'Summers End' October Is Upon Us ~

September 23, 2026

As with every year summer comes to an end. This summer, and I'm thrilled to say past, was a summer I could hardly wait for it to be over!  It met with all the challenges of most summers in a dry desert but in particular newer challenges seemed to be thrown into the pot.  And where does one begin to go when you seem to be stuck in a holding cell - metaphorically speaking - or should I say a pot that just continues to get stir with seemingly no real results; at least maybe none visible.

The past few summers had been pretty hot with this summer being particularly hot causing our little orchard to struggle. It started out looking like we would have a good amount of fruit, apricots, peaches and nectarines - there was nothing! It was struggling from the previous three summers - so was I, I'm sure some older folk heard the phrase, worn to a frazzle before. My dad hadn't been well, then had hip surgery at 92, I would joke and say his hobby is now my new hobby, I also seem to be on the run with 4-wheels as well .  .  .  Bottom line, I had neglected most of its care and worked hard just keeping the trees alive.  I am happy to say what did make it and has quite a bit of fruit is the Pomegranates. They do well over all in the desert and are tolerant in the climate we've been dealing with. I weighed one that split - needless to say was blown away with its size. The entire bush has a plethora of sizes growing but to my surprise this morning and as beautiful as the pomes have been looking, some nasty bird has been gutting them from behind and out of sight from how I was viewing. 

1-lb.3oz not to shabby, not quite ready on the right I got the day before.

                                   

This is what I found this morning with several I launched into the chicken yard with a few happy chicks waiting! As in most things - that aren't necessarily visible to us we tend to see a snippet of what is there unless it is revealed by taking a closer look, a better look.

Okay next day and around 6AM.  

Red Pome and White Pome below.

On a different note as I always look for a teaching moment, the truth can be in front of us but our perception can be off, God's perception is much larger; we see the snippet, sometimes by choice, my dad would tell me sometimes that he isn't very observant, in fact we see what we want to see for whatever reason. Not everyone, but some - I've heard many reasons over the course of my life as why they aren't seeing clearly with one I've thought of a lot, "I just can't be bothered," with the most recent, "I'm not sure I really care." I understand that not everyone is perceptive- or cares, or can see the anomaly in things as my friend and I have spoken off many times. I believe this to be a gift God gives through His Holy Spirit. But some food for thought here, for the believer in Christ as they grow daily in Him step back to look at the over-all picture and gain a better perspective and perception of what He is doing and wanting you to know or learn. 

All making me think of a song sung years ago by Amy Grant, "Fathers Eyes." A sweet friend sang that to me one Sunday in church when my boys were just babies, it was beautiful and I never forgot. But with our relationship that brings us closer we can hopefully start seeing through our Fathers eyes.  - Rambling Vik ~

Now moving right along with the close of summer in review, I was a bit sidetracked (okay a lot) trying to play catch- up ~

September 30,

We did get a couple decent rains with a little flash flooding over the property. I can't begin to express how happy this makes me. We have been walking in draught conditions for some time. Though had a couple decent rains; good downers with a little flooding which disappeared almost as fast as it came through.  For several years we have had small flooding issues since our little wash had some debris - flowed from the neighbors etcetera and across the property here, it happens. We are hopeful that the bit the county did and with help from the neighbor hiring a guy with backhoe, this recent storm (yesterday and today) wouldn't pose a problem and of this morning taking a good look it worked well. So, I'm happy and hopeful the rest of this day - throughout will be good.

Before the backhoe shots.

Being worn to a frazzle - is something you do not want to engage in. It happens though it can also build up overtime - boundaries are important and trusting the Lord for wisdom is valuable - you also may know what you are to do and don't, and feeling frazzled is also a phrase as well when you are seemingly stuck and complaining all while knowing God the Father is bring you through.  I count on this as a widow I trust Him and His word. Just as He promises.

Not my normal ramble - Though you might get something out of it! lol  Remember some things just aren't that important - -  prayers and blessings to all.

Shalom

Years Ago,

my husband and I spent quite a bit of time in doctor appointments, of course that grew into more frequent over the years.  At the time we were always hopeful his condition would improve.  One day we went to an appointment, and it was one of those times where you were starting to wonder about everything in life, your life. Not that I didn't believe God to be all that is spoken of in His word and we certainly were going through many trails and testing - we had faith that God would sustain us in this life and be there.  My laughter though seemed to have gone on some vacation and humor was becoming few and far between.  To be honest here many years later I have glimmers of what was with old humor that may come in bits and pieces or what I've written down.

The important thing is to keep laughing - God is good and He gave us all a sense of humor we often overlook for whatever reason.   I had to smile when thinking of this as a post though, it didn't come to me from memory I happened to be looking at a little silver notebook and in there was written many things as well as that one day waiting at Jim's doctor's appointment that had a bit of humor - a funny for me.  .  .  .

From my little notebook ~

Monday Oct 5 - 12:45 Jim has a doc appt. 

So, we get to the building the doctor's office is in and just beyond entering - straight ahead is the elevator. And an elderly lady was sitting with a walker in between the entrance and the elevator against the wall. When we got to the elevator she said to us, "the elevator isn't working." I commented I guess they just didn't get it fixed. I'm not sure why I said that, but I recall it wasn't working well the last time we were there. So, we went down the hall and found the stairs. The building had only two floors which was good - so into the doctors we went and sat in the waiting area. As we sat there, I was thinking out loud, "what if the elevator wasn't broke. What if the elderly lady made a mistake or just made it up to see how many would fall for it." Jim looked at me asking, "and why would she do that?" Smiling I said, "Old people get bored too." We had to laugh.  Later on, it was confirmed it was broken. However, I still think if the other had been true I wouldn't have been upset - though a couple flights of stairs were tough for Jim at the time. 

It would have been funny if she did, older people do have a sense of humor also it's just sometimes overlooked.

from memory

This was a good memory and reminder for me. My dad is ninety-two and I get so busy caring for thisand that - and when I'm too busy, I can misconstrue what my dad is saying not realizing his being funny. 

God can and will take burdens that we do put on to much. Jesus himself - Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Matthew 11:29-30 ESV

and as the psalmist tell us of as when the Lord restores Zion in Psalm 126, I would like to believe he'd do the same for us as we give it all to Him and trust Him.

Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy . .  .  .  "The LORD has done great things for them." The LORD has done great things for us: we are glad. Psalm 16:2-3 ESV (in part)

 

Looking At What's Important ~

Oh where does time go?

Oh I don't know, I don't know.

It is here and then it's gone

As if it wasn't here at all.

We get up and start to move,

Turn around - the day is gone!

Oh the should of's and could of's

That never get done.

We hurry here, we hurry there,

Quick as fast as you can!

Still time disappears ~

A worry to man.

A wise man once said,

Spend time in the WORD

And, He will multiply your time ~

Tucked away in his Bible, 

was a piece of torn envelope;

To which was written, 

Return, O Lord! How long? Have pity on your servants! Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love; that we may rejoice and be glad all our days. Psalm 90:13-14 ESV

My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments, for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. Proverbs 3:1-2 ESV.  

JMB

So, what is time we so need?

Accept that which we ran out of.

What is so important about it,

That we should spend it wisely ~

For we are but a vapor,

a mist that is here then gone.

Is there such as, "time well spent?"

The older I am I so wish to number my days wisely ~ 

As it's been said, 

What does man gain by all the toil

 at which he toils under the sun? (Ecc. !:3)

As a hopefully wise person has said.  .  .  

Maybe, just the mood I'm in or fighting with allergies this time of the year. But looking at what's important in life and what we all seem to take for granted. Since we do miss loved ones, think on spending valued time wisely recognizing what truly is important, while we are here.

 VB 

Looking ahead ~

Hebrews 11:10

Spring Is Around The Corner ~

Winter, and I will include Fall, really was not what I enjoy about the seasons.  Many times I have said Fall is a favorite and Winter is up there as well.  This time I can actually say I'm looking forward to Spring though not the heat of Summer.  ARGH

Fall wasn't as lovely and restful as previous, there barely was any color to speak hardly any changing leaves or even the crispness of cooler air. Winter was mild and rather boring. I missed the calm, restful breather I've had in the past from running and taking care of the whatever's you do when it's warmer out. It just wasn't appealing. Maybe I just missed it being to busy ~

I had been told years ago when I went to get my hair done; I frankly was sick of it and told my hairdresser I can't stand it anymore - I'm in need of a change, she replied - It's February! It isn't really Winter but not yet Spring. In the desert it's dry and dirty - wind gusts start and leaves are barely starting to come out - I'd be lying if I didn't mention some blossoms and flowers we've planted are coming out early making it a bit concerning if we have another freeze. 

Now into March and only a week or so away from Spring my head is spinning with optimism and hopeful I will make time to enjoy it. This past Tuesday I decide to take a drive to Willcox - I love going to Willcox and the drive. We had a rain over night and there was that fresh smell if a coolness in the air. I took a few pics on the way back as I was surprised (not really) that the desert was starting to bloom. 

I first grabbed a shot as I left hoping it would continue to rain. But it didn't only a bit on the drive. Willcox got dumped on and I would love it if we got more rain like them.

Though getting back and opening I wasn't a bit disappoint - look at that sky!  

Spring is around the corner,

Only a week or so to go.

Will it be what I hope for?

Only the good LORD knows.

So I wait with anticipation,

Are you waiting too?

Let's pray we have a good one,

That's the best we can do ~

Happy Spring!

VLB 3.10.26

He made the moon to mark the seasons; the sun knows its time for setting. You make darkness, and it is night, when all the beasts of the forest creep about. The young lions roar for their prey, seeking their food from God. When the sun rises, they steal away and lie down in their dens. Man goes out to his work and to his labor until the evening. Psalm 104:19-23 ESV   :) 

Ahhh Moisture ~

I had been longing for moisture (a good rain) since July 16, 2016. In fact,I attempted to write a post then (and on 10.18 with finally after it rained and now since almost a month later!) it just got way from me .  .  side tracked again! For the past two years prior, almost to the day, I could barely stand it! We only seemed to be teased with nothing to write home about as my gram would say. - Yes, I was longing for beautiful moisture. 

I could talk a lot about living in a desert - hot and dry, with this year I used the term dehydrating frequently!  Everything was aching for moisture, I think especially me. I also was sharing; how bad is it when you see possible cumulus clouds and any rain in them you would only see evaporate before hitting the ground or bringing tears to my eyes only to see it pass by. 

Then, finally ~

My recent long awaited pics ~  Afternoon shot the start ~ 1:15  10.12. 2025

Morning 6:30 next day ~

5:33 PM

We had two days of beautiful rain! Keep in mind many in AZ have had to much and are still cleaning up; some lost property, pets, and suffered other damage. Yet for years we have been in the shadows of rain, having none that actually makes an impact with what we need keeping draught at bay. The last rain I logged was September 16, 24 Anticipating - the last rain like in shots above, September 15, 2014.

But what is it about moisture most long for - I long for? 

Maybe it is more of a spiritual longing for refreshing or maybe both ~

Being truthful here -- I love rain!

When sharing in my recent post "Anticipated Time" everything from heat - dry and lack of rain doesn't seem to help this time of the year and all the beauty one may expect. And, just as nature is preparing for Winter's rest and renewal in the Spring - we also long for that renewal - "refreshing" from moisture as well.

Do you long for a refreshing? Your strength renewed?

"But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint." Isaiah 40:31 NIV

This is what I love about Autumn/Fall (harvest time) Moisture ~  We should always take time for rest, like we sometimes feel at this time of the year, a quiet peace, now when you add rain to that - you feel refreshed from a dry dehydrating draught feeling - a breather :) And, in particular I really needed a breather over the past 3 summers helping my dad and this year my dad had hip surgery at 92 it was a long eight months. I am so thankful he is doing so much better.

That's how I feel with moisture and Autumn. Rested -Refreshed - Renewed.  Thankful ~

Jeremiah 31:25

Acts 3:19

Psalm 68:9

Psalm 23:1 (I lack nothing)NIV

                

Amen

I Don't Always Need A Title ~

I have so many started posts I haven't been able to finish. These now "drafts" have been in my try to finish mode. But when you get sidetracked, you seem to loose what you were originally thinking in the first place and where it was going, now not even sounding close to the same. This has happened to me several times over the years. Though, there are times when it turns out just right and maybe what the intent was to be all along. But for today .  .  . now tomorrow .  .  .

.  .  .  putting that aside - I'm now on to this newer post, the others will need to wait. :)   

So without a show of hands, how many of you have the USPS Informed delivery app.?  When I was away - physically, I noticed this app my daughter n law was using and decided I would give it a go.  When you are away  - or for whatever reason - it's nice to know what mail will be delivered, whether it's envelope or package. I found it to be very useful whether you live in a good, bad or out in the middle of no where kind of neighborhood.  :)

This 'app' is of course on my cell where I check it mostly. I also receive informed delivery in my email daily (occasionally).  So, recently as of the past several days, I haven't been able to log in. Over the past three day's I tried coming up with a new password. :/ Four in fact!!!   

I received this email from USPS:

This email is being sent to inform you that someone has tried multiple times to access your account on line. Each access attempt has failed and for your protection, your account will be locked or made unavailable for the next 24 hours.

Instead of waiting the 24 hours to have the account unlocked, you are welcome to use the Forgot your Password function found at _  You will need to provide your user name and answer to your secret question (s) before a new temporary password will be provided. 

And, what was my response? 

Yes.....IT HAS BEEN ME!!!!

I did try their suggestions it didn't work. In fact, It would respond with someone already has that user name! Then I wasn't even being recognized at all. I  ended up "creating" a new long in - different email - and after SEVERAL attempts with a new password one was finally acceptable.  I like my old login but I guess if I like the use of the app. I'll be ok with it all, but what a time suck!

I surely hope you don't have to deal with the same. 

Which now brings me to a quick word on "PASSWORDS."  There are so many passwords being used that you have to be so creative and if you don't log it - it's truly hard to remember. I have so many, I dislike logging into any of the internet sites I use. But unfortunately it is so much - 'to' to much apart of our lives. I truly admire those that are free from it but when I was gone I came to rely on the internet for research, bills, a lot other needed things other than 'media.'

Okay a recent, as of yesterday, note here, As shared I am no longer using my original login for USPS, as stated they no longer recognize it. Hence - my new login acct. I am now receiving emails to my old acct. and my new ~

I guess some things you just need to laugh off or be irritated. 

This morning, as my sibs and I try to text Good Morning, I sent this out.

The sun rises, and the sun goes down, and hastens to the place where it rises. Ecclesiastes !:5 ESV    (I tell my sister all days seem to run together like reliving the same day, ARGH!)

I will add another wise verse from the Preacher, the son of David, king in Jerusalem.  

What has been is what will be, and what has been done, and there is nothing new under the sun. Ecclesiastes 1:9 ESV

And, if there is a moral here to be learned and I'm sure you who might be reading can think of one that could apply to something  you are dealing with, let it be the importance of letting go, maybe with a little much needed laughter resting your mind of daily non-essential things that just seem to clutter our lives.  - a big reminder to myself. 

And, just because -

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whoever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me_ practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:8-9 ESV.                          Just another good reminder to me ~

No Title - Just A Day ~

 I had a lot of things

I wanted to say 

today,

but they slipped

my mind as

the day got 

away ~

VLB 7.25.25

Some times you 

feel creative~

And, only

time will tell.

Whether or not

others will see

a creative side,

of me ~

VLB 7.25.25

I've been missing, 

ME ~

Ever busy,

always on the run!

It seems to

happen this way.

Moving in and out,

throughout my

day.

VLB 7.25.25

When having a

conversation,

you just might find out;

while talking to 

the other person,

You were 

really talking

to 

yourself.

VLB 7.25.25

It happens ~

While thinking 

of something else

to say,

it occurred to me 

the day is just about spent!

So moving right along

not to forget or

leave out a 

Psalm ~

VLB 7.25.25

But I will sing of your strength; I will sing aloud of your steadfast love in the morning. For you have been to me a fortress and a refuge in the day of my distress. Psalm 59:16 ESV

It is good to give thanks to the LORD, to sing praises to your name, O Most High; to declare your steadfast love in the morning, and your faithfulness by night. Psalm 92:1-2 ESV 

Ok two.

In the first scripture, the word distress is sometimes written as trouble or adversity like difficulties depending on the version you read. My time has been taken in a sense by stepping in again to help care for someone I care about who has been trying to heal after surgery. It surely has been a challenge for me and has left me somewhere in a place I find difficult to be in. It isn't that I can't it's that the person is demanding at times and there hasn't been any room for me. 

I'm so thankful God is my refuge and His word hidden in my heart ~  I also had the best beautiful blessing to start my day a part of a favorite song sung and sent by audio text - Way Maker.  He is certainly that and more. So with all the happenings that are not so pleasant, I know He makes a way when their doesn't seem to be one or when some of my thoughts come out like above. :)

The Boy.

Father God

Where is that 

happy boy of

so many years ago?

With so many smiles

And, a joyful heart.

With twists and turns

choices made,

With and enemy's

laughing words

with lies of  deception.

Only You, Only You.

Can turn the clock

to restore the soul 

and save

the boy.

VLB 3.17.2025

Years can pass so quickly; we all remember times when young people much like in our own homes and how life was; maybe how we remember it to have been. You wonder what happened to so many who once were riding bikes with tons of laugher, sharing dreams and ideas with siblings and friends. Making grown-up plans while heading to school.  

It really doesn't seem to matter if your children are in a good home, school or church they still can be affected by things that wish to do them harm.  My children are all now grown and from a parents perceptive we did the best, we believed, raising them. My husband would have said, with God's help.  Boy, it had to be with God's help, I can speak only for myself saying there were mistakes made and plenty! My husband would have said the same as well.

I remember when I was younger living around plenty of cousins, we spent a lot of time together planning and playing.  I also made friends from around the neighborhood I'd visit with and we'd walk to school together. We all got along for the most part without to many issues though as most kids I did have a few bullies. Like my boys I had plans and dreams, some came to be and others were squashed or damaged by wrong and bad choices I made looking in the wrong direction. 

Over the years I've thought long and hard over decisions made, as from when I was younger and as a parent. I don't talk much about my stupid choices as a teen other than I really was naive - in a sense - more so, I grew without specific guidance needed, only becoming rebellious as a lot of kids in middle school and towards the end of my high school years. Middle - High School was a nightmare, I hated about 90% of my time at school (I'll leave for a later post).  I needed a true friend and someone that I could talk to. Specifically, things were so different from when I was younger as when I played with cousins and walked to school with friends. I was totally out of place. I didn't need a parent to be a friend though I needed a parent to hear my problems and be honest - even if what was being said wasn't what was liked. (Saying this, I can't place fault. I most absurdity knew right from wrong.) I was unhappy with my life and looked for something to fill that void. 

As I look at these things I experienced and at kids today - looking back through my timeline of life I was deceived by lies that held me in a bad place. Some of those lies are what you may tell yourself. When our adult children make choices it's different from when they were younger. When they were younger you as a parented need to step in with guidance even be willing to hear what isn't liked, but when they are the age of accountability - they're responsible for their choices. Just as I was/am.

The Girl ~

Who was that girl 

so long ago? 

That raced her 

bike with cousins,  

on old dirt roads.

Who looked at the 

world with wonder

walking through the woods.

Who believed God as I AM.

With twists and turns

choices made,

unhappy came a void.

Only You, Only You.

Turned the clock

restoring the girl,

Your daughter,

that became the wife,

the mom, the widow.

Your daughter.

VLB 4.3.25

God will always bring to pass that which He started. If you are concerned for your small children or adult children place them in His very capable hands. However, it is up to us to share with them what God has for those who are His and the Holy Spirit will be your guide. Trust Him in all things as He works through and in every detail of their lives. And, wait - this is the hard one to do, but what has the very best outcome. As you wait there is also something for you to do, be His daughter or son (who ever is reading this). Be purposeful with your time when you spend it with Him, there is where your peace and strength comes as you wait. Next anticipate what He is doing and pray.

I wanted to pick one verse that would apply to the last paragraph and liked them all.

Philippians 1:6, Ephesians 1:11, Isaiah 46:4  (He will finish what He started in us)

Psalm 138:8, John 10:28, John 6:37 (He is capable and will finish). <<<

Psalm 48:14, Isaiah 58:11, Psalm 32:8, John 16:13 (He will guide)

Psalm 62:8, Proverbs 3:5, Hebrews 10:23, Hebrews 2:13, Jeremiah 49:11 (Trust Him)

Isaiah 40:31, Romans 8:24,25,26, Galatians 5:5, James 5:7 (Wait/Patient)

Ephesians 5:15-16, Colossians4:5, Ecclesiastes 3 Psalm 90:12

Psalm 119:148, Galatians 5:5, Philippians 1:20 (Anticipate/Eagerly)

1 Thessalonians 5:17 (Pray)       

I had been dubbed Rambling Vik some time ago and this could be one of those times. I would like to say, we live in a world that is full of things that prick - evils if you will that want nothing better than to deceive us all, we see it every day and don't see the deception that causes so much pain, does so much harm.  Believe me I'm not focusing on a negative but am anticipating and eagerly waiting God's outcome.

We question so much as why and where is God in situations and circumstances we might be in. Truthfully I can look back and see all that He has carried me through whether I was walking as I should have been or not, He was there I am His and He finishing what He stated. Sometimes you need a cleanse for the body to heal and be in tune ~

You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. Genesis 50:20 NIV.    [If you haven't read about Joseph - check it out], and in a nut shell - What an enemy meant for evil - God will turn for the good. 

Prayers for you today for all the above. Shalom 

Memories ~

12:28.24

My mind is full of memories from when I was a child. I suppose most people think of times past, around the Christmas season, though not all has to be related to Christmas. There are things you may hear or see that triggers a memory. You could say reflections and my recollection of memories.

One memory that has always been dear to me was practicing on my gram's piano the song Toyland written in 1903 by Victor Herbert, not that I'm that old I just grew-up with my gram. Well, Toyland has been played over the years around Christmas, and in the movie "Babes in Toyland" that usually aired that time for us classic buffs. Though I was learning to play I don't know if relatives and friends alike were aware that my Gram and dad played piano, actually my dad played many instruments,  I can't fully remember which one was teaching me how to play Toyland, maybe both, but I do remember I started with this song. I was very young, I imagine around seven or eight possibly younger.

My dad's brother would tell us stories of my dad sitting at the piano with me playing Toyland, he'd say darn if it didn't sound good!  Sadly, for me it didn't go anywhere. One year we traveled to Arizona staying a short few months only having to leave as my gram's brother was very ill. I don't remember if he passed away before returning or shortly after, that was tough for me - he and I were pals. I was also sad to find not only my grams piano gone with any future lessons, but my bike and little treasures I collected. 

I was heart broken especially not to be able to pal around with my Uncle Russ.

Which brings another memory to mind with Uncle Russ that was triggered recently while I was in a feed store. 

Aw - just a moment ~ it turned out to be a beautiful day so I'm outside for the first time - ever - possibly - enjoying this moment.  .  . now back to a memory, ;)

While in the feed store I happened to notice a tube of Veterinary Liniment Gel on the counter. I picked it up and inquired if this was for humans as well, since Veterinary was on the packaging. I also remembered the liquid was used for horses. Anyway, I answered my own question and shared this story with the clerk. When I was a young girl I was always hanging out with my Uncle Russ feeding and watching the chickens or checking out what the cow was doing. One day we finished up and headed in for our treat of molasses milk. but Uncle Russ went into the living room and sat down on an ottoman asking Aunt Millie to get the liniment for his lower back it was hurting bad. So she did. The Liniment wasn't in a gel but liquid and when she started to put in on his lower back it ran down through a spot you normally see on silly plumbers and he let out a yell, one I never heard before! I decided right then I'd never use the stuff! Well I bought it and thought my dad could try it. ha ha So bringing it home I said, "dad I saw this and thought it might work on your joints that have been hurting." He then said, what! I think I have some, sure enough a large bottle just sitting on the shelf behind him. So I kept the tube of liniment gel - I've been using it myself and it works pretty good, it's even better since it can't run away to places its not suppose to and shouldn't! 

It's still beautiful out I'm not sure how much I'll get to on this post ~ !2.31.24

Here it is day 6 into a new year and Happy New Year!

It's so true that memories can be triggered by things we see and hear, as stories and music whether happy or sad.  I hope the thoughts and memories you have are happy to visit once in awhile.

As a child I had the best times at this old farm house. It was my great grand parents, built by their son. He also built a house next door for him and his wife. There was also a cabin that some were born in that burnt down - I would've loved to have seen it or had picture. The big house was splint down the middle so to speak, where my Uncle Russ and Aunt Millie lived and after mom (great gram) passed away it was filled with another sib and family. This farm was a Childs paradise with places to hide, forts to build, grass to run, and hills to climb, woods to venture and hike, and even just past the pasture before hitting some woods a running creek. Even the field was spent playing ball and the dirt roads were our track to race cousins on our bikes. There were chickens to feed and a cow to milk, food and stories to tell around the table. I miss it! It seemed like simpler from a kids persecutive - as an adult I know the work was hard.  My Uncle Russ and I would venture out and discuss the animals and when done we'd go into the house to enjoy a glass of molasses milk and - believe it or not, since it's me, circus peanuts that I can't even look at anymore! lol The milk is another story, :)

My husband and I spent so much time traveling. When we finally got out of the CG we settled only to move to where we thought we'd stay. For the most part there our boys were able to do some of the things I did growing up. At least I hope they had enjoyed the times together with each other and good friends they made. Still I sure would have loved them to have had that old farm house. I think when moving around - yes, you might grow while seeing many new things that those who stay put don't, however, those who move around sometimes loose out on some things that those who stay put have. (I don't even know if that makes any sense!) I was always thankful for those I met at church we fellowshipped with. They were our family away from family. We were so blessed to have everyone of them in our lives.

One last memory to share since we just had Christmas. When I was young I so loved the wooded hollow this time of the year, frankly, any area where the trees are glistening with snow. OH so beautiful. Well, when looking across the hollow from the road you could see the house, since the trees were bare or dusted with snow, you could see all the way to my gramma's window. She had a big picture window where she placed her tree.  You could see the lights on the tree that looked so big and beautiful.  When reaching the house and entering only to find with surprise a 2 foot high Christmas tree! There it was, sitting on an end table front and center of the window, every year she used that tree. I loved it. I think my brother still has that tree. :) I sure wished I had a picture to share.

I believe, and this is my opinion, that memories can be good but you are not to stay, indefinably, for the Lord has a beautiful life planned for those who are His. Are you one?

From that kid in me, my memories I hold dear, however, I'm believing that the best is yet to come. "I know that God has the best yet to come" His word tells us so. It's important we move forward.

For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11 NIV 

Not only that - as His daughter through my relationship with Him, I have a story, a testimony (many) - which is something I share here. We all do. I'm sure if you take a look back throughout your life whether you were a 'believer' or not, honestly take a look how you got through what seemed to be impossible times and challenges. Through prayers of others, prayers you conveyed as if into the air through longings and all the while not recognizing God was listening and answering out of His love for you. As if a miracle happened. Maybe not all who are reading this post but many of you. He's waiting.

To hold on to the past as in never moving forward is a mistake. I love going to Dos Cabezas in Willcox, AZ, the owner has little quotes on the cup sleeves. A recent sleeve said, "Don't look back you're not going that way." (a wise quote I'd say) I always use this scripture verse for the New Year, Philippians 3:12-14 (I'll let you look it up today.) - in place of a resolution. I don't like making 'resolutions' though I always look to doing better with the Lord's help and guidance. 

In closing, I hope you're blessed who read and seek Him daily. Shalom ~

Long before I was even born, my gram and uncle Russ on the farm, they were best pals too. 

Just a favorite picture of mine.

A Happiest of New Years to You & Yours With All God's Good Blessings ~

And

May the grace of our Lord Jesus be with you all. 

2 Thessalonians 3:18 NLT

Memories From a Rural Mail Carrier ~

For every route there were stories. I had a highway contract working from a Post Office in New Mexico. My route was no different from other rural routes and I’m certain all carriers have their memories with many stories to tell. On my route even mailboxes had a story ~ Such a long time ago I still have fond memories (mostly), not ever forgetting the stories.

 

Who doesn’t have a good story to share? I guess it depends on how the story is received from the one sharing the story. I have often heard; in telling a good story it should grab the reader’s attention in the first part. 

 

My husband traveled back and forth out of state with his job, one day he came home and said, “I got you a job!” “Doing what, I asked!?” Not that raising three teenage boys wasn’t enough – we also lived where some would consider out in the boonies, He preceded with, “I bid on a rural highway contract with the US Postal Service, and we got the bid!” He continued with letting me know the position wasn’t far from where we lived; adding – “How hard could it be?! You will be delivering the mail working out of the local Post Office. You start .  .  . when you get there, you will meet with the Postmaster (PM) who will give you all the details and whatever training. So, what do you think?!” Honestly, I can’t think of what I thought when asked, I can sure imagine a lot I might have! 

At the time I didn’t know anything about the job or what to expect. I did know it was working six days a week with the length of each day depending on how quickly you did your job and how much mail you had. I found out if the mail didn’t come presorted, I would be delayed waiting for those working within the PO sorting out all mail that wasn’t pre-sorted to flats that carriers get each morning. The carriers still had to take that mail and sort it into the case slots for each curbside customer they had. It really saved us out on the route and the waiting portion, when the regular PO crew sorted, they also were sorting theirs for delivery within the PO the carrier was never sure when to expect to get out.

 

This ‘bid’ was on a brand-new route.  The area was growing fast with new sub-divisions, as well as homes out with acreage, they needed to break up deliveries, expanding boundaries. I wasn’t the only one hired for new routes, before I left three others came in, originally there were only a few carriers. I learned quickly and was proficient at my job. I learned where all the addresses belonged (other routes) being able to jump in and help sort the missorted as well as magazines etc. to each carrier enabling me to get out early and shortening up my day. I must confess that when we first moved to the ‘boonies,’ I started learning all the names of the roads by making wrong turns and getting lost, it proved helpful on the job, so much so I could tell how to find places or which carrier they’d need to talk to from the name of the road.

On my first day with my “new job” the PM, gave me the low-down, walked me through the PO, sharing much of my training would be on the job and exactly where my route was. She told me that I needed specific things always in my car in case I was stranded. As you can see from the photo’s a bit of my route. I did have a Subaru (for city driving) 4wheel drive was important for all routes, though my car was low to the ground, I mostly ate dirt. So much so my car seemed to permanently have that floating dust look inside much like seeing pigpen on Charlie Brown! Every curbside box and cluster boxes were on dirt or just off paved onto dirt. I will say I had the nicest cluster boxes (I still regularly notice all mail ‘cluster’ boxes commenting how nice mine were). When I first started, I only had customers from curbside or is that ditch and berm side! The curbside group was broken off another route and the PM shared it would increase as time went on. Then she looked at me curiously asking, “Are you certain you want this job?” I politely said, “yes, why?”  “Well, you had the lowest bid.” I replied, “I didn’t know what others had bid, and wouldn’t have known, asking again why?” She said to me, “Well it’s so low, you are like volunteering.” nice~

Of course, I can’t remember the actual thoughts that were bouncing in my mind then; I know I probably had the look of stunned ~ 

 

As time went by, I enjoyed (mostly) my route especially the Oldtimers with curbside. I found I really liked the PM – we got along well. She just allowed the carriers to do their jobs as we were contracted to do. We followed postal regulations (mostly), worked hard and looked at it as those who were receiving mail were in fact our customers we were providing the service. Everyone working with us within the PO all seemed to get along, most disgruntled things from the regulars were directed towards the PM so they got along great! Until she retired,  that’s the way it goes sometimes. One time the PM mentioned to me that for the route I needed to get something like cross extensions put on the car for driving on the other side of the road. By looking at the photos, it wasn’t like there was ever traffic to contend with – as none. I told her that I would deliver backwards – kind a sort of. She told me she didn’t care how I delivered the mail just deliver it; she didn’t want problems. BTW all the regulation stuff I needed to have for my route, you know the standard safety stuff – traffic warning triangles or cones, etc., if I broke down and pulled to the ditch putting cones out, lol, who would see them? Cows, doggies and a passerby with an hour space time between each car or tractor. One day my husband brought home, a brick mobile phone when they came out for me to use on the route – you know for emergencies. You'd think it would've been a great idea, I soon found out that I would have had to climb a hill – finding that perfect spot to get a connection like I did when at home! I knew God was always with me as well, I only had one tire problem on ‘that’ route the whole time I was a carrier. 

 

I wished I could find my cow pic ~

I have many memories of my time as a carrier, the most memorial ‘favorite’ time was being outside with the most beautiful skies I’ve ever seen, the air had that light, fresh, airy feel. Always seeming to have a slight breeze on those kinds of days. I usually listened to KLYT 88.3 Albuquerque (all music at the time) or DC Talk’s album, Jesus Freak! I still do. I mostly listened to  “I’ve Got Something to Say,” that I could literally listen to over and over on my route. The start of the song seemed to capture the skies and how I felt in that fresh air of being outside. It always ministered to how I felt inside.  There were things going on in our lives with Jim being gone, the boys were busy with practice, cars and friends – being teenagers. The route provided a space where I was able to be alone with the Lord, so to speak, and out where I could in a way let things go enjoying the beauty of outside.

I surprised myself here only getting this far without sharing some memorable stories I liked from my first route. Yes, my first route. I used to joke – my husband loved me so much he got me a second route!

I think I'll stop here for the meantime. We've been busy on the farm as my son would say. We had a natural gas leak and having a new line put in. Say a prayer for me and while I wait until next week when it is hopefully up and running, I'll be listening to DC Talk. 

(to be continued)