What is the most important thing in your heart today ?

Christmas is so here! I am thrilled to be able to check in tonight. The Christmas snow is falling and at a good rate I might add. I love driving in the quiet of the snow. I think it has put some people into the "Christmas" spirit too. Then again the ding dongs who don't know how to drive a foot in it. Today was and is a very special day in our lives! Today was Michael's 22 Birthday. His Graduation form Kent State University and ..... my mom's birthday too! I love December 19th. One of my most favortist days. I know that is not a word but it is for me. Say it out loud three times and it will become one of your most favortist too!
Good day at The Dutch Tulip today as is every day. I love my job !
On December 19th as a child we would always get our Christmas Tree! and take it home... Do you remember having to let it stand in the basement for a day or so to defrost? What was that bout? I think that was just Mom and Dad's way to keep us on the patient end of waiting till it was " thawed" in order to put it up. I loved decorating our tree at home. My mom would often tell us that they had received this or that ornament when they had first gotten married. And the tinsel was a tin garland of tight ringy yo yo type foil pieces tightly packed as we would take that coil out of the box~ mom would say ' Oh that old garland it's all beat up . - we got that on our honeymoon." Do you think they did ? I wonder. And Hey I remember seeing Mommy kissing santa claus... under our tree. I saw it i really did an for all you doubters out there.~ I Believe !

It's Beginning to look alot like Christmas

Hi .... Wow can you believe it is December 13 ? And as I type that I realize I missed Anneleise's birthday. I am so sorry friend, Happy Belated Birthday 5 days late ! Well we have decided to not travel to church today. It was in Struthers and we decided it best to stay home , get the fire rolling and maybe decorate this old house for Santa's arrival soon to come. Little chilly in here and found it difficult to get out from inside the snugg bed. Freezing rain covers the porch and walk way many churches are cancelled and folks are staying home to maybe bake some yummy cookies or something fun like that. I have been So SO SO busy at the Dutch Tulip. Things are really going terrifically! I Love Being Busy there!!! Just still having a hard time with time allocation and getting my house in order. How can two people make such a mess ? Haven't decided what I'd like to cook today. Seems like a good day to put a pot of soup on or maybe some chili? Maybe potato soup ???? I have these grand plans for a busy day with much accomplished Hope I Can get a good stab at it ! Love to you this chilly Sunday Morning... Jenny

Wow....seems as though it has been FOREVER since I have been around! just ask my dear friend Anneliese ! ( Hello by the way) My life has turned around for the better in so many ways. Lets see if I can help catch you up on these past 5 months... The Dutch Tulip is .... up running and in full speed ahead. I'm working and average of 40 ish hours a week. The Dutch Village Inn is my pallet. The decor is amazing ( and all for sale by the way). I am so excited to go to work every day ! I have been booking brides often ( two the past week!) What an awesome job I have! I have found a new peace and joy in my heart that has been a little stifled of the past couple years. Can you imagine me being happier than I have ever been???? that is it in a sentence. I LOVE MY JOB. And I really mean it this time I'm not being fecicious either. What a pleasure to go to work every day and have much to do ! The other day Edna asked if I had work to do when I went to the Tulip? Yesssss ..... there is always something to do, In fact I still have pumpkins in the Christmas tree up on the main lobby . I had intended to take them off and replace them with red ornaments... Haven't had time to get to that in two plus weeks. Just coming home from there this very evening. I have been trying to not be there on Mondays at all. Sometimes I'm not able to stay away , but for the most part- I'm only teaching aerobics on Monday nights.

Kenny is wonderful. A few years ago I was concerned for our marriage and our future.... Praise the Lord, there is no longer an issue there. We are more adjusted than ever before in our marriage. Another interesting point to that statement is that Holly enjoys our company- independently and together. How did that happen ? It wasn't too very long ago she couldn't stand spending time with us. Now we are the first she calls to chit chat or discuss the important things in a 21 year old life. Yes I said it Holly will be 21 Years old in just a few weeks ! How in the world did that happen???? I am so proud of her. Her boyfriend Michael of 5 years as well. He has worked his butt off in order to graduate a semester early from Kent with a degree in I T . He already has a real job and everything ! Proud of them.....

Things here on the farm are good. Kenny is here all of the time by himself as I am away from at least 8 - 9 am to that same in the evening. He takes great care of our ( my) chosen pets. Hilde and Gretta are just too cute! They jump on the dog house to get a little pet when he is filling the wood burner. they like to yell at me as I run to and from the van. Sometimes I'm able to do chores before leaving - but who am I kidding. It is my beloved.. I am excited about Christmas. Haven't begun decorating our home yet. Everybody else's but not ours. I hope to this week. Sitting here at the computer I am freezing. so I need to go. Please know I long to check in here occasionally- just don't seem to have any time to call my own. ( i love it tho!) God Bless you as you prepare your heart and home for Jesus' Birthday ! Love to you my friend.... xoxoxo MUAH~ jenny

Well Hello Ther!

My oh my I have not had the time to write on my blog for what seems like ever.... Here I am at 4:24 AM, Unable to sleep and finding myself checking the "puter" for what's new in my world via the facebook thing and the news and that sort of stuff. Yesterday went so very very well. The Grand Opening and Showcase of Events at the Dutch Village Inn was attended by over 650 People. I don't think all of them came to see me and what I decorated and designed but, I think they left the inn thinking wow " that's some place" and it is. I am so happy to be able to share my craft in such a beautiful facility. What an honor and what a blessing. Thank you to my Ken and to my Holly for helping me accomplish this ~
as I write this it is 4:30 AM I am unable to sleep. Snick had a big seizure causing his water bowl to cash down the steps. So I got up to help him out and now Im up. We have a ridiculous sleep schedule in this house. Today is Kenny's 50th Birthday. :) Makes me smile because he's an old fart now. AARP sent him a packet this week. Just funny to me to say he's 50! Well we took many pictures yesterday so I am looking forward to getting them posted here so you can see them...

Hi There...

Well Geeze oh man, it has been a busy few months seeming like I can never get to this point to say hello.... Hello.
Kenny has been so sick with a terrible cough, it has continued for a while now and he has procrastinated Dr' ing however, I put my foot down and had him call the office anyway yesterday. Seems she might call a script in to the pharmacy today. I hope so . he's a mess . subsequently i'm a mess. I refuse to get it so I'm taking vitamin C like it's candy. Vixing up and Vixing my feet . I have a lovely fragrance these days. "o'de to menthol" Things are going so well at the Dutch Tulip. I have had several deliveries. It's going gangbusters. and I'm thrilled. I'm so blessed to work in such a marvelous facility. The Christmas decor is so lovely. Coming together I have quite a way to go and we haven't started putting anything actually up yet. But please know if you are looking for that perfect gift of a beautiful proportion please come and check out the arrangements I have made at the INN. I think you'll certainly be able to find something you love...
one more thing about the shop: The Grand Opening and Showcase of Shops November 14, 2009 10:00 Am - 4:00 PM . Please come and see what's happening !


Well on another note , my girl is the best. She's doing so well in college . Tomorrow she is teaching her first ever lesson at school.... I'm proud of her and I know she will make a terrific teacher...

Fall is upon us!

Well the leaves are in full array of color and the winter chill is upon us. I think I'm not ready to be cold. We have been blessed with a fire now almost 2 whole weeks. Kenny is already working to keep us warm, but it is only mid October. :( I'm so not ready for bone chilling cold weather.
Things are so great at the Dutch Tulip. I am well on my way to designing much of the articles for the Christmas Decor in the Inn. I have it all planned as well as some of it started. It is going to be so beautiful! I have sooooo much to do . Right this minute I am challenged with the process of blogging as there is a little cold pawed furry black smidge thinking my typing is utterly fascinating! He is a cute little bugger. Finally have my black cat I have needed for a year now. We lost Thunder one year ago. I miss him so. Maybe now Floyd will fill that empty hole , However right now he is kinda just a little pesty and a little needy. Attention , play , feed, more attention , clean up on aisle 5 then - play , sleep hard purr in your face and need fed again. He eats tiny little bits a million times a day. Tsunami thinks she can play with him a bit, Ezzie isn't to amused, she'd like to but can't really be to bothered.
Everything on the farm is good. Made a big pot of spaghetti sauce today, and some peanut butter cookies, mmmm. should have cleaned my house but found the kitchen more of a welcoming place than the vacuum and mop. Well just wanted to pop in to say Hi out there... Love to you this week. ~J

13 Years....

13 Years of beautiful wedded bliss-well no always , but for the most part yes. a happy life a happy existence a happy farm a happy family and a happy me.
Kenny and I enjoyed our 13 wedding anniversary yesterday- this is how we spent the day : we took our two new "kids" the twin baby Pygmy goats to my friends' preschool. That was fun, it really was . Catching them in the morning was a bit of a challenge but it was so fun to hear what a 4 year old has to say about a goat.
" does she poop in the house?" does she sleep in the house ? what does he eat? does she like macaroni and cheese ? how 'bout pizza ? whats her name? me and my brother are almost twins - we're brothers! does she bite ? how old is she? does she still need her mom?
It was so funny to hear their comments. City children they are not; but they are not from a rural community. I think they enjoyed us as much as we enjoyed them. hat a way to spend our day. In order to catch both the morning and afternoon children e had a beak of an hour in the middle - we took them to see Bob and Anneleise. They really got a kick out of them. Fun for me to see Bob so smiley. Anneliese calls them "monshotz" I think that means something like precious . Their family dog's name was shotzie I think. Fun to see them so happy. Older people and children love to see animals. I wish I knew the word in German for horns. Anneliese noticed their horns and said that word. Also a delight to my soul.....
So back to school we went after a lunch break in the wendy's parking lot! with 2 gaots in the back of the van. I'll have you know they're were no accidents in the van ! ( or at school !) Welome again home again jiggety jig. We went to aerobics and then to Don and Kathy's to visit with dear old friends Bob and Nelly, Bren Dona and Kathy. That was fun. I laughed hard at a few o our stories. Poked my eyes out with a fork at a few of the others.... All in all a beautiful 13 th wedding anniversary with my boyfriend.

Thank you Kenny for loving me and tolerating my farm animals. I love them and they bring me joy. Thanks for being such a great dad to Holly. For a long time I never thought we'd see her shining here as an adult and on her own.... But here she is , and here e are on the other side of that and enjoying our lives. God truly blessed me with you. I'
m so sorry it has been so hard. but I 'm glad we have traveled his road together. You are healthier now than yo have been in a log time. Let's keep it this way for as long as awe can ! Thank you my love. Happy Anniversary

a pretty slow morning for me here

Mel and I went to the Bebo Norman , Natalie Grant and Jeremy Camp concert last night at the Scottish Rite Cathedral in New Castle. It was great fun however; we are now the moldie oldies. Upon reaching our seats in the first balcony we were comfortable on the end of the row, at the aisle could see the stage quite well. Bebo came out with 1 other man, played acoustic guitar and keyboard and it was just lovely . I enjoy his music so much. Then Natalie- she was great a well - pretty loud and pretty bright. I was pleased at her testimony and the way she really spoke the gospel to the young people ( and old people ) in the audience. By this part of the concert the fog machines had been blowing the fog for now almost an hour or more. the light show was quite amazing however we were both feeling quite parched- pretty much deaf and glad it was just the 2 of us instead of our "guys" as they would have maybe not been so patient. hahaha

Intermission- 20 minutes to prepare for the big show~ I stayed to save our seats while Mel went on a quest for a bottle of water for the two of us. She came back after finding the one and only water fountain in the entire place bubbling over and overflowing to the floor and down the steps... She tried to lap at the water like a dog - but unable to share any with her best friend. She returned empty handed so sorry I could not have had a drink... hahahha Im still laughing so hard.. as I type this. We are old women I tell you.
So the show is about to begin again.... the fog is blowing filling the auditorium with this thick cloud- our tongs were thsucht tho the ruuuufff of our mouthhhs cauthe we neededth a drink tho bad, causing us to laugh hysterically to the point i started to cry ~ begged her to catch my tears so they wouldn't be waisted ... it was moisture..... haha . . . .
The show began. OH MY GOSH IT WAS SO LOUD IT WAS AS IF I WERE IN FRONT OF THE SPEAKERS IT WAS SO BRIGHT I WAS AFRAID I WAS GOING TO HAVE A SEIZURE RIGHT THEN AND THERE!
Don't' get me wrong we loved it , but we are so old. I couldn't understand what he was saying the first song or two, thought it was the lack of moisture in my brain caused my inability to decipher intellectual speech. Maybe it was the bright and flashing light show cooking my retinas ahahahahaha
Oh I kill myself if you could only be right here ith me you 'd be laughing too.
I couldn't read the words on the screen in the back I tried to squint to read them . I tried to focus. Just couldn't read them - I 'm not the blind one Kenny is. Jeremy started to dance- you know how young people do up and down and up and down bouncing like a tigger on his tail? UMMMMM I'm pretty sure the entire balcony was bouncing like that- except of course the two of us and the couple in front of us who literally crawled over the people next to them cling the steps as they ascended to to the stair case to get out of there before they plummeted to their death and their moment of glory . the look of terror on the poor womans face made me giggle even harder as we screamed to one another that we needed to have blue and mauve hair and be in babushkas! hahah
oh I went to the main floor to find liquid anything -0 pretty sure if I were to have taken her a can of beer she wouldve chugged it. haah ha oooohhhhh
( mind you my mel doesn't drink pop too often ) Came back with a diet coke and a sprite. Then what happens I get the burps and it's burger king all over again... hahahahaaaaa Now were are blinded by the flashing lights, deafened by the bboooommminnnnggg sub wolfers and afraid the balcony is going to plumet to the floor below and kill a few thousand people in the process. I'm all about Glory one day - didn't really imagine I'de go there during a christian concert - so I put my phone in my pocket for body identification and my purse over my arm. sat back and waited for the beams to give out. drinking my yukky diet coke and burping burger king to the tune of Savior he can move a mountain my god is mighty to save he is mighty to save ! Hahahah whatever we do - turns out to be an unusual but so fun memory.... Hahaha, wow it was really great. my ears are still ringing and my fingers are tingly , but my heart is overflowing with joy and yes my worship cup is over flowing too.... Have a happy day and know Im old.

I think summer is gone and fall is surely here

I haven't been blogging for what seems a long time. This morning I woke up to this critter chirping - he begins his morning song about 5:30 and he has a systematic chirping that happens much like an alarm clock! He lives somewhere in the front flower bed I think he is a small frog or maybe a displaced spring chirper that has his clock messed up. Nontheless he has woken me from my slumber now 3 days in a row. ! I need to get up and be busy about the house and farm here anyway. I have a hard time getting things accomplished here as I want to be at work more than I want to be here. So much going on at The Dutch Tulip. It is coming together.... I am excited we have Callie's desk in the hall now it looks so pretty. Next is Tracey's , But she does have it switched about. It is so fun to see this all mesh and fit.- Like a puzzle - I am just so excited I can't tell you. Another wedding booked for May 1 and I have one next saturday that is all paid.... Each one is pretty and different in it's own right. Every bride wants something different. Fun to see it come to pass. They most of them spend their entire lives dreaming about their wedding, in a few short hours it's a memory as you watch it then unfold a million times over on a photograph. I have tried to count the girls whom I have done wedding flowers. I can't. There are many many many. Years and years of floral history. Fun for me to enjoy the lives of the girls who have hung in their marriage and now I see them raising babies of their own. :) What a pleasure to enjoy a lifetime of relationships. There are even a few whom I had the opportunity to do their highschool dance flowers as well as wedding and baby shower. Thats really what the real joy of my job is. I pray for each bride , sometimes in private and sometimes I 'm close enough with them to pray with them before leading them to the aisle, :) Love my job.

Well as I look out the window the sun is starting to rise over the tree line. Seems as thought the colors are changing even in the sky. Summer has gone by so fast. My garden stands as an unkempt dinosaur lurking in the back yard. It is full of dying or dead produce hanging untouch ed by my hands to its sad end. The weeds are at least 7 ' tall as the plants are hidden under them puny and frail as they have not been nurtured and loved to provide us with a bounty of canned goods on the shelf. I have just not been home to do it. I feel guilty and sad that it has gone to waist. I have put a few things up but only a few. :( it will be sad in march to not have my spaghetti sauce. I do tho have a new job ! shut up jenny!
Be thankful! Quit complaining of being busy- at least i have hands and feet that move that can keep me busy!

Thats all that is really on my mind friends I have some laundry to do so I have work clothes to wear and then off to "work" i shall go! love to you this fine fall day. Enjoy the sunrise or maybe the sunset- maybe you'll be lucky and catch them both, Hurry go see!

Yep ! The Dutch Tulip is "where it's at !"

Can you believe I have just finished cleaning up from Alex and Seva's wedding.... Totally beautiful. A lovely event..... Thank you for hanging in there with me through this process. Well our Grand Opening is Saturday Novemeber 14th 2009 ! It's the seasaon of giving. Please mark your calander and watch for coming details.. Thanks ... love tio you Jenny

Wow it's the end of august

here we are the end if the month , goodness how time flies when were busy with s new project! Things are going so very very well, I'm blessed. This is the opportunity of a lifetime. I believe with all my heart I'm accomplishing the task at hand . And doing a good job ! :) we are 4 / 4 I completed Kathleen's wedding yesterday. She was so tickled. Made me happy to make her bouquet like her . I've known her for 6 years or so and it's fun to create for someone exactly what you perceive them to be ! I was able to put a few beads into her bouquet that I had strung on copper wire . Pretty. Well I'm thrilled that we are pleasing brides one at a time !
Alex and Seva's wedding is in two weeks ! That's going to be beautiful ! I'm excited for their special day. I don't want to be so busy I can't enjoy it though. Tonight is her bachelorette party . Holly was invited as well. I hope they have fun. Well I have an anniversary party arrangement to go to the tulip and put together ! Another cake on my wall to decorate and... Who knows what else might pose itself to my door today ! :) be so blessed - please continue to pray the Lord blesses me with more and more creativity. ! Come and see me at the Dutch tulip very soon ! -j

Oh lord you're beautiful your face is all I see, and when your eyes are on this
are on this child your grace abounds in me. Isn't that a beautiful chorus. ? Tonight
I had the pleasure of a holly visit . Good for me and profitable for her- as she leaves with
fried rice and chicken- zucchini, beans , a few red cherry tomatoes and a peach and an apple .
What a joy to have her pop in for a quickie visit .
I just finished chores and it's a little after 10 . I'm laying on the hammock, obviously in the dark
listening to the tree frogs , chirpers, watching the stars- and listening to the night. Bobby ( the neighbor who farms everyones
property) is cutting hay- maybe baling it, I hear the whine if the hydraulics on the tractor. Some where off to the north. The air us heavy with
humidity so the sound of the tractor carries across the tracks to me. Ther is a dog barking far off to the west and about the time he quits
another one starts! I guess they are kadeydids calling to one another. I live it here, I know I never say that :) only always. If laying on a hammock at 10:20 pm is not a little bit of heaven I don't know what heaven will be like.?
Mom and rich are on their way north , yay can't wait to see her and hear her comm
ents of the tulip. I know she'll be so happy. Pray for their traveling mercies , they'll be home Sunday night. Can't wait to see her! I love my mom ! Well pretty hard to type on this phone. Kadeydids to you my night time friend -j

Hi Late Tuesday evening here

Hey, I don't have a whole lot to say or a whole lot of energy tonight for that matter, But I wanted to just take a minute to check in and say "Hi" Hope this finds you all well and enjoying this beautiful summer evening. I am, no bible study tonight as everyone was pretty busy. Instead I took Kenny to bowling and came home. I feel just whipped today. Taught my normal evening aerobics last night then my friend Kristen called, asked me to teach again this morning. I did; however I'm Tired, as Amy says , Jennys' tiiiiiiiieeerrrrddd. Get it ?
Things at the Dutch Tulip are going great ! I had two successful weddings last week and 3 funeral orders! and no one knows about me yet ! Trying to get caught up on the stuff so I can get the shop decorated the way I'd like. Right now it is very functional . Minus the sink. Gives me a new perspective on the women carrying water on their heads to accomplish all of their chores! I only have to go 40 feet! And furthermore I can use a cart! :)
Things are so good tho. I feel so blessed, I feel as tho this will do nothing but be successful, I am so happy..... God is good. all the time. ! Be happy rest well and look at the beautiful full pink moon tonight. Love to you this day. ~J

Sweet Summer Night Ride.

Hey There, Kenny and I just got home an hour ago from a long day away. Our day began with Dr's Appts in Canton- 9 am. So off we headed early in the day for a big ride , Dr's were as usual. Blah blah blah, then to breakfast - we were both starving as our blood work was fasting... Any way we headed off to the flower factory, Canton Wholesale and then to Alliance then to Salem ( stopped by BOC , Then to a sweet ladies' home to see her beautiful garden, then to the bank the pool , taught 3 hours of water aerobics, then to get something to eat - still both starving- , then to Pat Catan's and ...... finally home. Pulled in te driveway , only to remember the movies needed returned to Calcutta, and I had forgotten animal food..... Every animal at our house was out of food. So another ride I embarked. ~ just me and the azrek full of merchandise for the Dutch Tulip. A million and one thoughts in my head swirling about this weeks weddings- I needed gas, the radio was enjoyable , night songs with Lisa on WCRF, a few songs later, the window was open 1/2 way and I was praising my night ride to Calcutta and enjoying the time alone with my LORD. How sweet it is to have the window down as you drive through Beaver Creek. The sweet chirping of the tree frogs, the stars are kinda yellowy tonight. The moon looks like Mac the Knife moon, tilted yelowwy and a silhouette of a man. As I wound down toward the river a few little red eyes caught my head lights: a little red fox. Helloooo Rainard the Fox I chimed, he cowered in the tall weeds as I drove past, Up past the high school where Holly went, 4 cars had their trunks open with music playing and head lights shining as a dozen young men played hoops in the night air . On down to town, passing homes of friend's of Hollys so many times I 'd have to take her to or from also while tired and in the dark of night. Where are they now ? How is their family? Are they in college like holl? Are they in love like Hol? Do their folks still live there ? remember the time " she " had to go home at 2 AM because she was so sad with out her mom ? A smile a warm heart the times were so far away form my heart today and yet a million times ten I drove to and from Calcutta, Cheer leading swimming working friends and a gain , football , basketball, cheer leading D I Swimming again , Friends again. In the still of the night as I puttered along rejoicing for the fact my baby is grown. She is a woman now who loves her own life. She is love with a terrific man, she has a good job, grounded in common sense, a very hard worker. She is able to multitask, keep her apartment, cook regular meals and keep up with the "domesticates." She has her own dog to love, and her own car to drive. Seems sort of like yesterday we were traveling to Edison or Stuebinville , Wellsville or some other ville to watch her dive in and swim fast for 40 seconds. Thank you God we were able to be a part of that. What a blessing...... Thank God for her childhood and this time we had to enjoy. It seems long a go and like a good book I read. Oh I remember that story. Nothing but the Blood of Jesus. What can wash away my sin ? What can make me whole again? O! precious is the flow that makes me white as snow, No other fount I know, Nothing but the blood of Jesus. For my pardon this I see. Nothing but the blood of Jesus, For my cleansing this my plea, Nothing but the blood of Jesus. O! precious is the flow that makes me white as snow; No other Fount I know , Nothing but the blood of Jesus. Nothing can for sin atone. Nothing but the blood of Jesus , Naught of good that I have done, Nothing but the blood of Jesus. THIS IS ALL MY HOPE AND PEACE, nothing but the blood of Jesus, THIS IS ALL MY RIGHTEOUSNESS, nothing but the blood of Jesus. Oh precious is the flow that makes me white as snow , no other fount I know , Nothing but the blood of JESUS.

how special , how sweet, how he is , How HE is ....

Hi Haven't been here for a while!

This is the color of my wall here in The Dutch Tulip. I'm so excited and Blessed. I have a million things I want to tell you all but I have been so busy I don't know if I'm coming or going and I sure can't tell you hardly where i have been ! Ha.
Things are moving along quite nicely I am so excited we have two weddings this coming weekend. Should be an exciting week. I'll try to get a little better at time management as to still get to my blog on a regular basis. The Dutch Inn is such a beautiful place... The people are terrific and I haven't met a should I don't enjoy talking too. These are QUALITY PEOPLE and this is a QUALITY PLACE!

Few things I want to remind you of.... first Sat august 8th from 1 - 3 pm. The Ursuline Center Garden Tour. Please come by and have a cookie and support the Ursuline Center Aquatic Program, and support our pool renovations. September will begin my 11th year there. I have been teaching water aerobics for what seems like forever! I just love it when one of my ladies sees Kenny and I out for dinner- The usual response is of my jenny , "you look so different with clothes on!" Ya I love to hear that one.... Kenny usually wants to crawl away.... Any way come out and stroll the beautifully manicured gardens and support A worthy cause. Your donation is tax deductible.... We would love to see you there... Thanks .... Love you~J

Things are the way they are....

Seems as though when The Lord sees fit to pick me up and move me , he does just that ! In March when I was laid off I thought my world was crashing in. At that time Kenny had not yet received his benefit and it seemed we were on a one way trip to financial ruin, and the loss of the farm..... Here we are a few months later: I have had a lovely summer, vacationed, relaxed and now looking so forward to a new job ! God is so good. He picks me up out of the mirey clay and sets me firm upon a rock. Thanks be to the Lord for helping us through the past three years plus ! Wow I can't begin to tell you where I have been emotionally. Just now that I am beginning to remember who I am and what I enjoy as a human being, I'm beginning to realize how sick and depressed I actually was. I had no idea till now when I begin to feel good , I see how rotten I was feeling.... I really am doing well. My brain is on over drive, I have been exercising extra, canning and doing the things I love to do ! Just yesterday I picked my biggest Tupperware bowl of green beans! mmmmm... that will be such a treat in January ! Well I just wanted to say Hello, "hello" and let you know to persevere! It's worth it in the long run. and that long run might take 3 or more years ! Hang in there my friend, hang on... ~J

The Dutch Tulip

Hi Everyone. Things are falling into place for the Dutch Tulip to be ready for an event this week. The dinner theatre is back this week for Jamboree, The summer musical. With that comes 30 centerpieces and two for on the buffet. Yay, my first 'official ' tulip business. I hope if you have the opportunity to come to a dinner theatre event at the Dutch Village Inn you do so. 34 West , the theatre group , is simply terrific. The banquet facility is not very large , consequently there is not a bad seat in the house. ! Please join us for a little summer fun!
The Dutch Tulip logo is complete. "thank you Matt" I am excited to actually see it , as I have dreamed and prayed for my own shop, I see the Lord's hand in how it eventually unfolded. It is beautiful to see my desire coming to reality, and how much more of a blessing it is because with that the brunt of responsibility is on me to be creative and make people happy with my craft. Design beautiful weddings, bring heartfelt thoughts into a beautiful tribute of flowers, and do it all for a company so great as The Dutch Village! Thank you God.
If you have pictures of something I have made for you in the last 25 years, :) hahaha, no really if I have done your wedding , please send me a photo or two I can use in a beautiful album I'm putting together for the consultation area. As I think of how many weddings I have done, my goodness there have been many.
I'm so rested and ready to tackle this project. It will be easier for me to get moving with set up once I have a space. Right now I have this small briefcase stuffed full of magazines , project lists, bits of paint samples and pictures of what i want it to look like. I can hardly sling that thing over my shoulder. Ands seems everywhere I am, I'm picking up another little "thing." Yesterday at WalMart, I found some pretty little notions in the sewing clearance for 1.00. Yes, they will be incorporated in my first mantle display. how cool is that ? Each fireplace and mantle display will be for sale ! = the decor ' part of it = What a great plan.....
Thanks to Grace, Ralph, Raymond and Nelson for trusting me to be creative for you ! It's what I love to do. And I just can't wait to begin~




J

I am enjoying this summer !

I can't begin to tell you how much this summer has meant for my heart. And my spiritual well being . You don't realize what a mess you are till you start to really feel pretty good and realize what a mess you were before! The weather has been marvelous. My garden is well . My Pets are all good . But you know what ? I am better . Me. Jenny Ann . :) thank you god. His mercies are new each day . And I'm a new me . This time last year. This time next year . Wow. Love you be blessed this day my friends. - j

Ladies and Gentleman, "The Dutch Tulip"

I would like to introduce you to, The Dutch Tulip. A special little place inside a very special place! We are excited to begin construction work on the newest little place in town! Inside the Dutch Village Inn on the lower level, we are opening a lovely fine floral and event shop. We are able to provide fine floral arrangements for any occasion and beautiful linens to make your event special. We will have a few very unique and beautiful things to decorate your home with. You'll have to be watching for more information in the next few weeks. It is really happening and I feel so blessed and honored to be a part of it ! I am honored to work for the Dutch Village Inn and am excited to embark on the adventure of manager, designer, consultant! Can you see me smiling ? You should... God is so good,, bringing things together when we don't see how he has his hand over us till the sun is shining so bright we feel the shade and relief of his cover. I would never have thought something this terrific would come out of this when I was asked to leave Something New for a temporary lay off in March.
I am amazed and honored and now working diligently to bring to Columbiana a new way of decorating for your wedding, birthday, anniversary or bereavement gathering. We will be able to service any venue not just the inn. Even your home ! Conveniently located near the restaurant and shops of the Village . One more location to visit on your walk ! Watch for coming details. Hope you have a blessed day. I am.~J

Ever have a day when this is how you feel ? I just adore this picture. These kittens have been a delight. This one I call Ruth , that is the woman who will take her and be her forever mommy. I'm just the stand in for now ! Thought you'd get a kick out of this.... Take Care ~J

Good Sunday Morning to my Dearest and Best.... Loving God this Sunday Morning, not different than any morning actually. Up early and for a walk. God is so good to me. I am blessed beyond measure, I have a lot , so very much to be thankful for . And I am. God is so very good. Relational Relevant and Real. I hope you know these things this day. I'll write more later. I have a very busy day ahead. Going to talk to Seva about wedding flowers ! That's exciting ! I must go for now. Trust your heart and emotion with the one who created it !

A Tag, A Meme and a Friend......

Where am I going with this title ? Not sure myself , Hold on to your hats kids and we'll take a little ride down " tag lane " and see what it looks like on my side of the car. :)
I most definitely need to thank my special friend Kimmy for hitting me up with this Summer challenge of a Meme. What the heck is a Meme and what does that stand for any way ? Evidently a Meme is guilty pleasure or silly something, I must share with you to delight your brain in useless knowledge of me... :) But upon finishing this little project I myself must tag 6 more bloggers, although I don't know 6 more bloggers, to do in turn the same. Meme 6 more ! Sounds so ridiculous and fun huh ?
Lets' begin.
1. I love to swim alone ! I love to swim in a pool BY MYSELF . Big surprize I know, This past March when Mel and I were in Hershey, I swam in the most beautiful pool I have ever been in in my life, with live piano music being piped into the arboretum over the pool. Just me and Mozart swam laps for almost an hour! Love It ! ( and it is against every rule ) * Never SWIM ALONE *
2. I love to doodle. while talking on the phone I often find myself drawing flowers , lots of roses hydrangeas and the like. Sitting here at my desk right now I see three different pages of elaborately drawn bouquets, roses , corsages and of course a JENNY or two or three or eight!
3. I enjoy singing hymns while working in the garden. "In the Garden " happens to be about one of the Summer favorites. :) He is Able, Because He Lives, How Great thou Art, Holy Holy Holy, and many more. I hope you don't find me in the garden in "gardening clothes" singing while I work. In inappropriate attire :) Ha.hahaha.
4. I usually wear a night gown and mud puddle boots for my first trip outside in the morning, to let the poultry out, check the flowers and check the garden. Dead head the petunias.... :)
5. This is not really easy. I'm an open book so different things are hard..... I love to Knit. Not a surprize, but it may surprize you to know I made a baby blanket for a friend recently that is as long as a "sari" or a bed spread. Ridiculously sized out of proportion. While knitting it didn't want to stop till my yarn was gone. hahahah.... Ya , It's way too big for a new baby. Kind of ashamed that I couldn't stop at a normal size, and embarrassed, but hey I prayed for him the entire time I knitted it ! :)
6. I love to take photos of animals. my own, others any actually, and with that I love to talk in their voice, to them and for them. The Lord blesses me with knowing what their own voice sounds like. Everyone here on Echohill has a voice and most often as I talk to them I talk back to myself in their voice. :) Am I normal I don't think so.. But I am happy. Most of the time any way..... Enjoy your list of 6 useless things about my world. Try to comply , Mention me again in yours if you are tagged, Humor me and please participate. Happy Summer....





I will tag these 6 people.
1. Jonathon "siggy" just because I enjoy his perspective on most things, a young man with a serious heart for the Lord and a wonderful sense of humor!
2. Todd Orshiro. Because I know he reads my blog on occasion and would enjoy reading 6 unknown things about him !
3. Kenny . :) Will he comply ? Doubt it but it is worth a try. :) love you dear.
4. Melanie Genova, This will be fun too.... a fun friend.......
5. Holly Renee. Ha bet she won't comply either, but it is worth a try.
6. My dear friend Melda...... Those of you who don't have a blog please just make your Meme as part of my blog in the comments section. We can read it there and you can still tag your six there as well. Or if you are on fb you can do your 6 there. But mention jennys ramblings in the process. Thank You. Love You all..... Jenny

ahhhh sweet summer.....

I Love Summer! I have been so busy. I just can't figure out how I was able to do it all before I quit working full time? I don't have enough time in my day to turn around let alone get it all done. I feel as though I have A D D as I can't get one project completed before I'm beginning another, I have 15 things started and not one finished. I'm excited to be hostessing a dinner party next week for some girls form the morning aerobics program. I'm working on the menu and planning the afternoon. I hope they realize it's just a silly old farm ! I think they'll have a good time. I know I'll fix a lovely meal, that's not the hard part. :) I have been "jammin" with strawberry jam all afternoon yesterday and yet I need to do it one more day today, Kenny is babysitting this afternoon , I unfortunately have so much to do I can't stay with the kids. Seems like I'm having a hard time posting my pictures, something is disabled and I can't get passed it. SO I have to re try that whole process. The animals are all fine. 2 Kittens left to give away. I hope I find a good home for them all. They are playing and jumping now. Still not particularly interested in food. Maybe I'll try some kitten chow. Any way that s all that's new just busy being busy enjoying the simple joys of summer. I Love Being Outside ! Yay for summer.... Love you this day. Please be blessed... ~J

Good June Sunday Morning to you !

A pretty shade of green is my color choice for today's type. Happy Sunday morning to you. I love being here, not working like a nut, and enjoying the simple pleasures of my life. I want to share a few of my special morning joys with you this pretty summer morning. First of all let me begin by saying I am so Blessed. I really, really am. I thouroughly enjoy this farm and everything that goes with it ! This is a special place, there is so much to be thankful for. And I am....

Hi Friends, So sorry I have been so busy lately I have not been posting well. I have tried to up link some pictures recently and for whatever reason I am having trouble with that. I don't know what my problem is. We are having a wonderful summer. Vacation was tremendous, Now that I'm home and getting back into the swing of things it's good to get caught up on gardening and what not. My flower beds however are horiffic! Seems I am doing very well w/ the vegetables and stinking with the flowers!
I am so enjoying our poultry. We did sadly lose one of the turkeys to "turkey heaven " today. Seems as though Belle has a hard time discerning my friend Melanie's Rule: no animal on the farm is permitted to eat another member of the animal that also lives on the farm!
so unfortunately the butter or ball or honey or suckle went to turkeyheaven..... Makes me sad. Well that's aboutall the news i have to share with you this day. Love to you....~J

I Love to Work in the Garden

One of my most favorite things to do is to work in the garden. It is one of my favorite places in the whole world. While recently away on vacation , I was able to feel as though I was missing home, my garden and our animals. Now that I'm home and settled back into a normal routine, I find that home is a terrific place to be ! My favorite place in all of creation actually..... Right now this late Monday night I'm tired , Don't have a whole lot to share and we are getting the early evidences of a pretty "electric" thunder storm, so I'm going to close for now and I'll try to post some pictures, I think I'd better unplug this "puter" . Love Ya , ~J

Memorial Day Remembers

Just a note today about Memorial Day. Thank you to the men and women who so willingly serve our United States of America in the armed forces. I don't know if it's a combination of growing up with a very patriotic family. Being married to Michael for 10 years and him serving in the Coast Guard, maybe it's a combination. I believe I am so blessed to live in the United States, But also to be free to share my faith in Jesus Christ with you openly and willingly. To have a freedom of speech to post my random heart felt thoughts with you. And to not be persecuted. That's a huge deal; I hope you don't take it lightly. I hope that when you hear the National Anthem you feel compelled to cover your heart and take off your cap. I hope that when a parade marches by you're not just looking g for the candy but you're looking for the elderly men gimping along in their uniform and VFW hats. When I was a child we marched in the Ellsworth Memorial Day parade, If it was Blue Birds, 4-H , Marching Band , or dressing as Betsy Ross, I can still make the journey on foot down the big hill and back up again to the corner at Myron's, around the corner and on down 224 to the cemetery...... Then once at the cemetery the VFW representative would explain the Red the White and The Blue of the colors of the flag. I in turn get a magnificent lump in my throat and they salute the fallen comrades.... The fire the 21 gun salute. Taps are played beyond the mausoleum. By this time I as a child would be bored to tears looking for dandelions to pick. Making figures out of the clouds in the sky or thinking I was so hot I might simply com bust. Then in High school I had the divine privilege to play my trombone in the marching band . We always had a select few marches to play and certainly America the Beautiful, Battle Hymn of the Republic, This is My Country, My Country Tis' of Thee. The Boarding the school bus travel out to Berlin Center where we would play the same selections in the gym, then march down to the cemetery.
Now I'm 43, recently at a dear friend's fathers ' memorial service. By the time the VFW Honor Guard got to his casket and presented his beautiful widow the flag, explained the colors to her I was a sobbing , blubbering fool. By the time they left the sanctuary and did the 21 gun salute and played taps. -. i was inconsolable. Thank You for serving thank you for honoring your country. The cute patriotic plaque that says freedom isn't free- I truly respect. I honor you for your service. My Nephew Luke is a United States Army Ranger Lt. That is a an honor and I am so proud of his service, He will be traveling to Korea next week for a 12 month deployment. Pray with me for his safety, the safety of his unit. and for the families each one of them represents. The loved ones they must leave behind in order to serve. God Bless America. It indeed is the land that I love.

Vacation

We are having a great time of rest relaxation sunshine and water. What more could we ask for ? I am happy just to be away from home. I won't lie, I'm missing it a lot , however it's great to be away. We have found a few really cool places. We are surprised how different the water front is miles apart. Here at seista key beach the sand is like fine sugar powdery and white. If you go south 6 miles to turtle beach that sand is grainy and loaded with many shell particles. North to Bradenton is like going to a different place, the beach is sugary white and the water is bright green. As we walked along the beach there were several weddings being set up. Thdts neat I think. The house where we are staying is lovely for the 2 of us. Even if there was another couple it would be fine. I have cooked a little . We have been eating here for the most part. We did go out with friends one night. That was much fun too. All in all this has been exactly what we needed. Kind of each doing our own thing but that's okay too. Love to you. J

Hi friends!

We are in sunny Ssarasota now Yippee.... I had to come to the public library to file my enemployment benefit. So here I am to say Hello to you!! Hoep this finds you well, we had a lovely few days w. Mom and Rich. Their home is so lovely and cozy it really feels like Mom's home now. Last time we were here 6 yrs ago the house was just placed on the lot. It looks just like my moms' home. I feel so comfortable there! You would too. I am trying so hard to detox from diet pepsi. You would be glad as I have cut way back. I still need a few but I am drinking more ice tea. and a whole lot of water.. It is so pretty here at our house. I was in the pool just this morning. I can't like the lizards and the geccos they are awful ! We went to the beach last night. It was so great... I had a lovely time getting my feet so sandy and the wind whipping was glorious! God is so good..... He so good to me.... Love to you this vacation day .... talk to you soon. ~J

We are at the airport and almost ready to board

We have finially made it to the big day! Praise the lord, However I still cried saying goodbye to snick, and driving out the drive. I couldn't wait to leave but now I'm a little melancholy to leave the place I love so much. I know once I get away I'll be happy once away but I'm still kindof sad to leave. I am excited. To see my mom. I have missed her so much, I think she is excited to see us as well.
ezzie still hast had her kitties, I think every day it will be today, the poor thing just gets wider and wider. We cleaned all the clothes out of kennys drawervshe likes to be in, now that I sit here I remember I didn't close hollys bedroom door I hope she doesn't claim hol's bed for the blessed event! Be blessed this day. Please pray for safe travel , rest and relaxation for the big guy and I. Love you - j

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day! You are Blessed to have a mother. I am blessed to both have and adore my mother as well as be a mother myself.... We have always been so proud of our mom, she is a delight and a friend, she is a hard working lady who always put every ones needs ahead of her own. Including my dad who was ill much of his life before he died at the age of 56. Mom has loved to work physically hard , it is a good therapy to work hard like that. I enjoy it myself. I always look for my phone in the morning as to chat with mom in florida as I make my way on my daily journey. Mom always greets me with a loving cheerful voice and a word or two of advise... She is curious about my days plans and what I have in store. I enjoy my mom as a blessed daughter can. She has been there for me and helped me through so many situations I can't even count. One of the most lovely things about my mom is her love of Jesus. Her faith is unwavering. Mature and honest, she knows the value of her salvation and appreciates that. I am blessed to have her in my life. Even at the age of 43 I can laugh and cry with my mom. Thank you God for the woman she is as she has molded me into the woman I am. I kinda like me, and I appreciate my mom for making me this way.
Another blessing of mom is that she has an amazing relationship with my daughter Holly. We are so blessed , I never had the joy of a "gram " relationship growing up. Both my Grandamas passed away before I was 8. Holly and Gram's relationship is unique and so cool, they too talk almost every day, at least Mom calls Holly to get her up each morning. Holly shares secrets and all of life with her gram. I want to be a gram like that some day! Thanks for listening to my ramble of my mom, I am sorry if your mom isn't with you this day. I think of dear friends whose moms went to be with our Lord this past year. This is a sucky day for them . Their hearts are sad and heavy. I am so sorry for your loss......I pray the Peace that passes all understanding comforts you right now. And if you are desperately desiring to have a child and can't I understand that all too well also. I know the deep sadness your heart feels. I have felt that emptiness too. I am sorry.....
Words don't help. ... time will eventually callous the longing you feel.... there will never be a day that you won't still wonder . If only....
Be blessed this day. Happy Mother's Day. Love to you. ~jenny

Vacation is Coming soon!!!

I am so excited vacation is coming soon. We will be packing up before you know it. I should be getting things ready right this very minute, but instead I'll stop by here for a little visit. I'm getting the vacation bug! I wrote a long post yesterday about having the boys here for the weekend, However I did something wrong, deleted it and now need to write it all again. So I' am going to give you the abridged version.
Ryder and Zack spent Sat night here in a tent , Ryder stayed Fri night as well bu due to the monsoon he slept in Holly's bed. I think they had a good time, they ate me out of house and home. I did it willingly though.We played in the woods and traversed slippery logs across the creek. Things a young tee should want to do. Right ? I think so. We even heard the Howley Growley. Zack wasn't real excited about that , I think having Ryder there gave him the incentive to be strong and tough. and not panic. :) We still don't know what that creature is. Kenny covered the top of the chicken coop with fencing so hopefully that is significant to protect them from the creature that lives in the woods and eats chickens! I hope so any way... Well Soon Holly will be done w/ her 2nd year of college, and K & I will be on vacation. The first one in 6 years, And the first long one since our honeymoon 13 years ago! I am so ready. White sandy beach here i come! Well my friend I need to clean and do laundry. Hope to talk to you soon. ~J

i mean we are going on vacation,,,,,

AAAAAGGGGGGHHHHHH!!!! Be excited for me.......... We are going on vacation, I just booked our flights, I just confirmed the rental property, WE will get to visit mom and rich a few days before and a few days after our trip to Sarasota. Where we will stay in a private home full equipped private residence. With it's own pool !!!! Kitchen!!!! Hot tub!!!!! eeeeeggggg! Shriek with me... May 12 days of vacation. Count them with me 12 ! ha. I'll talk to you soon. Love ya. Jenny

Good Morning this Beautiful Saturday Morning

Hi Everyone sorry I have not posted for a week it has been a busy week. I'm not really missing the work thing as I have been so busy. First of all Let me begin by saying: " God is Good all the Time" "His mercies are new every morning" The back pay arrived in our bank account on Thursday evening. Praise the Lord. Property taxes are paid. . . . . I can't begin to tell you what a relief it has been. It has been the longest 2 years and 9 months of my life and Kenny's tooo I am sure. What a realm of unknown to travel the waters of disability. I would NOT wish the process even on an enemy. YUK! But... Praise the Lord we have lived to tell about it. Thanks to you our friends who have helped us through. I could not and Kenny could not have made it through this trial with out your love, prayers concern and help. You are all so very special to both of us. I hope I have the opportunity to tell each of you that very soon.
Now I don't mind being laid off. Can't tell you how good I feel physically. My hips aren't aching my back isn't aching , my left wrist is still a problem but hey if I can stand without hip pain I'm pretty happy.
I have been able to knit a baby afghan for a new baby boy. I'm 1/2 way done. I'm excited it is beautiful. I would not have been able to do that if I were working ft. I miss people , I'm lonely. But it is in a good way. My house has never been so under control ! That is a good feeling...
Well Please pray for the Lords' wisdom and guidance to be on us as we pay bills. and make a few purchases that we have needed . Discernment. A big deal. Thanks for your prayers. Love you... Jenny

God is Good!

Hi ! God is good all the time. He put a song of praise in this heart of mine.
God is good ,God is Good all the time.
If you re walkin through a valley and there are dangers all around
Do not fear, He will guide you He will keep you safe and sound.
He has promised to never leave you, nor forsake you.
AND HIS WORD IS TRUE ! God is Good all the time....Remember that old chorus. It has been rolling through my head all day. Thant and the Scripture to leave no stone unturned. I have that house DONE! 4:30 this evening. I can hardly walk or stand following that whole mess. It sure is pretty now . I so would have said no to the job had I seen it before I started. It was so bad.... I just can't tell you. I have been shaking my head all day. Kinda in disbelief. You can't imagine.
Well I have other good news, My good friend Cindy called today and was able to offer me a ticket to the Moody women's conference tomorrow at Parkside Church! YEA!!!! I so wanted to go and couldn't afford it. Then today when I thought I could swing it, I called Parkside to see if there were any tickets available, the woman in charge of that was out of the office so I left my number waiting for a call back. . . . . . Thant's when Cindy called! Yippeee. I am so looking forward to going. I can't wait to tell you all about it. It is for my heart you know...:)
Well the poultry spent the night in the barn, all were present and accounted for this morning and then yet again this evening.. That's a good sign. Gotta get the fencing on top of the coop, but we will soon. I don't want the Howly Growly to come calling .... That would be so saaaaaadddd.
That is about all I needed to say. i hope you are blessed this night. Love you,.~~~J

What a pretty springtime day!

Hi .... I'm tired. I am working so hard! I cleaned a house all day today and yet tomorrow for a woman whom I don't know. She needed this done a they are about to show her house and it is crazy dirty. I wanted to come home and clean. God forbid I die unexpectedly and someone has to come in here and clean up after me......EEEEEIIIIIIICCCCCCCHHHHHHH
I am not nor will I be a smoker. You can't imagine what that does to your walls , carpet , woodwork and windows, Oh my gosh. YUK,
The home is on the historical register which is really quite charming. It's in the Glen if your're familiar with that. It is an old brick tudor, cute . Will be cuter yet when I get the mouse dirt under control ! I am not kidding,,,,,, Think what you will, as I have all day ! In your free time wipe down your kitchen shelves K? Love ya .

He's Alive !

Hallelujah! He 's ALIVE!
He Lives
I serve a risen savior , He's in the world today;
I know that he is living, whatever men may say;
I see His hand of mercy, I hear His voice of cheer,
And just the time I need Him He's always near,
He Lives, He Lives, Christ Jesus lives today,
He walks with me and talks with me along life's narrow way,
He lives, He lives, salvation to impart!
You ask me how I know him?
HE LIVES WITHIN MY HEART!

Remember that old hymn? I do. Standing in the old oak pews of Berlin Center United Methodist Church with my dad to my right and my mom to my left. I still can hear him singing...
Praise the Lord I was raised in a home with a mom and dad that loved the Lord. Because of their guidance I am now free to praise the Lord on this pretty , sunny Easter Morning!

Holly is home, Kenny is well and I am free to love them and you because he lives!



Love to you this Easter Morn...~J

Spring is happening all around me ! YAY!!!

Here comes spring time. It is happening all around. Yay , i am so grateful that there was no snow on the ground today... I was able to move the babies outside for some sunshine while i cleaned up the basement. You will have to check out their pictures. I will post them here too . ( I just put them on facebook). I am so pleased, Kenny and I have the garden ready, and started. planted peas today. We are going back down over the front hill and gonna plant sweet corn there. Pumpkins, gourds and melons there too. Up here behind the house is where i keep the hard to manage things, tomatoes, beans , peas, peppers, beets, lettuce etc. I have all this time on my hands to do these things now with out working, which is now kinda nice, I just know it is only for a short time as I'll be back to work and all this I have prepared will look like crap 'cause I won't have the time to keep it looking nice. I was able to hang clothes on the line too.... A productive day. Now tomorrow is good Friday. I don't think I have ever had the day off. I miss the old time boyscout fish dinners. I miss my dad. I joined the Ellsworth fan club as well as the Western Reserve fan club, speaking of my dad and Ellsworth... Be blessed this night. I am glad spring is springing! Love to you ~J

I wish there were more font options for my blog. I feel so limited.... I'd like to be different all of the time and this is not the different I am looking for !
Hello Friends! Nice to see you here today.... I guess things are looking up for me. Not in any specific ways, but I guess I'm getting use to this schedule. I have my dear friend Anneliese' home beautifully clean an d"Thparkley" but not mine..... I guess on this rainy day that is what I should be doing here. We have Abbey's 2nd Birthday party tonight ! I am Really Excited about it !!!! I have to make a mexican dish to share and then, we have to find her a present... Shopping for a little girl is about one of my most favorite things in the world to do. Any time we are in a store Kenny stops by the girl things and pulls out an Abbey outfit a Molly outfit and an Emily outfit ! We sure enjoy those girls, and Ryan too of course. What a blessing to have friends to share their children with. Kenny babysits Abbey and Ryan one day a week, They enjoy him . It tickles me. When Holly was 7 she enjoyed Kenny too. It is when she turned 13 that the world changed. Now she is 20. Things aren't the best between them but they are not the worst either. Fun to see it coming around. Kenny gives her the space she deserves - usually- She gives him the space he deserves - usually- Works fairly well that way.
Had a fun day yesterday.... Melda and I took Kerrianne to Malone to visit the school. What a nice college. Wish I could go there... :) She is thinking she wants to go to Bethany. We'll see...... The back window - the rear windshield- of her van exploded as we were driving on 77. Scary ! Never had that happen to me before. We are all fine the glass is replaced but whew, that was weird !

what a beautiful pool.....

Hi Friends, This is the swimming pool at Hotel Hershey in Pa, where we were on our little " retreat" last week. We had so much fun. There a grand piano in the lobby where a pianist sits and plays all day, the music in turn is "piped " throughout the common areas of the hotel. I went to the pool to swim Friday morning, Just me a Beethoven! How cool is that ! I swam laps to classical music. I think this was the prettiest pool I have ever swam in ! I loved it!
Still no work, no news, no check, no kidding ! I received my unemployment stuff in the mail today. I have it all in order, benefits should begin in two weeks. does that just make you shake your head. ? . It does me! God is in control, he has it all figured out, and I just need to trust him. I do . I am . I will....
Love to you this night. Be Blessed!~J

I wanted to share a picture with you...

This is a picture of Melda and I and her friends I met in Hershey. This photo was taken in front of the big fountain in the main lobby of the Hotel. We had just finished dancing at the "disco" like crazy teenagers when this was taken. I hope you can tell , we were having a great time. We laughed , and laughed, I thought I was going to die from an anurism from hitting my head so hard at dinner. :) Thank you Melda for a weekend of laughter and relaxation. You are the best girlfriend any one could ever dream of ! you are a blessing to me in my crazy life!

Alrighty then , I'm not suppose to take this lay off personal... ? I don't get that. I might understand it with my brain, but not with my heart. I really feel let down, and puzzled by the whole choice of "who " would be laid off for a month. I would like to slanderous, I would like to be really angry. I am quite mad. I am hurt. I still don't get it. And Oh yea, I'm not suppose to look for another job ? Wait for them..... ? Wait for them to get busy enough to use me like adog.... Oh My . Pray I can get my head around this whole mess. And it is a MESS ! Love to you this day. ~J

Trying to get it together!

Just checking in to say hello, and to ask you to please pray for me, for us, for our well being. I was laid off from the flower shop today. I don't understand there are many questions, there are many unstated hurts. Pray for wisdom, guidance, and discernment as I look for an appropriate job. Hopefully I can find something with benefits. I am sad , I have always loved my job... I am good at what I do, I love what I do, it is time for me to get a real job. :(

I am home !

Melda and I got home about 4 :30 this evening, we were in Lancaster county Pa, visiting my dear friends Cindy and Dan Sigmon. We spent fri, sat and sunday nights there. Cindy's hospitality was outstanding as she allowed us the opportunity to enjoy some much appreciated R & R. Life has been hectic as you know so well, but we surprized them - more like they surprized us - with a night out at the Sight and Sound theatre of Lancaster. We saw the Passion Play Behold the Lamb. It was such a great time to visit, talk, laugh cry and then eat of course and eat and eat ! Hershey Pa the Hotel Hershey was absolutely beautiful, and then the weekend in Mountsville was so fun. Happy happy is my heart as I had a great big dose of GOOD WHOLESOME WORSHIP ! It does the mind, body and soul good ! We are so blessed. That's all for tonight as I have to get some sleep. I'll post my pictures soon. Love ya, ~J

Hi I don't have much time as I 'm looking at the clock strike 12. That's midnight in case you were wondering....I have some exciting news to share...... you better hold on to your gutchies, and you'd better be happy for me..... that's all I can say as I can't ruin any surprizes. I won't be back here until late monday so don't be surprized if I don't write for several days, Oh but when I do ,, I'll have news for you,,,,,,:) Love ya, ~J

hi there.

Hi Friends, sorry I have not been here for a little while, I hope this finds you well and enjoying your Sunday afternoon. I have had a great day. We started at our dear friends' Margaret and Craig's for home church this morning, lunch with them, then home to tear into the car , cleaning, vacuuming and trying to make it not look like a dirt mobile. Yesterday Holly and Mike got home form florida. Great to see her, we had a very fun but very short visit, as she had to get back to school to get a 5 page paper written. She brought K a puzzle in a bottle, he put it together already today. And she brought me a cute red and white dish towel w/ mickey ears and a red ice cube tray of mickey. I'm so happy for her to have the opportunity to travel. As it would not be w/ K and I as we just don't have the ability. I really appreciate the fact she works so hard, and that she has the incentive to be able to save for those trips. She flys so often. To Cali, to Fla.... I am happy she has the chance to do it.

Disney sounds amazing. One day I will get to see the Magic Kingdom. She enjoyed her quickie visit with Mom and Rich too. They are good. Holly is a little saddened as Rich is beginning to look older.... That is sad to me too. He has been quite the grandpa to her for the past 15 years. He's a special guy to all of us and it is sad to see people age. Especially when we don't see them but once or twice a year.
I appreciate Mike's family too facilitating the trip with somewhere for the kids to stay and feeding Holly while she was there. They are special people too and have loved Holly for 5 years ! Just today I was looking at old pictures of when Michael was a JR and Hol was a Soph. and they went to their first prom... They looked like little kids.... Years later, still in 'love" I wonder what The Lord has in store for their future? They say marriage... ? Maybe. Whose to say. I know I could never ask for a nicer and kinder young man to love my daughter. He has always treated Holly with such adoration. I have never seen her open a car door. He has always been a gentle man. I'm as proud of Michael as I am holly. He will graduate in December. That is coming! Where does the time go ????

Well pray for Luke, my nephew in Ranger Training. He is awesome and we all need to pray for our young men and women serving our country. Especially those in harsh circumstantial training. Pray for his mom, my sister as well. I love them and they need our diligent prayer support. Love to you this pretty Sunday night.. I look forward to chatting with you soon. Good Night for now...~J

open the eyes of my heart

Open the eyes of my heart lord, I want to see you ... You are Holy Holy Holy


What a beautiful day I had yesterday, Being home alone in the afternoon. I cleaned drawers in the kitchen. Took all my silverware out washed it scalded it the Donna Mae way, dried it , put it all back into a very clean drawer. I not only did that to one but to 4 drawers ! Ya, be happy for me... :)
I also washed and hung sheets and mattress pad on the line. Let me tell you what a magnificent night' sleep I had. It smelled so good ! We went from freezing 0 temps to now 60 and sleeping with the window open 2 " ! Go figure that out . This is okay though I 'm not complaining.


Kenny and Belle had an exciting night, after I went to bed, she was putting up a fuss in the garage, barking barking barking, He went out to investigate to find a BIG Raccoon in the garage having a dinner of cat food. He told her to watch it and then came in and got the gun. He went outside with his sad 22- ( a longer story I tell you another time ) and reached in turned on the light of the garage, and POP . It was as close as you are to your computer to him ! He said it was really close he couldn't miss it. He shot it in the head! He said " Me and Belle we kilt us a coon tonight" :) I don't' think that's the howly growly, but I do think he did a very good thing... Oh the joys of farm life. If you've never lived in the wilds you wouldn't understand . Please forgive him if your and animal activist, but I don't need to feed the raccoons, The eat things like my chickens ! WE can't have that ! Enjoy your Sunday. Be Blessed .... We are going to church this am then to visit Adelle and the boys this afternoon.. Can't wait. We get to meet Jesse's companion dog Waylon. I guess Evan is getting use to the idea of his brother having a dog. I laughed when I heard he said Waylon was a WOLF ! hahaha. Yet another longer story, I hope you have a great day. Love to you and your family. ( PS: holly and Mike are safe in Orlando now for the week w/ his family. they are going to visit Gram and Rich later in the week too.)

Hi ! I left work early today as the store is D E A D !

The shop just was not busy today, I really can't afford not to stay my allotted time, but I have a million things I need to be doing here. So Here I am at home ...... alone........ K went to Cleveland with his buddy Danny for the Car show. He's not here.... holly flew out to FLA today, So I HOME ALONE ! Can you believe it ? I hardly can. I have music playing loud. the tv is off, and I'm in my glory ! Enjoy your day, and don't start any brush fires. :)
Stay on task, and oh Turn the stupid computer off ! Love ya, -j

Hi Thursday Night nad I just wanted to say "Hi"

Hi Low as my dear friend Anneleise says. I miss her, Need to go see her, Hi Anneleise, Miss you, Hi to Bob as well. Hope you are enjoying this pretty day today, I am . Planning on dragging the grill out to BBQ a few shramp on the griall. You have to say it like Fores, Fores Gump, Hea is mya friend , Mya Name is Jennay don you know ?
Like the spelling ? Helps in the Annunciation
Holly is going to Florida Saturday with Michael and his family. They are going to Disney, I'm so jealous.... I have never been to Disney.... One Day maybe. They are going to get to visit Gram and Rich too. Wouldn't that be great ? I think so. Well not too much happening here. Off to make some yummy dinner. 'Comon over !'
Talk to ya later,
~J

My day Monday... Productive, Cold, A little Glum

I chose Icey blue for my color of print today, because that's the color of ohio today.... Icey Blue with bone chilling temperatures. Right now it is 11' to be 5' by morning. BRRRRRR. Kenny and I worked outside for the majority of the day , cutting firewood, we have not had a good hot burning fire for days. So we cut two truckloads. The ground is nice and frozen and just a dusting of snow so we were able to take the truck way down to cut along the tree line. I ran the little saw and he ran the big one. I used muscles I didn't know I had. The wood shed has not been full for the entire last few months. Still not full but there are a few good rows of stacked wood. We even had a dozen big pieces that needed split. That should burn well. I'm growing bitter of being cold so much. I was complaining of a sore neck, I think it's from falling asleep tense b/c of being so cold.!
Holly and Alysha came for dinner yesterday. It was good to be w/ her. I am missing my girl, A lot ! I made both lasagna and turkey... Mashed potatoes, corn, brussel sprouts, dressing, salad, beets and applesauce ! Kinda a crazy everything dinner. Holly was happy to take several leftovers home to school. Cookies and cookie dough too. !
I think Alysha had fun, she was amazed I didn't pick up Belle's -poo on our walk, b/c that's the law!Oh that was hard to explain my way out of ! Hahaha... Well friends that's about it.. Please stay warm... Love to you... ~J

Holly's coming home today !

I'm excited ! Holly's coming home for dinner today, Just wanted to stop by and tell you that ! She's bring her little sister , Alysia too. Alysia lives in the city of Kent and in an apartment. I hope she has fun plying here on the farm today. Not sure what I'm making for dinner, Holly wants lasagna, we just had that last week for the whole week.... Can't do that again too soon, Going to Sparkle for some inspiration...
Paul Harvey died, Sad, He was a daily favorite of mine, "Goood Day."

Belle is excited I keep telling her "your momma's comin home " - she smiles...
go to my face book and watch the Sarah Groves link to "just one more thing" Kinda where i'm at today w/ my heart. Melancholy that my baby is grown and I'm so busy all the time. Feeling as though my work here is done as she doesn't need a mom like she use to. Makes me sad , a little bored with the hardness of life and work as it is , wishing I could play barbies for an afternoon or american girl dolls.... I miss those days.... and they are far far gone, or swim meets , far far gone as well... My baby is grown, and it happened over night. ~ She is 20, beautiful, educated, hard working and has a life of her own, I'm just a part of it. At 20 I was married, and living across the country. How that must've hurt my mom and dad. Life happens so very fast... One more thing, everything is urgent . Please watch that video. If you don't have face book yet, get it. Fun , Free and pretty easy to stay in touch. You'll be surprized who you'll find there....


Happy Sunday ... the sun is shining. The Son is Shining.... God bless you with his sonshine in your life today. Love you~J

A new adventure to embark!

Hi friends , yes another new adventure for the wehr's here on echohill. Seems we take a step ahead and a few back. Kennys work at BOC has been put on hold for a while. The economy can't support work to continue at the shop he's been working at for 1 1/2 years. This economy is troublesome. Steel mills are shut down and a few here in the Cleveland Chicago area may never re open. So BOC - had to lay him off. He ( K) has worked two - four days a week as a mechanical draftsman. The Bureau of Visually Impaired set him up with a 24" flat screen monitor and a program called zoom text, that makes it possible for K to draw his machinery on the computer via CAD. or Auto cad. You'd be surprised a blind man can work like that. Remember he does have some limited vision in his right eye. So .... for now we need to be thankful he has been awarded the SS DI . At least we have that coming in, I guess I'm greedy and want it all. I'm just tired of the struggle. Trying to be patient as we wait still for that big check.... Wish I could get some of these bills paid.. Property tax is really heavy on my heart. Continue to pray for us as I know you do .... I appreciate it. As i know K does too. Love to you, ~J

Hi Friends

Hi there. One of my favorite things to do is check my computer for my favorite blogs of note. One in particular is from an acquaintance of mine, through a mutual Friend. Her name is Jane and I have asked you to pray for her in the past. Well I am once again asking you for prayer for Jane her husband and her son. That they feel the love of Christ surrounding them at this very hard time in their lives. I believe that Jane is a born again believer, I am praying for her son and husband to be as well. Pray with me to that end that without a doubt they all would have a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. Thank you. God bless you for praying for my blogger friend. Love to you this night. -J

Winter, Winter, Winter,Winter.....

Is it getting old for you yet ? Wow.. Winter is eternal this year... I have always tried so hard to be optimistic about it, enjoy the snow , take some pictures, you know play in the snow... I'm over it ! It's taking forever this year. I don't know the statistics of snow fall but it is A LOT! Today through Wed we are to expect snow........
How are you doing with the love month ? Over that too ? :) We went to Doug & Mar's on Sat night to watch the Pavlik fight, had fun, ate pizza, laughed with Alex, it was an exciting night for Youngstown Ohio! Actually you need to say "YOUNNNGGGGGSTOOOOWWWWNNNN OOOOHIIIIIIIOOOOOO" hahaha can you hear the announcer say it ? I still can.. With Youngstown native Kellllllllyyyyy Paaaavvvlikkkk. That should make you smile ! Go Kelly! You are doing great things for you and great things for your hometown!
All that to say I love my family. I am so blessed to enjoy the company of my family. We all enjoy being together. ( at least I do ) . My Nephew, Alex, is so funny and enjoyable to be around ! He makes me laugh. We all have a sick sense of humor and have the ability to play off of one another. Most enjoyable. And as far as Douglas goes. The best big brother any little sister could ask for ! Now that we are 43 and 53 years old, makes the equation a little different, but still terrific. I love his wife Martha. They married when I was 12 ! She has been my sister forever as well. I cried at their wedding as if I had been abused. I remember them asking me why I cried so terribly as I walked down the aisle, I said my Dougie was so beautiful. Never mentioned poor Martha , the beautiful radiant bride, only my Dougie.. lol. Oh My , Memories... The only one missing this weekend was Molly.. She and Bob are in Memphis.. Hopefully we will be able to visit in June when the bridal shower is for Seva. I can't wait ! i hope you have a warm day. Love to you. Tell your loved ones that you appreciate them... ~J

Sunday Morning and I'm cold.

good morning, Sunday , yea, a day to be off... A day to spend with the LORD! Our fire is out. we are once again with out wood. I'm bundling up right now to head out into the Alaskan Tundra to round up the wood Kenny and Greg cut last week. Sounds like a fun day huh ? Really I'd rather not spend it any other way. Love to you, I'll try to write later when we are warm in here...

Hey , Just home form the pool, Don't have too much to say, But I wanted to tell you we were out of the water for 20 minutes tonight due to thunder and lightening ! In February ! Can you believe it ? SO that is really all. Just needed to tell you that little tidbit. Oh and I love pets but I don't want a 200# Chimpanzee ! Just thought I should tell you that... Love Ya

Myday Monday

Good morning Friends... How ya doing this nice day? I hope well. I'm busy about the house, laundry, dishes, etc. Trying to get it all done so I can knit. I just fed the birds. I love the birds in my yard. I have a little bird feeder right outside my kitchen window. I enjoy doing the dishes and watching the birds! I have a red headed woodpecker that comes and hangs on that little feeder, it hangs almost sideways as he is such a big bird! As he hangs on the feeder, all the little chickadees and nut hatches scatter to the ground and wait for his waist to fall to their feet. I understand their plight. :) Enjoy your day this day. Please know I appreciate you . My readers... My friends... Love to you this day. ~J

Love,,, Bah, Bah Bah Ba... All we need is love.....

All we need is love...... You know the song.... We are human , God created us that way... Isn't He so smart ? I need love, Kenny needs love, Holly needs love, Snickers and Belle need love, Ezzie needs love.... One Eye, Pretty Kitty and her sister, pretty white cat with blue eyes, poopy orange kitten all need love. We were created in His image. Do we love Jesus as much as he loves us ? Ba Ba Ba Ba Bahhhh.... Do we love His creation as much as He loves it ? Do we treat each other with love ?
Just a few thoughts crossing my mind this Valentines' evening. I tell you the truth. You need to read the shack. It will change your thought process if even a little about your level of giving and receiving love. From God, and from our friends and from our husbands. ( or wives)

I have a love for Kenny that I would have never been able to describe years ago. It is ever unfolding , changing and blooming . Love is not an easy verb. It often comes with some heart ache, some pain, some extreme circumstances. Also some extreme joys and a few sorrows. It has turned into so much more than I ever thought possible. I loved my first husband, I loved him as I thought I new best. But this is different, It is so much more . Ours is a relationship unusual as Kenny has had a lot of medical problems or issues... My role of wife, lover , friend is different as I almost have to put some of those rolls in a different order. It has taken me several years to get a grip on it and understand how it actually works. I fought it so much for a while. But you know what ? I think it works. Let me change that, It does work...

Life is hard. It is so uncertain
It can turn on a dime and what you think is normal is so far from reality you can't even begin to focus. Love is giving and giving and giving and giving..... Love is not looking to receive. It's only direction is to give. In giving is where you find peace and security. Sure you will receive in return... But that is not where you'll find your contentment. And It is hard to learn to give is to receive.... But The Wise and Wonderful Giver taught us that. He;
( the Lord Jesus Christ ) is the orchestrator of this great scheme.... and it works ! Hallelujah! The Lord did not bless us with our mate to take the crap of our lives and fix it . He Blessed us with our mates to help us through the CRAP. Don't tell me you've not dealt w/ any of that... I know better.
God is Good and his mercy is new each day. As is his gift of love for you and me. I hope you are blessed with a friend a companion a soul mate, a helper, a challenger, a companion, an honest listener.
I am ....
Happy Valentine's Day.... I hope you have love. I hope Love has you.
God Bless You. ~J