Mom's Thoughts For the Week

Mom’s Thoughts For The Week


Pictures have mouse-over graphics.	Jan Scott	Back to Jan's Page
In the Fall of 2002, I started a weekly tradition of “Mom’s Thoughts for the Week” where I emailed my thoughts to my children. I was able to do this because I acquired a computer from my family, and joined the growing millions as I learned how to who use emailing as a major method of communicating to friends and family. I thought that I would share my thoughts with you, and hope that you would hear my heartfelt messages. You may view my 2002-2004, 2005-2007, 2008-2010 archives, for more Mom's Thoughts. The 3 *archived* links above are really large files, and may take a while to load, especially if you use dial-up modems. This page has only the year 2010 (and Dec. 2009). Email Jan Most recent entries loaded 1st. Any photos have mouse-overs, and may be clicked to be enlarged.

MTFTW of 9-4-10 Recycled 8-30-2003 Not re-printed here

Mom’s Thoughts for the week of 8-21-10

THE LIFE OF A PEDESTRIAN

Yesterday I found myself “A pedestrian” trying to cross Stop 11 Road (4- lane) to go to the library. Bus dropped me off a Marsh Grocery and I proceeded to walk across the street. Well the traffic was so heavy, I stood with another lady, waiting for a clearing, looked one way and then the other, when one way cleared, I looked the other way and there would be heavy traffic coming. I stood about 5 minutes wondering if I’d ever get a break to cross the street. When it would clear finally after 5 more minutes, two cars pulled in the turn lane and blocked the path to cross. As the cars zoomed by fast with no one aware of my dilemma, I wondered when I would ever get across. Thought to my self was I one of those pre occupied drivers when I was driving my car? Maybe but Nah, cause I have been with my children and they too let pedestrians have the right of way even in the middle of the road. Cars have the ability to go fast and get you there fast, so most drive just like that, fast going not watching for others! (No Sally, there was no stop lights near by)

Yes, I made it finally across the street almost running so I would get out of the way of cars and not get hit! The same thing happen when I returned to get to where the bus left me off. (Library is only on the schedule one day a week, It is on Wednesday and I had a book I couldn’t renew on the computer at home). I was glad to get home and out on my balcony with a cool glass of iced tea. As I tried to unwind myself, I saw a butterfly, a beautiful yellow one, gliding gracefully thru the air, slowly going from one area to another. Just his motion was relaxing me, so tranquil and peaceful to watch. I thought God has placed us all here on this earth to enjoy our everyday life. I am sure God never intended for our world to become so crazy as my trip to the library, made me feel like I was fighting the “world of the cars.” What happen to courtesy to others? Pedestrians’ rights? Is it too much to expect in this day and age? No, for on the Church bus today on the way to church our driver and 4 cars coming our way stopped to allow a family, father, mother, and 4 children with bikes cross in front of us to get to the other side safely. Courtesy is still alive; we just have to slow ourselves down to see it.

God wants us to be relaxed, joyful and not worrying all the time, I believe he doesn’t like us to be frantic, rushed, and hateful to others in our path. Try a little patience in this world. Always, Mom

TIP OF THE WEEK: If you lack the courage to start, you have already finished.

Mom’s Thoughts for the week of 8-14-10

SUMMERTIME 2010

Good Lord, if you know of a cool temp place let me know. This 90s is making us all so irritable and tired. I am trying to be better person for I sure don’t want to spend my eternity in that heat below, bet there is good a/c in heaven, perfect 72 degrees all the time. This 115-degree heat index is nation wide with many deaths due to it. Can we change it? NO, just use your head, drink lots of water, and don’t work outside getting tanned.

This month is only half over and it already has been tooooo busy with activities here at Crestwood even with all the heat. We had a Summer Fun Social; theme was going to the beach, summer cookouts, and great band for entertaining with the Beach Boys atmosphere. Heat didn’t slow the seniors down with attendance here; bus picks them up and delivers them. All in the same week, yesterday was the Old Fashion Days and Farmers Market, temps were 92 degrees, with horse and buggy for rides, dog show, old time cars (thanks to Dianna and Don plus friends), Ham and Beans lunch, vegetable and fruit stand. Most of the seniors struggled thru those days of heat with NO air in the past years of their lives. So attendance was great.

I afterwards attended the first birthday of Roxy my third great granddaughters birthday party. Was to be in the park but Tori and Ryan blessed us with the a/c of their home. About 15 little wee ones crawling, walking and parents and grandparents chasing was so much better in the cool inside. Only occasionally I got it first fights over toys. I enjoyed my time resting in the rocker with 4 months old Spencer, while his sister, Audrey explored Roxy play area. I just love being Nana to all these blessings. Our sweet Layla Belle Brown, 4 ½, came home a winner from the Indiana Children’s Pageant this month. She won the admiration of all with her Sock Hop theme modeling. Tori selected this pageant because it was “All Natural” and didn’t want Layla in that fast pace children’s competitions. Smart Lady!

With the end of summer near, we have the thoughts of returning to school for the kids. I remember day after Labor Day was back to school. Well now, some schools have the first days starting mid August, smack dab in the middle of hot DOG DAYS. Some schools have not up dated to a/c in the schools and window fans is not getting it. Kids are hot and sweating. I protest as a past Mother, Grandma, and now a Nana. I think the schools should have HEAT DAYS the same as SNOW DAYS. I grumble and they continue to NOT ask me for my opinion on things. May have to consider a picket line, see it now signs in hand and me and my seniors marching.

Okay! Hot is Hot but this weather needs to change and go back to normal. Weatherman says 80s cool down coming. I am soooooooo ready. Take care everyone, drink that H2O, and stay in the a/c. Love always, MOM

Mom’s Thoughts for the week of 8-07-10

TEAM WORK

I have been brought to the awareness and food for thought this week as I have watched the construction going on here on Crestwood South Campus. I had a ringside seat watching the roofers from my 2nd floor apartment work on another section of roofing. One man with orange vest on stood most of the time watching the other, tear up, shovel to a wheel barrel dust and roofing, Lots of hard work, upon inquiring I found out the one man was very busy doing his job, watching that none of the workers got too close to the edge of the roof, so he would be responsible to warn them. Again a misconception on my part what you assume is not always the true fact. The roofers completed their work with professional skill all working together as a team.

This week our building had its turn on having old concrete removed of cracked sidewalks around 3 sides of the building. Our 90 degrees temperatures have not helped any of the work going on daily. I had the job of removing the parked vehicles one side at a time, call or knocking on doors to remove resident’s cars from the parking areas. Thank goodness I have kept up to date mostly on licenses plates and makes of cars with the exception of some of the new move ins. The concrete man would put out orange cones the nite before the area was to be worked. Jan into action get those cars out of there. The residents have been super cooperating, hey; they had practice over the years with snow removal and black top street paving. It really makes the job so much easy for all with teamwork.

I watched the concrete crew, here at 7 AM about 10 of them, from crane operator, back hoes driver, one would board up area to be concreted, next would be the one to control the distributing the new concrete as it was poured, one filled, one smoothed and finally one would do the finishing touches. AWESOME to watch. I told them they are working robots with teamwork of precision and quality workmanship. Skills I am sure have taken dedication and practice to make so perfect.

We all are in a world that requires a lot of times we are needed to work as team members to see our world run smoother. Friendships, relationships, and family are a few that each person needs to do their part to have positive loving communication going on with those around us. Are you a team member or one of the complainers that do little work of helping others around you, BUT lots of fault finding? Hope we all can give it some thoughts and fit in more with the world around us. Love ya, Always, Mom

TIP OF THE WEEK: A big wheel never works alone, it takes the small other parts supporting it to make it work.

Mom's Thoughts for the week of 7-31-10

MYSTERY WEEK

When I send the Moms Thoughts for the week to my friends and family on the internet, about 50, I also print out 9 more, 3 I hand deliver and 6 I mail out by stamp snail mail. Last Sunday I got my envelopes addressed, placed the 6 MTS in there, I added some things to Alberta. When I called Alberta I told her to watch the mail on Tuesday. We talk every nite for probably an hour, after 7 PM per Rusty’s orders, due to it is free on my cell phone. Always hard to tell the topics we get into or discuss. Well this week was a little different. My nephew Steve in Colorado sent via the Internet some pictures of the past. I printed them out and felt I should warn Sis that there was some of Mother in the envelope, if you have pics pop up of some one you have lost it can be a shock, when she opened it to see her face. My intent was suppose to be good!

So, when we talked Tuesday nite she said “Yes, I got it but there was NO Pictures in it. She looked in the envelope, she turned it upside down, shook it and looked again, NO Pictures. Of course my reply was “No WAY!” I was so sure I put them in the envelope with her name on it. OR DID I? Yes, I did! Another one of those Senior Moments! I was ready to call all 6 and we decided it would be interesting to see who we heard from. I asked Lois to check with her sister, Donabelle in Oregon, which she did, Nope, No Pictures in her envelope. Dona belle and Lois had a big laugh out of it, an envelope of strangers she didn’t know. Okay 2 down and 4 to go! I called a dear friend and once neighbor here in Crestwood and she said let me find the envelope, Rosalene said nope it is empty and she wouldn’t know any of the pics of my great grandkids but Layla. 3 down and 3 to go!

Each time Alberta and I talked this week we’d get off on some memories, we remembered when Grama Esther slept in Mother’s old room, she looked at all the framed family pics and got stuck on one, she told Sis I don’t recognize one framed collage of the family, has Shelton held out on more of the family. Nope, it was a broughten frame Alberta never got filled with family, they were all actors placed there by the manufactures. Poor Daddy got blamed first. We also laughed at a memory of Dick Boda, Uncle Bob’s brother, who brought out a new frame picture collage and said Carolyn has her family all over the walls of this home and I cant even get pics put in this frame of my family. Poor guy, fun again! So, silly memories both brought fun and laughter to us to share again & again.

Ok the mystery is down to 3 remaining, as of this date I have not heard from either one. Mary Lee, one of my ex jail angel, I still send MTS to. She might recognize Layla also but the rest would all be mystery of why she got them. 2nd would be my sweetheart Sister in law, who currently is preparing to return to teach high school Math, Roxana doesn’t get her mail everyday, and her envelope and maybe pics could be in a pile of things she needs to do. XOXOX. Lastly would be my cousin Marcey who lives in Georgia. I told Alberta lets not call her, for she would just tell us they were in my envelope and I am keeping them, do reprints for Alberta. If Marcy saw family pics of Mother she would want them and the pic of Steve’s Mother Marlyn. I love you Marcey!

So I ask you all out there, have you ever sent a letter that was not received nor was it returned undeliverable. Bet the post office has a big trash can in the sky for all those mailings. Have you ever put a check in the wrong envelope to find out they deposited any way? Life is full of mysteries, so who ever got the pics Enjoy! You don’t have to return them or even own up to receiving them. I have reprinted for Alberta what I can remember being in that stack and have even included one of her Great Grandson from Arizona, Ramsey. All these babies we have been blessed with in the last couple years keep changing and we quickly get updated ones via the Internet. Babies Babies we love them. They add so many smiles to our days. Pam (2nd) shares a birthday with Roxy her granddaughter in August, one year old on the 12th. Always, Mom

TIP OF TH WEEK: Imagine what you think you create, what you feel you attract, what you imagine you become

Mom’s Thoughts for the week of 7-24-10

FINAL ACCEPTANCE

I made a decision over a month ago---one I weighed & prayed hard on after a scary ride on Indy’s 465. I drove only 50 MPH due to the noise I had heard for a while got louder in my wheel. Upon the mechanics inspection it was found to be a broken bolt and other repairs, which ran into hundreds to fix. Rusty (my son) came to my rescue with $ and even calmed me down after I realized the danger of it all. Over the time of the repairs being done I decided it was time to make a decision. Living here at Crestwood I have seen many senior residents make that decision ”giving up their cars.” Some came to it on their own & gave it to family, some sold to strangers, and the rest complained, kicking & screaming in their 80s or 90s when the family forced them to give it up before they could killed some one. I don’t want to be in the last ones.

As with most decisions—we come to a crossroad and usually because of situation changes in our lives, God makes us aware of times to ponder, exam and know what is best for us. Well, at least that has been the case with me. He directs my path & doesn’t hesitate to let me know when I am following the wrong path. I keep getting that gut feeling something is not right! Hard to explain to some but he gets my attention. My body flora ain’t flowing right!

I had some negatives to deal with as I signed the title of my car and gave it to Rusty to sell. It felt like I was about to lose a friend, representing losing my independence to come & go as I wished. My decision has been made on changes in my life, I don’t drive at night, I don’t like to drive the interstates, I respond slower to the young folks quick action changing lanes, my car is 10 years old, low mileage, but like me, ready for replacements is coming up, along with expenses. Traffic around Greenwood is terrible, congested. Sis and I talked about it when I was in Michigan, we don’t see any future trips for us, she will keep her car due to traffic up there is different than here, they are low traffic except in the summer holidays and she takes the back country roads.

So with the negatives studied I turned them to positives, I live at Crestwood that has a bus to take residents everywhere banks, stores, 6 days a week free, no gas to pump. Takes a little longer, but I have time in my life to relax and leave the driving to June and Mike. Another positive my children have allowed the decision to be my own and have shown support to handling doctor appointments and family get-togethers. I feel my decision is a good one, and along with it comes FINAL ACEPTANCE. I could pout, feel sorry for me, fight changes due to getting older, but look who I hang out with 24/7, I don’t want to be miserable to live with, so I choose ACCEPTANCE. Looking forward to spending time at the Mall watching people, walking, and hitting some of the sales. Hope you can relate and accept too. Always, Mom

TIP OF THE WEEK: God is not my Co-pilot; he is the Head Pilot and always takes me where I need to go. I need to listen and just relax.

Mom’s Thoughts for the week of July 17, 2010

CURRENT UPDATES

Howdy everyone! Quick update to let you know I made it home safe and sound from Michigan vacation. As always it ended to quick. too short to have the time Alberta (Aunt Judy) and I needed to just be together. Harrisville Michigan still has the wonderful air of being on Lake Huron with fantastic sunrises out of Big Nanny’s window. Brought back lots of memories of my Mother while I slept in her old bedroom. The town was in the process of construction to put in a new water supply but believe me it didn’t slow the visiting tourist from the harbor, beaches, or the grocery stores. I love the country up there, but with the unusual high temperatures and no air conditioning, I longed for my wee apartment in Indy.

Rusty took me up on the trip, safe and sound, stayed a few days, and returned to Indy himself. Pam and Layla Belle came up at nite time on the 8 hour trip, so Layla would sleep, as would have it, Layla only slept a couple of hours of the trip. LOL. After a week of fun for Layla, all 4 years old love the 4th of July parade and riding her decorated bike with hundred other kids, beach playing in the sand, which was in the car coming back, fishing, deer watching and playing with cousins, I came back with Pam and Layla. Safe and almost soundly, side mirror came loose from casing and hit the car window and broke, I am sure 21 years of bad luck for us 3. Had to use my brake a few times, you know the one old lady have imaginary on the passenger side. Sure Pam thought she had two kids in the car and not just one. Layla was a great traveler, even took 2 naps. Ahhh, the quiet!

I had 2 days to rest and the last week I have been filling in for my manager, who has been sick with a blood infection. The days are full and nite time I found my self too tired to do much on the computer. So I am back and happy to be, the a/c is wonderful as the high temps continue outside. Hoping to get back in the swing of writing again in August each week. Getting ready for the annual Luau under the tent for Crestwood. Aloha all! Till next time, Always, MOM

TIP OF THE WEEK

A good deed is never lost: he who sow’s courtesy reaps friendship, and he who plants kindness gathers love.

Mom’s Thoughts for the week of 05-31-10

ONE FULL MONTH

Here it is the first day of June and I sat and ponder where did the month of May go? As always the month of May in Indy starts late spring off with the busy-ness of the 500 Mile Race. They had an enormous crowd of spectators attend this year. I was not and have never been one of the attendees. Dad always attended though he didn’t always see the race. Two years he was missing in action for 3 days and then returned to not even know who won the race. My life with him was quite eventful, he was a man who enjoyed life to the fullest and made it eventful for all around. I can smile now as I remember though at the time I was one mad scratch hen. LOL.

I am recovering from my hospital stay with pneumonia. It is a slow process and not one I recommend for anyone. My 6-week check up went well and my doctor said to get plenty of exercise and eat 3 meals a day and my strength and weight will come back. Don’t know if I want all the 25 pounds I lost back, but sure would like to get rid of the baggy pants look. I am delaying buying new clothes that would fit. Speaking of clothes I was able to model at the Red Hat Fashion Show this month. I modeled 2 eveningwear outfits, sparkling jackets, and stylish flowing pants. One had tights underneath to give that new tummy tuck for women, took me for ever to get into them, of course with weight loss I didn’t need tucked.

With Mother’s Day and Memorial Day came visiting with the family. The new wee generation of Great Grandchildren makes my world so much fun watching them grow. Layla at 4 is quite the model herself and poses, though she is tom-boyish enough to have played soccer. Audrey at 2 is a beauty who is at the fun laughing stage, Roxy at 10 months is learning the unsure stage of walking, and Spencer at 2 months is a lovable wiggle baby. Tori is expecting Silas Orion in Oct. so my world will be larger still. They are what keeps me smiling.

My Mom’s Thoughts seem to get later all the time and less in numbers. I think back to the days I wrote them for the girls in jails or prison as encouragement. My purpose was clear then, I have slacked off and seem to be busier with my seniors here at Crestwood. I pray God will continue to show me where I am needed to serve and love him and others. To everyone out there in my MT’s mailing list, thanks for staying with me on my journey of life. I love you all. Always, Mom

TIP OF THE WEEK: The best vitamin for making friends…B1

Mom’s Thoughts for the week of 5-15-10

DUMB MOVES

Friday, after working in building #1 walking home, I noticed the weed whackers that trim the grass had gotten to close to a purple Japanese Iris. It was laying cut on the grass so, being I love spring and all the pretty fresh flowers in bloom I picked it up as to not waste it. (Reminded me of the big flower beds I had in Harrisville Michigan on Pine Street) So I headed home found a bud vase and put some water in it, so excited about my gift to me. Well it took only about a minute and I realized in the Iris was ANTS. Well another “dumb move” of my life! I took the Iris to the sink and tapped it on the sink edge----Boom, 1 thousand ants came out going everywhere. Yeah, really dumb Jan! I glanced around and there they were another dozen crawling on my kitchen table. You know I recall years ago when I couldn’t resist picking a beautiful pink Peony out of the flowerbed outside of Building #6. When I put it in the vase with water, out came BIG Black ANTS coming from the flower. Oh boy, I should have remembered that from the first time I had to rid my apartment of ANTS. The ones this time were tiny and I like to never have got them all. Pray tell why are some lessons so hard to learn in life?

I’ve made some “dumb moves” in my life like turning down a street to only find out it’s a one way and I’ve driven the wrong way! Scary, I guess so! I was lucky not much traffic when I saw the sign and the cars coming at me. Another time comes to mind when I think of cleaning under the bath mat in the tub and not making sure it was pressed down to form the suction. Yep, I made some fast moves not to fall when I slipped. Quick Recovery---nothing broken with that “dumb move.”

I have noticed, as I have gotten older I am saying those words more often, “Dumb move” than I use to. Not sure what I need for the old brain to keep Alzheimer from starting in or maybe it already has. Dr. Oz on TV is always giving tips on how to stay healthy and live a better life. His recent article in the AARP magazine suggested Turmeric (Curry) sprinkled on your food breaks up protein in Alzheimer patients. Cinnamon sprinkled on food also builds your brain and lowers blood sugar. Also reading books or working crossword puzzles daily also sharpens the brain. Man, I am needing all the help I can get.

My recent visit to the hospital really taught me a big lesson. When I was in the chair feeling worse and worse, fever raising and thinking I’ll get in the bed and feel better in the morning, I should have thought then “dumb move”! Call the kids and tell them you are sick and need help. Hindsight is no good now. I am still trying to get he energy back and getting my tailbone to heal from my fall. Seniors need to learn some sense when they live alone. Well again, I learn the hard way. I hope I limit my future “dumb moves.” How about you, ever had some? Always, Mom

TIP OF THE WEEK: One thing you can’t recycle is wasted time.

Mom’s Thoughts for the week of 5-08-10

THE LOVE OF A MOTHER

The love of a Mother is only second to the love of God, he loves us all unconditionally and gentle noggins us daily to become better folks. A mother is one that loves her children and would risk her life to save one of her own. In a recent tornado in the south the news told of a family living in a mobile home where the mother did lose her life but saved her children. She protected them in a way that she knew would cost her own life. She placed 3 wee little ones under a mattress and laid on top of the mattress to protect them from the storm coming. The lose had to be enormous to her family but she left safe and sound 3 children with a future life to live. What an unselfish gift of love.

I remember while living in Michigan traveling along a wooded area road, seeing a big Doe standing in the middle of the road. Of course I slowed and stopped, then off to the side of the road bouncing out were 2 little fawns. They crossed the road behind the Mother deer and when they were safe and sound across she joined them. Risk her life she did, and many other animals have that same Mother instinct in them. I have seen ducks and geese do the same. Have you ever tried to get close to a nest of new eggs or babies of a bird? That Mother will swoop your head till you go away. HAHA. God does an awesome job making us all, animals or humans.

For 9 months a baby grows in their Mothers body till they mature enough to be born. They are totally dependent on her blood and body for survival at that time. Birth does not end that relationship, it continues all thru our life, life of love. With a Mother’s guidance and nurturing we grow to adulthood. I love to watch the little children usually around 2 make the connection in families. They seem to sense that if they have a Mommy then maybe Grama has a Mommy too. Recently Audrey was shy to giving me a hug good bye, Dianna said Nana is my Mommy, after a quizzical look, she agreed Nana could hug the 2 of them together. These children connect also that a family is a Mommy, Daddy and have course a Baby. I remember Layla when she started drawing pictures it seems the easiest way to understand a family. The innocent minds at work, how awesomely blessed we are. There is no better job than being a Mother and so rewarding.

I would love to have McNamara Florist send a large bouquet up to heaven for our Lord to give to my Mother, putting his arms around her and remind her how much I loved and appreciated her giving me life. She is in my heart and thoughts daily, but the missing ache remains. I think that she is caring for my twins and giving them the love and nurturing they need. God bless you Mother and all the Mothers out there. Enjoy your special day. And men thanks for helping us to become Mothers. Always, MOM

TIP OF THE WEEK: Call your Mother while you can and tell her you love her.

Mom’s Thoughts for the week of 4-24-10

JAN’S NO SUPER-WOMAN

WOW, What a statement! One more lesson of life being taught the hard way. I have heard that cats have 9 lives, well I have green cat eyes, but I may not have 9 lives to go thru. If I do I know I have used up before about half so it is getting scary. Some have been close calls but thank the good Lord I am still here.

My need to be hospitalized happen really fast. It all started with spring allergies—which I have never really had a lot of trouble with. This spring has been different, had a week of fighting allergies, plus working 50 hours the last week of March didn’t do me much good. I worked 2 buildings due to one manager had surgery and our manager here was let go, that is a nice way of saying she got FIRED. So energetic but DUMB me over did, spent Easter with Dianna, Pam and family which was relaxing. Started the week again with 2 busy a schedule. By Monday evening my allergies went to pneumonia, 105 fever, dehydration, blood pressure dropped dangerously low, plus I fell to the floor while trying to get in my bed hitting my tailbone.. So with a 911 call the ambulance came and zoomed me to the hospital about 11 PM. I never lost consciousness, but I sure was miserable. Spent 6 days in hospital till the doctor said you’d get more rest at home. That was no lie, you get no sleep too much going on there.

The sign in my chiropractors office says “It’s easier to stay well than to get well” sure is the truth. So my lesson learned is a hard one, “Jan’s no super woman” everyone knew it but me. It is time for some reduced activities and more time for me to relax. I love working here at Crestwood and all the fun activities but where I am now I am no help to anyone and in many cases a burden on others to care for me. I have a loving family that has supported me for 3 weeks now as I heal and come back. But it’s meant time off work for them, extra time out of their lives. Thank you all, I do promise to learn from my mistakes. I am able to be walking my wing halls now and aiming for back to normal activities first week in May. It all at this point depends on this achy breaky tailbone and the doctors.

When there is trouble and woe’s in our world God sends a miracle, his name is Spencer Landon O’Brien born 4-08-10 6 lbs. 11 ozs in the same hospital I was in but different floors. I have yet to hold Spencer but Grama Dianna makes sure I get lots of pictures. His sister Audrey has a birthday party next Friday; this Nana’s goal is to be well enough to attend. God is so good to my family; we have more than our share of blessings!

Thank you all for cards, prayers, and even food left at my door. I love you all. Till next week, pray I will be on schedule again. Always, Mom

TIP OF TH E WEEK: The more I learn of others problems, the more my own problems automatically dissolve.

Mom’s Thoughts for the week of 3-27-10

CELEBRATION OF LIFE

Yesterday was the 76th birthday of my dear deceased hubby Russ. Our family tries to gather once a month for family to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries. March happens to only have one birthday March 27th with Russ’s name on our family calendar Dianna made for us all. His picture reminds us of how much he enriched our lives while he was alive. In 2002 we had a celebration of his life, well we have added to our family since then and once again decided to make our monthly gathering just for his memories. We met at Gray’s famous Cafeteria in Mooresville. We had 17 in attendance .Good food, cake included and sharing our hearts.

My day was one of great emotions and many tears but they were happy tears. Happy because Russ gave me 26 short years of married togetherness before he died at age 47. We had our ups and downs as married folks do but each day was a wonderful adventure with my best friend, partner, and sweetheart. He had a short life in counting his age, but it was filled with fun, laughter, purpose, and he befriended countless folks and enriched their lives also.

The copies of different pics I printed out showed various times in his life with pics for each person at the celebration party. I made up a quiz for all to fill in the blanks of events, occupations, his likes, and dislikes, to see how many knew or had heard stories of his life. All did really good filling them out and turned into a fun but sentimental trip down memory lane.

Both of my daughters Dianna and Pam’s entered words of tenderness on Facebook about their Dad, memories of dancing with Dad when they would step on his shoes to follow his steps. Thank you both for your love and tenderness, it hurts to lose loved ones so young but their hearts are full of love and memories for Russ.

The party was wonderful and I have to feel he some how attended in our hearts and from above. Thanks to Russ’s brother, Stan, and wife Jeannie for attending with their love and shared memories. To all on my mailing list, I suggest if you have loved ones you have lost all to early in life, think about a celebration of their life, it sure eases the pain and grieving. I have lived on for 28 years as a widow but he has been with me each day since. Thanks all for sharing with me, enjoy this Palm Sunday and the coming week of Easter preparation. God loves you and so do I. Always, Mom

TIP OF THE WEEK: Of all the things you wear, your expression is the most important.

Mom’s Thoughts for the week of 3-20-10

MY FAVORITE HYMNS

Recently our Pastor Shan gave 2 wonderful sermons on prayer. He shared how important our relationship with God is in our prayer life. He surprised us with a song, he sang with his rich faith testifying voice. His song “How long has it been” since you bowed on your knees to talk to our Lord? As we get older we may not be able to knee to pray, it isn’t one of the requirements to have your prayers heard. I often just visualize myself at the foot of the cross; this helps my relationship with the Lord. As Pastor Shan sang I watched others along with myself wiping tears from our faces. We all know we don’t pray faithfully as we should though we’re told to pray continuously.

My soul has been blessed to so many hymns over the years. I have heard that music drives the devil away, and I can understand why. Like “Sweet Hour of Prayer” that calls me from a world of care, giving my soul relief. “Amazing Grace” with words how precious did that grace appear the hour I first believed? How about “He Touched Me” and made me whole. His touch can bring peace to us in trouble times. With Easter and the Resurrection coming in a few weeks it makes me think of “Because He Lives” I can face tomorrow, all fear is gone.

Pastor Shan spoke of a song that is one of my Sister Alberta’s favorite and mine. “In the Garden” I come to the garden alone. Words like, he walks with me, he talks to me, and he tells me I am his own. The Joy we share none other has ever known. Our Lord went to the Garden alone before he went to the cross, with one on one in his prayers to God. We too have to do the same alone we develop that precious relationship with God that fills our soul. I love the old Southern Gospel Songs—they mean so much to me. I miss them with all the new songs for praise and worship. Somehow these new ones don’t have the same effects, the tears, the peaceful feeling of the presences of our Lord. I feel these things as I hear and sang “I Surrender ALL” humbly at his feet I bow. All to thee my blessed Savior.

With the first day of spring beginning today, I am seeing everything coming alive after a long winter. I realize how wonderful Easter comes in the spring to remind us of the cross and how we become alive again with our eyes on the Lord Jesus. Happy Easter all, Enjoy the kids with their Easter Egg Hunts. I am looking for a bunny to hide plastic eggs here for the residents to find in the building. They love them with candy, change, and even a few with $1 bills. Always, Mom

TIP FOR THE WEEK: Your mind is like a parachute ---- it functions only when open.

MOM’S THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK OF 3-06-10

SIGNS OF HOPE

It is amazing how quickly we can get ready for the changing of seasons. This week our thermometer ‘s have actually seen 40 degrees and SUNSHINE. Of course, when we think Spring is here, we head outside only to be fooled and blasted with a cold wind chill in the 30s. Makes us wonder why we didn’t put our winter coat and gloves on.

We have been hit by cold snowy winter here in Indy, We are inpatient waiting for signs of spring and hope. As the sun and warmer temps of just a few days has melted the snow almost completely, given us signs of hope. Under the snow has revealed heads of crocus, tulips sprouts and green grass. Bring it in----we are so ready for spring. I have always loved spring--- it is a season full of hope. Gives us the promise after long dead winter of things coming alive again. In a few weeks we have daylight savings time changes to spring forward an hour on the 14th and then on March 20th it will be the first day of spring on all the calendars.

So appropriate is Easter coming up in April. As spring makes us feel changes of all things coming alive, it makes me think of our Lord’s Resurrection, coming alive again. With it gave us the promise of being reborn again and receiving everlasting life thru eternity. WOW, what a gift of hope. Truly spring is the season of hope, the promise of all things being reborn. I often go to the Book of Ecclesiastes Chapter 3: 1 thru 22; it gives the promises of the seasons of life. When we let God be in control we see he plans our days for us, fills them with blessings most of us really don’t deserve. His love for us is always expressed in many of our trying times of loss and sadness. They are always followed by things being brighter next, like the sunshine coming up in the morning following the long dark nights. You can count on God being there for you each step of the way.

Spring is in the air---enjoy every minute of it, watch the earth come alive, birds in the air, flowers buds opening and even we will notice a little bounce in our walking step. ENJOY! See you next time, Always, MOM

TIP OF THE WEEK: Be kinder than necessary cause everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.

Mom’s Thoughts for the week of 2-20-10

SNOW SNOW AND MORE COMING

Congrats Tori and Ryan on Baby #3 !!! You go, Girl !!

The month of February has really hit hard on this nation especially the Midwest. There has been snow where it hasn’t been before or if it was it was years ago. Sally in Mobile, Alabama says it only lasted on the ground about 20 minutes but long enough for kids who had never experienced snow could enjoy it. How about snow in Texas, Florida, and parts of Georgia? All I can say is I’m ready to hunt down “whoever” made Mother Nature mad and shoot them.

I have even thought of a FREE sign of advertising to get rid of the snow. Usually you get takers on anything FREE. Connie out in Arizona won’t even take it if we ship it to her. She’s refused my snowball fights on Face book too. I keep trying to put some humor into our circumstances to try to get thru this snowbound Indiana. All in all I am sure the folks along the east coast with more snow and electrical outages would say we have it darn easy.

Here in Crestwood the maintenance crews are daily out trying to keep our roads open for the traffic and sidewalks open and cleared of ice. We daily have ambulance and fire trucks coming in and out. They have done a super job over-all but imagine 7 buildings with parking areas of cars and senior drivers unable to clear their own spots. My car has been parked a lot but the disadvantage is the snowplow snows you in.

Even with al this snow it didn’t stop our residents from our Casino Nite affair this week. Lots of gamblers showed up to play poker, bingo, and win prizes after cashing in their winnings. Lots of gift certificates, dollars off their rent credits all pays off. As I headed out after the bus stopped running residents around campus, I decided to walk home. With the streetlights shinning on the white snow, no wind, all seemed peacefully quiet with the stars shining above in the night sky. It reminded me of years ago when I did a lot of walking at night after the kids were in bed, ended the day of being in with kids. It always relaxed me when the nite was peacefully, calm and not really cold. Try it, it is great before retiring for the night.

I placed some artificial silk red tulips in pots in the mailroom with valentines on the walls, hoping somehow our weather gets turned around to normal. I am soooooo ready for spring, crocuses, robins, and mostly green grass again. This black and white landscaping gets old after a while. Hope everyone is enjoying the Olympics from Canada. I believe we have their cold and snow, it’s been warmer up there than usual. Those kids are sure doing the USA proud bringing home the gold.

Got warming news this week from Tori and Ryan, great grandbaby #5 has been ordered. Layla is four and really getting the feel of being the big sister, with Roxy now 6 months and a new, boy we hope, due in October of this year. THINK BLUE everyone, the Browns would like a son to finish their family officially. Rest up Grama Pam you’re gona need it. Tori I think you out did me, with 3 under the age of 4, I had 5 under the age of 6. Fertile folks aren’t we? Congrats to you both!

Well the weather is posting 4 days of snowstorms starting on Saturday. Here we go again, don’t put the snow blowers away. Till next time, seems I am running every 2 weeks now with the Mom’s Thoughts instead of weekly, but remember how important you all in my life all the time, Always, MOM

TIP OF THE WEEK; The happiness of your life depends on the quality of your thoughts.

Mom’s Thoughts for the week of 2-06-10

SURGERY RECOVERY

I am sure to some my recent surgery has been a surprising going on. Thursday of this week I had a tumor (basil cell cancer) removed from my hairline on my head. Thanks to my hair dress I was able to keep it covered and pretty much no one knew I had it prior to this week. except my kids, they were the ones that insisted I go to the Dermatologist back in November. This was the earliest they could get me in for surgery. The biopsy was done in November, so we had some time to sweat it out.

As some one making a dumb decision, I thought I could rid the spot on my own over the last year. I tried treating myself with many medications, alcohol, and peroxide, antibiotic ointment, all over the counter stuff. I was sure one would cure it. Well, wrong! Finally when I showed my daughters they wouldn’t let up till I made the appointment. When the biopsy came back CANCER it was the last thing I wanted to hear. Skin cancer due to all the sun bathing I did over the years at the pool or even the fact I never wear a hat winter or summer.

18 years ago I had throat cancer on my vocal cord, surgery to remove it was followed by 35 radiation treatments. The 98% cured odds the doctor gave me made the treatments worth it. At that time the quick appointment when I noticed trouble in my throat is what saved me from it taken roots and growing which would have taken a vocal cord. It saved me then and I have been cancer free ever since and mostly healthy through the years. I have been truly blessed and once again I count myself blessed. This growth now is a one-time growth and not the kind that spreads to other parts of the body. Again a blessing. Cancer is a terrible disease, one that pain and fear takes a lot of faith, self-encouraging through the hard journey you face for yourself and your family. As with all health issues time allows you to accept it’s happening to you, then you can face the options open to you.

My faith has brought me thru, changing me as time has past. I love where I am in my life----the Nana of 3 beautiful healthy great grand babies with another due in March/April. Life is precious. The wonderful news that Layla Belle’s test results for Cystic Fibrosis came back last week it was normal. All being results of plenty of prayers by prayer warriors and our awesome GOD. We are so fortunate to have the advanced medical field we have now. My doctor’s expertise has left me 11 stitches hairline scar that will let the hair grow back with my hairstyle staying the same and no need for a wig. HOORAY!

So learn from one stubborn old lady—don’t delay going to the doctors. I love you all, thanks to my family for love and support thru my 2nd journey with Cancer. Couldn’t have made it with out you. Always, Mom

TIP OF THE WEEK: SUPER BOWL TOMORROW AND I AM ROOTING FOR THE COLTS. BLUE AND WHITE TREE WILL COME DOWN NEXT WEEK IN OUR LOBBY. EVERYONE WATCH THE GAME. GO COLTS!

Mom’s Thoughts for the week of 1-30-10

FOUR A’S

I receive daily messages from Hazelden Org. most of the messages are based on the AA program 12 steps of recovery. Many of them give me time for thoughts regarding life’s cycles that we human have in our journey. All humans have changing situations constantly affecting us. This one was based on ACCEPTANCE, AWARENESS, ACTION AND ATTITUDE. All four great words are ones I have faced over the years at different times.

ACCEPTANCE was a hard one for me to learn. I had lots of why me’s to deal with at different times in my life. Finally I got the message WHY not? I am human, living with situations of cancer, financial problems, loss of loved ones, jealousy, hurt coming from others, all building resentment in me. Acceptance has taught me some things you can’t change but it may be happening to add growth and strength to build on your faith, making you a better person when you come through them.

AWARENESS has always grown when I take my focus off ME and put it on others. The world around me changes me to reach out to others. Realizing it can’t be all about me.

ACTION is again one we need to have enforced when you’d like to ignore circumstances and do nothing. Changes come hard but certainly forces action for any of us to take positive steps. I have had times of limitations and my capacity to fix my world has made me look for positive solutions. There is always a positive any time we’re faced with negatives. It all depends on what you want to spend your time concentrating on.

Lastly ATTITUDE has been one of the largest areas I have had to work on. I am thankful over the years I have turned a negative self-center attitude into making me a more positive human beings that enjoys life filled with others. Life is to be enjoyed regardless of our circumstances. ATTITUDE pulls us through when nothing else can. When I worked at Meijers as a Greeter, I met some nasty complaining folks even in public, creating negative effects on others around them. I always thought, “Boy am I glad I don’t have to go home with them!” Your attitude is one area you control, so make living with yourself better.

Hope all are staying warm and dry wherever you are. Winter has been rough with all the bitter cold, wind chills, and snowstorms. I for one am grateful every time I hear the heater click on and more grateful Justus pays the bill. So many have had to deal with loss of electricity in their homes. If you haven’t then curl up and read a good book. Take care, till next time, Always, MOM

TIP OF THE WEEK: Each one of us is unique in our own way. Much like the snowflakes no two alike. So love yourself, God does and so do I.

MOM’S THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK OF 1-23-10

WEEK OF DEVASTATION

This has been a devastating week since the enormous debilitating earthquake in Haiti. The losses of lives have been recognized as the highest of any quake in history. The United States is feeling the enormous grief with so many of our missionaries and youth volunteers trapped below the collapsing buildings. As with all tragedies I believe God has his angels on this earth, angels of mercy, who come forth as heroes who have volunteered to be rescuers needed to find survivors and help the injured medically. They are unique folks that have strong faith and strengths to endure the day after day work needed. Many only receive minimum amount of sleep at night. Our prayers are needed for there strengths to sustain them.

Back here at home, we too are affected deeply by the goings on in Haiti. With our live on the pot news coverage, we quickly can find ourselves depressed and feeling of helplessness to help others. I learned a big lesson with the Twin Towers Tragedy and the effects on us individually. We all want to know what’s going on, what progress has happen----but we need to step up--- turn the news off. We can’t handle the 24/7 coverage of negative and depressing news going into our minds. Most of us have enough in our own world to deal with. Lots of questions of why occur daily and we seek understanding of answers. We don’t always receive the answers we are seeking daily; instead it may be time for us to pull thru our faith. We have a God who knows our circumstances, knows what we dealing with step-by-step, day-by-day. He may not give us all the answers to why, but he is there always and will help us weather our storms. What a wonderful gift of peace he gives us that he is in control of all things. Our strength of faith will come as he sees we need it. He created us, he loves us, and he will protect us.

Try to keep your self and your world in an upbeat positive mode. Our blessings way over number any storms we might have now or in the future come our way. I love you all, I wish my Great Granddaughter Layla Belle a Happy Birthday on the 21st. she is a big girl 4 years old. She is being a big girl too going thru tests for Cystic Fibrosis. Keep her and the Brown family in your prayers this week. Till next week, Always, Mom

TIP OF THE WEEK: GOD NEVER GIVES US MORE THAN WE CAN HANDLE. RELAX AND ENJOY LIFE.

Mom’s Thoughts for the week of 1-09-10

WINTER BLUES

Merle Haggard’s old Country song “If we make it thru December… better days a coming.” Making it thru the holidays was really a faith tester for me. With a few unexpected deaths, lots of illness and health issues to deal with, our senior folks here in #3 and I made it thru the social activities. So far other than less goings on, we haven’t changed much. I am so ready for a slower pace for a while. The 4 inches of now Indy received this Thursday almost brought us to a halt. We were able to have the Men’s Breakfast with the snow coming down, my men walkers from another building roughed it by walking, I was proud of them. The bus hasn’t run for 2 days, but back at it today. We had about 28 hungry folks for breakfast, mainly the maintenance crew from out in the cold.

The rest of my day and even today has been watching the snowfall out my balcony doors. Only activity is our maintenance snow blowing and spreading salt. I am trying to talk my self into making it to bundle up and tackle 14 degrees and try to get to my car. Keep thinking the sun will come out and I wont have to do it but I must be dreaming.

The winter so far has been hard on our little ones too with illness. Layla Belle had pneumonia on Christmas Eve and has tried to over it and hasn’t. Still has a bad cough. Roxy has bronchitis and their parents are hoping it doesn’t worsen like Layla’s. Audrey and Tom both have had coughs but no worse than that. It is hard on wee ones to be sick and can drain dear ole Moms and Dads down caring for them and running to the doctors. I am calling on all Prayer Warriors; I have kept Lois busy with prayers for my family. She is such a wonderful prayer warrior but even she has had a long list of her friends and loved ones. I told her do you reckon we need just to say “Everyone” instead of doing individual requests of our Lord. Our wonderful God already knows our needs before we ask and also the outcome. Lots of us get our faith tested often and winter doesn’t make it easier. Alberta and her son Rob are facing some health problems for him that has been very stressful for them to handle. They too are leaning heavy on prayers; don’t know how we would cope without our faith to get us through. God is in control and our job is to trust in his control of everything.

Now more than ever during the winter months others need our prayers and support, with our love. Take time today to help those near and far. We are hanging in there with our support for our Colts football team. Their 14-0 at Christmas all too quickly followed with 2 losses. They are still very much in the run for the Super Bowl. So here in #3 we are all white and blue in décor and the Colts Christmas tree is still up for the “WIN.” So keep those fingers crossed and yelling GO COLTS.

Hope the New Year of 2010 has been good to you so far, hoping you haven’t written too many checks with the wrong year. I loved the debate over it being Two thousand and 10 vs. 20-10. The young ones are going more for the 20-10 and us oldies are for the 2 thousand 10, we didn’t say 20—09 so what is the debate for? Okay enough news all stay warm and healthy. I love you all. Till next week, Always, Mom

TIP OF THE WEEK: If at first you don’t succeed, then skydiving is not for you. AMEN.

Mom’s Thoughts for the Week of 12-18-04 (12-19-09)

Few of my Favorite Things

December and so far no snow to speak of, I have been thinking about praying for some to make it feel more like Christmas. But, I thought that really would not be fair, I don’t have to get out in it daily and can stay in where it is warm. So I hadn’t been praying, but when I looked out this morning and saw snow flurries, I said, “YES, I will be happy with that.” I guess all my memories of Christmas past; have snow and lots of it in them. It always represented the feeling of Christmas, and something we required to get in the mood of Christmas and shopping for gifts. I do love snow, always have, and love to walk in it when it is new and falling slowly, specially in the nightlight. The making of snow flakes, not any two is one of those awesome makings of God. One I don’t know the reason for but do enjoy the miracle of snow. Beautiful snow, white and clean, yeah, how many of you already see it dirty and underfoot, work of shoveling and the driving on the slick roads. Just remember I have NOT prayed for it, but I don’t think we will be seeing it too soon, the weather calls for in the 40’s temps. May not get that White Christmas this year, way too warm, but it is Indiana and things can change and quick.

I attended the Christmas Program at our Church this past Friday and Saturday night with family and friends. The music was absolutely beautiful and the Choir, with the help of others, outstandingly did the whole event. The feeling one left with was that “Feeling of Christmas, mainly JOY.” The story of the birth of Jesus, the soul reaching music, and singing along with the Christmas Carols, gave one the joy of the heart, bringing God so close and his gift to us, so enormous and unselfish, showing his awesome love. Music, it is so much a part of Christmas, as we sing of joy and praise it can only place us in the high-spirits of Christmas. I can’t imagine what it would be like not to have and feel music in our lives. So I count it along with snow as two of my favorite things, how about you all?

After our program Dianna, Tom and I drove around checking out the pretty lights decorated in the Oak Meadows homes, they have mostly clear lights and they decorate the neighborhood. What a beautiful sight to behold. My favorite one was one in different colored lights, and appeared to be a Gingerbread House; there were deer, snowmen, Santas, trees and bushes decorated, and flashing. What a lot of work to give so much pleasure to others. Dianna found the reindeer with the red nose first though Tom and I were trying to find it. I had seen it on the trip with the senior bus light tour last week, but forgot where it was. “Eagle eye Dianna” saw it though Tom and I think she cheated us. (Note: She also found the error on last weeks MTFTW, I do have 6 grandchildren, and proud of each one, excuse my senior moment).

Memories of the heart aren’t they wonderful; they do keep getting recalled thru our mind. I have recycled cards to give in Building # 6 for the last 3 years. Everyone seems to like my verse on them, so I will share with you all too. “May this recycled card bring back the warmth and love of Christmas pasts, filling your heart with love, joy, and happiness shared with loved ones and friends.” Enjoy the blessed season everyone. Always, Mom

Tip of the week:

The LIGHT is not just at the END of the tunnel; it’s IN the tunnel.