No baby smiles to make his father smile at him.
A baby smiles because his father smiles at him.
I smile at God
because He first
smiled at me.
And God's smiles are free.
And He smiles at me.
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
Perfect Praise
My first grand-baby is 2 months old.
His name is Nathaniel and it's a wonder his face has anything left to it
because I eat him up every chance I get.
Whenever I go through a significant event in life, I read familiar Scripture with a new perspective. Just the other day, I read this story.
Jesus, His disciples, and a great multitude of people were coming out of Jericho and heading towards Jerusalem. The disciples spread their cloaks on the back of a donkey and its' colt and they set Him on them. The road turned from dull brown to a quilt of color as people laid their robes and palm branches on the pathway, welcoming Him as King,
"Hosanna to the Son of David!
Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD!
Hosanna in the highest!"
They were loud and excited and the whole city was moved saying, "Who is this?"
"This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth," shouted back the crowd.
Jesus marched right into the temple and threw out those who were buying and selling and taking advantage of poor people. He caused chaos with His righteous fury. Tables, men, coins, and birds went flying. It was scary. The newly vacated space in the temple was soon filled up with the blind and the lame, and the House of Prayer became a House of Healing, for He healed them all.
The religious leaders saw all of these wonderful things that He did and heard the children crying out in the temple, "Hosanna to the Son of David!" They got mad and said to Jesus, "Do you hear what the little children are saying?"
Jesus said, "Yes. Have you never read, "Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants,
You have perfected praise?"
He left them and went out to Bethany and rested there. (Matthew 21-NKJV)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Our little Nathan is a babe and a nursing infant.
I've been watching him, thinking, "Out of his little rosebud mouth,
God has perfected praise."
He coos. He cries. He grunts. He yells in frustration.
He communicates honestly.
Whatever comes out of his mouth comes out in spirit and in truth.
Perfect praise.
All expressions are directed to someone who is bigger than he is.
Nathan coos and cries because someone is there holding him.
Someone is there who can talk with him.
Someone is there to feed him and change him and make it all better.
Would to God we would enter the Kingdom of heaven like a child,
with perfect praise on our lips.
"Hosanna to the Son of David!
You are bigger than I am!
Talk to me!
Have mercy on me!
I need You!"
Nathan's honest cry,
my honest cry-whether it be full of joy or full of sorrow-
is perfected praise.
His name is Nathaniel and it's a wonder his face has anything left to it
because I eat him up every chance I get.
Whenever I go through a significant event in life, I read familiar Scripture with a new perspective. Just the other day, I read this story.
Jesus, His disciples, and a great multitude of people were coming out of Jericho and heading towards Jerusalem. The disciples spread their cloaks on the back of a donkey and its' colt and they set Him on them. The road turned from dull brown to a quilt of color as people laid their robes and palm branches on the pathway, welcoming Him as King,
"Hosanna to the Son of David!
Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD!
Hosanna in the highest!"
They were loud and excited and the whole city was moved saying, "Who is this?"
"This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth," shouted back the crowd.
Jesus marched right into the temple and threw out those who were buying and selling and taking advantage of poor people. He caused chaos with His righteous fury. Tables, men, coins, and birds went flying. It was scary. The newly vacated space in the temple was soon filled up with the blind and the lame, and the House of Prayer became a House of Healing, for He healed them all.
The religious leaders saw all of these wonderful things that He did and heard the children crying out in the temple, "Hosanna to the Son of David!" They got mad and said to Jesus, "Do you hear what the little children are saying?"
Jesus said, "Yes. Have you never read, "Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants,
You have perfected praise?"
He left them and went out to Bethany and rested there. (Matthew 21-NKJV)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Our little Nathan is a babe and a nursing infant.
I've been watching him, thinking, "Out of his little rosebud mouth,
God has perfected praise."
He coos. He cries. He grunts. He yells in frustration.
He communicates honestly.
Whatever comes out of his mouth comes out in spirit and in truth.
Perfect praise.
All expressions are directed to someone who is bigger than he is.
Nathan coos and cries because someone is there holding him.
Someone is there who can talk with him.
Someone is there to feed him and change him and make it all better.
Would to God we would enter the Kingdom of heaven like a child,
with perfect praise on our lips.
"Hosanna to the Son of David!
You are bigger than I am!
Talk to me!
Have mercy on me!
I need You!"
Nathan's honest cry,
my honest cry-whether it be full of joy or full of sorrow-
is perfected praise.
Monday, July 28, 2014
Hertzler Doings~July 28-Aug. 3, 1014
Mon.-Susan left for MK's today and got there around 6:00. Drove the whole way there by herself. Lucy was forlorn and laid on top of her suitcase and sighed. We had some corn orders to fill today. I went out to Appomattox and got a crown for my implant and did it without meds. Felt a little woozy afterwards and sat out on their porch before driving. Got more jars at Salvation Army and Walmart. Found a Cato jean skirt at SA too and I had been looking at them at Cato's. Took Alli over to see her daddy painting windows at HV. Nathan fell asleep on her lap. He likes gator rides. She let me keep him while she went out to the bank then. Made some scrambled egg mixtures in the waffle machine and we had tomato, bacon, and waffled egg sandwiches for supper. Filled more corn orders in the eve.
Tues.-Busy day. Processed 4 quarts of tomato juice. Had cooked the vegetables overnight in the crockpot. Kathy L. came over for a nice visit and we made plans for CA. Alli and Nathan came and we went over to see PR again and he got to hold his very sleepy grandchild. Alli helped make apple cupcakes and dusted the house and washed the fans. The guys picked at least 1,100 ears of corn. I delivered some on my way to a meeting at Charlies. Judy got 100 and so did Ginger. Got home late. It was good to catch up with some friends and make plans.
Wed.-Went to the dentist. Worked outside pulling weeds and planting seeds. Spinach. Lettuce. Green beans. Wrote a blog I've been thinking about "Perfect Praise." Kept Nathan in the evening. Happy Birthday Naomi Dear! Nathan turned over from his tummy to his back today. I didn't see him do it but he seemed surprised after the deed was done.
Thurs.-Dropped off soup at Ivona's, corn at Grunert's and Janelle's. Went to Lori's for a nice visit and lunch with her and Chris. Had a great time. Rejoiced over Gabe's healing. Caught up with our kids. Read her two of my writings. Came home and did corn. Alli came over and helped. Made corn fritters in the evening. Roger M. stopped by to pick up corn and had his first corn fritter. Copied the recipe for him. It's from The Mennonite Cookbook. Got stung by a hornet this afternoon. Chased me through my hair and blouse the whole way to the house. Enflamed upper left arm. Took some Benedryl. Hitting the sack early.
Fri.-Slept until after 10:30. Two benedryl are too much. Michael made a movie of me when I got up at 8:30. I went back to bed. I made him nervous. Made tomato juice. Tidied my bedroom and kitchen. Packed a little. Nathan came in the evening and cheered me on while I cleaned out my purses on my bed with him propped up on my pillows. Rained off and on all day. Phil picked corn long after dark. Guess what we're doing tomorrow. (found out later that the Benedryl mixed with a hornet sting definitely gave me an unusual drunk like reaction.)
Sat.-Did about 30 more packs of corn. Cleaned the house. Packed. Played the piano. Studied. Made bear meatballs with sauce and pasta. Went shopping with Phil in Lynchburg and had a date a Cold Stone Creamery. He got an apple pie ice cream cup and I got a chocolate chocolate mint cup. Both got shoes and he also got some hats and shirts and a pair of shorts at the Veteran's Thrift. Saw Chris in the parking lot at Dick's. Got to talk with his children in the car while they waited for their mother, Whitney, who was also buying shoes and backpacks. Tax free weekend plus buy one pair get one half off. Alan, Katie W's boyfriend, was here with Michael when we got home. I put this on face book. "Guess who will be 2 months old tomorrow? If I'd had known how wonderful it is to be a Grandma, I'd have been one a long time ago." Which is really silly, but I've been wanting to say it for awhile.
Sun.-Great day at church morning and evening. In between, eating lunch and watching a Monk with Phil, making a cake for Nathan's 2 month old birthday, visiting with Nathan, Mommy, Daddy, Susan coming home.
Tues.-Busy day. Processed 4 quarts of tomato juice. Had cooked the vegetables overnight in the crockpot. Kathy L. came over for a nice visit and we made plans for CA. Alli and Nathan came and we went over to see PR again and he got to hold his very sleepy grandchild. Alli helped make apple cupcakes and dusted the house and washed the fans. The guys picked at least 1,100 ears of corn. I delivered some on my way to a meeting at Charlies. Judy got 100 and so did Ginger. Got home late. It was good to catch up with some friends and make plans.
Wed.-Went to the dentist. Worked outside pulling weeds and planting seeds. Spinach. Lettuce. Green beans. Wrote a blog I've been thinking about "Perfect Praise." Kept Nathan in the evening. Happy Birthday Naomi Dear! Nathan turned over from his tummy to his back today. I didn't see him do it but he seemed surprised after the deed was done.
Thurs.-Dropped off soup at Ivona's, corn at Grunert's and Janelle's. Went to Lori's for a nice visit and lunch with her and Chris. Had a great time. Rejoiced over Gabe's healing. Caught up with our kids. Read her two of my writings. Came home and did corn. Alli came over and helped. Made corn fritters in the evening. Roger M. stopped by to pick up corn and had his first corn fritter. Copied the recipe for him. It's from The Mennonite Cookbook. Got stung by a hornet this afternoon. Chased me through my hair and blouse the whole way to the house. Enflamed upper left arm. Took some Benedryl. Hitting the sack early.
Fri.-Slept until after 10:30. Two benedryl are too much. Michael made a movie of me when I got up at 8:30. I went back to bed. I made him nervous. Made tomato juice. Tidied my bedroom and kitchen. Packed a little. Nathan came in the evening and cheered me on while I cleaned out my purses on my bed with him propped up on my pillows. Rained off and on all day. Phil picked corn long after dark. Guess what we're doing tomorrow. (found out later that the Benedryl mixed with a hornet sting definitely gave me an unusual drunk like reaction.)
Sat.-Did about 30 more packs of corn. Cleaned the house. Packed. Played the piano. Studied. Made bear meatballs with sauce and pasta. Went shopping with Phil in Lynchburg and had a date a Cold Stone Creamery. He got an apple pie ice cream cup and I got a chocolate chocolate mint cup. Both got shoes and he also got some hats and shirts and a pair of shorts at the Veteran's Thrift. Saw Chris in the parking lot at Dick's. Got to talk with his children in the car while they waited for their mother, Whitney, who was also buying shoes and backpacks. Tax free weekend plus buy one pair get one half off. Alan, Katie W's boyfriend, was here with Michael when we got home. I put this on face book. "Guess who will be 2 months old tomorrow? If I'd had known how wonderful it is to be a Grandma, I'd have been one a long time ago." Which is really silly, but I've been wanting to say it for awhile.
Sun.-Great day at church morning and evening. In between, eating lunch and watching a Monk with Phil, making a cake for Nathan's 2 month old birthday, visiting with Nathan, Mommy, Daddy, Susan coming home.
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Hertzler Doings~July 21-27, 2014
Mon.-Went on a spontaneous shopping trip to Lynchburg with Susan. Made out like a bandit and had no buyer's remorse. Hit up the Goodwills, the mall, Yeti Yogurt, Ross's, and Old Navy. Got home after 8. Started a load of Goodwill wash and called it a day.
Tues.-Did lots of wash. Susan worked. I made 7 quarts of salsa. Michael studied down at the river. The guys worked next door. Phil worked on the books all morning at the dining room table. Nathan came in the eve. so his mom and dad could have a quiet dinner. Phil picked me up while we were walking around outside. He, Nathan, was being a little fussy. So, we went on a gator ride around the corn fields and he went right to sleep. He was wearing a large Cabela's camouflage bib and a Pamper. He was so happy to see his daddy when he came.I didn't see him yesterday and he looks different already. And, he wants to stand. Precious little hobbit. Steve Majeski's church in Africa was threated by fire. Oscar's home burned to the ground and a 7 year old in the congregation died. Such a tragedy. God help them and God help us help them.
Wed.-I can't even remember what I did today. I cleaned the fridge out, one segment at a time. Had a nap with Nathan for 1 1/2 hours in between fridge shelve cleaning. Drove around in my gator down around the river and the corn fields for awhile. Studied and exercised this morning. Susan did some incredible baking, mowed HV, and went out to the gym. Michael did some school and hung out around here. Philip and the guys worked in Richmond and got home early. He went to youth tonight. NL asked if they could use some of my blog writings for their website. That's exciting. Also working on corn orders. It's coming in and is so delicious.
Thurs.-Had a nice storm this morning. Got to study for several hours again. I am going through Matthew and writing down most of it and observing Jesus' ways, His words, and how they might apply to me. He is the healthiest person I know and I am checking out how He handled life. He's magnificent and humble, courageous and calm. And He was not afraid of man. He never succumbed to peer pressure. He spoke the truth and then let it be. He was always in control but never controlling. He got angry and didn't feel bad about it. He not only seeks and saves the lost but He seeks and saves that which we've lost. Lost dreams, hopes, childhoods, peace, joy. He restores us to the flock and to Himself. He is all goodness but never soft. He is tender but strong. I think about Him all the time. He was dependent on God His Father and didn't entrust Himself to man. But He loved man. He encouraged Peter and then He rebuked Peter and His love for Peter never changed. And He, this magnificent person. This Son of God. Left us His Spirit. And His Spirit is in me. And it is all of the above and more. He is my health for my body, soul, and spirit. I breathe Him in. He breathes me in. And we are in each other. I love Him.
Didn't know I was going to write all that but maybe it's time. Made some sauce today. Also did some paper work, read down at the river, raced back home in time to escape the storm, enjoyed the storm, watched a movie, made that special rice and chicken with salsa, pineapple and apricot jam that everyone likes, listened to a recorded song that Michael just wrote, enjoyed Philip and Susan's antics, asked Phil to get the eggs because black snakes make me nervous, and read a book in the tub before going to bed. But I do that every night. No wonder my neck is stiff. Didn't see Nathan today but Alli spent the day with her family in Lynchburg and I got to see pictures of Noni holding him and I loved that he was being loved by her. If I feel this way about him, how must God feel about us? He just wants to love us and He just wants us loved. He knows that we'll love Him because He first loved us.
Fri.-Cooked some food for the weekend, spent some time at the river working on my tan, reading a book, getting my feet wet. The corn for tomorrow's order was picked tonight as was the corn we'll do as a family. Nick, a friend of Michaels,was here to help. Susan got some black streaks in her hair and looks pretty cute. Philip played Rook with Cynthia, Jason, and Kelsey M. Kelsey and him won! Nathan was here this eve while his mama took his daddy out on date to Hibachi. I fell asleep with Nathan in our bed and he was giggling happy dreams. Such a wonderful gift from heaven to hear and see. Was he dreaming about angels tossing him gently back and forth?
Sat.-Sweet corn processing day. Freeman set up turkey fryer pot outside and filled it with water. Had several Rubbermaid containers chilling down the corn. Brought it in and then we'd chill it with ice in here. Were finished up by noon. 51 packs of Incredible. Nick, Michael's friend, helped.Alli and Nathan were helping out too. Nathan took a nap on the recliner. First his Uncle Philip put him to sleep and he slept a little while back on our bed. But he did better when he was with the loud family and loud music. Nick and Michael then went floating on the river. Philip excavated. Phil farmed. Susan worked out. I cleaned the house and did wash. Then, I went to Judy's for Sammy Jo's birthday party and then to Belk where I found some buys. But first I went to Goodwill and got suitcases. These will definitely stand out in the conveyor belt. Pale orange and very used but also very sturdy. No one will steal them. Susan cleaned her room, packed for KY, and mowed the lawn. Philip went to the Benson's overnight for a fishing party. Michael went to a Christmas in July party. Susan helped Phil pick several hundred ears of corn to deliver to folks at church tomorrow. I did more wash, ate corn, folded wash, etc. Busy day but wonderful. Woke up this morning making a list about what Jesus was/is like. I wish I had written it down. Tonight, I'll sleep with a paper and pen by my bed. XO
Sun.-We took a lot of corn to church to fill orders. It's nice to save people gas and time. Came home and rested after church. Nathan came and took a nap with me while mommy and daddy went fishing. The others watched a movie while Phil and I slept. Susan got ready for her trip to KY by cutting up lots of fruit.
Tues.-Did lots of wash. Susan worked. I made 7 quarts of salsa. Michael studied down at the river. The guys worked next door. Phil worked on the books all morning at the dining room table. Nathan came in the eve. so his mom and dad could have a quiet dinner. Phil picked me up while we were walking around outside. He, Nathan, was being a little fussy. So, we went on a gator ride around the corn fields and he went right to sleep. He was wearing a large Cabela's camouflage bib and a Pamper. He was so happy to see his daddy when he came.I didn't see him yesterday and he looks different already. And, he wants to stand. Precious little hobbit. Steve Majeski's church in Africa was threated by fire. Oscar's home burned to the ground and a 7 year old in the congregation died. Such a tragedy. God help them and God help us help them.
Wed.-I can't even remember what I did today. I cleaned the fridge out, one segment at a time. Had a nap with Nathan for 1 1/2 hours in between fridge shelve cleaning. Drove around in my gator down around the river and the corn fields for awhile. Studied and exercised this morning. Susan did some incredible baking, mowed HV, and went out to the gym. Michael did some school and hung out around here. Philip and the guys worked in Richmond and got home early. He went to youth tonight. NL asked if they could use some of my blog writings for their website. That's exciting. Also working on corn orders. It's coming in and is so delicious.
Thurs.-Had a nice storm this morning. Got to study for several hours again. I am going through Matthew and writing down most of it and observing Jesus' ways, His words, and how they might apply to me. He is the healthiest person I know and I am checking out how He handled life. He's magnificent and humble, courageous and calm. And He was not afraid of man. He never succumbed to peer pressure. He spoke the truth and then let it be. He was always in control but never controlling. He got angry and didn't feel bad about it. He not only seeks and saves the lost but He seeks and saves that which we've lost. Lost dreams, hopes, childhoods, peace, joy. He restores us to the flock and to Himself. He is all goodness but never soft. He is tender but strong. I think about Him all the time. He was dependent on God His Father and didn't entrust Himself to man. But He loved man. He encouraged Peter and then He rebuked Peter and His love for Peter never changed. And He, this magnificent person. This Son of God. Left us His Spirit. And His Spirit is in me. And it is all of the above and more. He is my health for my body, soul, and spirit. I breathe Him in. He breathes me in. And we are in each other. I love Him.
Didn't know I was going to write all that but maybe it's time. Made some sauce today. Also did some paper work, read down at the river, raced back home in time to escape the storm, enjoyed the storm, watched a movie, made that special rice and chicken with salsa, pineapple and apricot jam that everyone likes, listened to a recorded song that Michael just wrote, enjoyed Philip and Susan's antics, asked Phil to get the eggs because black snakes make me nervous, and read a book in the tub before going to bed. But I do that every night. No wonder my neck is stiff. Didn't see Nathan today but Alli spent the day with her family in Lynchburg and I got to see pictures of Noni holding him and I loved that he was being loved by her. If I feel this way about him, how must God feel about us? He just wants to love us and He just wants us loved. He knows that we'll love Him because He first loved us.
Fri.-Cooked some food for the weekend, spent some time at the river working on my tan, reading a book, getting my feet wet. The corn for tomorrow's order was picked tonight as was the corn we'll do as a family. Nick, a friend of Michaels,was here to help. Susan got some black streaks in her hair and looks pretty cute. Philip played Rook with Cynthia, Jason, and Kelsey M. Kelsey and him won! Nathan was here this eve while his mama took his daddy out on date to Hibachi. I fell asleep with Nathan in our bed and he was giggling happy dreams. Such a wonderful gift from heaven to hear and see. Was he dreaming about angels tossing him gently back and forth?
Sat.-Sweet corn processing day. Freeman set up turkey fryer pot outside and filled it with water. Had several Rubbermaid containers chilling down the corn. Brought it in and then we'd chill it with ice in here. Were finished up by noon. 51 packs of Incredible. Nick, Michael's friend, helped.Alli and Nathan were helping out too. Nathan took a nap on the recliner. First his Uncle Philip put him to sleep and he slept a little while back on our bed. But he did better when he was with the loud family and loud music. Nick and Michael then went floating on the river. Philip excavated. Phil farmed. Susan worked out. I cleaned the house and did wash. Then, I went to Judy's for Sammy Jo's birthday party and then to Belk where I found some buys. But first I went to Goodwill and got suitcases. These will definitely stand out in the conveyor belt. Pale orange and very used but also very sturdy. No one will steal them. Susan cleaned her room, packed for KY, and mowed the lawn. Philip went to the Benson's overnight for a fishing party. Michael went to a Christmas in July party. Susan helped Phil pick several hundred ears of corn to deliver to folks at church tomorrow. I did more wash, ate corn, folded wash, etc. Busy day but wonderful. Woke up this morning making a list about what Jesus was/is like. I wish I had written it down. Tonight, I'll sleep with a paper and pen by my bed. XO
Sun.-We took a lot of corn to church to fill orders. It's nice to save people gas and time. Came home and rested after church. Nathan came and took a nap with me while mommy and daddy went fishing. The others watched a movie while Phil and I slept. Susan got ready for her trip to KY by cutting up lots of fruit.
Monday, July 14, 2014
Hertzler Doings~July 14-20, 2014
Mon.-Catch up day. Washing, exercising, finished up homeschool year and applied for next, babysat Nathan for an hour while he slept in his car seat, picked a gallon of green beans and cleaned and cooked them, visited with Kathy and Tom next door and got the tour of their new residence going up and inherited some leftover food, watched a movie with Susan-The Goonies, while Phil and Philip went to the Lynchburg Livestock Market and Michael met with friends. Susan mowed our yard today, worked out, and got groceries. I needed a day like today.
Tues.-Emily came here and we took a meal to a friends place and then went to Babcock House where Susan waited on us. Then we went to B & L, Country Charm (where we got hand dipped ice cream cones), Baines, and Walmart. Came back home and put away loads of ingredients for the men's prayer breakfast on Sunday. We rested a little and then took the gator over to Happy Valley. The guys are making great progress on the house. I took the fruit out of the basement fridge since the Lucas's left last night instead of this morning. They thought they'd get to eat the fruit for breakfast but their flight left sooner than they thought. Nathan came to visit for several hours and we had a really nice time. I was watching Monk with Susan, Michael, and Emily, and when I'd look down, Nathan was smiling at me. No wonder my neck is stiff. Susan held him later and she was eating chicken out of a can. He was completely enraptured by her and every time she put a piece of chicken in her mouth, he smiled.
Wed.-Dentist. Slept.
Thurs.-Made salsa, 100 cinnamon rolls, picked tomatoes, green beans, had some Nathan time. Susan worked at BH, worked out, and made food.
Fri.-Busy day in Farmville. Got some groceries, went to the bank, had lunch at Ruby Tuesday's with Judy, Had #5 with R., got a hair trim, stopped in at the fabric store to get some cheesecloth for Susan's homemade Greek yogurt making project, and stopped at Lowe's for Phil. Came home. Made some chicken, potatoes, and corn. Went over to HV with Phil and Susan. Picked some blackberries. Watched a Monk and hit the sack early. Susan had some good tippers today. Guys got off at 2 today. Philip worked on his property. Michael worked on school work at Chace's. Weather is cooler. A nice break.
Sat.-Susan had a volleyball tournament for most of the day at New Life. Michael made 4 egg casseroles and sausage gravy for the men's prayer breakfast. Nathan visited for awhile while his mommy and daddy went shopping in Appomattox. They got 5 boxes of canning jars at Salvation Army. Philip had a game this eve. and had a friend, Andy, come to visit for a little while. Phil fixed the seals on the John Deere and worked on equipment, processed a load of commodities, watched a movie with the family. I laid out over at Happy Valley late afternoon. Working on a tan for when we got on vacation. News from a few days ago-Malaysian airline shot down over the Ukraine. Held Lucy on my lap on the floor for awhile tonight and braided Susan's hair so it's wavy in the morning.
Sun.-Church was wonderful. Jenny introduced me to another 'Annette'. She teaches Spanish at Longwood. The men's prayer breakfast was successful and they were happy with the breakfast casseroles and sausage gravy and I got lots of thank you hugs for the cinnamon rolls. We ate leftovers all day. Am reading Lost Shepherd by Agnes Sanford. Rosalee reminded me of it. We watched Nathan in the eve. so Alli and Freeman could go to church.
Tues.-Emily came here and we took a meal to a friends place and then went to Babcock House where Susan waited on us. Then we went to B & L, Country Charm (where we got hand dipped ice cream cones), Baines, and Walmart. Came back home and put away loads of ingredients for the men's prayer breakfast on Sunday. We rested a little and then took the gator over to Happy Valley. The guys are making great progress on the house. I took the fruit out of the basement fridge since the Lucas's left last night instead of this morning. They thought they'd get to eat the fruit for breakfast but their flight left sooner than they thought. Nathan came to visit for several hours and we had a really nice time. I was watching Monk with Susan, Michael, and Emily, and when I'd look down, Nathan was smiling at me. No wonder my neck is stiff. Susan held him later and she was eating chicken out of a can. He was completely enraptured by her and every time she put a piece of chicken in her mouth, he smiled.
Wed.-Dentist. Slept.
Thurs.-Made salsa, 100 cinnamon rolls, picked tomatoes, green beans, had some Nathan time. Susan worked at BH, worked out, and made food.
Fri.-Busy day in Farmville. Got some groceries, went to the bank, had lunch at Ruby Tuesday's with Judy, Had #5 with R., got a hair trim, stopped in at the fabric store to get some cheesecloth for Susan's homemade Greek yogurt making project, and stopped at Lowe's for Phil. Came home. Made some chicken, potatoes, and corn. Went over to HV with Phil and Susan. Picked some blackberries. Watched a Monk and hit the sack early. Susan had some good tippers today. Guys got off at 2 today. Philip worked on his property. Michael worked on school work at Chace's. Weather is cooler. A nice break.
Sat.-Susan had a volleyball tournament for most of the day at New Life. Michael made 4 egg casseroles and sausage gravy for the men's prayer breakfast. Nathan visited for awhile while his mommy and daddy went shopping in Appomattox. They got 5 boxes of canning jars at Salvation Army. Philip had a game this eve. and had a friend, Andy, come to visit for a little while. Phil fixed the seals on the John Deere and worked on equipment, processed a load of commodities, watched a movie with the family. I laid out over at Happy Valley late afternoon. Working on a tan for when we got on vacation. News from a few days ago-Malaysian airline shot down over the Ukraine. Held Lucy on my lap on the floor for awhile tonight and braided Susan's hair so it's wavy in the morning.
Sun.-Church was wonderful. Jenny introduced me to another 'Annette'. She teaches Spanish at Longwood. The men's prayer breakfast was successful and they were happy with the breakfast casseroles and sausage gravy and I got lots of thank you hugs for the cinnamon rolls. We ate leftovers all day. Am reading Lost Shepherd by Agnes Sanford. Rosalee reminded me of it. We watched Nathan in the eve. so Alli and Freeman could go to church.
Monday, July 7, 2014
Hertzler Doings~July 7-13, 2014
Mon.-Susan and I went to Appomattox and I got groceries while she worked out in the gym. Then she went to Farmville and I made supper and got the garden things in and did some wash and took a nap. After Susan came home, she mowed the lawn, but first she got to hold Nathaniel for awhile. Freeman and Phil captured a pile of bees that were about rebel and swarm and using a white sheet and a box, they coaxed them out of the raspberry bushes and into the hive on the white sheet. Philip's working on his property. Susan went to a Fourth of July party over at Fisher's. And Nathaniel's coming back for a 7-9 visit so mommy and daddy can work in the garden and bake.
Tues.-Helped Alli make dill pickles with cucumbers from their garden. Nathan sat out in his chair in the kitchen with us and fell asleep. Did some garden work. The bees that they captured yesterday escaped today. Susan worked at BH and then worked out. Michael worked around here. Guys plus Tommy worked at HV next door. Jordan came over later in the eve. and visited. Phil went to a meeting. Susan mowed the lane. I helped Alli give Nathan a bath. It takes two, baby. It really does. I am so thankful that Nathan lives 1 mile down the road. He leaned his body towards me when he saw me this morning and smiled and smiled after I sang him a song. Freeman was happy with his new coffee roaster that Alli got him for his birthday. Came today. Susan and I watched Monk. Serious thunderstorm around here and fb is posting pictures of downed trees in Pa. My brother, Alan, had a tree branch come down and flip over and land against his garage, missing his truck. Other news, a typhoon is making landfall in Japan and 70 rockets have been launched against Israel so far this eve.
Wed.-Micah was here for several hours today. He went with Susan and I to get our car and she went to work and I took him to DQ for a cookie dough blizzard. Came home and took the gator to HV to see the guys working and took the turkey trail. He liked holding the stick to keep the cobwebs from getting us. We played a little Connect Four and then he played with dominoes. We watched a little of Night at the Museum. Alli and Nathan came after lunch for a little while. She brought me the vodka she bought at the ABC store for me so I could make our own vanilla extract. She tried to explain to them that it wasn't for her but I'm not sure if they believed her. Lindsay told me that Freeman had done the same thing for her years ago. Helen came and picked up Micah and saw Nathan for the first time. Susan and I hung out ordering a swim suit etc. and then watched a movie. Nathan was having some belly pain and had been unhappy for over four hours. I walked him for awhile. Took him outside on the front step and prayed, "Dear Jesus. If there is anything in his belly that is upsetting him, please help him get it out." Immediately, he burped 3 hard long burps and promptly fell asleep. We were so thankful. Dear little guy.
Thurs.-Busy day cooking, baking, readying the mancave for Rosalee and family, visiting with Nathan and Alli, watching a Monk with Susan, hitting the sack early. Oh! Rode the gator around with my new yellow seats that Phil ordered and installed. It's like having a new vehicle!
Fri.-Had a busy day freezing blueberries, cleaning the house, doing the wash, cooking, etc. and getting ready for my sister, Rosalee, and her family-Jim and Katrina and K's fiancé, Stephen's arrival. They started out at 8:30 and traveled an hour, had some van trouble, stopped in at a garage and were sent home to exchange the van for a car since it seems there is a transmission problem. Finally arrived around 6:30 after a very long day of travel. We had a nice cook out and some of us are watching The Three Stooges. They are sleeping in the mancave tonight and we have plans to do some sight seeing and river relaxing tomorrow. Good night Full Moon. Alli, Freeman, and Nathan were here too and Emily. Nathan seemed much more comfortable. Gave his daddy some great smiles. I wanted mother to be able to see Rosalee holding my grandbaby and she wanted to tell mother that she was coming down to see her. I guess we'll miss her always until we see her again. Maybe she gets to see our joy.
Sat.-Great day with Rosalee, Jim, Stephen, and Katrina and our family. Had a big country breakfast with Mike and Philip in charge. Free and Alli and Nathan came too. Then I took the Schnecks to the Confederate Museum. We had lunch when we got home, then went to the river and sat with our feet in the water, skipped stones, did some fishing, crayfish hunting, came back and had tortillas and watched several Monks and ate popcorn. FAN came for our very late super. FAN-Freeman Alli Nathan.
Sun.-Nice leisurely morning visiting with Rosalee and family. She made baked oatmeal and we enjoyed it. Church was good. Came home and had a lunch of sandwiches, sang a few songs for the Schnecks, and took a nap after the left. Nathan came to join me but he was a little uncomfortable and woke up. Made some food for a friend tonight. PB went fishing with Philip. Jordan and Michael hung out too. Susan went to the movies with some friends. I'll fill in details later.
Tues.-Helped Alli make dill pickles with cucumbers from their garden. Nathan sat out in his chair in the kitchen with us and fell asleep. Did some garden work. The bees that they captured yesterday escaped today. Susan worked at BH and then worked out. Michael worked around here. Guys plus Tommy worked at HV next door. Jordan came over later in the eve. and visited. Phil went to a meeting. Susan mowed the lane. I helped Alli give Nathan a bath. It takes two, baby. It really does. I am so thankful that Nathan lives 1 mile down the road. He leaned his body towards me when he saw me this morning and smiled and smiled after I sang him a song. Freeman was happy with his new coffee roaster that Alli got him for his birthday. Came today. Susan and I watched Monk. Serious thunderstorm around here and fb is posting pictures of downed trees in Pa. My brother, Alan, had a tree branch come down and flip over and land against his garage, missing his truck. Other news, a typhoon is making landfall in Japan and 70 rockets have been launched against Israel so far this eve.
Wed.-Micah was here for several hours today. He went with Susan and I to get our car and she went to work and I took him to DQ for a cookie dough blizzard. Came home and took the gator to HV to see the guys working and took the turkey trail. He liked holding the stick to keep the cobwebs from getting us. We played a little Connect Four and then he played with dominoes. We watched a little of Night at the Museum. Alli and Nathan came after lunch for a little while. She brought me the vodka she bought at the ABC store for me so I could make our own vanilla extract. She tried to explain to them that it wasn't for her but I'm not sure if they believed her. Lindsay told me that Freeman had done the same thing for her years ago. Helen came and picked up Micah and saw Nathan for the first time. Susan and I hung out ordering a swim suit etc. and then watched a movie. Nathan was having some belly pain and had been unhappy for over four hours. I walked him for awhile. Took him outside on the front step and prayed, "Dear Jesus. If there is anything in his belly that is upsetting him, please help him get it out." Immediately, he burped 3 hard long burps and promptly fell asleep. We were so thankful. Dear little guy.
Thurs.-Busy day cooking, baking, readying the mancave for Rosalee and family, visiting with Nathan and Alli, watching a Monk with Susan, hitting the sack early. Oh! Rode the gator around with my new yellow seats that Phil ordered and installed. It's like having a new vehicle!
Fri.-Had a busy day freezing blueberries, cleaning the house, doing the wash, cooking, etc. and getting ready for my sister, Rosalee, and her family-Jim and Katrina and K's fiancé, Stephen's arrival. They started out at 8:30 and traveled an hour, had some van trouble, stopped in at a garage and were sent home to exchange the van for a car since it seems there is a transmission problem. Finally arrived around 6:30 after a very long day of travel. We had a nice cook out and some of us are watching The Three Stooges. They are sleeping in the mancave tonight and we have plans to do some sight seeing and river relaxing tomorrow. Good night Full Moon. Alli, Freeman, and Nathan were here too and Emily. Nathan seemed much more comfortable. Gave his daddy some great smiles. I wanted mother to be able to see Rosalee holding my grandbaby and she wanted to tell mother that she was coming down to see her. I guess we'll miss her always until we see her again. Maybe she gets to see our joy.
Sat.-Great day with Rosalee, Jim, Stephen, and Katrina and our family. Had a big country breakfast with Mike and Philip in charge. Free and Alli and Nathan came too. Then I took the Schnecks to the Confederate Museum. We had lunch when we got home, then went to the river and sat with our feet in the water, skipped stones, did some fishing, crayfish hunting, came back and had tortillas and watched several Monks and ate popcorn. FAN came for our very late super. FAN-Freeman Alli Nathan.
Sun.-Nice leisurely morning visiting with Rosalee and family. She made baked oatmeal and we enjoyed it. Church was good. Came home and had a lunch of sandwiches, sang a few songs for the Schnecks, and took a nap after the left. Nathan came to join me but he was a little uncomfortable and woke up. Made some food for a friend tonight. PB went fishing with Philip. Jordan and Michael hung out too. Susan went to the movies with some friends. I'll fill in details later.
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Hertzler Doings~June 30-July 6, 2014
Mon.-I forget what happened today. Except that Susan didn't have to go to work and I went over to be with Alli and Nathan for a little and then they came back here.
Tues.-Had Freeman's birthday supper this eve. Alli and Nathan came early. M and M took a morning flight and then came back here for lunch. M helped me with some supper prep. Made a carrot cake that overflowed in the oven so we had to have the doors open so the smoke alarms wouldn't go off and so we could breathe. Susan made bacon wrapped chicken breasts and roasted vegetables. She and I started a July challenge today to help us get back in track with eating healthier. I made baked potato salad and we also had raw veggies and applesauce along with cake and ice cream. We went around and told Freeman the things we appreciated about him. Then we sat around and enjoyed each other's company and listened to a great band play some great music. DVD. Michael bought a new DVD player with sound system for the house. I loved sitting on the recliner and having Nathan press his check against mine and fall asleep while I sang him his song. Then we just relaxed with each other for a good hour. Philip is excavating his property now. Freeman and Alli and N went home. Michael went out to study and journal and Phil and Susan are playing bass in the mancave. It's been a happy day.
Wed.-Had several hours down at the river today reading and thinking and some time with Nathan tonight. Freeman's 30th birthday! He and Alli wanted some time together so they brought the little guy here and then spent the evening together on the sofa, promptly falling asleep, and waking up at 9:45, and saying, "Oh!" and checking their phones to see if we had called. We were watching a movie and Susan and I had spent a glorious evening holding him.
Thurs.-Alli and Nathaniel here today until his one month doctor appt. He has basically gained one pound a week! Susan was off work and we did some things and watched a movie and Julie stopped in. The guys are having a bachelor party for Travis and a birthday party for Erik here this weekend starting tonight. Had a thunderstorm last evening and more again tonight. Yesterday, we got the news that Lisa P's brother, Terry, had fallen to his death on a mountain climb in India. And Arnie P's sister's husband had been electrocuted to his death in a farming accident. Both men full of passion for God and their families and life. Anne G. L. has issued a call to prayer the first seven days in July, saying that the end is near, and calling for us to repent of our sins and the sins of our nation. These are sobering days.
Fri.-Had Nathan for awhile today while Freeman and Alli went grocery shopping. This was after the big event of the day. Jeff King, with Chris, his wife along to verify via photographs, took down a tree full of bees on Philip's property. Phil, Freeman, and Jeff, were in the white tyvec suits. The night before, in the dark, they had wrapped the bees entrance/exit/ with fine wire. After the tree was cut down, the portion of the tree that had the bees was carried to our beehives via a pettybone via Phil, and then, the bees were encouraged to enter a new hive. Laser in the day, they were acting a bit pissy with me when I was trying to pick beans, so I decided I liked older beans instead of younger and thought I'd give them a day or two to grow.
Nathan and I took a little nap and when Mommy and Daddy got there, they checked on him and went home and did some things and came back a few hours later and he was still asleep. Meanwhile, I cleaned our kitchen and dining room and living room. Later, I organized the back room's entertainment center-the DVD's and videos. Nathan came later in the eve. while Freeman was finishing up some work around here. Alli, Susan, and I, celebrated the fourth of July by watching, "Christmas with the Kranks." Susan and I are on day four of the July Challenge and have been detoxing and feeling quite awful but towards the end of this day, we are starting to feel better. Remind me not to let myself go and eat all of the leftover ice cream and M&M's from the pig roast. It's not worth it. Feet have been giving me major problems and this is probably the reason as well.
Today, via facebook, we found out that Hunter J., son of friends of ours, was hit by a truck. They were there when it happened and it wasn't the truck driver's fault. He is in surgery and in intensive care. Please, if you are reading this, pray for this family. He has yet to be told of his life-altering injuries. He's 30, I think.
Ben S. joined the bachelor party down the river. Later, Durell and Maddison, his daughter, camped out at the beach area of the river. They're taking a trip down the Appomattox today. Phil brought over the round bales from O'Brien's. Tomatoes are coming in. Susan mowed the chicken pen area. One hen wanted to start a nest outside the box and we had to give her less hiding places.
Sat.-Relaxing day. Freeman and Phil finished up the bee tree activities. Susan mowed over at HV and went to M&M's to practice volleyball and spend the night. The guys came up from the river after floating down in, fishing in it, roasting meat and playing poker beside it. They went to a halo party at Chace's for a late eve. We processed honey from the hive in a tree from a church nearby. Phil, Susan, and Freeman were up early to go cut it down, etc. Have several gallons of honeycomb and honey. I got to lay out and try to get some tan on the back of my legs, played a little piano, and drove the gator down to hold sleeping Nathaniel. I also dusted, vacuumed, and washed sticky floors. Had to wash the vacuum brush as well. Then Phil and I went to Cracker Barrel in Lynchburg for a late supper. Sandy and Eldon Stoltzfus had given us a gift certificate when they were down for the pig roast. I had steak, baked potato, and salad. Phil had catfish, coleslaw, salad, and steak fries. I bought a necklace/earring set with the leftover cash from the gift certificate while Phil sat on a rocker out front and made a phone call. I'm looking forward to more date nights with Phil. This week has been a week of sorrow for many. The Hess family in Pa. lost their father/husband through electrocution accident on the farm. Phil talked with Gloria's brother on the way to Lynchburg last eve. Lisa and Randy lost their brother, Terry, to a hiking accident in India. He was on his way from one village to another, bringing the gospel to the poor. And Hunter J. met with a truck and is now paralyzed from his waist down. So many people that I just want to go and be with. But I am not the Savior. I am not God. And He is with man. He is with them.
Sun.-Stayed home from church with Nathan so Alli and Freeman could go. What a great time we had. We managed to go through 3 outfits including the little girl outfit I had put away in case he was a girl. Lots of pee arching through the air and some mommy's milk spitting up out of his mouth. Had to wash our comforter as well and sent home two bags of laundry and filled a trash bag with diapers. Gave him his first bath and he wasn't sure about it but he's no whiner. Finished out the early afternoon with both of us exhausted and took a nap together on Grandma's feather bed. He was stickier and dirtier one hour after his bath than he was one hour before his bath. Watched a Transformer movie with Phil and Susan in the afternoon and then the Son of God movie with M&M and Phil and Susan in the eve.
Tues.-Had Freeman's birthday supper this eve. Alli and Nathan came early. M and M took a morning flight and then came back here for lunch. M helped me with some supper prep. Made a carrot cake that overflowed in the oven so we had to have the doors open so the smoke alarms wouldn't go off and so we could breathe. Susan made bacon wrapped chicken breasts and roasted vegetables. She and I started a July challenge today to help us get back in track with eating healthier. I made baked potato salad and we also had raw veggies and applesauce along with cake and ice cream. We went around and told Freeman the things we appreciated about him. Then we sat around and enjoyed each other's company and listened to a great band play some great music. DVD. Michael bought a new DVD player with sound system for the house. I loved sitting on the recliner and having Nathan press his check against mine and fall asleep while I sang him his song. Then we just relaxed with each other for a good hour. Philip is excavating his property now. Freeman and Alli and N went home. Michael went out to study and journal and Phil and Susan are playing bass in the mancave. It's been a happy day.
Wed.-Had several hours down at the river today reading and thinking and some time with Nathan tonight. Freeman's 30th birthday! He and Alli wanted some time together so they brought the little guy here and then spent the evening together on the sofa, promptly falling asleep, and waking up at 9:45, and saying, "Oh!" and checking their phones to see if we had called. We were watching a movie and Susan and I had spent a glorious evening holding him.
Thurs.-Alli and Nathaniel here today until his one month doctor appt. He has basically gained one pound a week! Susan was off work and we did some things and watched a movie and Julie stopped in. The guys are having a bachelor party for Travis and a birthday party for Erik here this weekend starting tonight. Had a thunderstorm last evening and more again tonight. Yesterday, we got the news that Lisa P's brother, Terry, had fallen to his death on a mountain climb in India. And Arnie P's sister's husband had been electrocuted to his death in a farming accident. Both men full of passion for God and their families and life. Anne G. L. has issued a call to prayer the first seven days in July, saying that the end is near, and calling for us to repent of our sins and the sins of our nation. These are sobering days.
Fri.-Had Nathan for awhile today while Freeman and Alli went grocery shopping. This was after the big event of the day. Jeff King, with Chris, his wife along to verify via photographs, took down a tree full of bees on Philip's property. Phil, Freeman, and Jeff, were in the white tyvec suits. The night before, in the dark, they had wrapped the bees entrance/exit/ with fine wire. After the tree was cut down, the portion of the tree that had the bees was carried to our beehives via a pettybone via Phil, and then, the bees were encouraged to enter a new hive. Laser in the day, they were acting a bit pissy with me when I was trying to pick beans, so I decided I liked older beans instead of younger and thought I'd give them a day or two to grow.
Nathan and I took a little nap and when Mommy and Daddy got there, they checked on him and went home and did some things and came back a few hours later and he was still asleep. Meanwhile, I cleaned our kitchen and dining room and living room. Later, I organized the back room's entertainment center-the DVD's and videos. Nathan came later in the eve. while Freeman was finishing up some work around here. Alli, Susan, and I, celebrated the fourth of July by watching, "Christmas with the Kranks." Susan and I are on day four of the July Challenge and have been detoxing and feeling quite awful but towards the end of this day, we are starting to feel better. Remind me not to let myself go and eat all of the leftover ice cream and M&M's from the pig roast. It's not worth it. Feet have been giving me major problems and this is probably the reason as well.
Today, via facebook, we found out that Hunter J., son of friends of ours, was hit by a truck. They were there when it happened and it wasn't the truck driver's fault. He is in surgery and in intensive care. Please, if you are reading this, pray for this family. He has yet to be told of his life-altering injuries. He's 30, I think.
Ben S. joined the bachelor party down the river. Later, Durell and Maddison, his daughter, camped out at the beach area of the river. They're taking a trip down the Appomattox today. Phil brought over the round bales from O'Brien's. Tomatoes are coming in. Susan mowed the chicken pen area. One hen wanted to start a nest outside the box and we had to give her less hiding places.
Sat.-Relaxing day. Freeman and Phil finished up the bee tree activities. Susan mowed over at HV and went to M&M's to practice volleyball and spend the night. The guys came up from the river after floating down in, fishing in it, roasting meat and playing poker beside it. They went to a halo party at Chace's for a late eve. We processed honey from the hive in a tree from a church nearby. Phil, Susan, and Freeman were up early to go cut it down, etc. Have several gallons of honeycomb and honey. I got to lay out and try to get some tan on the back of my legs, played a little piano, and drove the gator down to hold sleeping Nathaniel. I also dusted, vacuumed, and washed sticky floors. Had to wash the vacuum brush as well. Then Phil and I went to Cracker Barrel in Lynchburg for a late supper. Sandy and Eldon Stoltzfus had given us a gift certificate when they were down for the pig roast. I had steak, baked potato, and salad. Phil had catfish, coleslaw, salad, and steak fries. I bought a necklace/earring set with the leftover cash from the gift certificate while Phil sat on a rocker out front and made a phone call. I'm looking forward to more date nights with Phil. This week has been a week of sorrow for many. The Hess family in Pa. lost their father/husband through electrocution accident on the farm. Phil talked with Gloria's brother on the way to Lynchburg last eve. Lisa and Randy lost their brother, Terry, to a hiking accident in India. He was on his way from one village to another, bringing the gospel to the poor. And Hunter J. met with a truck and is now paralyzed from his waist down. So many people that I just want to go and be with. But I am not the Savior. I am not God. And He is with man. He is with them.
Sun.-Stayed home from church with Nathan so Alli and Freeman could go. What a great time we had. We managed to go through 3 outfits including the little girl outfit I had put away in case he was a girl. Lots of pee arching through the air and some mommy's milk spitting up out of his mouth. Had to wash our comforter as well and sent home two bags of laundry and filled a trash bag with diapers. Gave him his first bath and he wasn't sure about it but he's no whiner. Finished out the early afternoon with both of us exhausted and took a nap together on Grandma's feather bed. He was stickier and dirtier one hour after his bath than he was one hour before his bath. Watched a Transformer movie with Phil and Susan in the afternoon and then the Son of God movie with M&M and Phil and Susan in the eve.
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