Friends

Better With Both

It is hard to see my mom struggling to play the piano, especially since it has been her favorite thing to do since she was 6 years old. She does have good days, but most end in frustration. Today her friend came over. We have missed her for 3 weeks for various reasons. After visiting, […]

Who Strengthens

I visited a friend today who I hadn’t seen in too long. Her husband recently passed away, so we cried together and prayed together. But we also laughed together. I am so grateful for our deep friendship. Before I left, she gave me a mug with the scripture Phillipians 4:13, “I can do all things […]

Sweet Surprise

It was colder than cold today. The temperature was below zero, even colder with the wind whipping and the snow. Our friend decided not to come over today, which was a wise choice. We stayed in and layered up. I was surprised when Mom saw someone coming to the door. Sure enough, it was one […]

Uncommon Strength

A friend sent me an encouraging note today. It was more of a prayer and blessing. Part of it read, “Blessed are the caregivers. Surely they will be given uncommon strength through the touch of an angel’s wings.” I loved that image. I certainly could use uncommon strength AND a reminder that we are in […]

Puppies

A friend of mine breeds Standard Poodles. One of her dogs had a litter of puppies on new years eve. She has been graciously sharing photos and videos of them. Even though it’s only been a couple of days since they were born, I can see changes in them. The last video showed the puppies […]

Abundance

A friend of mine challenged me to go into the year with a word that I could keep in mind. I liked this idea better than a “resolution”. So I chose the word BREATHE. When I find myself stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed, I have noticed that I am actually holding my breath. I need to […]

Watching Out

I went to the extremely busy grocery store today and was determined to keep a good attitude. While there were a lot of people there, most seemed to be pleasant and patient. On the way out, I noticed that directly in front of me was a woman I knew who husband is currently dying of […]

Unexpected Reunion

My daughter in law and I went to a craft fair today at the high school I graduated from. A friend of mine attends it every year and sells her fun crocheted hats and other items. I met her working at a retail store about 30 years ago. We worked with a great group of […]

Good Fortune

My sister has been busy making her annual delicious coffee toffee. The house smells amazing. Our regular caregiver was here this morning who is from Japan. I got out a piece of toffee for her to try before I left on my errands. When I returned, she said she liked it. She said if you […]

100 and Still Walking

Today our friend came over and played the piano with mom. We read some of a local Catholic publication while we finished off the Thanksgiving pie. I came across an article about a woman who turned 100 years old. She joined her local parish when it started, about 70 years ago. Her son was an […]