If You Reconsider More Than Twice

Yesterday I posted some interesting tidbits that I found the NEA Today magazine. I posted the information merely because I thought it was either well-said or made me think about certain aspects of teaching. However, even after I posted it I had mixed feelings. Mainly, because of where I got the information from.

Since then I have mulled over whether or not to keep the posting and came to the conclusion it would be better to remove it. I decided to remove it for professional and personal reasons-- I do not want to be in trouble with the NEA. I might make this blog public in the near future so I don't want to ruin my reputation either. Also, I can find good teaching information elsewhere and share it on here. Posting information from a union's magazine is fairly controversial and I just don't want to get in trouble! I did it in good faith but you just never know who or what can get you in trouble.

Just wanted to clarify that! If you reconsider an idea or action more than twice, chances are it's better to rectify the situation.

Farmers Market on Saturday

This morning Mom and I went to the Farmers Market in town. The market is located in the heart suburb-- by the library and city park. There were rows and rows of tents where people sold jewelry, pictures (there were some amazing photographers), cards, crafts, and fresh produce. There were also multiple food vendors-- popcorn, Middle Eastern food, bratwursts, and many other foods. The air was full of a variety of scents! A good band also played throughout the morning.

I really enjoyed spending time down at the market-- love the culture of it all. I also think it is important to support the local farms. Surviving on a farm these days has to be pretty challenging, especially when our society consumes so much processed/manufactured food products (along with everything else). Farm life has never been easy but with the high cost of living in these days, it has got to be hard. Plus, owning a farm isn't a typical job anymore. As a matter of fact, farming only accounts for ~2.6% of the work force today-- as compared to the ~90% it was in the 17th and 18th centuries (Farming Information).

Besides my little ramble there... What I loved the most about the produce stands was that the vegetables and fruits were organic (believe that most or all food stands were). I liked this particular food stand:

We also indulged a little with the food vendors… Oh man, there is the best food at our local market! We got a little serving of gelato, which was delightful. I had mint chip and chocolate chip. Mmmm.. That calmed my craving for sure. In the book Eat, Pray, Love the author goes to Italy and talks about all of the gelato she eats. Since I’ve read that part of the book I’ve been thinking about it! So good!

Later on, we stopped at another vendor called Zest Crepes (their website). They were serving a variety of crepes. Let me tell you, that was tasty! I had a crepe called Sweet Italy. My crepe had raspberries, mascarpone cheese, a squeeze of orange, and a little zest. Mmmm mmmm… I hope Zest is able to open up a restaurant in town someday.

Overall, it was a wonderful day. I hope to return again sometime before the season is over. Nothing like living local!

Summer's Sweetness

One of my favorite parts of summer is picking beautiful flowers from the yard. It is so fun to have bouquets all summer long. My two favorites are the Double Delight roses and the Sweet Peas. Both have such wonderful sweet smells.

Enjoy the pictures... Close your eyes and pretend to inhale.. mmmm

(Sweet Peas- love the variety of colors)

(Picked lots of roses yesterday! The Double Delights are the white and pink/red tips)

Unexpected Blessing

“...Your heavenly Father already knows all your needs, and He will give you all you need from day to day if you live for Him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern." (Matt.6:32-34)

I can't tell you how blessed I feel right now!

So here's the story... Mom and I went card shopping for Granny's birthday on Sunday (25th) at Hallmark's. When we were making the purchase, we had a little conversation with the associate manager, who was doing the transaction. At one point, I made a comment about, "It must be so fun to work in here!" Then the manager said, "You should bring in your resume." I was kind of confused and asked her, "....You're hiring?" I was so surprised! With the economy the way it is, jobs are not plentiful so I was shocked to be asked that question. I also want to mention: I did not look overly appealing that day. My hair was in a ponytail and I had sunscreen on so my face looked greasy. Plus, I was sweating... so yes, I was really surprised about the resume question!

On Monday morning I brought in my resume to Hallmark's (manager told me to be prepared to interview with her as well). The interview was very casual and I enjoyed getting to know the manager. I learned that the store is run by 7 women, ranging from ages 18 to 75, and they wear many “hats” on the job: they change the light bulbs, clean the bathroom, stock the shelves, greet customers etc... They do it all! I thought that was pretty neat. I think I can fit into that atmosphere. After all, teachers are masters at wearing different hats.

Anyhow, yesterday afternoon the manager called me and said the store manager would be in on Tuesday (today). She wanted me to meet with the SM so that they could make a decision about hiring me. Today I met with both ladies and had a conversation with them; not really an interview in my opinion. When I left the store I was talking to the assoc. manager about how the whole subject of me getting a job there occurred. Within that little talk I learned that lots of people stop by and ask if they're hiring. And yet, I was given a chance. I felt very humbled to learn that.

I received a call about thirty minutes ago from the associate manager saying I got the job! Wow! They said they were impressed with the interview. Another w-o-w. I feel so blessed. Thank You Lord for providing for my needs.

Though this job pays minimum wage it is a consistent job and I can have extra hours during the holiday season when school is out (to make up for no sub days during the breaks). Also, knowing I have this job gives me peace now... I received a fairly sizable bill two days ago and felt very overwhelmed. Now I don’t have to worry. Well, the truth is, I never had to worry in the first place…

The Good Little Things

The little things are most worthwhile

A quiet word, a look, a smile.

A listening ear that's quick to share

Another's thoughts, another's care.

Though sometimes they may seem quite small,

These little things mean most of all.

When I arrived at Granny's house yesterday I took my tote upstairs. I've only been up those stairs a "few" times in the past seven years. However, this decoration caught my eye this time. I read through the lines twice and thought to myself, "Wow, that is so true."

Granny is an excellent example of appreciating others through the little things. She is always so thoughtful and considerate of other people. Whether we’re shopping at the grocery store, walking to or from somewhere, at church or in a parking lot, wherever—she is kind to anyone she meets.

For example, this past Sunday when Mom, Granny and I were at the restaurant we noticed a sling on the hostess’ arm. Granny was concerned about why the hostess was wearing a sling. When we were exiting the restaurant, Granny stopped and asked the hostess about her arm. We learned it was actually for her collarbone, she recently had surgery. I thought it was so caring how Granny made sure to ask that girl about her arm. But that’s Granny; that is how Granny is all of the time.

Another example is from just yesterday when Granny and I were shopping in Hallmark. When we were finished making the card purchases, Granny carried on a little conversation with the salesgirl (who was probably close to my age). We found out that the girl’s birthday was this weekend and she was hoping to head to the beach to celebrate. The girl was fun to talk to; Granny and I both enjoyed the conversation. So often times, it is easy to purchase the item(s) and then leave the store with little acknowledgement to the salesperson. However, Granny makes every transaction personal. It’s not just about getting the items but taking the time to notice the person. That is love through the little things.

I could continue give many examples of Granny’s kindness. While I am convinced that Granny’s love for others is just part of who she is, I know that it is also because she believes in the One who is Love. I hope and pray that my life will be evidence of God’s love, like Granny’s.

Quietness

I haven't posted for a few days because my mind feels quiet these days. I'm not sure if it's a temporary writing block or just the fact I have had nothing to say. Just feel sort of quiet. That's really the only way to explain my little break.

This past week has been pretty good. Kind of funny summer weather but I'm grateful for the absence of rain. In the mornings we've had a "marine layer" and then around 12-1pm it gives way to a beautiful afternoon. Though it isn't the type of summer I prefer it has been pleasant... But yes, go figure, we put up our Costco pool and then we revert back to Spring weather. I am thankful that we are due for some hot weather this weekend so there should be some good times in the pool. Yay!

Since I can't think of anything in particular to say (though I do have some good blog topics for the future- just not in the mindset to write on them), I'll record the happenings in the past few days...

Sunday 18th: Mom and I sent to visit Granny and take her to church. The church service was all about children/God's children and serving the youth in our communities. After church, we went to the restaurant on the golf course, Rudy's. Yum! Once we were done with lunch we took Granny on a few errands, which was pretty entertaining. :)

Monday 19th: Janelle hosted a birthday party for her husband Drew. I enjoyed visiting with her friends from church and others in her life. We chatted about random things (in the process I consumed multiple cookies) and played board games. Wonderful night!

Wednesday 21st: Nothing too major happened this day or the day before. Though I think it is important to note two things: (1) I did my first picking of the blueberries in my aunt's garden and (2) my first loan payment was officially due-- though already paid several days ago.

Thursday 22nd ~ today: When I got up this morning I immediately started reading the last few chapters of the seventh Harry Potter book. I stayed up late last night reading it but forced myself to not finish the book so I could attempt to get some sleep. Not sure if that was a good choice because I was very restless all night. Anyway, I finished the book today and let me say this: J.K. Rowling is a force to be reckoned with! I thoroughly enjoyed that series and I am sad that my journey with the characters is over. I hope to re-read the series again next year.

After finishing the book I got ready and went up to my aunt's house to help her in the rose garden. I really enjoyed spending time with her and being outside. So nice to just listen to the sounds of nature... the birds chirping, squirrels scampering along the ground, and the rustle of leaves as the wind blows through... all while digging my hands into the soil! :)

Coming up: On Friday (tomorrow) I'm heading down to Salem to meet my dear friend Andrea for lunch and then I'll stay overnight with Granny. So excited to spend time with both of them! I think it'll be nice to get away too- perhaps the time "alone" will rejuvenate my mind.

We'll see what will happen in the next few days... till then I am going to enjoy this evening.

Friendships

"You can't stay in your corner of the Forest waiting for others to come to you. You have to go to them sometimes." --Winnie the Pooh

In light of some recent events, I feel that is time to write about friendships. I have been refraining from writing on this topic too soon as my cousin recently wrote about it. But, I just can't wait any longer!

I think there is something unique that happens in the summer. Summer is a time of transition. Relationships of all kinds change... Maybe it's the people that change. I honestly don't know. Another speculation I have is that summer is also just a great time for reflection, which is simply what I am doing now.

When I think about it, I am kind of amazed at all of the friendships I have had in my life. Some friendships are still going strong and blossoming with each season. Others have fluttered away like the fall leaves drifting in the wind-- like that, they're gone. And other friendships have ended (or will end) for a reason; because I cut them off or they weren't meant to be. Lots of changes. Lots of learning.

While losing a friend is never an easy process, I have learned that often times it is good in the long-term. In those times I have learned more about myself and what I value in a friendship/relationship. For example, I have no tolerance for those that do not put in any effort into the relationship. I feel that in order for a relationship to be successful, it takes two people putting in the effort and energy. When you put in the effort to something it shows that you care-- it is an active process. Effort keeps the relationship alive.

To this end, that has been one major factor in how I determine whether or not I remove someone from the ties of friendship. Believe me, I work extremely hard in my friendships. They are not something I take lightly-- I do everything I can before deciding to end them. However, as I have learned, sometimes people are just passing through. Not every friendship can be life-long. Regardless of how long a friendship is meant to last I believe they shouldn't be treated as though they are temporary.

While only time can tell whether a friendship is life-long, I feel so blessed for the ones I have in my life now. I am so blessed for my close friends (some of which are family), the ones here and those far away. I feel confident in the fact that I will have these certain friendships for years to come. They all bring so much joy to my life and I have learned so much from them. The future ahead is questionable and unwritten, no telling what will happen. I have no idea who I will meet and what other friendships I will form. For those that I hold dear know this: I carry your heart (I carry it in my heart).... *

*E.E. Cummings

My Two Favorite Places

*Slightly random post but this blog serves a variety of purposes. This is one of those "get to know me better" postings. And also just for fun!*

I was just looking my friend Kristin's pictures, who lives in Arizona. Seeing her pictures makes me miss Arizona a lot and her too. Though I feel so fortunate for what I have here I feel like there's a piece of my heart in that desert. There's also a big piece in the ocean too. If I ever have to move for some reason (or decide to) it will be to Arizona. It's the only other place in the U.S. where I'd want to live.

In my kind of world, I would have Arizona and Oregon right next to each other. ;-)

My two favorite places in this world are Phoenix, Arizona...

And Pacific City, Oregon....

I can't get enough of both!

God is Love

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

--Romans 8:38-39

Today could've been like any other typical day but it wasn't. I suppose I ought to give credit to Pacific for requiring my shot records before giving me "student status." Had it not been for this necessary paperwork I wouldn't have been at the doctor's office today. This whole situation has been quite the ordeal and in all honesty I didn't want to spend my morning at the doctor's office. However, God wanted me there. He orchestrated everything-- He is very creative.

So what happened? Well, after getting my blood drawn at the lab I went upstairs to the doctor's office so that I could get a TB test and a shot. Since I didn't have an appointment made (the nurse said to just come in after the lab work) I had to wait awhile before the nurse could meet with me. Within that time of waiting, this lady showed up to sit with her husband, who was waiting to see a a doctor. Once her husband went in for his appointment I heard the lady crying. Then she proceeded to take out her phone (which kind of irritated me at first) and called someone for comfort. Since I was sitting next to her I heard all about her husband's medical condition. She was telling the person on the phone that she has tried to be strong for her husband-- trying not to let her anxieties show.

While this lady was talking on the phone, I felt like I wanted to put my arms around her. In those moments, God placed an idea in my heart to show this lady love. I felt God telling me to write a note to her. I rummaged through my purse and found an old grocery list. I tore a piece off and wrote, "I'm so sorry you are going through a hard time. I will pray for you. God Bless, Angela."

There are a million other comforting words I could've written but that is what came out. I didn't give her the note right away. That was the hardest part; not sure when to hand it to her. After my appointment I walked right past her and thought, "welllll mayyybe I shouldn't give it to her." By the time I got outside the building, I heard this, "Do you really want to go home with that note still in your purse?" No. I turned around and went back up to the doctor's office. I didn't want to seem too strange so I made an official appointment with the nurse for Wednesday (I do have to go in that day anyway). As I was making my appointment, the lady moved near the receptionist desk from the other side of the room. She was still on her phone, crying.

After I did the scheduling, I took the note out of my purse and went over to her. At first she was confused and then she said, "Thank you, that means so much." She told me her husband's name was Brian. I teared up when I made eye contact with her. I placed a hand on her shoulder because I needed to make that human contact. Human touch. The whole exchange is kind of blurry but that is what I remember. God needed me to show that woman love.

I will admit my relationship with God is no where near where it needs to be. I struggle with a variety of issues on a daily basis. But God still wanted to use me.

I'm so glad that I didn't come home with that note in my purse.

Good Weekend

This weekend has been really enjoyable; from the start of Saturday to the end of today. I feel so blessed to have the good friends to share these summer days with. Having the abundant sunshine, warmth, and blue skies has been very uplifting. Though it is just the beginning of this season, there have been some great memories.

On Saturday, Janelle, Drew and I spent some time together. I went over to Janelle's apartment in the late afternoon and helped her finish cleaning. Janelle is not a fan of cleaning the floors, so I happily took over that job. While I was working on the floors Janelle cleaned other parts of the apartment. After cleaning, we went shopping so that Janelle could find a swimsuit. When we were done with shopping Drew was home. We all got our swimsuits on and went down to the apartment pool. Though it was not the warmest day (not a near-100 degree day), the pool was very refreshing. We spent about an hour and half playing around. After swimming we were famished and decided on pizza. We ended the day eating dinner together :) Wonderful day! Thank you Janelle and Drew!

Today was another good day. In the afternoon, I went over to Jennifer's house to watch the movie "Dear John." First of all, I want to say... Wow! That movie was incredible, especially because I recently saw "Eclipse." I was extremely impressed with the actors' ability to communicate their feelings without words. The chemistry between Channing Tatum and Amanda Seyfried was very passionate and emotional. I just loved the way that both actors/characters looked at each other. Lots of good quiet moments. I thoroughly enjoyed that movie- of course it was also based off of the Nicholas Sparks novel. Good writing inspires good movies.

Besides the movie it was nice to hang out with Jennifer. I hadn't seen her for over two weeks so it was good to catch up on life. When the movie was over we took a decent walk through the park near her house and enjoyed each other's company. I did get a little sunshine on my arms though. Oh well! Maybe a some color will help me to look less like a ghost.

After cooling down and drinking some water, I headed out from Jennifer's house. This evening we had a barbecue, which was tasty. :)

Now I'm going to go outside and help water the flowers.

Hope ya'll had a great weekend too!!

Good quotes & Update

I've gone back and forth on deciding whether to write a post today. I want to write something but I feel like I can't formulate anything too decent right now.

Today was another great summer day. I think the temperature was close to 100 degrees today. Needless to say, it was a little warm at the Lavender Farm. I felt pretty sticky from the sunscreen and sweat! haha I won't complain though- I live for this kind of weather. :) Yeah, I'm not a typical Oregonian.

Going to the Lavender Farm again was pretty fun. I had a good time hanging out with Nancy and Mary. It's so entertaining to watch good friends interact with each other. There was lots of laughter for sure! I also enjoyed getting to know Mary even better. She's a neat lady-- I think she has some red hair underneath all that blonde hair. She's pretty fiery about certain things and I love it! It's always refreshing talking with someone who shares similar interests and beliefs as you.

Other than going out and about today I wanted to share some quotes that I've come across recently. These two quotes I'm going to share come from a reader board from a building near the THPRD recreation center. There are always the greatest quotes on that reader board! Wish I passed by it more frequently.

The wish bone will never replace the backbone.

If you can't excel with talent triumph with effort.

Blessings of the Week

"If there ever comes a day when we can't be together, keep me in your heart, I'll stay there forever" -- Winnie the Pooh

After a strange and difficult day on Sunday, I feel so blessed for the good parts of this week. Losing Chatty has also stirred up the sadness I feel about family members I have lost in the past: Papa and Kasey. I miss them all so much-- I carry the memories of them always. It's just so hard when people or pets pass on; knowing that you won't see them again in this life. A lifetime simply isn't enough with those that we love. With that said, I am so grateful to believe in what I do-- it gives me hope and peace. Heaven is a real place.

As Janelle said, the house does feel empty when you lose a pet. Though we still have Minnie, it's just not the same. I feel sad when I pass by Chatty's chair and she's not there. It's weird not hearing her come through the cat door with her nails clinking on the kitchen floor. The mornings are also very quiet- Chatty would meow loudly at mom for her food. She always made sure Mom was on schedule to feed her! Speaking of feeding times, it's also very strange for me to only feed one cat. I had such a routine with both kitties! Ahhh... adjustments are not easy, especially sad ones.

On a much brighter note, I want to list out the blessings and joys of this week:

** Gorgeous weather! Blue skies, sunshine and heat heat heat! Forecast is true summer weather all week! **

Monday: "Coffee" (tea for me) with my dear friend Joy. I don't get to see her very often so when I do I cherish the moments together. What I love most about getting together with Joy is that we can start from where we left off. In the afternoon, I went grocery shopping with mom and saw a student (Harley) from my mentor's class. It was so fun to see him and his family! They are such nice people.

Tuesday: My car had an issue that was able to get fixed. Wonderful part is that since we do most of our maintenance with the Honda shop they rewarded us. We didn't have to pay for the repair at all! Nothing like getting a bill that says "You owe: $ 0.00"

Wednesday (today): Janelle and I went to see the movie "Eclipse," the 3rd in the Twilight Saga. Unfortunately, it was not that good of a movie. I was kind of disappointed because I liked that book the most... but then again, low-quality writing leads to low-quality movies. I personally think they would be better without the Bella actress. haha Oh yes, after watching the movie we went to the frozen yogurt place by her apartments. Perfect for a 90+ degree day!

Thursday: Though the day hasn't happened yet I will be hanging out with Jennifer. I can't wait! *Plans changed due to cell phone issues. For some reason the messages and calls didn't register on Jennifer's phone (AT&T must've had problems). Since I didn't hear from her I worked on a letter for the "Summer of Mail Love." Later in the day I got together with Janelle and went to Michael's so I could pick up a few things. Good day! :)

Friday: Also hasn't happened yet but the plans are to spend time with my neighbor Nancy and her friend Mary. We're going back to the Lavender Farm in Helvetia (for the Oregon Lavender Festival). I'm excited!

Beach Vacation

I said I would write about my week at the beach (June 27th-July 4th) so here it is : On June 27th, Mom and I picked up Granny and headed off for our girls' week. Due to a big accident on the highway 18, there was a large traffic build-up through Grand Rhonde-- it took us about 45 minutes extra to get to PC. Thankfully, the weather was beautiful and we enjoyed each other's company. We were certainly glad to get to our beach house though!

The whole week was very nice. I spent LOTS of time in the brown chair reading, reading, and more reading. I absolutely love that chair! I can see all of the beach house and I have a great view of the outside. I seriously think I could stay there for months. haha

To sum up the beach trip and not make this a huge journal entry I am going to list out things that I enjoyed or events that happened.... (I am also doing this because my cousin makes great lists and I love reading them!)

-- Granny's funny muttering & mannerisms, like Rabbit from "Winnie the Pooh"

-- People watching on the beach and from the beach house

-- Feeling of the sand beneath my feet

-- Amazing fresh beach air

-- Weeded out the border by grass with Mom

-- Watched planes take off & land

-- Spotted boats out in the ocean

-- Enjoyed the quietness of Pacific City.... so different from metro area

-- High tea at La Tea Da in Tillamook on Tuesday, absolutely delightful!

-- Loved time away from the computer & outside world

-- Thoroughly enjoyed the brown chair

-- Monitored the fishermen's activity on the river

-- Watched the seagulls and birds fly through the air

-- Good night kisses from Granny

-- Bought a few postcards

-- Browsed local shops for fun

-- Became an "expert cloud definer" with Mom & Granny (from watching the sunsets)

-- Finished 1 book, started & finished another book, and started another!

-- Took lots and lots of pictures, especially of the beach nature; can't get enough!

-- Ate healthy and tasty meals

-- Got good deals at the outlet mall (6 tank tops and with a gift card too)

-- Ate out at Mo's after shopping at the mall (Thursday)

-- Tasty treats: ice cream in PC & Moose Munch chocolate bars

-- Watched the city lights come on after the sun set

-- Good walks with Mom.... we did a 4.5 mi walk around town on Friday

-- Collected seashells

-- Loved Granny's positive attitude even when the fridge wasn't working - we used my uncle's small fridge until we could get the other repaired

-- Enjoyed the buoy sounds throughout the week

-- The tingly stingy feel of the cold cold ocean on my feet

-- Loved the gorgeous weather on Saturday... sunshine and blue skies

-- Sarah, Dustin & Dad came over on Saturday

-- Professional fireworks show on July 3rd (watched it from the brown chair!)

Ahhhh wonderful week... I hope that there is time to spend another week there this summer!

From Sea to Shining Sea

(Flags on the bridge at Pacific City)

Even though the 4th of July wasn't the greatest day the evening was still good. After the worst part of the day, we came home and headed over to our neighbor's house for a BBQ (Gary and Nancy). It was very fun to hang out with them! They recently bought a fire pit so everyone had fun making s'mores. I enjoyed listening to the bangs and booms of the fireworks while we ate dinner.

As the sun began to set, lots of fireworks were set off and it was very noisy. All around the neighborhoods there were lots of fireworks that went up in the air. I was quite impressed some of them; nearly looked like professional quality. Very fun to watch!

In our cul-de-sac everyone gathered to set off their fireworks in the street. Unlike some years where it's been low-key, there was a good gathering of people. Joy's family & some extended family, neighbors across the street & their family, Gary & Nancy (and some of their friends), and some others were all out. Good number of people! I had so much fun hanging out with my friend Joy as I don't get to see her too often. I love how the 4th brings people together :)

I feel so blessed to live in this country despite it's many issues. I'm incredibly thankful for all the men and women who are WILLING to risk their lives to fight for our country-- I feel thankful for those in the past, present and future. They deserve so much respect and honor for what they do. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

~ I will post about my week about the beach tomorrow!

Independence Day

Well, this year's 4th of July will always be memorable. Not in a pleasant way, however. This past week my oldest cat's health dramatically declined. She's been slowly going downhill for awhile, but this past week she just got worse. Unfortunately, this all occurred while Mom, Granny, and I were at the beach. I feel awful for not being here for my kitty Chatty in her last few days.

When my sister updated us on her condition on Thursday I felt so anxious and panicky-- like the feeling of "I have to get to my cat." Thankfully, Chatty was able to hold on enough so that we could give her a proper send-off yesterday. I can't tell you how horrendous it was to come home to see my cat laying so weird on the floor of my bedroom and hardly breathing. When I saw her I immediately broke down crying and stroked her fur.

My aunt Maxine told us about an emergency vet in Tualatin where we took her to be put to rest. It was not easy having to pack her up in the carrier and have to drive her all the way over there. I'm thankful though that the people were extremely gentle with her. The doctor that euthanized her was so kind and comforting. Chatty left this world peacefully.

Chatty was a special kitty-- she came to our house during a very cold winter about 18 years ago. Chatty basically showed up on our back porch and refused to leave! Mom tried to scare her away but she didn't leave. After a few days mom gave her some food and water, hoping that would keep her satisfied. However, she still wanted a home. We were a little weary of the idea of having another cat because we already had one, Kasey (at that time she was about a year old). I remember sitting in the back room and discussing whether or not to let Chatty live with us. We all felt terrible about having her out in the cold. The answer to take her in was unanimous: yes!

We had our ups and downs with Chatty in the beginning because she was a farel cat. It took her awhile to get used to the domestic lifestyle. She never did become a lap-cat but she was always a faithful greeter in the utility room. When she wanted to, she would come and hang out in the house. During Christmas her favorite place was under the Christmas tree. Oh how she loved the Christmas tree! I'm so glad she got to enjoy it this last Christmas.

(Christmas 2009)

To sum up Chatty's life, the word humble is appropriate. Chatty lived a very simple life-- all she ever wanted was a home, a place to call her own. She didn't ask for much, just some love and a roof over her head. She also was so sweet to Kasey when she got ill. Chatty was truly the "nurse cat." When Kasey's health declined she stayed by her side- I will never forget that sweet gentle spirit. I hope that Kasey and Chatty are enjoying their sweet reunion :)

While to some this may seem "overboard" on writing about a cat... but she wasn't just a cat, she was a family member and a friend. She will always have a special place in my heart.

"For the life of every living thing is in His hand, and the breath of all humanity." (Job 12:10)