Dennis and Faith Johnson

February 13, 2012 23282

2012-02-13T06:48:00.000-08:00

No school. I snowed 4-8 inches. I rode for coffee to visit with M&H, then home to get caught up on this blog and sto start working on an IEP. Hopefully this day will be spent reading a good book or watching some good movies. :)

Sunday February 12

2012-02-13T06:36:00.000-08:00

Jensens went to Pocahontas. After church Howard took us and Mandy and Linda and Dean to the Pizza Hut for lunch. We stopped at Carol and Petes to visit about next wekend wedding plans. I came home and worked computer. At 3 I went to the country condo. Mandy and I worked on fingernails. And watched a movie. To say the least I am not skilled in holding still and not smudging nail polish once it is on. Thanks for being so patient Mandy. I was thinking it would maybe take an hour. Three wnderful hours with my daughter (watching a movie and smearing my polish) later I headed home. We called to put in our order for CC wings next Friday only to be told just to call an hour in advance, for up to 500 wings. We did make reservations in Burlington for Howard, Mandy and us.

Saturday February 11

2012-02-13T06:21:00.000-08:00

Woke up this am and just hung out in bed for a while. Then we heard a rooster. Sure enough there was a rooster and hen right by our south window. KInda cute, especially because we were already awake. I worked on school work for HS all am. Watched and took notes on careers video, At 11 Missy took E&A to Storm Lake to get some PG 600 for th egilt Gretel that is not cycling. I took Brooks to Dad's, Denny was there workinig on bookwork. Denny and Mandy headed to town to get parts for moving TV cable to eastern part of basement. When I put Brooks down for a nap, I read "To Kill a Mockingbird". Now that was a treat for me. Assignment for 10th graders, but a treat for me to read something... fun. Phillip had taken Michael to take his ACT. Denny let Stangls use his pickup and trailer to move to the Nishumura country home. Jensens went bowling for Abby U.'s birthday party. At 7 I went to girl's BB game. We won, but not a great game. Denny and Phillip gave Gretel a ride in trailer, and she fell out. The back gate wasn't fully hooked. By the time I got home they had found her and had walked her back to the barn. Uffta! We watched a Net Flicks at night. Somthing in the heart.

Friday February 10

2012-02-10T15:53:00.000-08:00

Stopped to the east berfore school. (It is now Monday am and I have no idea what I did Friday.) Let's see, I know it was Linda and Nancy N.'s birthdays. I came home for a while then rode in with Mandy and Grandpa to go to a Valentine's dinner at church. Great food and the "really wed" game they played afterwards brought a lot of laughs.

Thursday February 9

2012-02-09T19:04:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Arlen, Hope you had a great day! I stopped to see Dad and Mandy before school. After school I swam with Susan. Missy gave us quisadias that she had fixed. We had the little ones down to watch the Toy Story 3 movie that Denny played from his phone to the TV. We put the Grands to bed while Missy and Phillip went to help Lynn and Toshi move things around in their country house.

Wednesday February 8

2012-02-09T15:56:00.001-08:00

Stopped at East Johnsons before school. Mandy had given Anabel twisted straws for her birthday. Brooks had a great time drinking pink punch from the straw the night of hwer birthday supper. Denny had a lot of laughs from watching Brooks. AFter school I headed to get a haircut. Then to the church to set a table for Friday Valentine's meal. Then to IG for the Awana Skating party.

Tuesday February 7

2012-02-07T04:56:00.000-08:00

Last night I took a picture of the moon in the frost covered tress. After school I went to WW in Holstien. Anabel liked her dress that was a birthday present.

Monday February 6

2012-02-07T04:53:00.001-08:00

Stopped at folks. I brought over some material for Mandy to possibly use in her country condo. After school I ran 3 miles on the treadmill. Mandy visited and shared maidrite sandwiches with Denny and myself. We learned about the door bell and heard it ring alot.

Sunday February 5

2012-02-07T04:49:00.000-08:00

Donuts before church. GGpa gave Anabel 4 pennies to put in SS offering. After church we had soup in the sunroom. We napped and Denny went to the bank to work in the afternoon. Watched "best ever" super bowl.

Saturday February 4

2012-02-07T04:46:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday ANABEL!!! Coffee at GGpa's. Denny stayed to work on tax/bookwork at dad's. The Jensen's went swimming at the rec center at 2. Birthday supper afterward.

Friday February 3

2012-02-07T04:42:00.000-08:00

We stopped early at Dad's. Denny had an early meeting in IG. Front door was not open and Mandy didn't come up to see us before we went to work. After school I worked on power point. Just keep plugging away. There is a flock of 20 wild turkeys that hang out at the folks. Saturday am. Little Anabel joined us for coffee at Dad's.

Thursday February 2

2012-02-02T20:33:00.000-08:00

Mandy was up and ready to go. She had an interview for a job at the hospital in Ida Grove at 8:30. (She said it went well, nothing firm as of now.) At school D and F list came out. It's a tough day to find out what students are not doing well.

Wednesday February 1

2012-02-01T19:00:00.000-08:00

Mandy and Missy ran the section before 7 this am. I was impressed. Little Anabel and Brooks went over for an early visit. Denny took them home. I worked at the school, then ran the trail, then headed to Awana. GREAT weather.

Tuesday January 31

2012-01-31T19:28:00.000-08:00

WOW Another great weather day. I worked after school starting to read To Kill a Mockingbird. I also read the chapter on Velocity, Acceleration, etc. At 6:30 I went to a shower at church for Jenny's baby girl. Very, very nice. About 40 women there. They played a hanging the baby clothes - while holding a baby and talking on a cell phone- game. Look for more pictures on Wednesday's post. Denny drove to SC to get his suit altered. He got home about 9:30. Pray that I figure out how to put pictures on the blog again. It hasn't been the same since we got a new email. I am finding that change is hard for me. Pray also for Mandy and a job interview that is scheduled.me

Monday January 27

2012-01-30T17:18:00.000-08:00

Stopped at East Johnson place. Regular day at school. Three kids are failing. SPA test on a Monday for our kids is not good. They don't always study over the weekend. and don't always retain all they did study 4 days prior. Two students who can not afford to be gone were. After school the weather was great, so I ran the trail...slowly but I made it around. Weigh in for the county contest. Stop at Dad's before heading home. The quilt that Diane made for the folks looked so nice on the casket.

Sunday January 26

2012-01-30T17:13:00.000-08:00

Slept in til 7:45. Took E&A for donuts. Made lemonade and got out cookies for break between church. After church Missy decorated for Jenny B. baby shower and GGpa too us to Aunt B's. Too much great food. I rode home with Mandy to get the Prius. She started my nails with Gelish. She and Missy ran the section (I napped.). Mandy came back to finish my nails. Then she took me home,and she headed to Financial Peace. At 6 Denny and I went to prayer meeting. Then get ready to start the week again. Flowers were from Mandy's Colorado friends. The bouquet had snapdragons in it.

Saturday January 28

2012-01-27T22:05:00.000-08:00

I worked on watching 2 careers videos and making fill in the blank notes. I plan to have my 2 students fill in the blanks as we watch the videos. I left at 10:45 to go get Mandy. We drove to Rupp tire to get keys for Jeep. Then Denny met us there. He worked in Odebolt today. The third small village bank was robbed in our area. Odebolt about 5 weeks ago. Early about 3 weeks ago. Now today Vail. UFFTA We got subway sandwiches, then on to SC we went. First stop Mes's warehouse. Denny got 2 suits, 2 pairs of shoes, 3 shirts and ties, and 6 pairs fo sack...I got one fine looking husband. Of course I thought he was fine looking before the new threads. I got a dress at Kohls, a cotton jacket to go with it, a pair of slacks to go with the jacket and a pretty sweater. Then to Christopher Banks to see what they had. I liked an out fit there better so I got a floral brown, rose skirt, a brown tank top, a sweater to wear for the beach wedding if it is chilly and a necklace. Then I took back the dress and cotton Jacket at Kohls. Shopped at Sally's Nails and Bath and Body. Denny and I got winter coats at Younkers. Last stop was at Target. It was about8 and we ate at Carlos O'Kellys. YUM. Great day with Mandy. She was super helpful as we tried to pick out clothes for the beach wedding. Thanks Mandy!!! Pictures are from funeral. Johnson Cousins.

Friday January 27

2012-01-27T21:31:00.000-08:00

Amazing how the time flies. Visit with Mandy and Dad before school. NO FLAT TIRE. Staff meeting at 8. Full day at school, but the last Friday of the month we get to wear jeans. :) After school I ran 3 and walked 1 mile on the treadmill at the rec center. Then home to work on an IEP. Block party at 8:30 with 2 sets of neighbors. Plus making arrangements for a home school visit. Great to see how God is working out his work. So sweet to spend time with the family. Pictures are from January 14 visit with Hirschmans.

Thursday January 26

2012-01-27T21:22:00.000-08:00

Went to see Mandy and Dad before school. Sure ... there was a flat tire on the Jeep. It didn't seem like it drove very smoothly to the house, and after visiting with them ... when I went outside to get in the Jeep... Presto... A very ... very ... flat tire. Denny came and gave me a ride to the Prius. Mandy and G'pa took my Jeep to Rupps to get new tires. After school I scooted home...Mandy was watching the boys. I worked on an IEP and school work. Missy and Phillip had 6 couples out to share their vision. They had supper in the coop and Denny watched the kids. I worked on school work. Not a very exciting day. Best part about the day was 2 pictures sent from Becky to me ... of the Grands. Thanks, Becky. Now I just need to figure out how to get those pictures on this blog. Couldn't get those pictures on the blog. These are from the Saturday

Wednesday January 25

2012-01-25T13:02:00.000-08:00

Stopped to visit with Dad and Mandy before school. There was an early out. I am in 21st century skills teachers' group. We talked about the posssibility of each student having a computer at school. Nine students had an Ipad with them for a week. We shared feedback from the students. Kids liked having it with them. Most thought there was a limitation on printing from the IPAD. And the keyword wasn't the easieest to use. I ran 3 miles at the rec center and walked 1 mile on the treadmill. Then to Arthur for supper before Awana. Pictures are from Mendamenda wedding.

Tuesday January 24

2012-01-24T20:02:00.000-08:00

************Happy Birthday Justine and Katola, Stopped at folks before school. Mandy and G'pa were headed to SC. After school I worked out on treadmill at rec center. 4 miles..2running, 2 walking. Good to sweat. Then home to start to get school work lined up. Visited with east Johnsons for a while. They had another Arbie's for us. At home I worked on Complit II. I really do not understand subordinate conjunctions. UFFTA. Denny had a full day at work ,too. Gary was headed to London to visit Graham.

Monday January 23

2012-01-23T06:30:00.000-08:00

*********Two hour late start because of roads. Went to folks at 7:10 with Denny. Last Thursday Mandy and I were coming home from IG. We stopped and had an adventure... as G'ma Laurie would call it. We both like to explore old houses...so we visited an broken down house along highway 59. Carpe Diem Make the memories. At school I was having class with Carlie when another teacher came in and asked me about the weekend. I visited with the teacher and when the class was over Carlie said,"Let me give you a hug." So nice. I also got a hug from Cathy. It was a moment because this a.m. I was feeling blue. Diane, my best friend from high school, had emailed and siad she wished she was there to give me a hug. I repleied I could use a hug...then today I got 2 at school. Thank you, Lord. I stopped at folks and met Denny there. Mandy put in 2 Arbies beef sandwiches for us for supper. Denny spent most of the night trying to network computers now that we have a new internet server. Change is never easy.

Sunday January 22

2012-01-22T18:11:00.000-08:00

At 7 a.m. I watched Little House about Solomon, a black child. Great moment with the grands. Solomon wanted to go to school, but because of prejudice it was a struggle. Solomon was carrying a small chalk board with him. Torren asked if he was carrying an Ipad. Denny and I laughed alot. It was about the right size. Good question. Stopped at folk's before going into SS. Brought a basket of roses and handed them out to ladies at church. Made koolaid and shared doughnut holes with 3 SS classes, Haley's 2-4th graders, Evan and Torren's K & 1st graders and Anabel's class (even though she was home sick). After church Howard and Mandy came over for mashed potatoes, gravy, and leftovers. We went to the Country Condo (CC) and helped Mandy get set up there. At home we cleaned and vacumned. Prayer serviced at 6. It is raining and cold.

Saturday January 21

2012-01-21T22:18:00.000-08:00

I baked the egg casseroles that Kim L. brought. Then at 7 I took some over for Howard and Mandy. I took a quick nap there and went to home. We picked up Howard at 9. Denny went in to tell Dad we were there. Howard was missing Mom something fierce. Mom had always helped him with his tie. Denny helped him get a tie on. Met at church at 9:30. Funeral at 10:30. Very nice. Home at 2:30. Siblings wrote thank you notes. Luke put in cupboards in basement. Mandy and I worked on organizing boxes and putting things behind curtain. Brenda brought great food. Chicken and rice. Little Anabel has been sick for 24 hours. ER room checkup. Whe was sent home with medicine. Long day. Family service went great. Jay lead the service, Karen played the processional, Missy and Mandy read her favorite verses and the obituary. John sang "In the Garden", Others were casket bearers, Eric played the piano. Phillip lead the service at the cemetery, Grands let go of balloons. Praise the Lord for His strength. Chill with adult children at night.

Friday January 20

2012-01-21T22:11:00.000-08:00

Watched Little House on the Prairie with Grands...Some Grands thought it was scarey ...with Mr Oleson chopping off a dressmaker form's head and Laura thinking he chopped off his wife's head. The moral of the story is ... any time with Grands is fun. Luke and Denny worked on Mandy's basement. I'm not real sure what I did...the days are kind of a blurr. Matt and Becky headed into IG to put in lasagna about 2. We picked up Dad about 3:30 to go into funeral home. Mandy came in later. Visitation was from 5 to 7. Lots of kind visitor and kind words. Phillip lead prayer service afterwards.
At home chill with adult kids.

Thursday January 19

2012-01-20T22:09:00.000-08:00

So thankful for bereavement days at school. We get 4 a year. I'm taking Thursday and Friday off from school. Just slept in til about 8. Then coffee at dad's. Mandy said he wondered where I was this am. He thought maybe I wasn't coming, but Mandy told his I was taking the day off and I would be over later with Denny. Siblings came about 9. Linda finished pressing the wedding dress. Dad had wanted Anabel to wear it in the casket, but the girls talked him into them keeping it. He thought Anabel looked so beautiful in it when they were married. He doesn't want it back in the house.

Wednesday January 18

2012-01-19T22:36:00.000-08:00

Dear family,
Just wanted to let you know that Wednesday morning January 18, 2012 at about 7:10 Denny’s mom,Anabel Johnson, breathed her last breath. Mandy got to the farm Monday night about 9 pm and stayed with her grandparents that night. Tuesday Anabel was pretty restless and very weak. She was so tired. She has battled cancer since 2002 (before Matt’s wedding). November 22 they determined that the treatments were not doing any good, so she would stop taking chemo. It was her desire to be at home at this time if possible. She had said when it was her time to die, she hoped she would just to go to sleep and not wake up. Mandy spent Tuesday night lying on the floor next to Anabel’s bed, as Anabel had another restless night. When I came for my routine visit about 7 in this morning, Anabel was resting peacefully but her breathing was infrequent. I talked to Mandy,and told her Mom was not breathing very much. She said she knew. Mandy was on one side of the bed and I was on the other side of Anabel's bed. Anabel didn’t respond when I squeezed her hand and told her I loved her. I said,”I’ll see you soon in heaven. Say Hi to great granny.” We were there for her last breath, though we didn’t realize it because her previous breaths were so far apart. It seems we were on hallowed ground.
Thanks for your thoughts and prayers.
We have been blessed by parents who express Christ’s love in action.
Visitation is in Ida Grove Friday night 5-7. Funeral in Kiron First Baptist Church Saturday January 20 at 10:30.This is for your information … we expect nothing, but we know that you care and that you will stand with our family in prayer. Thank you.

Blessings from Mary Jo May the Lord bless and keep you and make his face shine upon you. May your countenance be bright with the love and glory of the Lord. May you shine for him today and be the sunlight others need to brighten their day. May your witness be contagious and may you kindle the spark of God's life and love in another's life this day. God bless you

Tuesday January 17

2012-01-17T18:27:00.000-08:00

This is the first morning since I started teaching that I didn't talk to Anabel before I went to school. She was sleeping soundly. Mandy was in her room on the recliner and we didn't disturb Anabel. Kinda sad for me. A moment for the day was when 5 of us resource ladies were in Vicki's office talking. Nicole's dad had a stroke recently and has been in the Sioux City hospital, he got out yesterday and is home. I appreciate those kind and caring ladies. They just supported Nicole and the struggles that life brings. Great ladies to work with. Nice to see them care about each other. Missy headed to Iowa City for a burn appointment with Brooks. She left about 8 am and took my Jeep. The roads were slippery between Des Moines and Iowa City. She should be home about 10. Long day. After school I stopped over at the folks. Mandy and I helped Mom sit up a little. Mandy said she hasn't eaten anything today. Mandy started a blog spot today. mirandadenise@blogspot.com I came home and fixed biscuits and gravy, watched Anabel and Evan while Phillip did the chores, and got the clothes hanging bars from machine shed. Then took food to folks for supper. Anabel sat up and Denny gave her 3 spoonfuls of chicken broth. At home I am working on careers class. Denny got Awana notes ready to sent home with clubbers.Blessings from Mary Jo May the Lord bless you and keep you today. May you make this day count for something important and not just let it pass you by. May you invest your time and energy into eternal differences in the words you speak; the choices you make; and the attitude you portray. God strengthen you as you resolve to commit every fiber of your being to His causes. God bless you.

Monday January 16

2012-01-17T05:01:00.000-08:00

Denny didn't work today. Martin Luther King Day. We went to folks in am. Howard said G'ma got him up 3 times around 5 am. When Missy visited at noon G'ma was kinda of confused. Wasn't sure of pie or rice pudding. 2 of my students were absent today. After school I went and weighed in and paid for a membership to rec center til September. Denny got some things moved in garage to make more room for Mandy's car. Mandy left Denver about 11. Stopped about an hour to get radio fixed and oil changed in Honda, and was home about 9:30. We visited a little. She took pix of Cook children from previous Christmas pictures, we looked at car piled high with stuff, then she headed to her Country Condo. She said that Jason just kept finding places to pack in stuff that she brought outside to him. A can of hairspray... Oh here is just the right space along the seat belt area in the front seat. A small room heater... That will fit in the space between the cowboy hat and blanket. A very important mirror that makes everyone look skinny... It will fit,too. Good to have Mandy D with the folks.

Sunday January 15

2012-01-15T17:39:00.000-08:00

Kids up and finished watching the 2 movies we started yesterday am. Great way to start a day. Egg in the hole for breakfast with little smokies. Stopped at G'grannys before heading to church. Haley went to SS with 2-4th graders. Torren helped me in the nursery. Denny and I took nursery during church for Jensens. They spent extra time with his folks before they leave for India. Home for left overs and naps. Linda was at folks from 10 to 1:30 or so. Denny and I stopped over before heading to prayer meeting. Howard had not gotten food for supper ready so Denny heated up some chicken broth and brought it in to Mom. She didn't have much strength so we used the hospital table over her bed. I fed her a 5-6 spoonfuls of soup and 2 bites of jello. Then she said that was enough. I put a Ritz cracker on the table and she ate it with her small glass of milk. We came home. Denny is looking for a brown suit, I'm trying to catch up on blog, washing, studying for SPA test, and my fitness entries. The moment to savor today was when I was in the nursery with Torren and 4 precious little ones who have Christian parents who love the Lord and who are raising these little ones. I envisioned those toddlers 20 years in the future... loving and serving the Lord. It was as though I was on hallowed ground. The nursery is a place where their special lives are nurtured. I realize how quickly the years pass and the desire of parents that their children will live lives committed to Christ. It was humbling and inspiring to serve, plus exciting that I get to watch and pray for these little ones as they grow. What a great Lord we serve. The pictures are of Saturday night relaxing in our living room. Torren, is resting his feet on G'pa's shoulder and playing a electronic game. Haley and Becky were looking at their ipad/phones and Denny was playing with Kade. Great time chilling.

Saturday January 14

2012-01-15T17:04:00.000-08:00

Stayed up late visiting with Matt and Becky. Kids got up about 7 and we watched movies in our bed. Land before time and Little house on the Prairie. So nice. Matt,H,T, and I went to folks. Then home for G'pa's cheesey eggs. About 10 I gave g'ma a shower, Howard went to IG, and Denny and Matt put cell phone amplifier in basement. We had beef and noodles, green beans, peaches, and oreos for lunch. I made 2 rhubarb pies. Naps after lunch. Haley, Torren, and Matt put on wedding clothes and the Mo. Johnsons visited with folks. Hirschmans came to our home about 5 for supper. Denny went to Awana meeting at 6:15. I stopped at folks before meeting and helped Anabel get in her nighty. What a battler she is ... I watched in wonder as she battled for each step she took to the bathroom and back. There is a fine balance between wanting to help and make it easier for her, and just watching in wonder and appreciating how hard she works to do as much as she can. She does it all without complaining. Then I headed to the Awana meeting. When we got home at 9, Frank and Jenny were still there. It was so nice having them come here to visit when Matt and Becky are here. Jenny has appointment at Mayo Monday. Keep them in your prayers. Phone call from Missy that Brooks had burnt his hand/wrist on the wood burning stove and was in the ER. Scheduled to go Tuesday to Iowa City to see a specialist. Lots to pray about always.

Friday January 13, 2012

2012-01-14T12:49:00.000-08:00

Stopped at folks. Linda is coming for the day. She lined up the pills Anabel needs to take next week. Pretty regular day at school. Fridays I give tests. I worked with C. on Alt A. After school I headed home and took a nap. Missy had taken MW on college visits to Boone and AIB. She brought them back to IG then Phillip and Missy were heading to Ames for Practical Farmers conference. I went to the girls BB game vs Kingsley Pearson. Matt and Becky were headed to the farm. I texted and invited H&T to watch the BB spinners and unicyclists. I met the Mo. Johnsons at 300th street and took H&T to the boy's bb game. We watched the game, then the basketball handlers.Donna was one of the people they selected from the crown to participate. The Spiners gave a clear presentation of the gospel... That was a moment. After he spoke he asked those who prayed to raise their hand and stand .. to not be ashamed of the gospel of Christ.... The gym was about half full and it seemed to me that everyone stood. So amazing. We didn't get home until after 10. Great to show my Grands my desk at school.

Thursday January 12, 2012

2012-01-13T21:57:00.000-08:00

Mom was really tired when I stopped today. I took Denny to the bank afterward. (I think that was that day.) C and I went to Pamida for her math class. There was an assembly of basket ball spinners at 2:30. Very good. After school I stopped at Doses and got some spiral notebooks, Then I stopped at folks. Linda was still there. Denny stopped on the way back from work. We had a meat loaf sandwich. At home I looked at our picture albums. Pretty fun! Luke, did I ever tell you "Thank you" for helping me go get barnboards New Years eve 2008 to finish the paneling the inside of the coop? It was a terrible foggy night, with the boards in the back of Dad's pick up (held in with a lick and a promise). We drove all the way to Paulsruds to get the boards. They were stored in a hog hut about 1/2 mile from their house...with no yard light to light the way. I was so thankful the boards didn't fall out on the way home. Dad and I could finish the south wall of the coop after getting those boards. And I think it did turn out nice. Hurrah!!!

January 11, 2012

2012-01-11T18:36:00.000-08:00

I waited for Denny this am to give him a ride to Arthur. Linda came today and spent the day with the folks. Pictures are from 2008 ... I just clicked on that year and hunted for some pictures. We were picking pears at the folks. I had an IEP for B. at 3 today. I do like to talk to parents about their kids. If only I knew better how to help them learn. After school I went to Wall Lake to get my hair cut. I tried to relax and savor the moment getting my hair cut. So relaxed I fell asleep, waiting for my turn. Then I stopped at the folks. Missy and Brooks came over. I went to Awana. Before games I asked girls to make note of where they see God working in their lives and share it next week.

January 10, 2012 22250

2012-01-10T18:34:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Mandy!!!! We sure love you. Hope you're having a great day. Your mail box if full and can not accept any messages at this time. Quick stop at folks this am. Yesterday little A went with me. How sweet to have both sweet Anabels to spend time with about 7:15 in the morning. After school today I went to Holstein for WW. Then a took a quick nap ... not a good idea, I was really groggy when I went to folks about 6 to fix grilled cheese sandwiches. About every other day for the past week I take one of the four kids tributes off the wall about Anabel's head and read it to her. I purposed in my heart that I would not bawl as I read what they had written. ... so good so far. Tonight I read Gary's. What great moments to cherish. We have so much to be thankful for. The emails telling of arrival plans for the wedding have really gotten me excited for February 18 in Brownsville, Texas.

Monday January 9

2012-01-10T18:19:00.000-08:00

Quick stop at folks this am. Howard takes breakfast to Anabel in her bedroom. After school I went to the rec center and signed up us for a challenge. Then to the folks and Denny and I got supper for them. At school I got this e-mail from a para professional aid in our resource room. Maybe my moments at school are to be filled with the blue flowers in God's garden. May I not be too busy, I don't want to miss a blessing from God.

BLUE ROSE
Having four visiting family members, my wife was very busy, so I offered to go to the store for her to get some needed items, which included light bulbs, paper towels, trash bags, detergent, and milk. So off I went.
I scurried around the store, gathered up my goodies, and headed for the checkout counter only to be blocked in the narrow aisle by a young man who appeared to be about sixteen years old. I wasn't in a hurry, so I patiently waited for the boy to realize that I was there. This was when he waved his hands excitedly in the air and declared in a loud voice, "Mommy, I'm over here."
It was obvious now, he was mentally challenged, and also startled as he turned and saw me standing so close to him, waiting to squeeze by. His eyes widened and surprise exploded on his face as I said, "Hey Buddy; what's your name?"
"My name is Denny and I'm shopping with my Mommy," he responded proudly.
"Wow," I said. "That's a cool name; I wish my name was Denny, but my name is Steve."
"Steve, like Stevarino?" he asked.
"Yes," I answered. "How old are you Denny?"
"How old am I now, Mommy?" he asked his mother as she slowly came over from the next aisle.
You're fifteen, Denny; now be a good boy and let the man pass by."
I acknowledged her and continue to talk with Denny for several more minutes about summer, bicycles, and school. I watched his brown eye dance with excitement because he was the center of someone's attention.
He then abruptly turned and headed toward the toy section.
Denny's mom had a puzzled look on her face and thanked me for taking the time to talk with her son. She told me that most people wouldn't even look at him, much less talk to him.
I told her that it had been my pleasure. Then I said something that I have no idea where it came from, other than by the prompting of the Holy Spirit. "There are plenty of red, yellow and pink roses in God's Garden," I said. "However, blue roses are very rare and should be appreciated for their beauty and distinctiveness. You see, Denny is a blue rose and if someone doesn't stop and smell the rose with their heart and touch that rose with their kindness, then they've missed a blessing from God."
She was silent for a second, then with a tear in her eye, she asked, "Who are you?"
Without thinking, I said, "Oh, I'm probably just a dandelion. But I sure love living in God's garden."
She reached and squeezed my hand, saying, "God bless you!"
Now I had tears in my eyes!
May I suggest that the next time you see a blue rose, don't turn your head and walk off. Take the time to smile and say, "Hello!" Why? Because,by the grace of God, this mother or father could be you. And Denny could be your child, grandchild, niece or nephew.

What a difference a moment can mean to that person and their family.

~ From an old dandelion!

Sunday January 8, 2012

2012-01-08T18:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Matt!!! We were sure 4 happy generations when you were born. Hope you ohad a great day! People still love the Dukes!!! I stopped quick at folks on the way to donuts with A&E. I think Gary, Kim, Karl, and Graham were at the folks this afternoon and brought lunch. After church we watched "Remember the Titans" and took naps. Denny went to work at the bank. I worked on school stuff. At the folks at 6 Gma was really tired it seemed. I brought in soup, rice pudding and a sandwich. She didn't touch the sandwich. For the first time I fed her a few bites of soup and she took about 2 on her own. She ate about 3 tablespoons of rice pudding. (Me feeding her.) I went to church and visited with Mary G. about quizzing. One thing to treasure ... when I visited with Brenda and told her thanks for taking a meal to Anabel, Brenda said when she was talking with Anabel...she thought I had some of Anabel's mannerisms or characteristics. What a great compliment.

Saturday January 7, 2012

2012-01-07T21:20:00.000-08:00

Watched a movie until 1 last night(A Time to Kill from Comp Lit II)...Slept til 7 this am. Nice lazy morning. Went to folks about 10- 11:30. Anabel sat in wheelchair in kitchen for a long time, then I helped her get cleaned up and dressed for the day. Savored the Moment when I washed her hair in the wheelchair, massaged her scalp, rinsed the soap out, and dried her hair with the hairdryer. What a sweetie she is! Denny got permission to use lead poisoning with extra cats around the farm. After lunch we took a quick nap. Luke and Karen visited. Fun to talk about wedding plans. Denny paid bills and I worked on and completed an IEP for a student next week. About 6 we went to see folks and Linda. We watched PBS Scottsboro An American Tragedy from Comp Lit II. About 9 we had another Savor the Moment with the Jensens as we talked with them about their meeting Thursday night with The Bridge. So relaxing in their comfortable living room with low lights, sofas, sensing God's presence and guidance in their future. Keep on directing, Lord; keep following in obedience, Jensens. Happy birthday to Matt tomorrow.

Friday January 6

2012-01-07T06:32:00.000-08:00

Quick stop at folks this am. Grandpa was ready for his shot. Mom was sitting up and eating. Beautiful sunrise. I took C. to the grocery store. We worked with the calculator and figured individual prices when items are marked 5/$4, etc. We talked about what is in a nutritious meal. I gave her $10 and she bought a meal for us. I had her look in the ad the day before. After school I stayed and worked on school stuff. Then I went to the girls' BB game. We won against River Valley. I went to folks, Denny was just getting off the phone from a conference call with his 2 sisters. He got a cord to hook phone into phone stand he got for Mandy for Christmas so it was on speaker. I'm not sure how these picture pages will come through on the blog. They are from 2003 Fourth of July at HWJ's, I think. Quite a long time a go. I stopped at the unit and watched a pretty sunrise this am before heading to the folks. Gotta Love that sky blue pink. Luke called and he is coming to IG tonight. :)

Thursday January 5

2012-01-05T18:58:00.000-08:00

Short stop at folks this am. I had a meeting at 8 at school. M got transferred to Flex Ed successfully. Hopefully he will complete credits through that program so he can graduate. The cleaning lady came to the folks this am. Anabel thought it wasn't necessary, but Howard made the arrangements. Brenda B brought over scalloped potatoes and ham, banana bread, rye bread, cookies and2 pieces of apple pie for lunch. Missy was in IG getting a physical for Evan. He needed it before the dental work he is having done in Missouri Valley later this month. She had told him he wasn't getting a shot, But she was not aware that he would have to have blood drawn...Uffta. Missy and Phillip were going with Lynn and Toshi to visit with a ministry team in Storm Lake. We watched the kids from 4:30 on. We went to see Great Granny, had supper, took showers, (snuggles in towels after shower) and watch a Land Before Time. Then off to bed. My day sped by. No play on words intended. It seemed like when I was talking to C about paragraph writing with a topic sentence, 3 supporting sentences and a concluding sentence...he might have gotten it. One of his 3 supporting sentences was nothing about the topic. When I asked him about it it was like a light went one. Whether it stays lit or not, we'll have to see. Still it was fun. Did I really say fun?

Wednesday January 4

2012-01-04T18:43:00.000-08:00

Anabel was lying in bed when I got there about 7:15. I tried to call about antenolol prescription, but it need to go through the doctor. I stayed at school until 6 and went right to Awana. After Awana E&A and I stopped at folks. Anabel was in bed for the night, yet she still seemed happy to see us and wanted to hear about the grands adventures with Grandma Laurie. My "live in the moment" was looking into mom's beautiful eyes tonight. What a gift she is. The pictures are the last of the Jensen sock hop in the coop. Quite the train they had going.

Tuesday January 3

2012-01-03T19:12:00.000-08:00

Mom must get up about 5:30, dad must get her coffee, toast, and cheerios then. She ate only half of the toast and about 3/4 of the cereal. She took 5 pills at that time. I put out 2 fires at school. MT wants to go to flex all the time with no classes at HS. I ended up driving him to BC. Luckily, I have a planning period first hour. I tried to live in the moment and strike up a conversation with him while we rode. But mainly I struck out. Then JR didn't want to take PE. So she is now going to EBCE for 3 class periods. She does need the exercise. Hopefully she will exercise on her own and report to me. I made it through teaching all my classes for one day this semester. More good news 16 out of 17 of the resource kids passes comp Lit II. That made my day. The other one got an incomplete, so maybe he will turn in some late assignments. After school I stopped and got a different wheel chair for mom. Plus a pill dispenser. Hopefully that will work better. We went over after Denny's work and then we headed to the caucus. Rick Santorum was the big winner. 107 votes out of about 277. It is just good to visit a little with who cames to the meetings. We had 35 in our precinct. On Sunday Jensens used the china from Mom for Alan's birthday cake. She would have been happy to have them used.

Monday January 2

2012-01-02T11:07:00.001-08:00

I stopped at folks about 9:15. Gary was there and Nancy S. had just come in to give Mom a bath. Denny is cleaning the basement. I could have gone into work at school today, but I put some time in last week and I have been working at home. New semester. Just try and give it my best shot. Why am I so concerned about it? I guess I just want to the best for the students. Plus organization and planning ahead are not my strong suits. Thank you to Jesus who meets me at my need. I am trying to live in the moment, so when Howard commented about the birds outside I went to the window and we watched the birds fly around their back yard. I wonder why they are right outside the window at times while other times during the day you don't see any. I think there were 3 blue jays and lots of small sparrow like birds flitting around. About 3 I went to the folks and visited with Anne B. Then at 6 Denny and I went over again. He got crackers, cheese and jello for the folks. Missy and Phillip went over about 8. E&A went to spend a couple day with Grandma Laurie. What funn!

Sunday January 1, 2012

2012-01-02T10:21:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!! We took 3 to Donuts this am. Owen joined us. First we stopped at great grands to say,"Hi!." Phillip preached today. Great message. After church we took Laura home. Then to the coop for a sock hop Birthday 60 for Alan J. What fun. The goal for me this year is to savor the moments that make up out lives. This will be a huge undertaking for this multi tasker. I did try and sit back and take in the Jensen fun. Anabel in her tu-tu was so cute-cute. About 4 we headed to Larson New years day get together. SO good to see and visit with neighbors and friends. Gotta Laugh. Before we left to go home I went to give Kim a hug from the side. Both of us leaned our heads in at the same time and really whacked our heads!!! We thought it would have been hilarious if we had knocked each other out and both of us dropped to the floor at the same time. Instead we both got goose eggs and extended our lives by laughing out loud. On the way home we stopped at the folks. Linda had been there all day doing the white tornado cleaning. Gary had just come for a visit to spend the night On Friday He and Erik had made a short road trip to Chicago to take Erik back to Northwestern College. They left Blair at 4:30 am. Shopped at KIA furniture in Chicago to get some furniture for Erik's apartment. Gary was on his way back home when we called at 7 Friday night and had a 4 way conversation with the siblings on the phone. He had just crossed the Iowa border- about 5 hours away from home at Blair. How about a quick day trip to Denver...or Chicago. What is 8-9 hour drive, turn around, and come back motivating factor? ...Kids and those we love. Praise the Lord for safe trips.

Saturday December 31

2011-12-31T08:27:00.000-08:00

Every one needs a nap at times... I went to folks at 8 am. Howard said that Mom had wanted something to eat right away. She took a Hydro for pain along with the patch that has been in place since Thursday. She had some Cheerios and half a piece of toast with apple jelly. Denny and I read the Journey book. Denny headed over about 9:30. Most of the day was just spent in our apartment. I think. Vehicles and miles are as follows: 2004 Prius 151,850 2004 Jeep Liberty 111,600 2001 Ford F150 pickup 120,000 2005 Harley Davidson 48,170 We started to watch Cars 2 in bed. and fell asleep. Happy New Year midnight came and went without us noticing.

Friday December 30

2011-12-30T11:48:00.000-08:00

Pictures are of Haley and I making Christmas cookies. When Little A and I got to the folks Howard said to let Anabel rest. He said she had been up at 5:30 concerned about being ready for the nurse who was coming at 8 to give a bath. He said she had a hard time writing down the pills she took. It took her a long time and she kept checking and rechecking what she had written. At 8 Barb did come to give her a bath. I changed the sheets and started a load of wash. When we got home Missy was ready to take grands into the library and rec center pool. I worked on my application to Morningside graduate program. I finished it and put it in the mail. At noon I fixed beef soup for Anabel and maidrite meat for Howard. When I went into her room to wake her up she was disoriented, not knowing if it was noon or night. I brought in the table on wheels for the side of Anabel's bed. She wanted to eat in the bedroom. I put the clothes in the dryer and started the dishwasher. After she finished eating we looked at the digital pictures for about 30 minutes. It was the right distance to have the screen on the table and Anabel sitting on the bed. She wanted the basket of Christmas cards by her bed so she could look at them later. I went home. Jensen family is scheduled to arrive for family Christmas get together this weekend. In the afternoon I took a short nap and then went to school to work for a while. I did 30 minutes on the elliptical -300 calories- I put Awana store stuff in church then headed to the folks. In visiting with Anabel, she said she looked at digital pictures for quite a while and she said she looked at almost all the Christmas cards they have received. Denny took Anabel in the wheelchair to the kitchen for supper of cheese sandwich, green beans, banana and half of a cutie orange. It was great for Denny to have a 4 way telephone talk with siblings. We have so much to be thankful for.

Thursday December 29

2011-12-29T20:25:00.000-08:00

Hallelujah! The girls got wooden crosses to color for Christmas and last night went much better for Mom. She was so thankful that Dad didn't have to get up with her once. She said she slept better and her stomach and back didn't hurt. After visiting at the folks I went home, then back to the folks. Emily was there and she said she would talk to Dr. L. about pain medication. She suggested maybe a patch would address the pain more continuously. Mom could still use Hydro as needed. I started a load of towels. At lunchtime Little Anabel and I went over to warmup soup for Anabel and get the ham out for a sandwich for Howard. It was a beautiful day so we took Mom out on the front step for about 15 minutes. It was maybe the first time she had been outside since Thanksgiving. Then I headed to IG to get a table with wheels to go next to Anabel's hospital bed. I ran 45 minutes on the treadmill. At 5:30 I headed to the folks to get supper ready. Anabel wanted a cheese sandwich and fruit cup and Howard ate crackers and dried beef cream cheese. Denny washed the extra pickup we have on our farm. About 6:30 we headed to Denison to watch the movie We bought a Zoo. It was a fun night.

Wednesday December 28

2011-12-29T19:54:00.000-08:00

Pictures are of g'pa with his grands playing. Last night I made contacts to meet with 3 home school moms in Sioux City at 10 this am. I went to see the folks. G'ma had a terrible night. About 10 she was sick to her stomach. Her stomach hurt and her back hurt, too. Howard was up some of the night with her. He said usually she just gets the dry heaves, but she actually threw up last night. I left about 8:30 to head to SC. We met at Panera Breads. Dad and I started using Map my fitness to count calories. Uffta!! The 13 cinnamon crunch bagels I bought are 475 calories for each one. Then add in the hazelnut cream cheese. Uffta! Now that was depressing to figure out before I even ate one. After the meeting I stopped at a couple stores, then headed back to IG. I worked at school from 2-4 pm. I called the hospital and arranged to get a wheel chair so I can wheel Mom into the kitchen to eat sometimes. Then I drove to Maren S.'s to take back a financial peace DVD. At home I fixed Chicken Alfredo and took some to the folks for supper. Anabel had a cheese sandwich. We ate in the kitchen. She took it prety easy today. She's hoping tonight goes better.

Tuesday December 27,2011

2011-12-27T20:14:00.001-08:00

More pictures from Friday night with HWJ family in the coop. Denny and I headed for coffee at folks before he went to work. Youslings weren't up yet and Anabel was wondering if they were okay. I went into school about 9 and worked until 1 just putsing around. Copying DOL, Emptying old 3 ring binder, Finding spiral notebooks and folders for classes next semester. At 1:30 Missy and I went to Carroll. The Prius was scheduled to get an oil change. I dropped Missy and boys off at Wal Mart and took car to dealer. Anabel and I looked at o consignment shop. Then went to get Missy at Wal-mart. Shopped for about another hour. Then home to fix baked potato soup for folks. I lay beside G'ma and held the digital picture screen so we could look at pictures for about 20 minutes before heading home. Denny and I faced timed with Mandy who was packing her closet and wondering if it all would fit into her car.

Monday December 26, 2011

2011-12-26T11:05:00.000-08:00

Pictures are from the HWJ family Christmas on Friday night. This morning I took extra sausage gravy and biscuits for the Youslings at the folks. At home I printed Christmas letters. I entered my checks into Center-point accounting and reconciled it with bank and check register. Denny and siblings are going through the things in Grandpa and Grandma's basement, mostly boxing things up and moving to the side of the basement room. I rode into town with Denny to get mouse traps and washing machine hoses. Then I watched 3 while Phillip showed Missy what to do for chores. Tomorrow after work Phillip is headed to Creston for his folks' nonprofit meeting.

December 25, 2011

2011-12-25T14:04:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas. Thank you Jesus for coming to earth. I fixed biscuits and gravy for breakfast. Yesterday Denny fixed Kids' coffee. It is always a hit to have that with G'pa. He just puts chocolate sauce in the milk. Last Thanksgiving when Denny tried to use a jug of chocolate milk, one of the grands said he had to make it from scratch.I guess there is a difference, you know. At 10:30 we had a morning church service. I worked in the nursery and Denny ran the sound system. Luke and Karen left for DM after a visit with Gma and Gpa. They had to be there at 1. Matt and Becky stopped at the folks before coming to the service. They left for Kingsley after church. Such a great weekend. Thank you kids for the joy you add to our lives. We are so blessed. Thank you Jesus. On a more rural note Chris and Greta? (Gert?) are now in the same pen. We had left overs for lunch and a nap. Denny is out washing off all the vehicles.

Saturday December 24

2011-12-24T22:15:00.000-08:00

Denny fixed cheesey eggs in am. Plus all you can eat little smokies. Denny had fun shopping for little Grands toys at Bomgaars. We opened gifts and played with new stuff. About 2 we ate lunch, brats and chips. Haely and I went over and visited folks until Susan Bergman came to visit. Denny and I watched videos in bed with Grands. We started with Wonderful Life, but it was kinda dry for them so we switched to Little Mermaid. Before 6 pm Christmas eve service we had left over pizza. It was a nice service that ended with candle light. At home the grands ate PB&J sandwiches in front of the tree and then we all sang Chirstmas songs. What a cool night. After little ones went to bed we had meatballs, party potatoes and salad for adults. We got to visit with Mandy on the phone. It was so good to sit and visit with adult children. Matt and Karen joined Luke in a high tech Monopoloy game.

Friday December 23

2011-12-24T22:10:00.000-08:00

Fixed egg casserole for breakfast. Denny worked at the bank today. With Matt, I took 5 grands to rec center for swimming. Becky took extra casserole to folks and Youslings. We had sandwiches for lunch. It was a beautiful day and the kids played outside. I went to visit folks about 5 and stayed til Whaleys came. About 6:30 Gary brought pizza. Most of the family came to eat out in the coop. So good to have them all here. I didn't get any good group shots, but I did take some snaps of Denny's family in the coop. Diane had figured out that between the Howard and Anabel Johnson and their 4 kids' marriages there are 193 married years. Add in 3 grand children that are married 9, 8, and 7 years and the Grand Praise Worthy total is 217 years. PTL!! What a heritage. Anabel had four kids over and gave them each a table cloth.

Thursday December 22

2011-12-24T22:07:00.000-08:00

Visited folks with Denny before he headed to work. Helped Mom get washed up to start the day. Took Missy into town to get her van at 9. I looked at Dose garage sale and didn't get anything. I ran 3 miles on the tread mill at rec center. I had misplaced my school keys and was thankful when I unleaded the car and found them on the floor of the back seat. At noon I went to folks and fixed grilled cheese for lunch. At home I fixed food for this weekend, cleaned up the kitchen and took an hour nap. We met Missouri Johnsons at Ute AK corral for supper. Denny and I had been talking and wanted to take them out to eat there because we like the food. They had family pictures taken and were headed to Iowa after lunch. So we just met them at Ute. Haley loved the salad bar and Torren liked the pink lemonaide.

Wednesday December 21

2011-12-24T21:59:00.001-08:00

Visit folks. Last day of the semester. CB and I baked cookies for her math class and delivered them to the resource room teachers. We got out of school at 2:30. Hard to believe half of the year is over. I just left my things in the room, so I have a lot of school work to do over break to get ready for next semester. I met Jensens at Rec Center at 3:45. 3 Grands and I swam til 5:00 then home to eat left overs, watch a movie, head to bed. Missy and Phillip took 6 youth to SC to shop and eat at Golden Corral. Missouri Johnsons are coming tomorrow :).

Tuesday December 20

2011-12-21T04:06:00.000-08:00

Happy Anniversary Matt and Becky!!! NINE years. PTL! Visit with Mandy & folks. Mandy drove back to Denver. It took her 8 hours and 35 minutes from door to door. What a trooper. After school I had a dentist appointment. In the resource room we tried to figure out what classes we were going to be teaching next semester. I brought extra food from Independent living home. I went to folks and heated some potato soup for supper (that was what Anabel wanted). At home Denny vacuumed and cleaned. For some reason I was beat and worked on grades some, corrected some semester tests and went to bed. Julie and Josh had a baby girl today. 6 pounds 10 oz. I think Erin Anna.

Monday December 19

2011-12-21T04:02:00.000-08:00

Visit with Mandy and folks at 7:10. She was pretty tickled. Gpa had made breakfast for her and Gma to eat in G'ma's bedroom. After school there was a weigh in at rec center. I got my $30 back for making all 6 weigh ins in the Fitness contest. Because I made 5 out of 6 goals I will be splitting the "pot". Denny worked at bank until 6 then planned to head to motorcycle meeting. Instead he talked with Darren M at folks about changes in folk's basement. Then Denny headed back to the bank to work. Phillip had to work late. Missy had been helping Mandy paint in furnace room. I brought grands home and put them to bed. Then after Phillip got home I went over and painted in the furnace room too.

Sunday December 18

2011-12-21T03:59:00.000-08:00

Donuts with A&E. 19 in SS class (3 adults) After church Dad and Jon S. unloaded back of pickup. Jon has been using the pick up now that he is back from the service for Christmas. We stayed at folks for lunch and ate with them and Mandy. I ran the section about 5. Watched the Grands while the neighbors went to a Christmas party for Highway Products. Mandy came over to visit and open our Christmas presents to her. She and the Grands played Red light, Green light. We had a nice visit after Missy and Phillip got home. It has been great to have Mandy home so she could see the status of the folks and get her bearings in her Country Condo as she calls it. She was going to call it a Rural something, but it was hard for others to understand. They thought it was neuro. or uro. So Country condo it is.

Saturday December 17

2011-12-21T03:57:00.000-08:00

Denny worked at Odebolt. I went for coffee with him at folks. Mandy spent the night at Howard and Anabel's. In afternoon Denny and I went to Sioux City shopping. We got a big box for Karen and Luke at Target. (They didn't know it was for them when Matt and Denny carried it down on the 24th when we opened our Christmas gifts.) Denny and I ate at AppleBees. Then he wanted to get a good smelling perfume at Body and Bath. He couldn't pick out the right scent. And wished he knew Denise VD's phone number so he could find out what the scent was. After we picked out and bought some lotions we headed to the car and went through Shields. We ran into Scott and Denise. Funny!! So we went back to Body and Bath only to find out they did not have any sprays of that name.

Friday December 16

2011-12-16T19:46:00.000-08:00

Howard had made coffee and I had a 1/2 cup. Mandy came over to be with the folks before I left their house to go to school. Anabel was sitting up in bed, she had finished her toast. I helped her to lay back down and put some lotion on her feet. Another day at school. Talking to MT about schedule next semester, finishing proof reading AP's Comp Lit II paper, 3 of 10 teachers gone for the day, room being used for confidential ICN meeting, Missy subbed for Randy N, Sheri did great job reviewing for SPA test, I should have worked out, but stayed in room and checked to see what probes had been done, printed semester tests, tried to organized English activities, and putzed around until the game at 6. Mandy came with A&E. It was fun to have them at a BB game. At home Denny and I chilled and watched dumb TV. Now we're up and he is working on motorcycle minutes. What a thrilling life we have.

Thursday December 15

2011-12-16T03:45:00.000-08:00

When I went over to folks, Gma was again sitting up in bed. Howard had brought coffee and toast to her and he was thinking she had really eaten well. After school I went to Wall Lake and got my hair cut. Denny went to Wendy C. for a check up after lenders meetings etc. I stopped at folks after I got groceries. They were in kitchen. I helped put supper of chicken and jello on the table. Denny worked at bank until about 7. Gma Laurie is here for a couple days. Mandy was driving from Denver and got home about 11:30. 8 1/2 hour drive. I stayed up way to late for school tomorrow.

Wednesday December 14

2011-12-14T18:52:00.000-08:00

G'ma was sitting up in bed when I got there this am. G'pa had made coffee. After school I ran 3 miles on the tread mill at the rec center. Awana store night, so I got some more stuff at Dollar General. The picture is of Parent's night. Evan was trying to hit his mom with a dodge ball. I studied for SPA test at night.

Tuesday December 13

2011-12-13T18:20:00.000-08:00

Little A wanted to see great granny today. So we did. Howard was going in the am to Storm Lake to change the appliance order. After school I went to Holstein for WW. Then to rec center to run 3+ miles on the tread mill. At home we at Jim's burger tacos and watched a VCR with A&E. How cute is that little Amelia? Gotta love grands. Blessing from Mary Jo... May the Lord bless you and give you strength and courage to face your day. May you be faithful in the little issues which will migrate to larger concerns. May your faith be built day by day as you depend upon the Lord to see you through. May the mark which identifies you be Jesus Christ. God bless you.

Monday December 12

2011-12-12T19:25:00.000-08:00

I stopped at folks about 7:15. Mom was comfortably lying in the hospital bed. She could raise up the head of the bed pretty easily so we could visit better. She had not had a bath. The health care nurse was coming today. I took the Jeep to get the tire fixed. After school I swam with Sue for 45 minutes. I really did not understand redox and free in SPA today. That is very frustrating for me. I worked both on SPA and research papers at home. Denny called siblings about Mom's condition. Mandy and Luke called. Mandy has been busy putting thing into boxes. She has them labeled and packed and ready to go. She is sending some boxes home with Durel C. over Christmas break. The picture is from Saturday. It is of Ginny A. and Brittany R.

Sunday December 11, 2011

2011-12-12T19:17:00.000-08:00

Slow morning. Evan came down and asked if I could take a picture before we went in for donuts. Sure. I had baked rolls this am and we took the rolls and E&A over to see great gma and gpa, After church we waited and met to buy a dishwasher from Craig's list. Then we ate at a potato bake by youth group at church. Then quarterly business meeting, Then to Goodenows to visit with Kathy and Rory. It was great just to sit and visit with couples that have been a part of our lives through out many years. Then back to church to set up the Awana store. At home I went to bed and fell asleep only to wake up at 11 and start thinking about the sophomores and the research papers that have to be done this week. Couldn't fall back asleep. Lord, help me rest in you and not carry my concerns.

Saturday December 10

2011-12-11T04:30:00.001-08:00

Mom's birthday. Miss her. I worked on typing the final test for Independent living this am. Denny was washing dishes and cleaning and laughing out loud at the car repair brothers. It was funny to hear him laugh. In the afternoon I called Sue G. and we went to Ginny's home for a Christmas coffee and then to Jenny B."s home for a Christmas coffee.

Friday December 9 0022157

2011-12-10T05:08:00.000-08:00

Mom looked better at coffee this am. She had taken her bath and Howard was putting on her slippers. A slow walk to kitchen where she was having a piece of toast. I found a coffee filter to get a pot of coffee started for Mom. Denny had open house at the bank this am. Carlie and I went to down town stores for math class. Picture is of Brad and Micki at Dubuque December 3.

Thursday December 8

2011-12-08T18:31:00.001-08:00

Coffee at folks As I came for coffee this am Anabel was in bed. Howard said she had already taken her shower and was resting. I went in and she was so still, resting peacefully. As I spoke, she opened her eyes. The first words out her mouth were,"How was your party last night?" (The resource room ladies met at The Inn in Battle Creek to eat together for the Christmas season.) Anabel remembered and in her usual fashion ... asked about someone else and didn't make a comment about herself. Her legs/feet are very swollen. The cleaning lady is suppose to come today. Also the nurses from home health care. Hopefully, the nurses can get a water pill for Anabel to reduce some of the swelling. Keep her in your prayers.
After school I ran 3 miles at the rec center. Denny and I met at Bomgaars to buy toys. We stopped at folks before coming home. Linda had just left. Diane is flying to Omaha and renting a car.
The pictures are of 3 racing, running, little pink PJed girls down the hall way of Grand Harbor this weekend. They were having so much fun. So cute.

Wednesday December 7

2011-12-08T06:12:00.000-08:00

As I came for coffee this am Anabel was in bed. Howard said she had already taken her shower and was resting. I went in and she was so still resting peacefully. As I spoke, she opened her eyes. The first words out her mouth were,"How was your party last night?" The resource ladies met at The Inn in Battle Creek to eat together for the Christmas season. Anabel remembered and in her usual fashion ... asked about someone else and didn't make a comment about herself. Her legs/feet are very swollen. The cleaning lady is suppose to come today. Also the nurses from home health care. Hopefully, the nurses can get a water pill for Anabel to reduce some of the swelling. Keep her in your prayers.

Tuesday December 6

2011-12-07T03:34:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TORREN!!! We are so thankful to have you. You bring much joy and laughter to our family. Coffee at folks this am. Anabel is getting weaker. Yesterday she said she used to shower and get dressed before breakfast, but she is changing her routine. She said that she is now eating breakfast, then resting, then showering. When Denny was over there this morning (before he went to work), Howard was helping lift her feet on to the bed. She had finished breakfast and didn't have the strength to get her feet up on the bed so Howard lifted them up. Then she needed help getting the blanket up and over her. After visiting with Kathy L. I got a new home school high school student. At 5 I headed to the rec center and ran 3.5 miles on the treadmill. Then to the girls' BB game against Harlan. They won, but they didn't show much sparkle. Denny used his season pass and joined me. After the game we headed home. Denny got the basement ready for Kevin N. to put in radon remover equipment tomorrow. I fixed fajita for supper.

Monday December 5

2011-12-05T18:12:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Nancy and Steven who got engaged on Friday. Keith's family celebrated Christmas at Grand Harbor. They used a light stand as the tree. Coffee at folks this am. Denny has a cold and stayed in bed a long time. I had an IEP meeting at 3 pm. After school I worked out at the rec center and weighed in. I'm pretty confused. My usual way of adding pictures is not working. Denny doesn't know a quick solution. Maybe I'll never get pictures on the blog again...it That happens I may just stop the blog. I need those thousand words every day in my blog. Denny worked on paying bills.

Sunday December 4

2011-12-05T17:36:00.001-08:00

Cereal in cups ... in bed ... for Grands. Then to the water park. Last time for the weekend. We checked out about 11:30. Then Luke treated us to lunch at Panera Breads. I rode home with Jensens. Denny headed to Omaha with Mandy to catch her plane. We got home just in time to get Grands ready for SS Christmas program. Missy's committee was in charge of the lunch afterwards. Home and to bed. I was bushed.

Saturday December 3

2011-12-05T17:17:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Bruce, and Julie! I was down in restaurnt as 3 family groups ate, just to visit. After Johnson/Jensens ate we headed to the waterpark. Pretty fun time. About 1 the pinata was attacked. Then the gift/take away exchange. I think there were about 54 people at the gathering. Nice time.

Friday December 2

2011-12-05T17:12:00.001-08:00

Mandy and I went over for coffee. After school I came right home. Then we headed out to see the "lamb cousins". Got to Dubuque about 11. Exciting news...Nancy Lynn and Steven got engaged that afternoon.

Thursday December 1

2011-12-05T16:41:00.000-08:00

Coffee at folks. Missy subbed for 2nd grade. Mandy studied for initials. After school I checked E mail, took meat balls and party potatoes and went over to folks.
We three gals worked there in basement. Mandy and I ate supper there. Missy brought food home for her family. Denny worked at bank and then ate at folks. Big day. Home about 9. Message after we got home on E mail. OOps

November 30,2011

2011-12-01T03:29:00.000-08:00

Cute shot of Karen through the shed door. Coffee with folks in am. Regular day at school. I plan to get this much done...and it takes longer than I plan. I want to start with budget info in Ind. Liv. but my food/grocery information is not quite done. With only about 10 -12 days left in the semester...Uffta. After school I met with Home school family at rec center. Susan and I swam for about 35 minutes. Awana. I lead Sparkie and Girls game time. I was tired at home. Mandy and dad came to visit while I was lying in bed. Crazy how I think that if I am lying down it is almost the same as sleeping. Mandy and Missy spent time in folk's basement today. Blessings from Mary Jo...May the Lord bless you today. May you turn to him and absorb the warmth of His embrace. May you hear the sweet and kind words he has to encourage you. May you know that you are loved. May you feel the beauty of the season with a warm glow in your heart. God bless you.

Tuesday November 29

2011-11-29T17:40:00.001-08:00

Coffee at folks with Little A and E and Mandy... Great! Full day at school. Went to Grocery store. After school I went to rec center and ran 3 miles. Then home and had leftover zoopa for supper with romaine salad and left over pumpkin pie. Now Denny is watching the little ones while Missy and Phillip meet with Loziers.

Monday November 28

2011-11-29T04:09:00.000-08:00

Coffee at folks. G'ma was weak and so she was in bed when I got there. I took the math book I borrowed back to Elementary school and got another. After school Sue and I swam for 45 minutes. Mandy put lasagna in oven for supper. Mandy went to folks when a nurse came to visit. So glad she was there, she spent about an hour talking to Linda on the phone. G'ps went to dentist to have one tooth's roughness taken care of. The family went out to check out the hogs' status when we were together over the weekend.Blessings from Mary Jo...May the Lord bless and keep you. May He strengthen you body, soul, mind and spirit. May you focus on the face of Jesus this season to see Him as the Salvation of our lives. May you see the wisdom of God in His eyes and feel the Comfort of the Holy Spirit in his embrace. May you step closer to Him every day. God bless you.

Sunday November 27

2011-11-27T12:43:00.000-08:00

Grands enjoyed the rec center pool yesterday. This am I fixed biscuits and gravy. Denny took A&E in for SS. Luke & Karen and Matt & Becky left in am after visiting with folks. Mandy and I went to church. Then we took left overs to folks for lunch. Nap in afternoon and get ready for the real world again tomorrow. It has been a super weekend.

Saturday November 26

2011-11-26T21:12:00.000-08:00

Rec Center with Grands 7:30 until home at 9:30. Quick stop at folks. Denny had made Cheesey Eggs with smokies. YUM. Then Zoopa for lunch. YUM YUM Lazy afternoon. Took Grands out to find a ditch tree. Kids played, wrestled,ate. We relaxed. Kis to bed about 8 ... Adults had meal in coop. Relaxing. YUM>

Friday November 25

2011-11-25T05:01:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Becca! Mandy left early for UI game at Lincoln. She met Jason in IG. I went to coffee with Denny before he headed to work. Anabel was so thankful that I helped her make Howard's bed. I got stuff ready for family to come, food, etc. About 6 pm Mo. Johnsons came. About 6:20 Denny got home from work. About 6:30 Howard and Anabel came. We ate about 7 Cavatinni. Haley and Anabel helped me put frosting on pumpkin bars for B'day cake for Haley and Torren.

Thanksgiving Thurs Nov. 24,2011

2011-11-25T04:20:00.000-08:00

Went to bed late... very unusual... up early... very usual... Denny and Mandy still asleep. baked a pumpkin pie... turkey in oven. Went up to Kara's and helped Logan get World History assignments found, completed, and ready to turn it. Read AR book with him. About noon folks came over. I had set the table with the table cloth that Lenora Leistikow gave me and red dishes. Anabel brought yummy dill pickle roll ups that Diane had made when Johnson siblings had get together. After eating Howard took a nap and Anabel, Mandy and Denny looked at blogs/pictures on the computer. After folks went home Denny washed the dishes, Mandy listened to her lectures. Denny and I went for a walk outside to see Henningson new fence south of our corner. Leftover supper. Watched tv show on Mandy's computer then... High Ho High Ho it's off to bed we go.

Wednesday November 23

2011-11-23T21:07:00.000-08:00

Coffee...Mom is so tired. She does such a great job of not complaining... but she is worn out. Please keep her on your prayers. Missy and Phillip went to spend the Thanksgiving with his grand parents and family... What a blessing they are. If only my school kids had Grands that prayed for them and loved them and supported them like the example of Phil and Bette... So much to be thankful for. After school I headed to Omaha. A couple stops at consignment shops... and to the airport withing 10 minutes of M&J getting their baggage ... to pick up Mandy and Jason. Stop at Howard and Anabel's home. Denny stopped and got me to go the the Thanksgiving service at the Pres. church in IG. Then home to cook up a storm and wait for Mandy who took Jason to Cherokee. Now it is time for bed. Good day... Good night. My plans for English class got postponed. I had planned for them to write a paragraph about how Thanksgiving would be different because they had read Night by Eliezer Wiesler (a survivor of the Holocaust). Instead I let them write while I worked on the assignments that L. has not turned in in World History. Hope I can meet with him tomorrow and work on catching up or finding the assignments he has not turned in. So much to be Thankful for... So much to pray for ... Blessings from Mary Jo...May the Lord bless you today and may you take time in your life to fall on your face before Him to recognize that He alone is worthy of praise and worship. May you focus on his face rather than the agenda for Black Friday to recognize every blessing comes from the Hand of God. May your heart be purged from all distractions so that gratefulness for what you have fills your heart and mind. God bless you.

Tuesday November 22

2011-11-22T17:26:00.000-08:00

Coffee at folks. Anabel is tired and thankful that Gary is going along for her talk with the Doctor. I am so thankful for Mary Jo Hudson's blessings... May the Lord bless and keep you. May He be the source and supply for your every need. May He strengthen you in spirit and body. May your mind be stayed upon Him for wisdom and insight. May you be bold and sure with every step you take. God bless you.
I ran for 30 minutes at the rec center before heading home. I did a phone presentation for my Functional Behavioral class at 6.(I'm finished with the class!!!) At 7 I went over to visit Howard and Anabel for a while. Denny is meeting with a friend. Missy went to study at Jenny B's. Nice pic of mom and her daughters.

Monday November 21

2011-11-22T17:25:00.002-08:00

Coffee at folks. Mom is so tired. She just keeps going. I had an IEP meeting at 2 today. Then I weighed in and worked out. I found out it is better to workout then weigh in. Here are some more cuties from the SS class I help with. We had Neil soup for supper and I had rhubarb pie from ingathering. YUM. Donnabel is a great cook.

Sunday November 20

2011-11-21T16:06:00.000-08:00

Sprinkled topped cookies...not donuts this morning. It is hard to pass up sprinkles. I taught the 2-5 year old class. I took a picture of Evan's class, too. After church I took Stangls home then to IG for stores being open. Got some stuff at Selections...I thought it was 25% off, but NO... I hadn't read the sign correctly. Oh, well, small town merchants need to make some money too. At home I froze Cavatinni for this weekend and made a salad for ingathering at 5 pm. It's good to look forward to a short week. I stressed about oral presentation for FBA. Denny worked a long time trying to get skyp set up. We'll see.

Happy Birthday Haley!! November 19,2011

2011-11-19T04:59:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! WE LOVE YOU HALEY!!! Denny worked outside with Phillip getting electric fence working so sheep don't get out. I worked on class work. I'd like to have it done before Thanksgiving. At 4 we went in to the Skate Palace and watched a skater's competition. It was very different for us to do something like that...kinda fun.

Friday November 18

2011-11-19T04:47:00.001-08:00

Coffee at folks, Pictures are from Ben and Becca's wedding on Nov. 15, 2003. AFter school I went to Arthur to read the paper. Then Denny and I went to Carroll and got some clothes for Denny, ate Mexican, and shopped Wal-Mart. About 10:15 I went to the car and took a nap.

Thursday November 17

2011-11-19T04:22:00.000-08:00

Coffee at folks. We had an 9 am staffing for a student. Hopefully he will get along fine at Flex ed in afternoon and HS in morning with his mom transporting him. After school I met Susan and we swam until 5:15. Denny came to the rec center then and I rode the stationary bike for another 30 minutes. At home Denny helped me make a graph for Morningside 431. It was a huge help. The picture is of the folks skyping with Eric on Sunday. Eric is in Ireland this fall. Howard was so cute, as they waited for the connection, he could see Eric and Grandpa was waving with his hand at Eric.

Wednesday November 16

2011-11-17T03:57:00.000-08:00

Coffee at folks. Anabel had toe nail trim in Ida Grove today. One student got sent home, tomorrow is a staffing to see where he can learn best. After school I went to Wall Lake to get my hair cut. Then to Awana. I tried to work on my computer at church, but too little charge, I didn't get much done.

I am always encouraged by Mary Jo's blessings: May the Lord bless you. May you find an unfailing friend in Jesus. He will not disappoint. He always hears. He is kind and loving every minute of our day. May you know him intimately. God bless you.

Tuesday November 15

2011-11-17T03:54:00.000-08:00

Coffee at folks. Met with pricipal at 7:45 to see about a tutor. After school I headed to SC to meet with 4 home school families. Tired and so I just headed back after a 4-5:45 stay at Arbies. Denny went to motorcycle meeting and out to eat in Denison. He brought back a great meal for me.

Monday November 14

2011-11-14T17:45:00.000-08:00

Coffee at folks. Howard wondered why I was over. He didn't know it was Monday. I guess the busy Sunday threw him off. Right before I left Anabel got sick to her stomach and headed to the bathroom. Full school day. Started to read Night by Elie Wiesel to English students. After school Denny and I took the Liberty to Odebolt to get the oil changed. Missy came down to visit a little. Phillip had to go back in to work in the evening.

Sunday November 13

2011-11-14T16:22:00.000-08:00

Donuts before Sunday School. We were running late, so no prayer time. Made lemonaide and got out cookies. After church we went home. Linda had brought Thanksgiving dinner for all 17 Johnsons. Missy told Linda that Linda could bring Sunday dinner over any time she wanted to. The kitchen would always be open. Good to have all of Denny's siblings here. Good time with everyone.

Saturday November 12

2011-11-12T21:03:00.000-08:00

I got up and worked on research synthesis. Submitted it around noon. In a class of 240 points, and about 20 assignments of 5 points each, this is worth 30 points. Denny worked at Odebolt this am. Set table for Thanksgiving meal tomorrow with Johnsons. At 6 we went to rec center and worked out...then to HS play...AFter the play Laura and Mark stopped. Good day. The pictures are of the roller skating party. Early in the night Evan said,"I can skate by myself. I don't need to skate with mom or dad." Growing up...

Friday November 11

2011-11-12T21:01:00.000-08:00

Coffee at folks. As I got out of the car there were 7 wild turkeys right west of the house. I asked Howard and Anabel if they were starting to raise fowl. To school early for staffing... hopefully student will have a better attitude. I stayed and worked at school until home school skating party at 6;30. Then home and work on research synthesis.

Thursday November 12

2011-11-12T20:56:00.000-08:00

Coffee at folks...Don't remember what else I did that day. Susan and I met to swim at 4:20. There is a home school skating party Friday night...preview picture of event that has happened as I work on the blog one week later. I'm trying to get rid of the picture that was upside down...Don't know why that happened.

Wednesday November 9

2011-11-09T19:03:00.000-08:00

Coffee at folks. Early out for professional development day. Need to work on our 10th grade research paper and I feel very inadequate. Phillip took my car home,(flat on Toyota) and I rode home with Missy. Worked on school work for an hour...then to Awana family night. Set out red hot punch, pumpkin bars, cookies, and apple juice. I went up to watch Anabel at Cubbies. There were over 25 little 3-5 year olds. Then I went to watch Evan and Missy at game time. The Wednesday night count was 266 tonight. Pastor gave a counsel time that started out with a two person race drinking pop.

Wednesday November 9

2011-11-08T18:43:00.000-08:00

EVERYBODY GETS A PONY RIDE. At the pumpkin patch it was suppose to be $4 for a ride. But the pony owners were from Matt and Becky's church...so free rides for the three. Awana family night

Tuesday November 8

2011-11-08T18:34:00.000-08:00

No chemo for 2 weeks. Anabel's platelet count was 75. After school I went to Holstein for WW then to the rec center, ran 3 miles,biked 2 miles,lifted 5 pound weights. I came home and baked pumpkin bars and chicken casserole. I tried to understand SPA. It is hard for me... and I am suppose to be explaining it to resource room 9th graders. UFFTA!! I'll keep trying. But I can't remember what are antions and what are cations. to say nothing of the spdf levels. UFFTA!!

Monday November 7

2011-11-08T18:30:00.001-08:00

Coffee at folks. Still pretty tired. It was a huge weekend for them with Sally and Lindberg cousin get together. Drive around all Thursday afternoon then Meals out Friday night and Saturday noon. At 3 there was an IEP meeting. After school I went to get weighed. Then Susan and I swam from 4:30- 5:30. So refreshing. Then to grocery store.