Note: the winner of last week’s book giveaway was Patricia Manning. She was extra excited
to get it, since she had read Sheri’s blog and already loved her writing. If you would like
to get your own copy, here is the link.
A random work story:
One of my coworkers came by the desk to cover my 30-minute lunch break, and I couldn’t help but notice the water jug he lugs around all day. My 20-ounce glass looked like a baby next to his. I am all about drinking water, but I am quite sure I will not be schleping a behemoth bottle like that around anytime soon.
Speaking of work, here is my official spot. This was in a semi-messy state because I had several projects going on at the same time. I have to say that this job has taken my multitasking skills to an all-new level. So many tasks and so many interruptions.
Also, on the subject of work, my desk in the front lobby is very close to the front door, as this photo shows.
Most of the time it’s not a problem, but last Monday, when it was 19 degrees? Every time that door opened (and it stays open 15 seconds each time), an icy wind blew through the lobby. It’s a good thing I was raised in Wisconsin and am not “skeered” of a little cold. (Skeered is how we southern folk talk.)
I try not to have many pet peeves in my life, but there is one that keeps on bugging me.
I was at the doctor’s last week, and several times over the course of the appointment, she called me “Dear.” (The doctor was in her late 30s.) For some reason, I felt like it was slightly condescending, like I was a little ol’ lady. I know I’m probably being overly sensitive, but it’s bothered me during other appointments too, so I just wanted to put it out there.
I always want to ask them, “At what age do you start calling patients,”Dear?” Because I know she doesn’t call a 40-year-old that!
Okay. Off my soapbox and onward.
I saw the following post on Instagram, and it made me laugh. The brownies I started making in my Easy Bake Oven in 1967 are ready if you guys want one.”
I had an Easy Bake Oven and thought it was the best thing. I know they are still being made, which means that on December 26, thousands of children will learn about the meaning of patience in a whole new way.
Yesterday was the kids’ Christmas program at Nathan and Meagan’s church.
Grayson always sings his heart out, laser-focused on the director and giving it everything he has. I love watching his intensity as he sings.
Photos by Meagan
Madi was lovely in her dance numbers, so graceful and poised as she helped tell the old story in a new way.
I went to get my hair cut on Tuesday after work, and as I left, I just paused for a moment to appreciate the merry mood that the Chrismtas light had created. My temptation is to run in and out of appointments as though I am being chased by cheetahs; however, this time, I reminded myself to stop and enjoy the moment.
The town in this photo is only about five miles from our house. Even though I live in a city of a million people, I can get to a small town or a country road fairly quickly which makes me exceedintly happy.
Have you ever written something on a list or in a calendar, only to look back and have no idea what you were thinking?
That just happened to me. For some inscrutable reason, I entered “Differs” on my iPhone calendar. And not just for one day, but two!
I discovered it about three weeks ago and was trying to figure out what it might mean. And then I thought, “Well, I’ll just have to wait until those dates arrive and see what happens!”
Spoiler alert. Nothing happened. No “differs” sprang into existence. I may never know the mystery behind that inscrutable entry.
For Christmas, we are hosting the Smiths, the Longs, and the Hawleys. That includes our four kids, our four grandkids, and Frank and Sheri Hawley–two of the four people who are responsible for five of the people present. (For someone who doesn’t like math, that was a very math-like sentence!)
Looking forward to time spent with people we love.
In 1975, when Steve’s family moved into this house where we live now, it didn’t take long for them to meet the next-door neighbors, Bob and Miriam. Steve’s mom and Miriam quickly became friends and remained that way for 47 years.
As Steve and I spend our third Christmas in the house since his retirement, I think of the path that Vernie and Miriam walked between the two houses over the decades, sharing recipes, stories, and Christmas gifts. I’m thankful to live in a home that saw the blossoming of that sweet friendship.
But those walk scame to and end when Vernie passed away three years ago. And now, this Saturday, Miriam (who was 97 and still living in the same house) will be laid to rest in the cemetery next to her husband and near Vernie and Ken.
Friends in life. Neighbors in death. Leaving behind precious memories in the hearts of all who loved them.
During this Christmas season, I hope you experience the blessing of friends–both old and new.
And I hope, especially, that you experience the love of the Child born in a manger, the One who moved into our neighborhood, the One who came to earth to be our Friend.
Merry, merry Christmas to all of you dear Smithellaneous friends.
What about you?
Did you have an Easy Bake Oven? What did you make in it?
Have you ever written anything on a calendar or list and then didn’t know what it meant?
What are your plans for Christmas?
Do you feel like medical people (orjust people in general) treat you differently as you get older?
Do you carry a water bottle around? Is it a huge one or a smaller one?
No Easy Bake Oven but did try my hand at really baking cookies when I was about 11 or 12 – unless baking for a crowd, 1/4 cup of salt is not wise – even my dog wouldn’t eat them. Our son and daughter-in-law were here for Christmas for about 3 days – they live in Oregon. It has been about 3 years since both of them have been here. Our daughter and her family have their own tradition, having Christmas by themselves (which I am not fond of) but we went over to their home in late afternoon. Actually, I think it was when I turned 70 and having my yearly physical, that no clothes are removed and it’s basically a very little exam and I’m in and out. Although we had a good repore’ (sp) with him and he asked if I had questions, asked where we went on vacation, etc. He retired in September and told him he could take the train now and go on vacation! Don’t have either size of those containers, but my niece had a very large round one she had coke in. Think she finally decided it wasn’t a good idea. May the Lord bless each of you in the new year and may He give you better health and encouragement.
Sharyn,
Yikes. A quarter cup of salt? I can imagine the dog giving those cookies a wide berth. But good for you for trying!
So glad your son and daughter-in-law were able to come for Christmas. That’s a lot of miles between Oregon and Minnesota.
I think it’s so fun that you and your husband travel by train; would love to do that more.
Happiest new year to you both!
Yes, I had an Easy Bake Oven! I first made the white cake and frosted it! It amazes me that a light bulb will bake a cake! LOL I also baked other things but don’t remember what they were. It was so fun!
I carry around a big tumbler of ice water. It’s a bit bigger than your water bottle. I usually drink 1 full one a day. Sometimes 2, if it’s hot out.
I’ve found mystery items on my to-do list before that I couldn’t discern but not on my calendar. Those to-do’s finally got erased and laughed at. 🙂
We celebrated Christmas all together on the weekend before, so on Christmas day, Jeff and I were by ourselves. It was kind of nice. We just did our own thing, watched football and stayed in. It was super foggy so a good day to stay home.
LeeAnne,
I love staying inside if it cold, rainy, or foggy out. it seems sort of like you’re in a very comfy cocoon.
Glad your white cake turned out. I know you must have been so excited to frost it and take that first bite. It really is amazing that a lightbulb will bake something. I’d be curious who the first person was who thought of that idea and went on to market it. Certainly not the first thing that would have come to my mind!
Merry Merry Christmas Becky to you and to all of your family. Lots of Joy Joy Joy 🙂 And a special greeting for Sarah as I hope things are going well for her.
Thank you, Lesley! Returning wishes to you, Sarah, and all your sweet family.
And thanks for asking after Sarah; she deals with a few ongoing medical issues but she is doing well, all things considered. ❤️
I had the aqua colored Easy Bake Oven and several years ago I found a Christmas ornament (I think by Carlson?) of the oven! https://sl.bing.net/JDavxragE0 If the link works, it should take you to a photo I found online of the ornament.
Like you, I work with a lot of people younger than I, and I’m finding they often call me Miss Sue or Miss SueEllen. It makes me feel even older than my 64 years.
We plan on a lowkey Christmas with family. Wishing you and yours a Very Merry Christmas!!
Sue Ellen,
How wonderful is that ornament? Love it!
I don’t mind being called Miss Becky or Mrs. Becky as much. It’s the “dear” that really gets me!
Have an extra happy Christmas; blessings.
‘Dear’ sounds so elderly. Even though it’s abit condescending, I prefer when they call me ‘young lady’ …I am 70…but, here we are.
Lisa,
I’m relieved to know I’m not the only one who doesn’t like “dear.” I haven’t had anyone call me young lady yet. I’ll have to see how I feel after that! 🙂
Is there a chance “differs” was supposed to be “dinners”?
Paige,
Well, “dinners” would be the most logical answer but no dinners appeared on those days! I may never understand.
Years ago during my first career (in patient care), I took a training called, “Mine Name is Mrs. Greenbaum.” It addressed this issue of calling patients (or even customers) by anything other than their given name. It has stuck with me for 40 years through multiple roles. When it happens to me, I try to gently impart the lesson I learned long ago.
Kristy,
I’ve never been quite brave enough to address the issue because I feel like I’m being petty. But maybe someday I will be inspired by your example and bring it up. I think it’s great training was provided on that subject.