friend drew a picture of his little brother. Sally drew a picture of a former friend, putting a great deal of detail into her drawing, even drawing pimples on the face. Sally was pleased with the overall effect she had achieved.

The class lined up and began throwing darts. Some of the students threw their darts with such force that their targets were ripping apart. Sally looked forward to her turn, and was filled with disappointment when Dr. Smith, because of time limits, asked the students to return to their seats. As Sally sat thinking about how angry she was because she didn't have a chance to throw any darts at her target. Dr. Smith began removing the target from the wall.

Underneath the target was a picture of Jesus. A hush fell over the room as each student viewed the mangled picture of Jesus; holes and jagged marks covered His face, and His eyes were pierced.

Dr. Smith said only these words, "In as much as ye have done it unto the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto Me." Matthew 25:40

No other words were necessary; the tears filled eyes of the students focused only on the picture of Christ.



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6/15/13 11:02 P

111BUTTERFLY111 it is so nice to see you so active on the team. I see you on the games lots.
Irene

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6/15/13 11:01 P

Kathyrn it is not the operated knee that hurt so bad. It was the other one and I feel lots better now.
Thanks.
Irene

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6/15/13 7:55 P

I been busy to day I will seattle down and catch up in a bid.
I am going to try to upload a video, it kind of explains the toy hauler.

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6/15/13 2:26 P

Thank you for the sweet welcomes.

Kathryn, it's good to see you again!

It's been a busy day here! I've been on vacation and out of town this week. Had to run to the market and am doing some cooking for the week ahead now. Thought I'd Spark a little until the timer goes off.

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6/15/13 2:01 P

Cathy So nice to see your post my friend. This is a really loving group and we give tons of support.

Irene sorry your knee is hurting again take it easy

Marsha so sorry to hear your exercise class left you so sore, maybe they have a better one you will enjoy

Chris take care of yourself

Going up town to the library today. I am out of books to read while riding my exercise bike. I have not been doing that this week. Hubby has been getting up early every morning this week and riding. He watches TV but I just can't get in to that need to read.

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6/15/13 11:04 A

Thank you Shirley. I am still doing much better with my knee.

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6/15/13 11:02 A

Chris glad you are starting to feel better. That makes two of us.

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6/15/13 11:00 A

Cathy thank you for the friend add. We are here for each other and that means you too.

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6/15/13 10:41 A

to the team, Cathy!

We look forward to getting to know you!

It seems as thought many of us have lost weight, gained some or all back, and have new heath issues that raise new challenges.

We all try to stay positive and as we face our day to day struggles, it is wonderful to have this group of positive people, help to perk us up and keep us going.

Hope you have a wonderful day, as well!

Chris

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6/15/13 10:28 A

Good morning. My name is Cathy. I'm new to the team and hope to get to know each of you before long.

I've been a member of SparkPeople before and been back for about 7 months. I lost 150 pounds doing Weight Watchers a number of years ago. Periodically, I battle some of those pounds again. Last year, my thyroid failed and I regained 40 pounds before we determined that it was my failing thyroid causing my weight gain. Finally, I have a diagnosis and a doctor who knows that it's one of the abnormal thyroid failures and how to treat it. The weight is slowly coming off and I feel so much better.

Hope everyone has a wonderful day!
Cathy

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6/15/13 10:14 A

Good morning.

Still have a little fever, but starting to feel a bit better. I almost slept two days!

Glad you all are well.

Best wishes to all.

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6/15/13 8:18 A

Irene, I'm glad that your knee is feeling better.

Mary, your won ton soup sounds very good! Yum, yum!

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6/15/13 8:17 A

I really miss Gloria and hope she gets out to dinner tonight. I have invited a girlfriend over for a salad dinner. Baby spinach/field greens, strawberries, toasted sliced almonds, and either chicken or shrimp with a raspberry vinaigrette. We'll have some slices from a small baguette, white wine, and fruit for dessert. I really overstocked fresh produce thinking hubby would be here to help me eat it. I hope that he comes home tomorrow!

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6/15/13 1:15 A

I like the quote Fran.

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6/15/13 12:21 A

“Don’t dwell on what went wrong. Instead, focus on what to do next. Spend your energies on moving forward toward finding the answer.” ~Denis Waitley
Cool windy day but no rain busy day got the grass cut in back and weeds pulled. edging done and went to the gym for 30 minutes slowly getting back in that routine still dealing with my allergies. tired so think its time to say good night as my brain is going faster then my fingers so i can't spell..... see everyone tomorrow good night

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6/14/13 11:16 P

The Prison of Want

by Max Lucado •

Come with me to the most populated prison in the world. It’s name is WANT—the prison of want. You’ve seen her prisoners. They want something bigger. Nicer. Faster. Thinner. They want a new job. A new house. A new spouse. If you feel better when you have more and worse when you have less—you’re in the prison of want. If your happiness comes from something you deposit, drive, drink, or digest, then face it—you’re in the prison of want!

The good news is, you have a visitor. It is the psalmist, David. “I have a secret to tell you,” he whispers, “the secret of satisfaction.” From Psalm 23:1, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” David has found where discontent goes to die. It’s as if he’s saying, “What I have in God is greater than what I don’t have in this life.” Oh, that you and I could learn to say the same!

From Traveling Light

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6/14/13 10:34 P

Yes Mary, Hugs, big hugs for Gloria. I pray that they can get out with her Sister and DH tomorrow night.

I am shutting down and going to bed. Geo. Jr. will be here in the morning to pressure wash the house.

Have a good night's rest.

Jo, if you are reading please check in and let us know how you are doing. Miss your posts.

Hugs and prayers to all.
Marsha

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6/14/13 9:56 P

Hugs Ladies.
Prayers for Gloria. I hope she gets to go out with BIL, Sister and Rolly to morrow.

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6/14/13 7:17 P

Kathryn, glad you got in a good walk, I walked around stores and at home. Just too hot outside to walk.

Irene, glad that your leg is feeling better.

Mary, my Son don't like tall grass either. :) He mows mine once, and sometimes twice a week. He is coming in the morning to pressure wash the house. That will be a big job.

Hope everyone has a good weekend. I am not going to the same exercise class at the Y next week, as I am still sore, and think it was too much for me. I will pick a less strainage one.

Hugs and prayers to all.

Marsha

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6/14/13 6:43 P

My knee is better today.
Sounds like most of you are cooking up a storm.
Irene

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6/14/13 6:17 P

Just got back from walking for an hour long walk, feel much better. Walking seems to put me in such a good mood. I don't walk real fast but I do get to where I want to go
I also went to Starbucks and had their Spicy Chicken Salad, it was really good and low calorie even with the dressing.

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6/14/13 4:44 P

Time for the dog food chore. I have everything in cooking and I am sitting out side getting my points.

I made my own version of won ton soup , it was good. Jim is cutting our Grandson's grass, I guess he was board also he hates to see long grass, I find some 20 year olds just don't find it a priority to do. LOL

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6/14/13 4:02 P

I plan on going to Starbucks and having one of their big salads. I have wanted one for some time now and have earned a reward from Starbucks. I drink enough of their frozen coffee drinks they should give me some thing back like this.

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6/14/13 3:16 P

Shirley, your salad sounds great. I also had a salad for lunch. I had a late lunch as I had to do some shopping this morning. Enjoy the weather. It is HOT here.

Marsha

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6/14/13 12:22 P

I had a great morning. The kids godparents (one set of them) came for lunch. I made a semi-greek salad with low cal Mediterranean Feta Salad Dressing. We had assorted crackers with it. It was so nice to see them!

I love my FitBit! I think it is giving me too many calories, but that is ok since I am following my dietician's suggestions.

I'm going to take a book out to the 2nd floor balcony and enjoy the summer weather!

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6/14/13 10:31 A

Good Morning Ladies. Happy Friday.

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6/14/13 12:27 A

That is right Mary. It takes a while to recuperate.

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6/14/13 12:25 A

Thank you Kathyrn and Chris for saying I'm not lazy. It is difficult to do much when you hurt isn't it?

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6/14/13 12:24 A

Thank you Shirley for liking the embroidery story.

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6/14/13 12:20 A

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6/13/13 11:30 P

Push
A man was sleeping at night in his cabin when suddenly his room filled with light, and God appeared. The Lord told the man He had work for him to do and showed him a large rock in front of his cabin. The Lord explained that the man was to push against the rock with all his might. So, this the man did, day after day. For many years, he toiled from sun up to sun down with his shoulders set squarely against the cold, massive surface of the unmoving rock, pushing with all of his might.

Each night, the man returned to his cabin sore and worn out, feeling that his whole day had been spent in vain. Since the man was showing discouragement, Satan decided to enter the picture by placing thoughts into the weary mind: "You have been pushing against that rock for a long time, and it hasn't moved." giving the man the impression that the task was impossible and that he was a failure. These thoughts discouraged and disheartened the man. "Why kill myself over this?" he thought. "I'll just put in my time, giving just the minimum effort, and that will be good enough."

And that is what he planned to do. However, one day he decided to make it a matter of prayer and take his troubled thoughts to the Lord. "Lord," he said, "I have labored long and hard in your service, putting all my strength to do that which you have asked. Yet, after all this time, have not even budged that rock by half a millimeter. What is wrong? Why am I failing?"

The Lord responded compassionately, "My friend, when I asked you to serve Me and you accepted, I told you that your task was to push against the rock with all of your strength, which you have done. Never once did I mention to you that I expected you to move it. Your task was to push. And now, you come to Me with your strength spent, thinking that you have failed. But, is that really so? Look at yourself. Your arms are strong and muscled, your back sinewy and brown, your hands are callused from constant pressure, and your legs have become massive and hard. Through opposition, you have grown much, and your abilities now surpass that which you used to have. Yet you haven't moved the rock. But your calling was to be obedient and to push and to exercise your faith and trust in My wisdom. This you have done. Now I, My friend, will move the rock."

At times, when we hear a word from God, we tend to use our own intellect to decipher what He wants, when actually what God wants is just a simple obedience and faith in Him. By all means, exercise the faith that moves mountains, but know that it is still God who moves mountains.



More GodVine

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6/13/13 8:42 P

Kathryn, I would say you have a full day. I have to get some groceries tomorrow, Sat. my Son is coming to pressure wash the house, worry about him being on a ladder for the second story. My daughter-in-law wants me to go to WestShore Plaza with her. Will be a nice outing for us. Haven't been there for a long time.

Hope you have a great evening, nothing on TV it seems.
Sweet dreams
Marsha

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6/13/13 8:39 P

Chris, sure praying you have a good night's rest, and feel better tomorrow. It is going around down here.

Marsha

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6/13/13 5:49 P

The really bad weather missed my part block and I am so grateful.
Really strong winds. Mama and the rest of my family are safe as well.

Got my radiator in. What a relief.

Ache all over, very tired and have a fever now to go with the sore throat and nose thing.
Also having stomach issues.
Ugh.
Having green tea with honey. Have to think of Jo, with drinking tea.
Hope she is feeling better.

Going to bed soon.

Mary, how are you feeling, today?

Shirley, hope your headache is gone.

We all have one thing or another, but stay positive, team! This too shall pass!

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6/13/13 3:22 P

Irene, thank you for the embroidery story. It does look jumbled at times doesn't it? I'd love my poor hubby back home, but everyone needs him. He is hoping to come home Sunday.

I fell asleep at 10:30 this morning and got up at 2. I still have a whacking headache, which I think means I do need a rest day. I've decided not to go to the cottage. Without hubby to put in the water I would go nuts as it has not been well cleaned for over 2 years. Hopefully, we'll be up next week.

I need to grind coffee and have some then start puttering here. I lost the upstairs roomba. I need to put the downstairs one on when I go to town this evening to put some cheques in the bank. These little guys don't do the greatest job at any one time, but if you schedule them every day they keep the floor in order despite all the dog hair from my German Shepherd.

My dietician was very pleased with my progress, although I am not. I set up my Fitbit this morning, but don't know how to use it. I hope it is easy.

Off in search of the elusive coffee. We have loads of beans, but I need something to put the coffee in. ALL of our containers are in Sudbury with hubby and the kids as he likes his coffee even more than I do. lol

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6/13/13 8:11 A

Irene you and Marsha are not lazy. In fact there are no lazy people on this group. You might say I was lazy because I am retired do to health problems and don't work. But I do wash dishes 3 times a day, clean up after my hubby, cook his meals, mop the floor, clean the stove, wash laundry just to name a few of the things I do. And than I take a walk, find an out door restaurant order a soda sit back and lazily watch people go buy.

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6/13/13 6:56 A

Good morning!

Thank you, Irene and you are not lazy. You always give 100% with what you have and do.

Getting ready to have car repairs done. Glad I wont be working outside. Very hot and humid. Ugh.
Visiting Mama before the big storms roll in.

Have a good day! (Still feeling a bit sick, so not very talkative.)

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6/13/13 3:42 A

God's Embroidery
When I was a little boy, my mother used to embroider a great deal. I would sit at her knee and look up from the floor and ask what she was doing. She informed me that she was embroidering. I told her that it looked like a mess from where I was. As from the underside I watched her work within the boundaries of the little round hoop that she held in her hand, I complained to her that it sure looked messy from where I sat.

She would smile at me, look down and gently say, "My son, you go about your playing for a while, and when I am finished with my embroidering, I will put you on my knee and let you see it from my side."

I would wonder why she was using some dark threads along with the bright ones and why they seemed so jumbled from my view. A few minutes would pass and then I would hear Mother's voice say, "Son, come and sit on my knee." This I did only to be surprised and thrilled to see a beautiful flower or a sunset. I could not believe it, because from underneath it looked so messy. Then Mother would say to me, "My son, from underneath it did look messy and jumbled, but you did not realize that there was a pre-drawn plan on the top. It was a design. I was only following it. Now look at it from my side and you will see what I was doing."

Many times through the years I have looked up to my Heavenly Father and said, "Father, what are You doing?" He has answered, "I am embroidering your life. " I say, "But it looks like a mess to me. It seems so jumbled. The threads seem so dark. Why can't they all be bright?"

The Father seems to tell me, "'My child, you go about your business of doing My business, and one day I will bring you to Heaven and put you on My knee and you will see the plan from My side."

From Godvine

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6/13/13 3:03 A

Mary I went to bed at 10:30 and got up at 1:30. It is normal for me. If I take a nap or don't I still wake up.

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6/12/13 11:33 P

to all

Irene you are not lazy either, you are still recuperating.

You are going to be awake all night after all that sleep. I am going to count sheep right now, I have had a long day.

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6/12/13 11:02 P

Marsha you are not lazy and no one on the team is except me. If I do one thing a day I am worn out.

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6/12/13 10:57 P

This was my lazy day. I don't know what time I went to bed after I got up at 10:00 last night but slept until 9:00 then after an early lunch went back to bed at 12:00 and slept 3 more hours.
I didn't even pick up my ointment.

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6/12/13 10:40 P

Just wanted to say nighty night. I am headed to bed. I have to get up early in the morning to work the Food bank. Hope everyone has a good night's rest.

TTYAT
Hugs
Marsha

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6/12/13 9:30 P

Oh, Marsha! Good to see you. I was getting worried.

You are NOT lazy. You are always on the go and you do well.

Kathryn, what a sweet hubby wanting to follow your lead.

Fran, thank you for the soar throat remedy. I don't have the coconut oil part, but the rest I can give a whirl.
Still have it going on. It seems to be going around as several people I know have it.
Maybe all the mold from all the rain we have been having. Ugh.
I did work long and hard and got pretty hot, but relaxing now.
I love our challenge, too Fran. I can tell a difference when I sit in certain chairs. More room!!!

Getting a new radiator for the car, in the morning, so I will be sitting around,

Then a visit to Mama and watching out for the bad storms they are calling for.

Mary, Shirley, Irene, Gloria, (if you are reading this) I hope you are resting up and relaxing a bit.

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6/12/13 8:20 P

For two days in a row hubby has been getting up early in the morning and shutting the door behind him. I thought he was getting up eating in the early morning hours and than eating breakfast with me. Today I gave him ten minutes and than stepped out to catch him. Bless his heart he was riding the exercise bike. says I am doing so good he wants to get in shape too.

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6/12/13 2:46 P

Chris sorry you are still under the weather thankfully I starting to feel better another spark friend shared this with me it sure helped me
RECIPE

This is allergy season, so when I saw this I thought I'd give it a try. It really is soothing!

Sore Throat and Allergy Fighter Syrup (Honey, Coconut Oil and Lemon

Honey will soothe your throat. Lemon is packed with vitamin C and will boost your immune system. With it's medicinal antiseptic and anti-microbial properties, coconut oil will help fight infection and reduce symptoms.

3 Tbsp. organic lemon juice I used regular lemon juice
1/4 cup raw honey and the honey from the little bear
2 Tbsp. organic coconut oil didn't have this either and it has helped but its on my shopping list

Drink this during allergy season or when under the weather. Take 1 Tbsp. 2-3 times daily. It is
best to take after breakfast, before going outdoors and at bed time.
Remembered my Great grandma talked about this when i was little.
hope you had an easy day at work since you are under the weather. went back to the gym Tuesday lasted 30 minutes but better than no minutes going to try Dr. Oz new Plank he said it would be on the web site but couldn't find it yesterday when I looked . ordered my tickets last night to go and visit my brother in Denver in Sept for a week. South West had a great deal round trip for what one way usually cost. So Chris thanks for the challenge you have us on their is going to be less of me by Sept 11 when i fly. and hiking will be so much easier this time.

Irene the Salonpas pain patches. do come in a different sizes i get the small ones to my wrist and they work great. hope your knee is better today and I also liked the bird post.

SHIRLEYX take care of your self remember me time is important

Mary hope you are having good weather to get all those little jobs done so you can enjoy you travels happy trails to you and your husband

Marsha that is where I am headed one i finish this note
will check back latter



Edited by: FRAN533 at: 6/12/2013 (15:01)

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6/12/13 9:26 A

I understand Marsha. You have a good time at the "Y"

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6/12/13 9:14 A

Thanks Mary, Ginger is not a people dog, and barks at everybody. She is very protective of me. I don't really like walkng alone. No neighbors around me able to get out. Also the heat now is too hot for me. It is better that I do my walking in the grocery stores. A lot of times I will get the cart and do the outside isles twice before I start my shopping.

Talk later.
Marsha

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