Family Fun

 

I had several questions on yesterday’s post about

The Big Nose!!

It’s amazing the things some people—no, let me back up—the things some kids will do for entertainment. Especially long ago and far away, before computer games and television.

Mr. D grew up in a rural area. Not a full‑blown farm, but close enough: a big garden, a milk cow, chickens, and five kids who had to invent their own fun because “entertainment” meant using your imagination.

Somewhere in all that country creativity, a strange family talent emerged. To this day, I have no idea how it started, but Mr. D and several of his siblings developed the uncanny ability to spread their nostrils. Not flare—spread. Each nostril moves like it has its own little brain. I’ve watched them do it a hundred times, and I still don’t understand the mechanics. I can’t do it. My nose just sits there, minding its own business.

Naturally, when our kids were little, Mr. D would break out “the big nose,” and the room would dissolve into giggles. And wouldn’t you know it—our kids eventually discovered they could do it too. Apparently it’s hereditary, like eye color or the inability to keep a straight face during family photos.

Honestly, it still makes me laugh. After all these years, that silly little trick has become one of those family legends that gets passed down like fine china—just a lot funnier and much easier to dust.

It’s one of those simple, ridiculous joys that has followed our family through the years, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

 Until Next Time

December 17, 2025

Luke 2:15-18

¹⁵ So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” ¹⁶ And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. ¹⁷ Now when they had seen Him, they made ^[a]widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. ¹⁸ And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

 

Can you imagine the astonishment and wonder felt by the shepherds as they received the angelic message about the birth of Jesus? Here, we see a profound message about the universal appeal of the good news of Jesus’ birth. The shepherds, who were often marginalized in society, were chosen to be the first witnesses to the birth of the Savior. This highlights the inclusive nature of Jesus’ message and his mission to bring hope and salvation to all people, regardless of their social status.

Furthermore, the shepherds’ immediate response to go and see the newborn baby in Bethlehem reflects their deep faith and trust in the message they had received. Their joy and excitement upon seeing Jesus demonstrate the transformative power of encountering Christ in our lives. Just like the shepherds, we are called to spread the message of Jesus with joy and enthusiasm, sharing the good news of salvation with those around us. This verse reminds us that the message of Jesus is one of hope, joy, and inclusion, and it encourages us to be bearers of that message in our own communities.

This morning started out beautifully. The sun was shining bright as I wandered into the kitchen for my first cup of coffee, the house still quiet and cozy. I’ve been sitting here at the table ever since, catching up on email, scrolling through Facebook, and visiting my favorite bloggers — a little ritual that feels especially comforting this time of year.

Mr. D made a quick trip to McDonald’s and came back with our favorite breakfast sandwiches. I stuck with my usual egg and sausage McMuffin, and he had his on a biscuit. Simple little treats like that feel extra nice during the holiday season.

As I look out the window now, the sunshine has slipped away and the sky has turned cloudy and gray. Maybe a bit of winter rain is on the way. We’ll see. The good thing is, when skies are gray the Christmas lights shine even brighter, making the house feel warm and cozy.

There’s nothing on today’s agenda — just another peaceful December day at home — and honestly, that feels like a gift in itself. Tammy stopped by earlier with some of her delicious chili and some cornbread. She also brought a few store‑bought cookies she’s been raving about. She handed us one each and confessed she’d already eaten the rest. Ho Ho Ho… where do the calories go during the holidays?

This plate has no owner, its journey never ends

for it continues in a circle of family & friends. 

Enjoy the treats and pass it along to continue

the Christmas spirit of giving and love.

But truly, this is the season for good food, good company, and a little indulgence. And she was right — that cookie was fantastic. After visiting for a bit, she and Bo headed off to the school to have lunch with Merica.

Quiet moments, warm food, surprise visits, and a little holiday cheer — not a bad December day at all.

Christmas Blessings to All

Until Next Time

A father-son duo, linked to ISIS, opened fire on a crowd gathered on Sydney’s Bondi Beach during a Jewish Hanukkah celebration.

Psalm 122:6

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem:
May they prosper who love you.

 

 

December 13, 2025

Luke 2:1-5

2 And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. ² This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. ³ So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. ⁴ Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, ⁵ to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.

*

The decree for a census was significant as it required everyone to return to their ancestral towns for registration. This was a common practice in the Roman Empire to ensure accurate tax collection and military conscription. The journey to Bethlehem fulfills the prophecy from Micah 5:2, which states that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem. This emphasizes the divine orchestration behind the events leading to Jesus' birth. The text illustrates the humble circumstances surrounding Jesus' birth, as Mary was pregnant and they traveled to Bethlehem, highlighting their obedience and faith amidst challenging conditions. The phrase "all the world" refers to the Roman Empire, indicating the vast reach of Augustus’ decree and the importance of this event in the context of Roman authority. This passage sets the stage for the nativity story, emphasizing both the historical and theological significance of Jesus' birth.

No better way to start a Saturday morning than with some toast slathered with apple cinnamon jelly!

A few years ago, we received a gift box of Knott’s Berry Farm jellies. One of the flavors was Apple Cinnamon, and oh my—it was so good I polished off the entire jar. After Christmas that year, I searched the stores high and low, but it was nowhere to be found in any brand. {{sigh}} Year after year, it remained elusive.

Since I can’t go out shopping these days, the thought finally struck me: Amazon! Off I went, hopeful, and sure enough, several brands popped up. But Knott’s Berry Farm? Sold out. Bah humbug.

Still determined, I ordered Mrs. Miller’s Apple Cinnamon. It’s tasty, but for me, it just doesn’t have quite enough cinnamon. So my journey continues—I’ll keep trying different brands until I finally reunite with that perfect Knott’s Berry Farm jar.

Our stockings are hung by the tree with great care, 

We sure hope Santa will find them there!

Christmas Blessings to All

Until Next Time

 

 

Hello☺♥

It’s been a few weeks since I’ve written, the truth is, I’ve been dealing with some health challenges — as many of you know, I live with COPD, and there are times when it takes more out of me than I’d like. I found myself needing to rest, focus on my health, and give myself permission to slow down.

If you visit regularly you know I have these little pauses from time to time. I did see my pulmonologist, and all is okay, no new issues to report and for that I am very thankful.

Blogging is a wonderful way to connect with others and share a little piece of life, and hear from those who stop by to read. So, I’m back for a while, as long as this nasty copd will allow

Thanks for stopping by, I always enjoy your visits. 💛

Blessings to All

Until next time,

    

81° feels like 94°

         Partly cloudy

6:11am

Coffee's brewing, please hurry!!

It’s quite early for me to be up, but I’m feeling ready to start what I hope will be a great day!

Tammy stopped by yesterday for a visit, and as always, I truly enjoyed our wonderful conversation. There's nothing like catching up with someone who knows your heart.

Mr. D has been to the heart doctor twice recently for a round of routine testing. The technicians couldn’t say much—just that everything “looks good.” We’re hopeful and will know more when he meets with the doctor next week for the official results.

The skies have been cloudy these past few days, which has made porch-sitting much more pleasant. We even rearranged a few potted plants to give them a bit more space as they continue to grow and thrive.

And today, we’re celebrating our firstborn—Happy Birthday to Tracey! I sure will miss seeing her, but I know she’s enjoying her time at the cabin in Wyoming. I’m sending love and blessings her way!

"The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you." — Numbers 6:24-25

Happy Birthday, sweet girl! May your day be filled with peace, laughter, and the quiet joy of knowing how deeply you are loved—by your family and your Heavenly Father.

Blessings to All

Until Next Time

 Ain’t God Good

Me and Mr. D had ourselves a fine little outing today. We started with a late breakfast at the Waffle House — nothing fancy, just good ol’ comfort food, like bisquits and sausage gravy, the kind of food that sticks to your ribs and warms your heart. From there, we took a leisurely ride around town, no rush, just enjoying the day and each other’s company.

Later on, I had a sweet phone visit with Tammy. We don’t always get the chance to talk long, so hearing her voice and catching up made my heart smile.

Got news that the grands, Savannah and Travis, are vacationing out in California! I just love that they’re able to travel and make memories — what a blessing.

The skies stayed rainy and cloudy most of the day, but I didn’t mind one bit. It made the weather just right for sitting out on the porch. I settled into my swing, surrounded by my flowers, and had one of those good, soul-soothing conversations with God.

Days like this remind me all over again — Ain’t God good?

“This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” — Psalm 118:24 (KJV)

The following pictures were taken by Tammy, she's getting to be a great photographer♥

Here is a sweet picture of Hazel and Henry watching the fireworks on the 4th.

Another gal getting good with her camera is grand #4 Tara.  She took this pic while at the cabin in Wyoming.

The blessing of family - Ain't God Good!!

Blessings to All

Until Next Time

 It's brrrrrr cold on the porch this morning even tho the sun is shining bright.  I had to encourage Bitsy to go out, she didn't like the blast of cold air that greeted her when I opened the door.  

We are huddled in with no plans of getting out.  Mr D went for gumbo from our favorite gumbo place and brought enough for two days.  It's great on cold days like we're having, it warms you up.

I've been working on my latest diamond art pattern; I find it so enjoyable. 

The mail brought a new book from guidepost that I think I'll enjoy.  I like easy reading where I don't have to concentrate too much.  These little mysteries are perfect.

Digging Up Secrets

When veterinarian Harriet Bailey's grandfather passes away, she accepts his bequest and follows her heart - with God's guidance - across the ocean to the charming town of White Church Bay in Yorkshire, England.  Old Doc Bailey left Harriet not only a sprawling historic estate but also the Cobble Hill Farm Vet Clinic in the hope that she would continue his legacy.

I finished chapter one last night, and this author has managed to introduce the characters and the estate to her readers.  She also introduced the mystery dug up by one of the dogs being boarded at the clinic.  Anxious to see what chapter two brings.

Wednesday Wisdom

Standing On The Promises

1 Standing on the promises of Christ, my King,

Through eternal ages let his praises ring;

Glory in the highest, I will shout and sing,

Standing on the promises of God.

Refrain:

Standing, standing,

Standing on the promises of God, my Savior;

Standing, standing,

I'm standing on the promises of God.

2 Standing on the promises that cannot fail.

When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,

By the living Word of God I shall prevail,

Standing on the promises of God. [Refrain]

3 Standing on the promises of Christ, the Lord,

Bound to him eternally by love's strong cord,

Overcoming daily with the Spirit's sword,

Standing on the promises of God. [Refrain]

4 Standing on the promises I cannot fall,

List'ning ev'ry moment to the Spirit's call,

Resting in my Savior as my all in all,

Standing on the promises of God. 

Such a beautiful hymn, a reminder that we have a God who takes care of us.  It was written by Russell Kelso Carter who was a professor in the Pennsylvania Military College of Chester. While there he was licensed to preach by the Methodist Episcopal Church. He became very active in leading camp meetings and revivals. After failing health forced him to abandon this work, he studied and became a medical doctor as well as a writer. He wrote novels as well as hymns

Mr D and I are still dragging, but not too bad.  I think we're going to be just fine in due time.  Takes our old tattered bodies a little longer to heal these days. We'll just be standing on the promises of our God!

Blessings to All

Until Next Time

Wednesday Wisdom

 

 John 14:27

Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

John 10:10 

The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

Psalm 16:11

You will show me the path of life;

In Your presence is fullness of joy;

At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Mr D brought me some flowers!!!

They are so pretty,  

They greeted me this morning when I came into the kitchen for my coffee.  It was nice, just made me feel good.♥

Mr D is off to the doctor this afternoon, just for a wellness check.   

I'm GLOWing on the 11th and can't wait to see this wonderful group of ladies.  We don't meet every week like we used to, we've all had life events that has slowed us down.  So, it's a real treat when we get together.

GLOW - God Loves Older Women

Until Next Time

Blessings to All

Tuesday 4

 Hello, and welcome to Tuesday 4.  Before we get started, I want to respond to a comment from Myra at Respice, Prospice in regard to a 'plate lunch,' which I mentioned in yesterday's post.  What is a plate lunch?  As a child my family did a lot of traveling, and I remember my parents saying they wanted to stop and eat, somewhere where they could get a plate lunch.  To us it meant a meal of meat and vegetables.  No specialties, such as seafood, Mexican food or hamburgers.  FYI, there wasn't any fast food in those days.

When I googled the meaning this is what I found:

What is in a Plate Lunch? A true plate lunch is made up of 2 scoops of rice (or 1 big scoop),

a healthy portion of mac salad, and an “entrée” (usually meaning some kind of protein).

The “entrée” is typically grilled teriyaki chicken, Kalua pork, or teriyaki beef.

Not exactly what we called a plate lunch.

TUESDAY 4

Time Flies

 Time flies and weeks just seem to fall by the way side faster and faster.    We all have time on our hands at some point and we all find that time gets away from us at other times.  It takes a lot of work to manage your time because it seems to be at odds with freedom and creativity in some ways.  

Perhaps we might talk about time.

1.  Early to bed, early to rise?  Do you have usual times to go to bed and get up in the morning? How do they work out for you?

During our working years it was early to bed and early to rise.  That was even true after retirement for a few years.  Gradually we have become just the opposite, late to bed and late to rise!

2. Ecclesiastes says, "To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under heaven."

How much time is devoted to work, housework, hobbies? What about religious pursuits like study, prayer, services? In other words,  how is your time apportioned?

I don't really have a good answer for this question, I do what I can, when I can.  With that said, I manage to get it all taken care of, sooner or later! :)

3. Do you think you manage your time well or would you like to improve? How would you improve?

Once again, when I was a working woman, aka wife, mother, housekeeper, I had to manage my time well to get it all done.  Since retirement I've become a 'do it when you feel like it' type of lady.  I certainly could improve but it's not a big deal anymore.

4. Do you think time travel is possible? Why or why not?

No, I don't believe in time travel.  God took John on a futuristic trip, I think that's reserved for special people and special messages from God alone.

A BIG thank you to Annie for hosting

If you want to join in just click HERE.

Until Next Time

Internet Highway

 I saw this post on Facebook and immediately knew I wanted to share.

I don't know if everyone knows my health issues, I know some of you do.  I have stage 4 COPD.  I have been on oxygen for 4 years and I'm unable to do so many things.  At one time I was very active, always on the go, whether out and about or here at home.  I loved to do projects around the house, decorating and keeping a very clean house.  I can't do those things anymore, I don't even cook these days.  I might put something in the crockpot, but overall, Mr D has become the new chef of the house.  And he has surprised with some delicious meals.

My Life

Recently I have been diagnosed with diabetis, another journey for me.

God has been so good to me . . . He even pulled me from the depths of covid pnuemonia in 2020. Read more about that HERE

With all this said . . . I agree with this lady 100%,  The one thing I would add, is blogging along with facebook.

I copied and pasted, so I'm letting it post as it is.  I have decided to cover the names because I'm not sure if these ladies would be okay with me exposing their identification, although it was on a public facebook post.

Deborah Chambers

My mama Nina Roberts Spriggs  wrote this...........Hey Folks ! It is me ,the older old lady (yep, that's me) with her wandering mind

 and her urge to share her every thought with all you good folks on Facebook .  I'm thinking either I know things you

 folks need to know and wanna hear about or y'all know stuff I need to find out about . 

 Whatever the need is , I sure do love being on here and having you all here with me . I always get up extra early and 

after my morning prayer ,I grab a cup of coffee and hurry   to see what maybe I missed while I was sleeping .I know 

I can hear you all thinking ; she needs to get a life . Well no I don't ! (need to get a life ) I have an awesome one thank

 you very much .

  Hey! you can learn things here in this internet hideaway .

Where else can you find great recipes ,terrible tragedies ,terrific love stories , silly jokes ,family photos ,up lifts and 

put downs all in the same place . Plus make new friends everyday of the week and never have to leave your chair . (I love this sentence!)

  It helps you to see how good life can be and how bad life can be . On days like today it makes me smile because if I

 let it the weather and my overload of hungry cats (dogs at my house) would make me depressed. 

 Also I like seeing what all you other folks are doing ? I know you folks that are lucky enough to be taking trips I go 

right along with you . I look at all the pictures you post. I've been many places just sittin in my chair . went on a trip 

to Mexico just a few days ago . It was beautiful. Thanks to  Margie Holland , my friend .

  So to all my friends here on and at Facebook (and Blogger) thank you for being in my life and sharing your post and pictures with 

me . Hey how do you think I keep moving so good ? Running to get on Facebook every morning . 

  With that being said , you good folks need to get up and get on out there doing interesting and exciting things then 

tell us all about it here on face book (and blogger.)

A big thank you to each of you that take the time to visit and leave a comment.  

I always enjoy my visits with you.

((hugs)) and Blessings,

Until Next Time

 If it's not one thing, it's another

I had to go have blood work done shortly after my hospital stay, just a follow-up.  It came back with as issue.

Kim, the nurse from my PCP's office called and told me my sugar level is much too high and scheduled me to go for another work-up.  BooHiss

We made the short trip to Pasadena this morning and got that taken care of.  I'm sure it will be next week before I get the results.  I'm praying that first test was just a fluke. 

The definition of a fluke is an odd occurrence that happens and is unlikely to be repeated.

 I just got out of the hospital where they did blood work at least once a day, one day they did it three times.  No one said anything about my sugar levels being high.  

So I wait . . . 

We were in Pasadena where there are so many good places to eat but we opted to come back to La Porte and enjoy some breakfast tacos at El Ranchero, a small restaurant on Main Street.  

Not my picture.

We both had the sausage and egg tacos, I had mine with salsa Mr D prefers queso.

Afterwards we drove down Miramar Drive and enjoyed the bay.  

The water is still such a pretty blue.

Well shut the door and light a fire!!  Our weatherman just said there is a slight chance that we could have snow Christmas week-end. The predicted temps are high 20's to low 30's so it might stay on the ground long enough to enjoy.  I can only remember having snow at Christmas one other time, it was a good snowfall that didn't melt for a day or two.  The grands were still little and they loved it, Mr D and I did too.

Doesn't happen often here on the Texas coast, we'll see.

Until Next Time

 Took an ambulance ride early yesterday morning.

Just got back to my blog and now I'll be away again.  Hopefully not for long.

Went for one issue and they found more issues.  Not too bad, I just need to take care of them.

Hopefully I'll be back soon.

Sure would appreciate your prayers.

Until Next Time

A Visitor

 While porch-sitting the other afternoon the most amazing thing happened!

Photo from the internet.

The sweetest little hummer came right up on the porch, I thought he was going to land on my knee.  He was so close, he hovered looking at me, we were eye to eye.  He hovered for a little while then moved on to one of the pot plants and then he was gone.

He didn't go far, he's been feeding here all week to the delight of me and Mr. D!

Did You Know?
Hummingbirds have a great memory - they remember every flower & feeder they've been to, and how long it will take a flower to refill. Their brains make up 4.2% of their body weight. Proportionally speaking, they have the largest brains of the wild bird group.

I hope he remembers me!

They're such fascinating little creatures.

Long Ago and Far Away

 Scrolling through Facebook when I came upon this .  .  .

. . . precious memories came flooding back.

Did you play paper dolls?  I sure did.  I had boxes full of them.  My Momma loved to play with paper dolls too.  She told me she cut her paper dolls from catalogs.  

I wrote a little poem for my paper dolls.

Paper Dolls, Paper Dolls

Where did you go?

Oh how I loved you

So long ago.

I put you away

one sad day,

Thought I was too old

to play.

How I wish I had you once again,

and we could play and remember when,

days gone by just you and me,

oh how wonderful that would be.

Mr D went to Krogers for groceries and come home with flowers for me!

He's always been so thoughtful.

I watched the best movie on you tube, it so touching and uplifting.  It's one hour and 33 minutes long,  I was enjoying it so much it was over much too soon.

If you would like to watch it, go to you tube and enter I Am Gabriel in the search field, it'll come right up.

Until Next Time