Just some ponderings

As soon as the phone rang this morning, I had this feeling... :) Yes, it was the bookstore's H.R. Manager asking if I could work today. They had two cashiers call in... I told them I'd be there within a couple of hours. Fortunately, I caught up on my housework yesterday. I said I'd work Saturday, too. With two birthdays and Christmas coming up, the extra income will come in handy and neither day was for more than seven hours.

I've been assembling a "Birthday Box" for my daughter, nothing very expensive but lots of little things, which probably are going to add up to more than I spent on "one somewhat big thing" for her brother. It's a lot more fun buying for a daughter than for a son at times like this, especially since all I had to do for him was pay for a model of a tank for him to assemble, paint, and then use at his weekly game evening (a much better way to unwind than another computer game).

For the three older grandchildren (ages 2, 4, and 5), I found backpacks on clearance last month and I'm packing each with a new book, two boxes of crayons, a new big coloring book, a little artist's notebook for their nature walks, and perhaps a puzzle. Each will also receive a new "stuffed animal-- and one Dora" in a beautifully wrapped box. At least, it will be as beautiful as Grammie can make it, being rather challenged in the gift wrapping department.

Yesterday I started going through some of the vintage ornaments I found this past year. For the first time in decades (no kidding), I'm going to do something different with my tree. As I think it through a little more and get my computer back (with pictures), I'll share more. I also went "Downtown" yesterday to shop at my favorite primitive-country type shop (the one where I find most of my beautiful candles and tart warmers). Just walking in the door to this shop makes all my senses come alive with the aroma of spicy candles, primitive Christmas trees abounding with old fashioned ornaments, and dulcimer music playing in the background.

I was there to look for something to add to my daughter's birthday package. It was one of those few times I wish I had unlimited cash availability. I always get this way when I visit this shop during the Christmas season... I could covet... easily. Instead, I came away with a small present for her and a Christmas CD for me... leaving with a sigh and a promise to return soon. I enjoy just being there and looking at the wonderful displays.

As I was returning to my car, I passed a new (at least new to me) knitting shop and noticed they were advertising beginner's classes. I know where I'm stopping the next time I go "Downtown". I may be able to use those knitting needles soon.

Now, to brew a cup of decaf tea and read a bit before turning in early tonight. I skimmed Noel Piper's book but tonight I'll go back and read more carefully. I like it very much. It doesn't have a lot of practical ideas (but there are plenty of books which provide these). Instead, she speaks to our hearts about using our important family traditions to bring the importance of God to our homes, our children, our lives. She does give enough good ideas that a person looking for practical traditions would enjoy the book.

I hope to write on Sunday... hopefully... we'll see if the computer is available. :)