Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Hodgepodging into February


More Wisconsin barn scenery


Join Joyce and the Gang
for
She writes the questions;
we write the answers.
Plug them into your own post
and join in!


1. Can you believe it's the end of January? What was the best day of January 2017 for you, and why?

The best day of January was when we visited both of our daughters. When traveling to visit Daughter 1, we stopped for a bit at Daughter 2's to see the kids (and the parents of course) and to get a break from the sitting.


The second best day was the day Mr. C. and I spent in St. Paul, visiting the Cathedral (coming in Friday's post), Como Park Conservatory, and having coffee (and pie!) at Cafe Latte.

My favorite: Fruit Tart
Because it's health food, of course :-)

You can see their entire Dessert Menu HERE

2. What sounds make up the background noise in your life?

Mainly, the fan next to the stack of wood in the living room, which circulates air and helps dry the wood. After that, I'd say the very quiet whirr of the wheel on my recumbent exercise bike that I use twice a day to strengthen ye olde hip, music on the CD player, the whining of Tommy (Smokey is not a whiner) when he wants to be held, and NBC news, Wisconsin Public Radio, Laura Ingraham, and Michael Medved. I try to keep current with all sides.

Alas, I do not seem to have a photo of my recumbent bike in my files,
but when I searched them for 'bike' this was one that came up.
In 2013, these two cuties were using the bike as a rock(et) launcher!

3. I read on the Power of Positivity website a list of ten things to drop from your life right now. They are-

anger outbursts, people who put you down, regret, negative self talk, being a people pleaser, the notion you need to be perfect, the past (but keep the lessons learned!), gossip and judgment, comparing yourself to others, and the word hate (focus on what you love instead)

Which thing on the list do you most need to drop? Are you trying or will you try?

I've read this through at least three times and I have to honestly say that I don't have a problem with any of the above. What I do have a problem with is my bad attitude toward winter, especially the last two years. Although it is beautiful, it is just Far Too Long here in NW Wisconsin. Except for a year when I lived in Bolivia (and got to ride motorcycle through the jungle and got to go alligator hunting in the Beni River) and a short time living in Arizona, I've lived in this area (NW Wisconsin) my entire long life. You'd think I'd be used to it by now, wouldn't you.

 Maybe I just need another German Shepherd

4. What is sacred to you?

Literally, the Word of God and places and friends that promote worship. If you're speaking figuratively, then I'd say the time I get to spend outdoors from May through October, and particularly walking. Walking in the country is the best thing. It gives me such an appreciation for the beauty of God's creation, his love and generosity toward us, and makes me feel refreshed, physically and spiritually.

 Look at that, I even need to clean out my Bible!
(Making great progress on main-floor rooms, btw)

5. January is National Oatmeal month. Are you a fan, and if so how do you like it?

Unnecessary mega carbs that I don't even particularly like. I could handle a tablespoon of oatmeal if it had about a half cup of pecans in it, I suppose.Or just give me the pecans.

6. What feelings does twilight stir up in you?

My first inclination is to remark about the hair starting to grow on my knuckles. 

But aside from that, I'd say the need to think about what to make for dinner tomorrow, making sure the kitchen is clean and the cats are taken care of, and getting ready to either a) read aloud with Mr. C. - which we tend to do in the evenings, followed by b) digging out a good movie. Right now we're going through the Pie in the Sky series again. They're so much fun.

photo found online somewhere

7. Something you're looking forward to next month?

I'm looking forward to going to the Guthrie Theatre in Minneapolis to see King Lear with Mr. C., getting a checkup from my (yeah, 'my,' like my own personal, Ha!!) hip surgeon at Rochester, and having our Daughter 1 (and her husband) visit us on her birthday weekend. Yea!!

8. Insert your own random thought here. 

After watching the news yesterday morning, I am so thankful yet again that my parents watched me grow up a tomboy, pretending I'm Roy Rogers, drinking from mud puddles (I was pretty young), riding horse (not so young), playing football, swinging from saplings, building rafts to float in the creek, swinging from a rope over the creek and dropping in for a big splash, pulling bloodsuckers from my legs, building forts and lean-tos, not loving dolls or tea parties, camping with the neighbor kids, climbing trees, etc. etc. and that they DIDN'T try to tell me that I must really be transgender - or something. You can't convince me that these young children aren't being coached by someone with an agenda, or someone who's very confused in this day of the 'gender identity' smorgasbord.  From ABC News, here's a link to 58 current 'gender options.' Is our society confused or what? Can't kids be allowed to be kids, and what does a four, six, or eight year old know about sexuality? 



So, back to this old woman who desperately needs low-lighting and a haircut: Here I am today, with a wonderful husband who loves me, wonderful children and grandchildren who love me, and no inner questions or conflict about who I'm really supposed to be. Thank God for my parents and teachers who let me be a tomboy without worrying about my sexuality. 

Even now, at heart, I still am really a tomboy who would rather be outdoors than attending a tea party, often like the better colors found in men's clothing than in the ladies' department, and would rather drink from a mud puddle than play games at a baby shower. 

I think instead of our constant navel gazing, we need to look outside ourselves for a change: Micah 6:8 He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God and Deuteronomy 6:5 You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might. Psalm 145:17-19 The LORD is just in all his ways, and kind in all his doings. The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desire of all who fear him; he also hears their cry and saves them.


 Roy Rogers (l), Dale Evans (r)
Who would want to be Dale Evans?

God help all young tomboys who have to grow up in today's American society. 

Linking to Eileen's Saturday's Critters

 ***

Check out my natural, handcrafted vegan soap!
Buy any 5 or more, Get 1 FREE
 
Current sale at Etsy Shop only.

BUT, Buy 5 or more Get 1 FREE at both
 
HomemadeSoapNSuch


and at


Our ETSY Shop

A kitty's life is so exhausting.

Join me on Instagram: @cranberrymorning


Judy

38 comments:

21 Wits said...

I have to laugh about the snow on your pup's face, my dog Misty does the same thing! I always enjoy stopping by and seeing your photos and hearing about what you're up too! I also really like the water pitchers on the window frame, what a cool idea!

Pamela said...

Great Hodgepodge! Those pies look amazing, and speaking of pie, I'm off to check out Pie on the Sky, looks just like my kind of show.

Preppy Empty Nester said...

I think it is so sweet that you and your Mr. read to each other in the evenings! Love the last pic of you. Have a great week, dear Judy!

Vee said...

Okay, you have never brought me to tears before, but your cogent discussion of the transgender issues rampant in our country today...whoa...never thought about it quite this way and, of course, you are right. In this climate, God help the Tom boys and the Sally girls. God, help them!

Beautiful photo of you and Mr. Cranberry Morning. Now that made me smile...

April said...

Judy...as cold-natured as I am, I'm convinced I would never be able to survive living up north. I so agree with your random thought. I grew up playing with Matchbox cars and baseball bats. I can even recall my mom buying me a plastic machine gun once. Never was there any talk about this transgender business. I shudder to see what has happened with our country's children. There is definitely an underlying agenda IMO.

Arlene G said...

I love that picture of your Bible Judy...its gospel message is the ONLY hope for our world.

Debbie said...

LOVE the pic of you and your hubby. And I too couldn't agree more with the whole transgender thing. My ONLY daughter was as tomboy as they came. And as much as I might have preferred some "girly" activities, it honestly never occurred to me to not let her just be and do what she enjoyed. She didn't pick up a purse until she was 16, and shopping STILL doesn't appeal to her, she prefers to watch football to this day, and "dressing up" is almost a punishment...but you'd never find someone who was more of a woman. I too pray for today's youth...such a hard hard time to be young. Have a good day!

Unknown said...

GREAT hodgepodge today my friend. You tackle issues that some people wouldn't. I can't believe some of the things I'm seeing these days. Praying for ALL!

Carla from The River said...

Hi Judy! THANK YOU for your random!

Enjoy the month of February, you have some great plans.
xx oo
Carla
P.S I grew up as tomboy too.

Mrs.T said...

Wonderful Hodgepodge, Judy. Loved that photo of your Bible, and I am so with you on all of this concerning "transgender" issues. Do you ever see the Answers in Genesis website? They have an excellent article on how to talk with children about these things, but it's very informative for adults, as well. Good biblical perspective.

Schotzy said...

Love the barn photos i the snow... I tell you kids must be a lot more hale and hearty that we 'd think becsaue as you drank form mud puddles I would sit in the alley out bacak while moom hung upn clothes and fill my mouth with broken glass.. yeah I was pretty youth, too.. but mom said she'd rake the glass out of my mouth with her finger... yikes!!! I have heard that every kid usually ends up eating at least a cup of dirt in their childhood.

MadSnapper said...

I love that shed, in fact I want that shed, it could be my woman cave to get away from the CNN talking all day... I had to laugh about the things you did and Dale Evans. I wanted to be a cowboy not a cow girl. I prayed to turn into a boy from age 10 to 12 when I finally figured out when daddy said you can pray about everything, that it would not happen. mainly I wanted to be rid of the monthly thing.. loved all your photos today and you both look good in the light you are in on this photo

Stephanie said...

My dear Judy, what a fabulous post with fabulous thoughts! I, too, grew up enjoying baseball, playing in the dirt, running around with friends playing cops and robbers, snowboarding, dreaming of dirtbikes, and whatnot, but grew up to also love all things feminine, beautiful and elegant. Indeed, society has taken it out of context and sadly, the kids are being "brainwashed." The youth of today are never far from my prayers....

Hugs to you!

Debby@Just Breathe said...

Nothing better than being able to spend time with our children. Oatmeal is a "good" carb which is excellent for the heart. Love your photo with your husband.

Elizabeth "Libby" Day said...

A woman after my own heart. I also grew up a tomboy, wishing I had been a son for my dad. I played and fought rough and tough, climbed trees, rode my bike in the woods, played cowboys, proudly wore my holster and guns, and sneaked by dad's cigarettes. Never had a baby doll. But, on the other hand, I was feminine and loved pretty things. I loved to read, draw, paint, sing and play the piano. I am also so grateful for parents who didn't question my gender although they many times questioned my behavior. But that was the benefit of growing up in the 40's and 50's in rural America. Children today unfortunately will never know and experience what we did - thereby the huge number of cry babies and selfish brats. Except for ours, right?

Terri D said...

I am with you on the tomboy front! I would rather climb trees than play with Barbie! I loathe baby showers and most things 'foo-foo'. I'm not confused about my womanhood, however. This is a fun Hodgepodge!

Anonymous said...

I enjoyed reading your answers, and, as always, I love your photographs, especially the snow.
Excellent random thoughts. What's this world coming to?
Kathy (Reflections)

Empty Nester said...

When I was a kid, guess what I wanted to be when I grew up? A linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys. I'm not kidding. Everyone told me that girls can't play football except for my grandmother's brother, WD. He told me I could be anything I wanted to be as long as I worked hard. :) Baby M's mommy was our tomboy. And I hope Baby M wants to be one because her mommy is going to have her on the soccer field by the time she hits 2. LOL Your feelings for winter mirror my feelings towards summer. Haha!

NanaDiana said...

Yep- I was a tomboy as a kid, too, although now I enjoy both sides of the coin---the ultra-feminine and the gardener/soil turner/tree trimmer/etc. I do think people rush kids into a "box" sometimes when they should just let them be....be a tomboy....be a soft guy-that loves music more than sports, etc....whatever.

Hope you have a great Wednesday- this was a good Hodgepodge, Judy! xo Daina

NanaDiana said...

yes- I do know how to spell my name--just got in a bit of a hurry there---lol

SImple and Serene Living said...

Nothing better than time with family. xo Laura

Michelle said...

#3 is some great advice I am sure we could all use.

Anonymous said...

Hi Judy, I enjoyed your post so much. Happy you had the chance to visit with family recently. I always enjoy your photos, especially kittens! Great photo of you and your husband. We've had two cold, snowy spells so far this winter but for the most part, it has been mild. Wishing you a very pleasant evening. Hugs, Mildred

Anonymous said...

I was definitely the tom boy in my family of 8. 4 boys and 4 girls. I was not the frilly type at all. All that said I do enjoy a lovely table and a tea party. I just don't like to dress up for it! :)
Enjoyed your answers especially #4. Lovely photo of you and your husband. On a name dropping note my cousin dated Roy and Dale's granddaughter...

Cindy said...

Love this post. The picture of your Bible is beautiful; I agree with you on the transgender issues; And that pie! Oh. My. Word. Yummy!!

~Lavender Dreamer~ said...

I love the photo of you and hubby! I was at the zoo today and hubby was going to take a photo of me and told me to move over and get out of the sun. My hair looks white!!! I don't know why! lol And do you remember Annie Oakley? That's who I wanted to be. I could have joined you with my six shooter! Hugs!

Cathy said...

I used Micah 6:8 in my random too. Love that verse.

Love the Roy Rogers and Dale Evans picture too

Lynne said...

I would have to tickle that kitten paw . . .
I like your Hodgepodging . . ,
Food for thought . . . each time.
Enjoy your Theater Night . . .

Jean | DelightfulRepast.com said...

Judy, as always I love your hodgepodge answers. So sensible. My older sister was a tomboy who outdid the boys at all the typical "boy things," and she grew up with no "confusion." She could climb trees and win all the marbles from the boys then go beat all the girls at jacks. Tommy looks adorable, and I wouldn't mind his whining for attention at all! My husband loves vocal cats.

Joyce said...

It seems the word tomboy has disappeared from our vocabulary. That fruit tart looks so good. Of course out of all your thoughtful answers I hone in on the food. It's a gift : ) Have a great day!

Deb @ Frugal Little Bungalow said...

Judy! Micah! :) YES.

There have been times in my life when I have gone before the Lord with questions...due to the various denonminations, interpretations of scripture, rules, thoughts, this that and the other question and I have been sent back to this over and over again; once even in a very vivid and unforgettable dream

and you were just used to send me back there again XO God Bless



Rose said...

I am still a tomboy, too. I grew up doing much of the things you mentioned...come from a big family, the youngest of 8...one sister was home till I was around 6...then it was me with 3 brothers. Even had I been so inclined, I had not choice but to be a tomboy. I just was not much of a doll person, for sure not one for teaparties....one of my nephews spent two or three summers with us. He is actually a month older than me. There was seldom a day that we weren't wading the creek catching crawdads, muscles, and just fooling around.

Lady Linda said...

I love these post to learn so much more about a blogger friend. So fun.

podso said...

Fun post and good word at #8. Just questioning the mud puddle drink. Will have to look up Pie in the Sky as you have given us some other good recommendations.

Anonymous said...

Had to smile at the use of the "rocket launcher." What imaginations. My Bible tends to collect notes, church bulletins, etc. 58 gender options? Good grief. I agree with your thoughts on that--someone's agenda. Those desserts look wonderful! Glad your hip is getting stronger. That kitty looks awfully comfortable.

eileeninmd said...

Hello, Judy! I was more like a tomboy than a girly girl growing up. I enjoyed your answers and the questions. I heard people live longer and happier with a dog, now where is that new German Shepherd? The pie slices look delicious. Cute photo of you and your hubby! Thank you for linking up and sharing your post. Happy Saturday, enjoy your weekend!

carol l mckenna said...

Lovely post ~ wonderful photo of you and hubby and critter photos of german shepherd and that sweet kitty are adorable ~ thanks,

Wishing you a Happy and Peaceful weekend ~ ^_^

A Joyful Cottage said...

You're a woman after my own heart, Judy. God's word is the final authority and eternally true. I'm so encouraged when I meet another blogger who loves the Lord. God bless you. Hugs, Nancy

LinkWithin

Related Posts with Thumbnails