The Bite of a Cobra

My husband, Phil, has a life-long friend who is a missionary in Kenya. His name is Johnny Brynan.  He is helping the children in his area receive an education. He has helped bring a source of water to the village. He has fed the locals physically and spiritually. He sent us an email a few days ago. I asked if I could share his dilemma. He said I could.

Here is the first part of his email.

"As you know, we live in an area with many varieties of poisonous snakes, and last week one of our trusted workers was bitten on his lower leg by a cobra; he is now in serious condition. David has been working with us for about eight years, and has been a great blessing to us on all of our building projects.  I brought him to a hospital here in Nakuru last evening, and it remains to be seen what the outcome of his treatment will be.


The doctor told me it is too late to administer anti-venom, because the snake's venom has already spread throughout his leg. David's foot and leg have swollen to three times their normal size, and his skin is deteriorating rapidly.  David will live, but it is likely they will have to amputate his leg to save him. I was going to attach a picture of his foot and leg with this email, but I thought better of that idea due to the horrible effects of the poison.

Like most people in our area, David lives in a small round hut made of sticks and mud, and cannot begin to afford this hospital stay and doctor fees.  I can't remember a time when I made an appeal to all of you for your help while I was in Kenya, but this seems to be an emergency.

Thanks to all of you who will join us in prayer for David, and if any of you can contribute a little toward David's medical expenses it will be appreciated more than you know. Thank you in advance for your help during this emergency. 

I am visiting David in the hospital and consulting with his doctors while I am in Nakuru, and I will update you all on his condition."

(Johnny Brynan)

If any one reading this wants to help in any way, great or small, please send checks to:

Light of Life Missions
320 Brookwood Dr,
Palmyra, Pa.
17078

Write on memo: 'David's Medical Costs'

There are no overhead costs. Every penny you send will be used to help David.
If funds exceed his costs, the money will be used to help build a girl's dormitory so that the girls coming from the bush will not have to walk many miles to school every day.

Please pray for a miracle for David.

Hertzler Doings Blog Break

Dear Family and Friends who read my blog,

Thank you for reading my blog.
I am going to take a  "Hertzler Doings" blog break for a little while.

I'm working on making a Bullet Journal with thoughts, quotes, etc.

I'm also working on two questions as I try to de-clutter my house.
Do I love this?
Do I need this?

I'm also working on getting healthier and am not eating meat, dairy, much wheat or sweet, and fats.
I'm losing a little weight, bit by bit.

I'm also working on developing the relationships with women I do have and making new friends.

But most of all, I am trying to get my act together so I can be ready for Rochelle who is coming soon!
My nesting instincts have kicked in!

So, I'm just letting you know, that I may not be writing as regularly as I did.
And I'm okay.
Life is just changing and I'm focusing on some other things.

I love and appreciate you all.

Love and prayers,
Annette

Hertzler Doings~Jan. 1-14, 2017

I've been writing little notes down on a calendar. So I will write little notes down on the blog.

Jan. 1-Sunday-Good service. Watched movies with Susan and Daniel. Girls Just Want to have Fun and Pirates of the Caribbean. S and D went to her work party in the eve.
2-Did wash. Made food with Susan. Vegetable soup, etc. Watched Murder She Wrote. Raining.
3-Bedroom. Desk. Raining.
4-Nathan here while Alli at appointment. Family Anointing Service at New Life. Significant time.
5-To town with Susan. Visited Judy. Went to Tractor Supply, Healthy Living-where we ordered a 'teriyaki' chicken sandwich-wow!, Food Lion, etc. Talked with Naomi.
6-Happy Valley with Jessica. Nathan here for several hours while Alli worked on his comforter. Vacuumed and washed floors. Daniel and Susan didn't go to rodeo. Snow starting. We watched Sully and some more murder mysteries.
7-Snowed all night. Susan and Daniel made food to freeze for his lunches.
 Watched Oceans 12,13. Did some wash. Philip played with Nathan and his train.

8-Home church. NL cancelled.
9-Cooked with Susan. Michael butchered deer that Philip shot him.
10-Susan worked swing shift. Phil worked on books. I cleaned appliances.
11-Went for massage in Concord. Met new friend, Trish, at Babcock House. Went to Walmart. S and D had lunch at the Health Nut in Lynchburg. Phil and I to Financial Peace class in eve.
12-Watched Susan make more kombucha and helped her make cashew cheese. Delicious. Made some garbanzo bean cheese myself later. Visited Margaret G. after taking load to the dump.
13-To Farmville. Haley's put in a headlight in new car and Janelle and Micah picked me up. We went to see 'Hidden Figures.' Excellent movie and more than that. Inspiring and Insightful. A must see. Watched Diagnosis Murder in eve with Susan and Phil.
14-Sat.-I forgot to mention that it was minus 4 several days ago and 70 not long afterwards. I cleaned the house-vacuuming, washing floors, etc. and cleaned out old Cadillac. What a mess. Went to vacuum it but the power isn't there. May have hurt the line when they put insulation under the double wide. Susan worked. Michael and Jess went to Natural Bridge for the weekend. Philip brought us duck meat and showed us the ducks he is going to have mounted. He told us lots of stories. Phil cut firewood to last for a week and fixed a frozen pipe leak. Now we are going to settle down for supper and watch a Clint Eastwood.

December, 2016-Hertzler Doings

Well, life has been busy.
I want to write down about our Christmas this year and then hopefully,
next year, I'll be more consistent with writing.

Our immediate family celebrated Christmas on the 18th.
We got together at 1:30, after church, and had homemade zucchini yeast rolls
and made sandwiches with a turkey and ham I cooked.
We added cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and onion.
We did this last year too, I think, and everyone likes this.
Later, we had cinnamon rolls-just baked, and caramel popcorn.
Daniel, Susan's boyfriend, was with us.

Michael read the Christmas story and then we went around and sang our favorite Christmas songs.
It was pure torture for Nathan for some reason. He had his head bent down and he was looking sideways with his eyes. At one point, he laid down on the floor, face down.
After awhile, I got a tablet and markers, and sat on the floor and started drawing while we sang.
He soon joined me and then sat on my lap with his fire truck.

We gave each other our pulled name gifts and then we gave other gifts. It was a wonderful Christmas.
(Michael and Jessica gave me a book a day or two later which had kind words from many lovely people. I couldn't stop crying and it made me want to be like the person they were writing about. I especially appreciated the words from our immediate and extended family members.)
We watched Home Alone together.

Christmas weekend, we went to Pa. Some went caroling. We had lunch at Joe and Karen's Christmas Day and had a nice time visiting. On Monday, we went to my brother, Abe's, for lunch. There were 3 new babies there. Oh, what fun. The kids played 'Now you have it, Now you don't.' We left there around 4 and got home by 9:30.

I'm leaving many details out but mostly, I want to say, that I am so thankful for family.
Our family, Phil's family, my family.
We love each other.
We are not perfect and all relationships are not perfect
but we love each other.
And I wouldn't want to be anywhere else or be part of anyone else's family.

My sister-in-law, Linda, told me she noticed that my blog was stuck on Politics and Burn Out.
So, now it's not stuck there anymore.
Thanks for reading, Linda.
And thanks for reading, friends.

We missed the Bantons this year but exchanged gifts via the mail.
I'm looking at a pillow cover that Lindsay made.
Black checked with a green Christmas tree. It covers a pillow on the glider-a gift from Happy Valley friends.

God was with us, is with us, and will be with us.
I am thankful.

Political Burn-Out and "Family"

For nearly a month I have read numerous political posts a day.
 I can't seem to help myself. It's like I've become a political conflict junkie.

One thing I read makes me feel justified.
Another post I read makes me feel shamed.

And in the Church realm there are those saying, "If you are a Christ follower, how could you vote for him?" Or, "She is evil. How could you vote for such wickedness?"

I have people I dearly love who are happy or grieved. I've been on an emotional political roller coaster ride and I want to get off and I don't know how.

Until now.

I just read something that I think is my exit strategy.

Brennan Manning, in his book, "The Wisdom of Tenderness" says,

'To say, "Abba, Father," in the Spirit is to say that we're children.
It's to acknowledge that other people are our brothers and sisters in the human family.

This understanding affects our lifestyle because it implies acceptance of others
and responsibility for others: we do our best to give family members whatever they need.

This familial relationship is to be taken literally for it's a thing of flesh and blood in the bond
of the Holy Spirit. True Christian community is the realization and actualization of
"Our Father, who art in heaven."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

So, I think that my 'family' doesn't need me to read and empathize with every opposing news flash or viewpoint that comes along.

I think my family needs me to pray with Jesus' His ageless words,

"OUR Father,
who art in heaven.
Hallowed be Thy name.
Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done,
on earth, as it is in heaven.
Give US this day, OUR daily bread.
And forgive US OUR debts as WE
forgive OUR debtors.
And lead US not into temptation,
but deliver US from evil.
For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever.
Amen."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Such wonderful words, "OUR, US, WE."
Not, "Us" and "Them."

"THINE is the kingdom, and the power and the glory,"
reminds me of Who really has us in His care.

To be "Delivered from evil," is all of our hearts cry.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Praying this prayer is the best way I know to be 'family' in a divisive situation.

It is the best way I know how to protect the people who are being attacked on both sides.

It is the best way I know to empathize and see the big picture.

It is the best way I know how to love.

Hertzler Doings~November, 2016

For some reason, I think less and less of writing.

So far this month, we've flown to CA and visited Tom and Kathy. We really relaxed there. Kathy and I rested in the hot tub after walking a mile around the block. Phil and Tom watched the news, talked, and read. They took us out to eat on the hill and we watched the sun set and the lights come on. The next eve. Jenny, Brian, and the boys came over. We had charbroiled burgers for supper and the alarms went off and the security system people called four times. It made the house smell like a picnic. Phil and I took off early the next day in our convertible red mustang. We drove the coast part way and got out and took in one of the beaches. My hair was blowing like crazy and it was a little scary. I felt like I should be wearing a helmet. We saw mountains of shrubs and rock and vast fields of rice, nut and fruit trees, etc. We stopped and bought local pistachios at a produce stand.

After we arrived in San Francisco, we drove around Lumbard Street and the other crazy streets and nearly got hit by a car that did not see us. I was sure he had swiped us and when we looked their was a streak on the side of our car. Phil had said that a book wouldn't have fit between us but it was more like a paper. He apologized with a wave and we gave him a thumbs up and we didn't have an accident with multiple cars which we surely would have if Phil hadn't slammed on the brakes.

We also stopped in to see Old Sacramento .(We actually did this on Sunday on the way to the wedding.) I'd like to spend more time there but I never need to drive those crazy streets where you can't see over the top of your car when you're at the stop sign.

We met Eric and Kendra at Sessions and I got to hold Theodore. He's 7 weeks old. She ordered for us and it was fun to eat from the different plates of food. Kendra is a delightful person. At age 31, she is considered young in San Francisco to have a baby. And when they tell people they want 3, people can scarcely believe it. Later, as I walked Theo around outside and put him to sleep while looking at the Golden Gate Bridge at night, a young family asked me how old my baby was. I had to tell them twice that he wasn't mine. So, maybe women wait to start having children when they're 58 in SF.

We drove and hour and got a King Suite. The next morning we took it easy and eventually made our way to Roseville where we went to Danny Fisher and Jennifer Crutchfields wedding. We got to sit with Marv and Sherri and Uncle Ed and Aunt Rhoda at the reception. The wedding was outside and beautiful. It meant so much to Danny and his parents that we came. The groomsmen-Tommy H. and Andrew F. -worked things out so that the bride and groom could drive off in our rented red mustang convertible. That was so sweet. The drove through our pathway of long lighted sparklers glowing in the dark. We soon had our car back.

We got our motel and the next morning, headed early to the Sacramento Airport. When we arrived in Minneapolis, we had over a 3 hour wait and soon afterwards I heard someone calling my name. It was Kenny Spencer. He and Angel waited with us and we got to hear his testimony. Time flew by. Angel and I went for a walk and somehow our clocks were messed up and the guys were trying to call us and even had us paged. We raced back and everyone was already on the plane and they were waiting on us. Shwew. And when we got on the plane, we had seats right across from each other. It was just great.

We drove home from Richmond without a glitch and were happy to sleep in our own beds.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Had a physical. Sugar levels normal.
Susan had court. All charges dropped. Judge seemed surprised she had been charged since a deer was involved. Yay!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Voted. Trump is now President. Va. went to HC.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Alli, Jessica, and I, hosted The Gathering Table here on Monday night, the 4th. It was a Thanksgiving theme. We had probably 28 women in our little house and it was wonderful. I even 'did' my rap for them and they laughed so hard. Michael grilled our turkey for us, using a homemade juice. I think he's getting some orders for Thanksgiving.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Jessica started working full time for Phil on Monday, the 14th.
I went to Lynchburg to a podiatrist on Tues, the 15th. I'm getting some inserts made and also bought some support socks. He thinks my left foot especially is turning in such a way that the nerves are affected and it gives me the sensation that my toes are turning to mush but they aren't really. I nearly cried with relief. I'll go back in a few weeks to get fitted with inserts.
I went to two Goodwill's afterwards and found some little girl things and got a few things for Jessica. I have her name for Christmas. Also found a shirt for Phil, a shirt for D., a shirt for Susan, and some shirts and pants for myself. That was fun.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Thanksgiving-We had a good time together in the evening but we were missing Daniel. In the afternoon, when he and Susan were at the gym, he experienced acute chest pain. Long story short, he's been in the hospital since Thanksgiving and today is Dec. 1. He was moved to Lynchburg today. Diagnosis-a collapsed lung. They are hoping to avoid surgery by keeping the drainage vacuum going and hoping the lung seals up on its on.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hertzler Doings~November, 2016

For some reason, I think less and less of writing.

So far this month, we've flown to CA and visited Tom and Kathy. We really relaxed there. Kathy and I rested in the hot tub after walking a mile around the block. Phil and Tom watched the news, talked, and read. They took us out to eat on the hill and we watched the sun set and the lights come on. The next eve. Jenny, Brian, and the boys came over. We had charbroiled burgers for supper and the alarms went off and the security system people called four times. It made the house smell like a picnic. Phil and I took off early the next day in our convertible red mustang. We drove the coast part way and got out and took in one of the beaches. My hair was blowing like crazy and it was a little scary. I felt like I should be wearing a helmet. We saw mountains of shrubs and rock and vast fields of rice, nut and fruit trees, etc. We stopped and bought local pistachios at a produce stand.

After we arrived in San Francisco, we drove around Lumbard Street and the other crazy streets and nearly got hit by a car that did not see us. I was sure he had swiped us and when we looked their was a streak on the side of our car. Phil had said that a book wouldn't have fit between us but it was more like a paper. He apologized with a wave and we gave him a thumbs up and we didn't have an accident with multiple cars which we surely would have if Phil hadn't slammed on the brakes.

We also stopped in to see Old Sacramento .(We actually did this on Sunday on the way to the wedding.) I'd like to spend more time there but I never need to drive those crazy streets where you can't see over the top of your car when you're at the stop sign.

We met Eric and Kendra at Sessions and I got to hold Theodore. He's 7 weeks old. She ordered for us and it was fun to eat from the different plates of food. Kendra is a delightful person. At age 31, she is considered young in San Francisco to have a baby. And when they tell people they want 3, people can scarcely believe it. Later, as I walked Theo around outside and put him to sleep while looking at the Golden Gate Bridge at night, a young family asked me how old my baby was. I had to tell them twice that he wasn't mine. So, maybe women wait to start having children when they're 58 in SF.

We drove and hour and got a King Suite. The next morning we took it easy and eventually made our way to Roseville where we went to Danny Fisher and Jennifer Crutchfields wedding. We got to sit with Marv and Sherri and Uncle Ed and Aunt Rhoda at the reception. The wedding was outside and beautiful. It meant so much to Danny and his parents that we came. The groomsmen-Tommy H. and Andrew F. -worked things out so that the bride and groom could drive off in our rented red mustang convertible. That was so sweet. The drove through our pathway of long lighted sparklers glowing in the dark. We soon had our car back.

We got our motel and the next morning, headed early to the Sacramento Airport. When we arrived in Minneapolis, we had over a 3 hour wait and soon afterwards I heard someone calling my name. It was Kenny Spencer. He and Angel waited with us and we got to hear his testimony. Time flew by. Angel and I went for a walk and somehow our clocks were messed up and the guys were trying to call us and even had us paged. We raced back and everyone was already on the plane and they were waiting on us. Shwew. And when we got on the plane, we had seats right across from each other. It was just great.

We drove home from Richmond without a glitch and were happy to sleep in our own beds.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Had a physical. Sugar levels normal.
Susan had court. All charges dropped. Judge seemed surprised she had been charged since a deer was involved. Yay!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Voted. Trump is now President. Va. went to HC.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hertzler Doings~Oct. 14-30, 2016

Another busy week. The weather has been warm during the day and cool at night. We got Nathan his Christmas gift-A green wagon from Amish Originals. As I pulled it towards my car, some folks took a picture of it and plan to buy one for their granddaughter. Amish Originals has the best price. I also got a dog bed for the inside and it covers most of the bottom and is so soft. Nathan wasn't so sure of it at first but once he got the hang of it, he didn't want to come inside. He cried and cried and then rested his head on the windowsill and stared at his new green wagon.

Tom and Kathy are in from CA and we went to see them and will take them out to Susan's workplace tomorrow eve. (Thursday) with almost all of the rest of our family.

I made a vegan Shepherds pie with lentils and veggies and mashed potatoes and cauliflower for the top. It is really good. Our own corn helped make it good. I also am making 2 large lasagnes for Phil to take on his hunting trip.

Hertzler Doings~Oct. 17-23, 2016

Mon.-Susan didn't have school today so we were making healthy things like rice paper bacon and tempeh bacon and chocolate chip cookie dough and veggie burgers, etc. Steve Majeski and his friend, Better, were here for awhile as well as Matt G and son, fixing the heating situation. Everything comes out of our bedroom closet from the one side and all of what is on floor. Phil and Susan ran to Farmville to take care of his truck. I finished up dishes and wash and blogging etc. Lindsay called earlier and I walked while we caught up. We went to see them last year at this time. Adi enjoyed her piano recital-liked playing in front of people ! Emma has a solo voice but would prefer singing with others. Life is interesting and unexpected and mostly wonderful. Jessica and Susan invited me to be part of their girl's movie night tonight. A Walk to Remember and Message in a Bottle.

Tues.-Worked in house and old house. Nathan and Alli came and watched a movie she brought-Water Horse. Interesting story.

Wed.-Vacuumed and washed the floors. Had Nathan in afternoon so Alli could do the same at her house. We went to the river for awhile. He was brave and went chasing a leaf down the river. Had to take his clothes off because he was sopping. It's 80 at least. Indian Summer. Phil is working on farm and office. Jacob King-Christi's husband, is doing some planting for Phil on the farm. Susan is at school. Julie is coming over this eve. and we'll have a girl's night. Phil will be working in the fields until late.

Well, life keeps hurrying along. I had Nathan Friday and Saturday so Freeman and Alli could go to Williamsburg to celebrate their anniversary. He did really well and we explained that they would be away overnight and that he would sleep in my bed. It was so cute when they came back and he realized who they were. "Dada Dada!" he yelled and ran to Freeman.

Hertzler Doings~Oct. 10-16, 2016

Mon.-A lovely day catching up from the weekend away. Packed up some summer clothes and brought in some winter ones. Alli and Nathan stopped in for a little visit too. Phil, Susan, and I, watched some Diagnosis Murder in the eve. Woodstove needs some work and it's a bit chilly inside.

Tues.-36 degrees this morning. Wrote some notes for Encounter this weekend. Susan's friend, D., came over for lunch. It was nice Phil was home. It's a beautiful day.

Wed.-Great day in Farmville. Lunch with Lisa H. While there with her at Uptown got the news that Freeman and Alli are expecting a little girl. Her name will be Raquel Anne. Isn't that beautiful?!

Thurs.-Had coffee with Jessica at her house. Later, Alli and Nathan came over to our place for a visit. He is just so adorable. Got to see the pics of Raquel also and just had to hold them close for awhile. Apparently Nathan was engrossed in the whole sonogram process and is beginning to understand that there is a baby in his mama's belly. They announced it on Facebook with a picture of a pink pumpkin beside Nathan's bigger pumpkin that he painted. Both were beautiful. I had a nice time with Nathan showing him how jacks spin. I was saying "Stop that" to the jacks when they ran into each other and he giggled and giggled. I decided to see how long it would last. My voice got hoarse from saying 'Stop that" in funny ways. He giggled and giggled and laid himself back to laugh hard, bumping his head and needing kisses. We took a ride on the gator while mimi made herself a toasted cheese sandwich. We saw a turtle and checked the electricity at Happy Valley. (He likes to turn on the lights and fan.) Susan aced her English test plus got extra credit. I made two kinds of granola bars without oil. So delicious. Also packed for Encounter weekend and prepared for it by calling my small group. Michael and Phil are digging up the line that goes from the woodstove to the house. They are laying it deeper and checking to see where it is broken. It's been cold some of these days without any heat. Susan is working tonight. Jessica is babysitting. I saw Mitch Miller's obituary on facebook today. Dave Cook sent it to me. What a great guy. What a dear friend. I am so sad that he is gone. Jonathan's tribute to him on Facebook says it all. I saw it as we drove home from Pa on Sunday and almost made Phil pull off before I told him the news but there was nowhere to pull off and he had already heard my cry of sorrow.

Fri.-Busy day. Went over to be with Nathan while Alli did some things. Packed for Encounter. Went out early to buy something at Jess's work. Went to Encounter meeting and got ready for the eve.

Fri./Sat-Wonderful Encounter at New Life. Spoke Sat. morning. Wasn't very nervous this time. Loved my small group. What a joy it is to watch Women get free. Spent the night at Judy's. Up at 5:45 Sat to be at church by 7.

Sun.-Daniel came to pick up Susan and took her to church. He opens the door for her when they go places. They are now face book official. It is a joy to hear so many wonderful things about him. We all went out to eat at Shogun so the family could meet him. Tommy T. and Allison B. came as well. Watched a movie with Daniel and Susan in the eve. They hung here all day.

Hertzler Doings~Oct. 3-9, 2016

Mon.-Great day catching up on housework, making potato salad for tomorrow night, and making plans for the weekend. Marvin Glover passed away last week after a long bout with cancer. His viewing is tonight. We are going to his funeral tomorrow. We bought our farm from Marvin and Margaret.

Tues.-So many people came to Marvin's funeral that there was overflow in the fellowship hall. They could hear everything though. Susan and I sat in the last two seats. It was a beautiful day. Margaret and Marvin have been married 60 some years. Tonight we're going to Michael and Jessica's for a good bye party for Erin West. She is heading back to China on the 10th. VP debate in Farmville this eve. Apparently Pence won.

Wed.-Went out to Farmville and ran some errands and visited with Jessica, Judy, and went to Encounter meeting.

Thurs.-Jessica came over for a visit. I got us packed up for weekend and ran Alli and Nathan out to pick up her car and then I got a haircut from Jennifer H. There aren't many people like her. She is just dear. Made sushi in the evening to take along on our trip.

Fri.-Got up early and Phil drove us to Pa in the rain. Went to Anne's to visit, rest, shower, and change for Becca Berg and Andy Hollinger's wedding at the Berg Homestead. What a wonderful wedding. Becca is so special to me because I was there when she was born. Got to meet the midwife that was there. Everything was so beautiful, especially the bride, and the groom's face and demeanor when he saw her was priceless. It was wonderful to be with family and friends and it was also very fun to dance with the young people on the dance floor.

Sat.-Had a hard time moving. Felt like a hangover in my body only I don't even know what that feels like. I guess I should dance more often so my body doesn't go into shock. We had a nice morning with Joe, Karen, and Jonathan. Also stopped in for a quick visit with Mom and Dad and then we went over to Weaver's Orchard to pick up 4 fruit baskets and visit Anne and Ed a little. Then we headed to Rosalee's for a quick lunch of pizza supposedly. The driveway was full. She had a surprise for us. Uncle Paul and Aunt Ann Landis and Marie, Abie and Karen D. were there. She had a big meal which she served on Mother's china. She had homemade bread and jelly, broccoli salad, applesauce, chili, deviled eggs, ice cream, cool whip, and a pumpkin dessert. We had a wonderful time. Then Phil and I went to LMH for my 40th class reunion and had a great time reconnecting with old friends. It was especially good to see Jitter and Freda, Jane and Amos, John Stahl-Wert, Joyce Webster, Loretta Smucker, Nancy High, Twila Frey, Vonnie, and oh so many more. I just love our class. We left there 1 1/2 hours after it was over as did most everyone and went to Mabe and Naomi where we stayed along with John and Bev Wangler until after 11:30. Came home to Joe and Karen's and crashed.

Sun.-Woke up at 5. Had a little visit with Karen before everyone else woke up. Said our good bye's and had a huge breakfast at Mom and Dad's. Paul stopped in and then Logan. Wonderful visit. We left them after 10 and Phil drove us home as we listened to the end of John's book on CD-WITH. Got home in a little over 6 hours. We unpacked and caught up with Susan and are now heading over to Freeman's for homemade pizza and a visit with Joanna Balmer and her husband Rick and two children. We have been quite the party animals and we are tired!

Hertzler Doings~Sept. 26-Oct.2, 2016

Mon.-Did a lot of catching up in the house. Worked in old house and cleaned entryway bathroom. Went over to Happy Valley and read for an hour or two. Watched some mystery movies with Phil and Susan in eve.

Tues.-Today was Judy's day. Her mama's funeral was at New Life and after her burial she had a meal at her place for family and friends. It was a significant day. My heart is full. Pearlie's life was full of love but also was her death. I came home and slept 3 hours.

Wed.-Alli and Nathan came over for lunch and stayed for awhile. We drove over to Happy Valley on the Polaris and Nathan helped me check the lights in the new house and the toilet in the old house. Took Phil to Susan's work for supper and it was delicious. We drove right into a wild storm afterwards. Caught up with Naomi on the phone. Made plans for a trip to FL in April. Hopefully.

Thurs.-Went for a massage and then to Walmart and Salvation Army. Got Phil 4 pairs of jeans. Alli and Nathan stopped in on their way home from doctor. His rash all over is probably due to heat.

Fri.-Quite a lot of rain from the southeast. Thunder and rain. Vacuumed and washed floors. Made potatoes and squash. Susan working double shift.

Sat.-Nathan was here for a few hours and we had a great time. He painted a few masterpieces and caused a riot on face book with his talent. In the evening we went to Joe and Norma Hertzler's for a Hertzler Reunion. It was good to sit around and talk with relatives, especially, I enjoyed talking to Norma and Pat. Pat writes a blog and she wrote up the event and posted it on facebook. I took a really cute picture of Nathan and Levi playing in the fish pond and posted that on Face book too. Joe had mikes set up and it was a musical evening we all enjoyed. Freeman had marinated venison roasts and they disappeared along with most of the hot dogs.

Sun.-Church and a relaxing afternoon and evening. Historical event took place at the Mohnton Museum. Pastors and others gathered together to worship and share communion and later walked around Longwood in prayer for this week and the vp debate. Farmville is in the news. The hair dressers who cut my hair are doing the hair and make up for one of the television stations this week.

Hertzler Doings~Sept. 19-25, 2016

Mon.-Drove Susan out to her classes through storms and torrential rain. I met Phil at Starbucks. It is his 60th birthday and Michael's 25th. Did a little shopping and reading. After class, we went to the Immediate Care Clinic and the doctor was surprised that Susan was doing so well and wanted 6 lottery numbers from her. "You're the luckiest person I know," he said, and promised to split the money if he wins. In good conscience, due to the accident's severity, he said we needed to go to ER. ER doctor confirmed that she was good to go and that her bruising and stiffness and pain were to be expected. We were so glad she didn't need more tests. Every day is a constant reminder that she is a walking miracle. The doctors both said that she has a virus and the first one said that she has an ear infection but that it is viral. She is having a hard time swallowing even water.

Tues.-Susan drove herself to school in Appomattox and came home, watched movies, and rested. I am exhausted and am resting with her. Got to talk to Lindsay for awhile. That was nice.
Susan's temp was up to 100. Pharyngitis and ear infection bothering her more than accident aches and pains.  Went to Michael and Jessica's in eve so Michael could help Susan send her homework to professor.

Wed.-Mickey took me to the dentist and I slept well afterwards.

Thurs.-Went to Farmville and ran errands. Susan went to school and to work afterwards.

Fri.-Cleaned house, made chocolate cake with peanut butter icing, sloppy jo, and lemon bars. Phil, Michael, and Freeman went to men's encounter. Jessica, Susan, and Alli had a movie night. She tried to get Nathan to sleep earlier but he just knows something is going to happen and won't settle down. Susan is feeling so much better. We cancelled her doctor apt for today. She can eat and drink now. Dr. T. said that she was experiencing spasms which made it difficult to swallow and breathe. She was going to go see him today and also the doctor but she was almost herself today. I'm so thankful.

Sat.-Had a great day with Alli, Nathan, and Jessica. Went to Lavender Farms and each of us bought a print of beautiful old hands. Went to Chinese for lunch and then to the flea market. I bought book ends of a little boy and girl reading. Also got someone an early Christmas gift since I had her name. Went to Kroger and Walmart and came home, tidied up, and said good bye to Susan as she left for work. Watched a movie, caught up on my blog and reading, called Rosalee-Annika is in labor, and talked with Naomi. Phil's at Encounter. It's nice to have an evening at home alone.

Sun.-Great service. Wonderful to hear the testimonies from Men's Encounter. Susan and I made the cauliflower sweet and sour vegan dish for lunch which we ate around 3 and watched a movie called 'Genius.' Pretty good. Annika had Ariel Joy last evening/

Hertzler Doings~Sept. 12-18, 2016

Mon.-Working on following my cleaning schedule. Took trash to dump. Made some black beans and rice and bean soup. Worked in old house. Washing blankets. Hoping to read an hour this afternoon so I get used to putting time aside to study Life Coaching. Going to Gathering Table tonight with Alli and Jessica. Susan has a long day of school and work. I read her what I read in my mother's journal about enjoying the moment you are in and not wishing you were anywhere else or doing something different. She was glad for the reminder. "I needed that."
Had a nice time at the Gathering Table with Alli and Jessica. Took a smoking gun picture and Susan loved it so much she said she was going to send it to her friends. She wanted me to make it my profile picture so I did. Got to bed really late. Am enjoying the book, "And they said it couldn't be done." Written by a nutritionist. Karen Hurd. I think I have the title right. So informative and potentially life changing.
The book club on facebook started reading "Emotionally Healthy Spirituality," by Peter Scazzero. It's so good. Am also reading "The Elephant in the Boardroom." '

Tues.-Today I was able to follow my schedule for the morning and then run errands in town. I picked up some chicken salad sandwiches at Millers and had lunch with Judy. I stopped in and visited Jessica and looked at marble games at Amish Originals. Picked up something for Phil at Hill and Davis and went to the bank and Walmart. Came home and froze the blueberries I picked up at Millers, made the sourdough bread that's been fermenting all day, put a roast in the crockpot that had kept my cooler cool all day, cleaned the guest bathroom, did some wash, visited with Susan and Philip separately, and hope to watch a movie with Susan soon.

Wed.-Had a wonderful bonding day with Nathan. We went to the river and played in the sand. In the house, he painted with water colors very happily and played with playdough, tractors, and superballs. He even snuggled while we watched a movie. Greg H. called me to talk to me about Life Coaching. Very helpful conversation. I was also able to keep on track with my cleaning and daily life schedule. Seems to give me a lot of energy to have simplified and organized this part of my life.

Thurs.-Jessica came over in the morning. I went to see Heidi and got a massage and then did some shopping in Appomattox. Found a queen sized comforter for Susan at Salvation Army for 20 dollars and some shirts for Michael. Also some yellow boots with white polka dots for Susan. She likes them. Am doing my housework this evening. Am also posting in ChickLits about the book 'Emotionally Healthy Spirituality" by Peter Scazzero. It's so good and has generated some interest. I'm hoping all of them buy the book and get involved.

Fri.-Went to Farmville with Janelle. Had Sushi at ShoGun and then took in the movie, "Sully." I highly recommend it. Then we headed to Miller's, then home. It was a nice day. Had Nathan overnight.

Sat.-Call early this morning from Susan. She got in a car accident after she left Claire's. Deer ran out in front of her. She swerved, overcorrected, hit a bank, and according to state police, flipped 6 times before her car came to rest against a tree. She crawled out of her broken window, called Claire, and after getting there, called Phil. He went to get her and helped her with the police and tow truck. They came home and she rested and gratefully saw the family as they came to see her. Julie came over later and Phil and I went to Whitney Fisher's wedding.

Sun.-Phil and I went to church. Susan rested. Had family here in evening for September birthday's.

Hertzler Doings~Sept. 5-11, 2016

Mon.-Susan home. No school or work. Claire came later. I made and canned 25 quarts of vegetable soup. Canned 21 quarts, ate 2, and froze 2.  Phil is mowing and plans to work in the office once he's done. Susan canned hot peppers from her garden. Caught up with Lindsay. They need rain. Lord, send the rain.

Tues.-Claire spent the night. I went to Jessica's for coffee and catch up conversation. Then I headed to the auction where I got two big boxes of red, red and green, and green peppers. One for Freeman. One for me. I made 17 quarts and 5 pints of pickled peppers. Also canned 3 quarts of stewed tomato salad and 6 pints of 7 day pickles, and 1 quart of pickled onion rings made from Susan's onions and leftover brine. Bonnie Stoltzfus brought Rosalee's sweater over. It was mother's and she left it at Bonnie's when they came down for the wedding. It was so sweet of her to bring it over here. Nathan and Alli came over for a little visit today. Susan went to school in Appomattox and then to job training in Lynchburg. She's studying tonight and then we're going to watch a 'Murder She Wrote.' My mother and I used to watch it together.

Wed.-Big day in Farmville. Kacey trimmed my hair. Had lunch with Dianna at El Patron. Visited Jessica at work and got a southern shirt for Susan and a date book for myself. Visited Judy and Logan. Stopped in at Carousel, Goodwill, Restore, and Belk. Went to Walmart. So exhausted by the time I got home. Watched some Murder She Wrote with Phil and Susan. Been eating lousy since Labor Day weekend and am in so much pain and don't sleep well. Must get back to plant based diet. It works and I feel so much better.

Thurs.-Jessica came by to work on her birthday gifts for Michael on our computer so he can't see what she does on Amazon. Nice visit over breakfast potatoes with Susan and her. Sent home piano books with Jessica. Friend, Cindy, gave me adult beginner's books. Jessica will practice on a keyboard and come here once a week for lessons. That's the plan. Wanted to sign up for a red car painting class at Lib's but class was full. On waiting list. Susan went to school. Jess went to work. I'm working on wash, putting full canning jars away, etc. Nathan's coming today while his mommy's away.  We went down to the river and he spent an hour throwing stones in the water. Someday, I want to go there with him, and stay until he's done.

Fri.-Made a carrot cake, Fudge ribbon cake, and 2 quarts of tomato juice. Enjoyed Nathan here for awhile and Alli. Consulted with a life coach for an hour. Watched Diagnosis Murder with Susan and Phil in the eve.

Sat.-Phil woke me up in the middle of the night because I was crying out. Having a bad dream. I was about to be murdered. Took me awhile to fall back to sleep. Did a lot of catching up today. Cleaned the house too. Made a cleaning schedule. If I follow it, I shouldn't have to clean majorly on a Saturday again. The produce is winding down and a schedule should work now. Talked with Lisa P. for awhile, especially about Life Coaching. She's going to try to put me in touch with her coach. Went over to watch a movie with Alli and Nathan while Freeman and Phil went to help Steve with bear damage. The bears were a no show. Susan went to Julie's. Four big buck passed in front of my car on the way home. I would have hit them or they me if I had not braked hard. So beautiful in the cars headlights.

Sun.-Happy Birthday Dear Philip! Valor Day at church. (New Life AG) Phil and I helped greet and put badges on the First Responders. Johnny Garett was there. As he was coming, I announced to the others that he was mine. I said, "He gave me my first speeding ticket in Farmville and now I want to give him a ticket." And I did. I went to shake his hand and tell him that and instead he put his arm around me and gave me a hug. I thanked him for his service in keeping our roads and town safe. I felt especially emotional when I thanked the fire fighters. Gerneral Jerry Boykin preached a sermon that infused Courage into our souls and gave us hope for America. All of the First Responders went up front and many gathered around them to pray for them. How wonderful to know we have each other's backs. I talked with Debby G. later on at the meal. Her mama isn't doing so good. It's her Johnny's birthday too. Phil dropped off a signed copy of General Boykin's book-Never Surrender, to our local police officer. We watched some mysteries in the afternoon. Philip stopped in to say hello and tell us about their weekend at the shore. They camped out and had some exciting experiences. Michael, Jessica, Chace, Jordan, and Philip.

Hertzler Doings-Aug. 29-Sept.4, 2016

Monday-Went out to Farmville. Visited Judy and her mama and family at the Woodland. Mama Pearlie is just waiting for Jesus to come and take her. Janelle, Micah, and I, went to see a movie. Florence something something. About a woman who loved to sing but really couldn't very well. Based on a true story. It was wonderful. It made me realize that we should do things whether or not we're good at them. Meryl Streep and Hugh Grant made a great team. My voice was hoarse from shrieking with laughter. Good thing we were the only ones in the theatre.

Tues.-Mark and Ferne Kraybill came and spent the night. Dear old friends. Ferne and I go back to my teen years.

Wed.-Had a nice breakfast and morning with Mark and Ferne. Phil was able to stay home and do paper work. Ferne encouraged me to put together a book from my writings. There were two notebooks of bloggings in the guest room and she was reading from one. We had a nice time of prayer together. Alli took me to the dentist in the afternoon and I got the crown I've been waiting for a year and a half.

Thurs.-Went to see Heidi, the masseuse, and then to Lynchburg. Lori King and I met at Robin Alexanders. Susan was learning her way around there. The Hoffman's and the Rossi's really like this restaurant. Heidi offered her place to Susan if the weather gets bad. So many nice people in this world.

Fri.-Nathan came for awhile this morning. Alli is getting ready for their party tomorrow.

Sat.-Nathan came again and the more I'm with him, the more I want to be with him. And I already always want to be with him.
 We went to Freeman and Alli's for their Labor Day picnic. Claire and Sam came as Susan's guests and the Rainey's came as ours. Logan and Bradley came down. Logan stayed at Michael's and Bradley stayed here. They had fun playing Cam Jam and Circle volleyball. Jordan and Chase were there too, and the Streams. Nichole and Mila came. Tom, Tommy, Serena, and Abby and Janelle and Micah were there as well. It was a nice party and the food was great.

Sunday-Got to visit with Sam this morning before he headed back to Roanoke. He and Phil had coffee on the front porch. Claire, Sam, Bradley, and Susan, built a fire down at the river last eve. Some owls were fighting and they sounded like monkeys, they said.  After church, Jenny invited us to El Patron. It was good to catch up with them. Phil and I watched Diagnosis Murder and made the syrup part of the 7 day pickles. Phil sliced while I stirred the brine. Michael took the guys fishing.

Hertzler Doings~Aug. 22-28, 2016

Mon.-Susan started her classes today at LCC. She took 5 pages of notes in Biology and remembered what she had studied in high school. The gym there has a free membership so she can go work out between classes. Jessica and I were going to clean the old house at HV but decided to wait until another day she has off this week. So we enjoyed coffee, breakfast, and conversation instead.
I went outside and got a little corner of ground prepped to hold Johnny's crepe murtle bush. The dogs attended and were a little forlorn because Susan is gone. Also took care of chickens, picked some tomatoes, brought in beets, cabbage, and cauliflower, and eggs from fridge.
Will finish up the 7 day pickles, make the insides of egg rolls, make quiche, steam cauliflower, cook beets, make baked oatmeal, and maybe zucchini yeast rolls. And take little breaks to stretch and tidy up things.
Susan enjoyed both classes and has her books lined up. Part of me would love to go back to college. But I think I'll read some books I've had in a pile for awhile. And I hope to organize the old house this fall. And the mancave.

Tues.-Sunday-I keep forgetting to write and wonder if I just need to stop blogging for awhile. This week, Kathy Lucas came in from CA to judge C-ponies. It was nice to be with her and our family got with her for dinner on Thursday or Friday over at Happy Valley. 

On Wed., I had lunch with Dianna at La Parota to celebrate her birthday. It was so good to catch up.

On Sunday, we went to Lonnie and Traci Smith's for a picnic. Michael and Jessica came along. They have a beautiful place.

Hertzler Doings~Aug. 15-21, 2016

Mon-Thurs.-I haven't written. Life is busy with the garden, etc. Susan was really sick with an upper respiratory infection and I took her to the doctor. An antibiotic is making her feel much better. Also, went to Lynchburg Thursday and she signed up for classes and applied for some jobs and bought some comfy fall clothes for school. We visited Judy and her mom at the hospital. Michael was here when we got home watching Three stooges. He had helped Phil with a project in the barn. It was nice and familiar to have him here.
We had a crazy thunderstorm and sirens went off at Pamplin and Phil even heard them. Michael and Jess live right near the firehouse and it was a scary thing to hear in the midst of raucous thundering and lightning. I slept through it. I am sleeping better than I can ever remember sleeping.
We also had some excitement with a flying object and power lines but that's all I'll say about that. Coyotes are right down in our meadow. We've lost at least 4 calves to them. Davi hates them.
Jessica came over one morning and learned now to sew buttons on a shirt. She's going to take off on this sewing knowledge because she learns quickly and does well. I need to show her my stash of material. I visited her later that day out in town and bought a pretty scarf and sweater with her help.
Been reading in my mother's journal and learning from the things that helped her. I copy down some of her words in my own notebook and I cry for the struggle she had. I'm so glad she's with Him. I asked Him to thank her for me when He sees her and He said, "I see her every day." I'm glad she finally knows how special and wonderful she is.

Friday, Sat.-Canned bear, vegetable soup, dill pickles. Froze butternut squash and zucchini squash. Didn't get much cleaned. Exhausted.

Sun.-Guest speaker. Writer of 'Still in the Storm.' Ordered it on Amazon. Reading Frank P.s books "The Present Darkness" and "Piercing the Darkness." Slept in afternoon. Philip had a party with Chi Alpha friends at lake. Freeman and Alli and Nathan came here and F. made the bear ribs. Incredible.
Drove the gator over to HV. Kids were floating on inner tubes in the pond. I want to do that. Maybe I found my swimming hole. Been worried about snappers. Restless sleep. So many people have so many troubles. Shelly K's nephew in terrible accident-brain injuries. Jamie and Ginger's niece has symptoms doctors can't diagnose. A praying night.

Hertzler Doings~Aug. 8-14, 2016

Mon.-Had breakfast at Joe and Karens and did some wash. Visited with Debra for about half and hour because I forgot she had to leave. We decided to meet in Winchester some time. Had a delicious garden lunch with Mom and Dad. She dug up some crepe myrtle bushes-one for each of my children and one for us. They were offshoots of a bush that Tom and Evie, Andy and Lucille, Charlie and Joyce, and Geri F. had given them when Johnny died. She also gave me yellow lily bulbs. Jonathan helped to fill in the pots with dirt using a grown up shovel. He goes out to the barn several mornings a week at 3:30 to help in the barn. He loves to work and he is quite the go-getter. We played a fun game last evening because he got us doing it.
Left the farm around 2 and stopped in to see Gina Smoker B. She was canning tomato sauce with a neighbor. Her mother brought the boys back. She keeps them for part of the day on Monday's. Gina is such a dear friend. We miss each other. She had moved down to Va. for awhile but her husbands work has her back in Pa. She gave me a jar of blueberry jam. She is canning up a storm. Her twin boys are blonde and blue eyed darlings and her youngest was taking a nap and I had to go see him.
Then I went to Naomi's. We relaxed outside on her new patio and went out to a Mexican restaurant for dinner. Her dad was there and he paid for our meal. It's always good to see him and I got a great picture of them together. We watched the Olympics when we got home. She and Mabe had just gotten back from their Florida home.

Tues.-Had coffee together in her living room. Talking and Talking. Went out to Flower Warehouse only it's not called that anymore. Bought all of my Christmas Ornament for my kids. And the little boys, Jonathan and David. We went to Shady Maple for lunch and also got groceries. Then to the fabric outlet. Naomi got material to cover her pillows downstairs and I got material for a skirt. She had not known it was there and I was glad to show it to her. She just got a sewing machine. We said good bye from there and it's always really hard to leave her. We are both sad that we are so far apart.
Went to Diane Horan's from there. Lounged in her pool for awhile and when Caleb came home, he joined us pool side and we caught up a little. Steve joined us later and it was wonderful to see him and visit with them. I haven't seen him for over a decade I'm sure. Dear good friends. He made steak for dinner. We also had Bob Evans mashed potatoes which are wonderful, salad, and roasted brussel sprouts. Then all the chocolate we wanted for dessert. I love to go into their walk in pantry because it has snack and candy drawers and shelves.  Zach was home for dinner too. We had a high old time recounting funny stories. I hurt from laughing. Then we watched some Olympics and went to bed.

Wed.-Left Diane and drove through crazy traffic north to meet Lindsay, Emma, Adi, and Ben, at Bear Mountain State park. They came bearing gifts. Adi had made an eye sleep mask for me. I wanted to wear it on the way home so I wouldn't see all the traffic and have another panic attack. Emma had painted a picture of Susan's Sr. picture. (Susan knew who it was right away and claimed it as her own when I got home.) They made a crayon holder for Nathan, too. We had a few wonderful hours together just being in each other's presence and talking and eating our wonderful picnic lunch. The kids played in the playground in the misty gentle rain and Lindsay and I sat on the picnic tables chatting. We walked by the lake to the zoo and saw bear, foxes, a bobcat, a weasel, fish, frogs, snakes, etc. Ben was very excited. He is so adorable and kissable. They rode the beautiful carousel two times and the bored attendant rested his head on his desk. We also visited the gift shop and lodge. I found out later that one of my high school friends, Cheryl Weber, was there with her family. She saw our picture on facebook and messaged me. It was hard to say good bye and I had to cry a little. I got home before they did and the trip home wasn't as bad.
I relaxed in Diane's whirlpool and had a wonderful dinner of chicken, salad, and fries. And chocolate. We went to bed early.

Thurs.-I slept at least 8 hours. We had a nice visit over coffee, hard boiled egg, and a Jenny Craig breakfast bar. It's so hard to say good bye. I left at 9:40. Stopped about 40 min. later at Cabela's and bought a hoodie and black shirt with Cabela's points. The hoodie was on sale and I didn't realize it. I stopped at rest stops and in Harrisonburg at a Goodwill. Got home at 7. Unloaded. Visited with Susan and Phil for a little. Had a hard time getting to sleep because I'd close my eyes and see tractor trailers everywhere. What a wonderful vacation I had. What a wonderful family I have to come back to. Surely it is a wonderful life.

Fri.-Sun.-Busy catching up. Produce. Putting my stuff away. Went to a car show at church on Sunday and while the guys checked out engines, Alli, Nathan, and I, tackled Walmart. Alli helped an older man in trouble and one of the employees were moved to tears by her wanting to help someone whom she didn't even know. The kids took us out to eat on Sunday at Ruby Tuesdays and shared things they appreciated about our 34 year old marriage. It was a sweet weekend.

Hertzler Doings~Aug. 1-7, 2016

Busy week. Getting ready to go to Pa.
Relieved that we are not doing the pig roast this year.
Canning 7 day pickles.
Making plans to see Lindsay.
Coffee with Jessica in their home.
Making zucchini yeast rolls. Out of this world good.
Phil harvesting hay. Bushhogging corn.
Susan harvesting cucumbers, squash, tomatoes.
Susan taking English and Math placement tests.
Did well on both.
Did math test in 45 min. Usually takes people 3 hours. Used calculator once or twice and then realized she could have used it whole time. Scored high. Can take any Math course she wants.

Left Wed. eve and spent the night in Harrisonburg. Forgot my toiletry bag and ran to Dollar Tree to buy essentials.
It made the trip so much easier. Went straight to Anne's and spent the afternoon, eve.. night, Friday morning and early afternoon with her and David. Picked up 13 boxes of jars from Andrea M. and a box of John Deere toy tractor and equipment. Paid 50 dollars and the corn harvester is 45 dollars new.
My highlight was reading to David in my bed with Anne on the other side of him. Sweet time.
Friday afternoon I visited Audrey Hanlon at Garden Spot. There was no time lost between us and we had a nice meal together at the café and she showed me around and also took me to her beautiful apartment. What a dear eternal friend she is.
Went to Rosalee's and spent both Friday night and Saturday night there. Steve and Katrina came down. Katrina is due in 2 weeks. They had a 3 hour drive. Such a sweet time with them. Jim, Rosalee, and I, went to a Diffenbach cousin reunion at Sissy and Barry's in Elizabethtown. Robby and Rocky were there. Also, Jay and Connie, Barb Groff, Earl and his daughter, Cheryl, my brother Abe and his wife, Karen. We all brought food and Barry and Sandy (Sissy) provided chicken, pork bbq, drinks, homemade ice cream and toppings. My cousin, Charlene, died of a massive stroke just 5 weeks ago. I was so excited about seeing her. She was only 68. Cheryl came back from Mozambique. We had a great time sitting around talking about our parents, grandparents, childhood, present day times, etc. I hope we do it again. Sissy showed us around her property. Some families are in the health profession. Our family has many in the teaching profession. Even married teachers.

On Sunday, I went to Hopewell. Sat beside Evie T. We would have gotten kicked out of high school if we were classmates. I just love her. Had lunch with Mom and Dad. Karen and Jonathan came over to visit. We had a get together in the evening for Jim's birthday at Joe and Karen's. Grilled cheeseburgers, salad, corn on the cob, ice cream, raspberry dessert and chocolate zucchini cake.
I love our family.