Sunday Shorts

 

aka, Sunday Stealing -- stolen questions from every corner of the blogosphere.  

It's a beautiful morning here in central Alabama; I should be getting ready for church.  Unfortunately, our little Grace seems to have hurt her back.   Until our vet opens tomorrow, I'm staying nearby and will watch Services online.

Meanwhile .....  
let's play "Complete the Thought."

I LOVE TO eat out in a real, sit-down restaurant with real, hand-held menus.

I SOMETIMES still beat myself up over something dumb I said days (or even weeks or months!) after a conversation.

I FEAR severe weather.

I MISS my sweet Macie Ann so much.  My heart's diminished. 
 

I CRAVE a good night's sleep.

I CHERISH my friends.

I AM IMPATIENT WHEN other shoppers block the grocery aisle.  Remember those little bells and/or horns we used to affix to our bicycle handlebars?  I'd love to see them on shopping carts!

I'd love to hear your answers!

Mid-week middlin'

 

Welcome back to my splendidly imperfect life!

There's little going on in the way of excitement -- unless one counts yesterday's mammogram. (All together now - ugh!)

For today, I thought I'd talk about two of my favorite things:  Eating and reading.

🤗

After some 10 months of reckless grazing, I've decided to hop back on the Keto wagon.  

Sausage and Hatch chili, blanketed with 4-cheese, buttery eggs.

Not coincidentally, during these oppressive hot days, I like to surround myself with colors of autumn.  Winters, too.  (Even my hand soap's called, "Snowdrop" -- so refreshing!)  

Anyway!
This made me giggle

True!

Thankfully, Tom knows me pretty well.  Hence ... 

Yesterday's errands happened to include a stop at the best BBQ spot outside west Texas.  We walked out with a big slab of hickory smoked ribs and 2# of brisket.

😋

Knock wood, I think my eagerness to read has begun to wake up.  But, no.  It's a see-saw.

After The Correspondent, my DNF list began to grow.  Then along came Theo of Golden.

Enjoyable, it was easy to linger on a page or two each evening before bed -- until our local library informed me it was due the next day.

Because another patron had called 'dibs', they wouldn't let me renew.
 
So, I did something I've always considered loathsome, and Googled 'spoilers.'   Like a little kid caught with her hand in the cookie jar, it felt downright sacrilegious.  

Not sacrilegious at all, I think a few of you've visited The Christian Lounge (there on my sidebar).

It's author/creator (Victor) and I share a fondness to try and visualize fictional people and places.

Hence, his invitation.  I hope you'll go over there and vote for your favorite.

https://thechristianlounge4u.blogspot.com/2026/06/the-christian-lounge.html

'Til next time, please

Be good to yourself ... and others!

Hugs, Myra

 

 

Father's Day

Hello friends,

This is a repeat of something I wrote back in 2009.
I was a different person then ... but the sentiment I felt remains the sam

e.

Sometimes flamboyant .. often enthusiastic... consistently principled. My dad rarely spoke of his Faith. Rather, that 'Preacher's Kid' lived it every day by example. He taught me to pray and made certain I accompanied he and my mother to church each Sunday ... even those mornings when I wanted nothing more than to stay in bed.

Yikes!
I'll won't forget a season where he insisted mother and I wear hats each Sunday morning.

My father's been gone almost 30 45 years now, but I still "talk" to him regularly.

Years ago, I tried explaining why I could no longer patronize that church in which I was baptized and later, confirmed. His church. The church of 3 generations of pastors who went before. Initially, I believed he would be cross ~ now, not so much. No matter the venue, he would be satisfied knowing that my Faith has strengthened. Because he loved me.

While attending Unity Clearwater a few years ago I came across this prayer. Perhaps it's not the author's intent, but missing my dad I was comforted by these words:

Even though I cannot be with you, even though I cannot see you or talk with you, I am as close to you as a thought. I am as near to you as the love I feel for you in my heart. Whenever I think of you, I bless you, and my love encircles you.

I do not worry about you. I know that God is watching over you, that God is your health, your strength, your source of supply, your happiness and your peace of mind.

Wherever you are, God is. Wherever I am, God is. God is watching over us while we are absent one from the other and making us to know that we are forever together in Spirit.


“The Lord watch between you and me, when we are absent one from the other.” (Gen. 31:49).

Happy Father's Day in Heaven!

Irreconcilable Differences?

 

Earlier this week, several of the "Gatherers" met for our monthly luncheon.

(l-r) Brenda, Shannon, me, Sally, Bev, Cindy, Kay

Well, before everyone's rain gear was put away, someone broached the subject about S's behavior while at Bible study Monday morning.  The "Elephant in the Room." (You know, the one everyone sees but no-one talks about.)   A relative newcomer to study, S is a bit outspoken.  In a word, Self-congratulatory.

Is she a bad person?  I doubt it, but then I don't think anyone's anxious to be pals.   As she was speaking, I struggled not to roll my eyes.   At.Bible.Study!   WWJD?

Ever have someone rub you the wrong way?  For no particular reason?  

I'm reminded of a line from (a favorite musical) Carousel.  "What's the use of wonderin' if he's good or if he's bad, or if you like the way he wears his hat?"

Back to my group of Gatherers.

Selfishly, when I formed this little tribe, I imagined a group of fun loving, like-minded ladies -- separate and apart from church-related functions.   Unfortunately, one day at Bible study someone spoke out of turn.  Before we knew it, another demanded to know why she hadn't been invited. One thing led to another, and B's name was added, albeit reluctantly.

Now, one of the Gatherers has asked if she might invite a certain someone else ("N") to join.   While others at the table enthused, "Great idea!", I did my level best to smile sincerely. 

What no-one knows -- I'm not proud of this -- a few years ago I UN-friended N. on Facebook.  Not because she'd done anything to me, or against me.   In fact, I don't even know she realizes it.  N's always first to offer a big hug on Sunday morning, never realizing I'm mentally gritting my teeth -- remembering something she'd publicly posted about someone I admire. 

Gosh, what am I, 12 years old?

What's it all about, Alfie?

I often wonder what Heaven will really feel like?   

Personally, I hope it's a Place where both sides of the pillow are always cool.

More importantly, I hope the angels will restore calm where there is chaos.  How will they resolve our Irreconcilable Differences?

I like what blog friend, Victor, has shared in The Christian Lounge.  I think you might, too.  (Click here)

Thank you for making time to visit me!

Hugs, Myra

Come Saturday morning

 

... "I'm going away with my friends."  (IYKYK)

Sweet song, but no, I've no desire to leave my happy place.  Right here.  It's too stinkin' hot!  Yes, I say a little prayer each time I pass by the thermostat.

I'd great intentions to post yesterday evening, then was accidentally sucked into watching the Alabama State Games - "an Olympic style multi-sport event bringing together athletes of all ages and skills."

So why, then, were my cheeks wet watching last night's Opening Ceremonies.  Oh y'all.  When I see these 'athletes' marching and waving American flags it liked to do me in ... everyone standing and singing "Proud to be an American" ... reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.  I wish you could have joined me.

7 days have passed, but I'm still glowing after spending a sweet afternoon with Troy, Lois and my favorite baby girl.

Mesmerized by some children's show on television, 'P' had little interest in visiting.  That didn't stop me from taking pictures.  Am I a little biased?  You bet-cha!

Yes, I'm still playing with A.I.

Remember when "she" advised me what hairstyle would be most becoming?  Now, I've asked "her" to give me some cosmetology lessons.  That beats visiting the Merle Norman counter and trusting those pink-smoked ladies to give honest advice that doesn't cost an arm and a leg.

After all these years, it feels like I've an older sister taking me under her wing!

I don't know if you can tell, but I wanted to capture my haircut while it was still hours old.  The only Artificial Intelligence was swapping the background for that of our house.

What else?

I'm an agenda-driven person, reluctant to change my habits.

Then I remember one of my Bible-study friend's advice, "You've got to break that bridge."
Day #1 -- instead of carrying my coffee here to the office, I left my phone sitting on the counter and marched to the "thinking bench" out front.  Shortly after dawn, the air still feels fresh.  There's little traffic, aside from the neighbors walking their dogs.

Me, myself and Mr. God.
Cross fingers and weather willing, I pray this becomes a habit!

I pray you, and you (and you over there!) are doing wonderfully.  You're a habit I don't want to break!

Hugs, Myra

  

 

Watercooler Wednesday

Welcome back to the Watercooler!

Maybe I've too much time on my hands .....  or maybe, I'm a Daydream Believer.  (Fantasy can sometimes trump real life, ya know?)

Anyway!  I've always been curious about others' chosen professions.  What's it really like behind closed doors. 
 

For some unknown reason, I've begun getting these reels on Facebook -- one man's channel devoted solely to his life as a (ground-handling) aircraft marshall.  

Like many things, "Aircraft Paul" job looks easy-peasy.  I'd like to try my hand at that!  (hahaha)

Granted, he's a bit cocky -- but entertaining just the same.

   

Okay, then.  Apologies to anyone not on social media.   In spite of being terrified of flying -- or maybe because of it -- I've been hooked on something called Aviationmp4 -- real ATC audios' original content (edited).

I'm guessing theirs is one of the most stressful positions in the history of Ever ... yet 99% of these reels have me giggling uncontrollably.   Who'd have thought controllers had such great senses of humor?

Several recordings capture when a pilot accidentally talks to ATC instead of his passengers.  And then there's this "uh-oh" captured on March 8: 

What have you watched lately that made you laugh out loud?  I think that's so much better than sitting and scowling at the 6 o'clock news.

Please stay safe ....and smiling!

Hugs, Myra

On a Lighter Note

 

 

aka, Sunday Stealing: "10 Questions You Aren't Used To"

 

What celebrity would you never want to meet?

Jane Fonda

What do you label yourself as?

Christian (Imperfect Believer), Political Conservative, Enthusiastic Foodie  

You can only have one sandwich for the rest of your life.  You have every sandwich-making ingredient known to man at your disposal.  What sandwich do you make?

I can't think of anything that rivals a juicy burger.
This, for instance

1# medium rare chuck with avocado, jalapeno and pepperjack cheese.

An angel provides you with a lifetime supply of the alcoholic beverage of your choice.  What's it gonna be.

Is the angel paying?  Let's go with a good Italian red -- Masi Amarone.

Have you ever built a snowman?

No, but I've met a few!

If you could ask your future self a question, what would it be?

What do you regret not ever having done?

Have you ever baked your own birthday cake?

No

Which are cooler: dinosaurs or dragons?

Ha, that's never appeared on my fantasy bingo card.

Remembering one of my favorite sing-along's, I'm going with Dragon -- as in "Puff the Magic."

What do you like about babies?

The aroma and feel of their perfectly soft, unblemished skin.

You discover a beautiful island upon which you may build your own society.  What's the first rule you put in place.

Be Kind!

INSTEAD OF STEALING, LET'S BUILD OUR OWN MEME.
Think of a question you'd like to ask and insert it here.  If we get a least four good ones we'll do our own DYI meme in a week or two.

My candidate:
What mystery do you wish you knew the answer to?

💛

I hope you all enjoy a sweet Sunday!

Hugs, Myra

And the thunder rolls

 

Hey there!

Apologies to those of y'all whose posts I may have missed yesterday.   Our power went out mid-afternoon, yet it still felt cool enough we could sit outside 'til dark.  Funny how many things we use that need electricity!

This morning?  In the words of my favorite weather guy, "Muggy factor's eleventy bazillion."

Lately, it's been a good time to read.  A real book.

“Imagine, the letters one has sent out into the world, the letters received back in turn, are like the pieces of a magnificent puzzle. . . . Isn’t there something wonderful in that, to think that a story of one’s life is preserved in some way, that this very letter may one day mean something, even if it is a very small thing, to someone?”

Gosh.  I can't remember the last time I actually purchased a hardback and paid retail.  Nevertheless, there was just "something" niggling at my consciousness ..... remaining birthday money burning a hole in my pocket.

I've said it before.  Maybe it's just me, but in every book I'm drawn to, I've a need to relate -- if not the protagonist, then another key player.   

This?  Not only can I not summon an ounce of empathy for Sybil (the Correspondent) ... I don't much like her.  At all. 

So why then, am I loving this book?  I've not read more than 100 pages.  Deliberately, I slow my eyes to savor every page -- like one might a decadent piece of chocolate.

Oh, how this meme resonates!

Will The Correspondent re-ignite my former love of reading?  I don't know.  

Curiously, however, the thought of penning an honest-to-goodness handwritten note is tickling my consciousness.   Not only has the "essential tremor" in my dominant hand spoiled my penmanship  -- I'll never forget what my childhood pen pal once responded, "Have you taken up writing billboards?" (Ouch!)

Perhaps?  I'll begin by writing a note to myself inside the cover.  "Happy birthday to me from me on the occasion of my 76th voyage.  May it be unforgettable!"

Maybe someday a grandchild or theirs will open my book and read what some ones once wrote to my parents.

When giving a book, do you still inscribe your wishes?

Hugs, Myra