With the first warm breezes of the season, I realized that the time to start walking in the cool air of spring is gone. Baby steps are better than nothing, right? With the inspiration of a friend, we now are walking. Yesterday, I detected a mild northern breeze and so hastened to Lawrence’s Garden at Supply. ...

I’m listening to the birdsong just outside my open window as I type these words. It’s a glorious spring morning, a sun-drenched day like we’ve been waiting for all through the drab days of winter. Yesterday, I picked a fragrant bouquet of peonies that sit on my kitchen windowsill. Oh, their perfume takes me back to years past, and the mixed aroma of peonies and iris (or flags as some called them then)...

Who takes the time to question, to contemplate, to suggest. Instead of criticizing, they’re writing solutions for success. For the seven-year-olds and eleven-year-olds who Unabashedly pledge their hands and hearts, too. For catching on fire with enthusiasm…for daring to win…...

Monday I visited Poplar Bluff. I saw someone hurting. I stepped out of my comfort zone and did something. I ended up not doing enough. Fear got in the way. Fear has been strangely absent from my life, for some time now. I thought it odd. Until it surfaced when I least expected it, or wanted it...

Miscellaneous Musings

The other day, I had jotted down a few words so I would remember an idea I thought would make a good subject for my blurb this week. However, I am preoccupied now. A friend just called and reported a violent incident which occurred last night. She had taken the steps necessary to protect herself and her family...

I have had some struggles this week. Even though I may shout to the world that I don’t care what people may think of me I don’t fully enter into that line of thinking. A comment made by another hit hard and hit home The truth always hurts, at least this kind of truth. It cut me to the core, not because it was hurtful, but because I saw truth in their statement. I have been beating myself up all week because of it and I’ve felt bruised from the battle...

I was remembering a time when I took a yoga class awhile back. Now, it wasn’t a yoga class like you’d normally think about. We did our exercise from a chair. I enjoyed the class, and perhaps even enjoyed the little high five I gave myself for taking steps towards a healthier me...

It was an ordinary day. A friend and I were running errands including heading to Kroger’s. I was pleasantly surprised to run into my friend Kelly, who was leaving as we were entering. We did our shopping and were heading back. After leaving Kroger’s, all of a sudden, I got a sick feeling….my purse! I always put it in the same place in my car and it was not there. We pulled over and I searched my vehicle to no avail...

It has been a rough two weeks. A week ago, yesterday, my brother-in-law slipped away from this earth and entered the heavenly realms. When he passed, I was not sad. I was extremely thankful. The pain had been excruciating and constant; the chances for recovery were dismal. He came home for his final days, and they were not easy ones...

I heard the peepers last night. No matter what the calendar is saying, Spring has arrived! It always amazes me that the jonquils, surprise lilies (or naked ladies as Grandma Weeks used to call them) and tulips, planted long before our arrival here, find their way through the cold earth to bloom triumphantly. Just when we think we can no longer endure more stark landscapes, the fragrant bloom of early spring gradually arrives...

Success is to laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics; to endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better...

Happy Heavenly Birthday to my mom Feb. 12 You ponder just why we react as we do… And seeing injustice we fight till we’re blue And why we feel their pain the way that we do We get that from YOU. We didn’t just wake up one morning and find That we couldn’t ignore the pain of mankind...

The good Lord’s patience.  Family, especially hugs from granddaughters!  New friends who become old friends, and old friends who become family.  Seeing kids and grownups still find beauty and have fun in a snowfall of large, wet snowflakes.  Warm flannel pajamas. ...

I’m enjoying the frost as it melts into a dazzling sparkle drizzling over the bare winter branches. The sun is just now peaking over the house behind us, and as it hits the trees the view is amazing. The brilliant splash of red cardinals adds to the beauty this morning. Assorted rainbows appear on kitchen walls and counters, courtesy of crystal angels hanging in my window...

I’m hoping that will become my new mantra. Who could forget Christy Lane’s gospel version? “So for my sake, teach me to take, one day at a time.” Alcoholics Anonymous’ well known slogan, is also a reminder to take “One Day at a Time”. Each day as we wake up, we start out with a clean slate, a chance to help others with whatever needs tending. ...

What A Friend We Have....

I’ve sorely neglected my time with Him lately. I’ve gone ahead pushing through and trying to believe it was Him leading. While at first, I denied it, I’m now admitting, it was Becky, all Becky. Full steam ahead on what I THOUGHT was the right thing. Forgetting about my own sins while I brought to the forefront others mistakes, such a hypocrite!...

As the December sun fills my office with brilliant light, I am reminded how long it has been since I’ve taken a dust cloth to my surroundings.   As I move objects around, I am also reminded of a wooden desktop ornament that declares:   Be Patient - God Isn’t Finished With Me Yet.  ...

God writes with a pen that never blots, speaks with a tongue that never slips, and acts with a hand that never fails. God can heal a broken heart, but he has to have all the pieces. God has a history of using the insignificant to accomplish the impossible...

I sat down at my computer last evening and tried to write. No words would come. I stayed up later than is usual for me. I sat in my recliner in my warm home and thought of the events of the day. They haunted me. Yesterday afternoon, I stopped by our church to pick up some items I needed to take to a friend’s house...

We’ve all heard the naysayers; the doubters and the complainers. Let’s take a moment to applaud the Yaysayers. You know, those folks who come out of nowhere with a kind word to share. I was having a not so great day yesterday. It was almost the end of the day when a familiar face I haven’t seen for quite awhile offered a few words of encouragement that made me smile long after he spoke them. So thankful he took the time and made the effort to let me know...

Recently, it took a serious situation for me to ask for prayers on Facebook. I needed more than my prayers.  I was in a situation where I wanted to be covered in prayer. Every time I scroll through the names and comments, I weep. Among the prayer warriors were folks from my present, from my new life since I moved to Doniphan, and folks from my “other lfe”. ...

You know the ones. These folks always have our backs. We know, without a shadow of a doubt, that they will show up. They are the ones who hang medicinal beverages on your front doorknob when you have COVID. You send out dual messages and hope at least one comes through, but then you find you have been doubly blessed...

I recently returned from revisiting where my “other life” began, and yes, I still miss those folks. I had an unorthodox idea about visiting before we were gathering at one another’s funerals. I haven’t for one minute regretted a long visit with one of my friends there, who died a few months later after a valiant battle with cancer...

Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace;  Where there is hatred, let me sow love;  Where there is injury, pardon;  Where there is doubt, faith;  Where there is despair, hope;  Where there is darkness, light;  And where there is sadness, joy.  O Divine Master,...

I remember looking through the pages of my sister Judy’s 1965 yearbook. Home Economics: “We learn to decorate like a dream and to sew a straight seam”. I wished I would have taken Home Ec. At that time, I indulged in following my teenage crush on the handsome teacher of Ecology. Since that time, I’ve never once used the skill of counting how many blades of grass are in a square foot...

I sure don’t know when the Lord will call me home. It may be before I have my funeral first. But here’s what I’m thinking. I’ve been to so many funerals and visitations where someone says, “Too bad they’re gone, they would have loved to visit everyone here.”...

I was headed home from the cabin the other evening when I almost missed it. The smell of fresh mown grass! I rolled all four windows down just in time to be able to inhale deeply. So much joy, for me, is derived from the sense of smell. Memories are triggered and moments are savored. ...

“Everything that CAN go wrong WILL go wrong.”  1. NEVER praise a child for improving his behavior on the bus. You will be proven wrong by the end of the day. If you praise him/her in front of their parent, you will be proven wrong by the end of the route. ...

I was gung-ho on working outside this morning and mowing with my new (to me) riding lawn mower. The price was right…free. It was a gift from a dear friend. I couldn’t resist the price. Since Danny taught small engines, and everyone brought him their mowers to repair, I was pretty sure he could fix it. He did!...

In school, I wondered why I could never be the life of the party, with dozens of friends. I had a group of five close friends and all these years later, one remains as close as a sister. On the cruise mentioned last week, I became overwhelmed at the sheer volume of people and the fact I couldn’t find a place of quiet finally overwhelmed me completely. ...

I experienced what some folks may have deemed a “dream vacation” a few years ago. It consisted of a cruise headed for vacation destinations like the Bahamas, St. John, and Puerto Rico. Our activities included creating towel animals (a competitive judging in this category) and a tour through the poorest part of the Bahamas...

I recently read a blurb on social media about how local folks are travelling out-of-area to get grocery bargains and were complaining about prices locally being too high. If you buy the same items per week, as I do, you get to know your prices. When you walk through the doors of a “bargain store”, it’s essential to KNOW YOUR PRICES. Knowing your prices is the only way you can determine whether their claim is true or false.  ...

I was tired of worrying so I gave myself my peace back.  I was tired of feeling intimidated by what I should do so I pulled up my sleeves and got to work on what I could do.  I was tired of not knowing so I found out – about myself, my family, my ancestors, my government, and the struggles of others. ...

I sat down at my desk recently to write a letter to my sister Judy who still lives in Kansas. I’d been writing for several minutes when I was interrupted by the phone. As I walked down the hall to answer, I had to smile as the caller ID announced “Call from Judy”...

I didn’t expect to be assaulted in a store recently. What started as innocent conversation culminated with words that caught me off guard. Hate was spewed along with the scripture she quoted. Later, I thought of two quotes: “Preach the gospel. If necessary, use words.” and the quote. “Just love them. I’ll sort them out later.” ~ God. I asked my pastor from my “other” life, since I choose kindness, am I wimping out? He spoke, once again, words of wisdom and compassion:...

Certain friends have a way of setting up residence in us. They march into some barren room of our heart and hang cheery curtains, scatter soft rugs, dot the walls with framed prints of tender and whimsical moments, then set about building a cozy fire beside two sink-back-stay-awhile chairs. We may not always know exactly when such friends moved in, but we’re so very glad they did! ...

She thought she could do it. Yet, in the back of her mind, there was a hint of doubt. She was older now, and not as spry as in the days of her youth. Still, the new and untried tempted and beckoned her, beyond, what she was to find, she could endure. It certainly wasn’t a new experience for her. She’d done it, and lived to tell about it, many times over her 60+ years of living on this earth. In those days, she’d done it almost effortlessly...

There are reasons we do things in the same way, day in and day out… No stress, and we like to stay in our comfort zone. We know our zone well. Too well sometimes. We’ve got our own routine, we’re comfortable hunkered down in the rut we’ve made. I might get suckered in. I might trust them and then be betrayed. But then again, what if we don’t get suckered? What if we encounter sincerity and gratitude. Remembering the quote, “Why not go out on a limb? Isn’t that where the fruit is?”...

My friend and I had it all figured out. We’d decided to do this and this and that. Make no mistake, it was OUR plan or to quote Frank Sinatra, “I did it myyyyyyyyy wayyyyyyyyyy”. So, we struck out expecting all our intentions to come to fruition. Alas, everything we thought we could do, we couldn’t. ...

I told Barbie and Kelly I’d have a blurb today. I’ve been lazy lately and they are gracious when I send them the message “NO BLURB TODAY”. Today, however, I confidently told them that I would. I didn’t even have a topic or an idea what to write, but I was hoping I’d receive some inspiration. HE DOES NOT DISAPPOINT...

I knew I’d feel the loss this week at church. She always sat one pew behind us, and there was no mistaking her presence! A week didn’t go by when Linda Davis did not tell Danny and I how glad she was that we’d begun coming to church there (and with Linda, you just KNEW she was sincere.)  ...

I don’t know about you, but daily, I struggle with the pursuit of peace. After 65 years, I found the following to be true.  God is with you, always. Fears about being alone? When you come to realize you are NEVER alone, the fear vanishes.   Remember all the times in your life that God has shown himself to be present. ...

Visits with dear friends are often illuminating. We esteem them, trust them and confide in them. I’ve had some eye opening and soul searching observations from friends over the years. They may cut too close for comfort, but on contemplation, I realize that their “apples of wisdom” don’t fall too far from the tree...

I’m retiring my “birthday book”. It is time to cull and condense the contents, and I’m running out of lines to add more names. I’ve always cautioned folks that once you are in my birthday book your birthday is mine forever. From the appearance of some of the names, it’s been around a long, long time. If I wanted to review my life in chronological order, it would be my first life, including Head Start chums, CASA folks, sprinkled with elderly folk that crossed my path, whom I grew to love...

You thought you’d heard all about my recent hospital visit? WRONG! So many nurses with unique talents and strengths. Amanda, you helped ease my sense of panic that night when I couldn’t catch my breath. You were on the phone to the doc, took down his directions, and acted quickly. ...

Recently, the words above rang true for me. I was hospitalized with pneumonia. I have to say, I had a quiet time of uninterrupted reflection. If a thought comes “out of the blue” don’t over think it. Just revel in it. I truly feel these are whispers from our loving Father...

As the sun peeks above the horizon, I’m reminded. I LOVE mornings! I go to sleep at night anticipating early morning. I wake before dawn, and crack the window. A single, solitary bird sings their song in the dark. I’m not sure what the bird is, but it might be a nightingale. I love the sight and sounds of daybreak. Sipping coffee as I listen to the birdsong, is to me, the sweetest time of day...

While mailing some cards, I heard a familiar sound this time of year. I stood still, watching as the geese headed north “in their echelon Vs”, as my dad would say. They filled the sky and I was reminded that only God could have instilled in them the instinct to know when it was time to relocate. Last night I was relaxing in the recliner with the front door open. It was late in the day, even past my favorite time of day, the Golden Hour...

I recently read a devotion that put a name to a phenomenon I’ve experienced at least several times in my life. The article was titled “Turning to God for Comfort When You’re Ghosted” by Sarah Geringer. She refers to Merriam Webster’s definition of ghosting as “the act or practice of abruptly cutting off all contact with someone … usually without explanation.”...

As I write these words, mom’s birthday is two days from now. She shared her birthday with Abraham Lincoln. I don’t know how he was celebrated, but I DO know how we celebrated our mother. All of us would search for spring flowers and decorate her “Enchanted Cottage”. That’s what mom and dad called the lovingly converted garage where they lived in their later years...

Because of you…I woke up this morning. I emerged from a comfortable bed with plenty of blankets. I was warm. As I put my feet on the floor, I was able to walk. My body was mobile. I remembered how to make coffee. My mind was working! Oh, the smell of coffee as it went into the coffeemaker, and the aroma of fresh brewed coffee. ...

I wasn’t surprised when I came across two small tapestry boxes of letters and cards from Alma, Mo., as my in-laws often attended auctions there. I wasn’t prepared for what I found inside.   Let me take you back a few years, actually about 44 to be exact. (Don’t worry, I know where I’m going so just bear with me.)...

If you can’t help everyone, why try? How can one person make a difference? One of my favorite stories is the Starfish Saga. A man sees a little boy amidst hundreds of starfish that are washed up on the beach. The man observes that, given the huge number of starfish and the fact that he’s just one little boy, his actions can’t possibly make a difference. As the boy throws yet another starfish back into the ocean, (I love his reply), he says “It made a difference to that one.”...

Have you been noticing an influx of folks coming to our corner of the world? I see the trends of people relocating and fleeing from areas where, I’ll just say it bluntly, living their daily lives and enjoying their freedoms has become difficult. They yearn for better lives for themselves and their families. ...

While I’m writing this, I have Facebook open. I never in a million years EVER thought Facebook would prove to be a positive. Most days I look at it as a tool of procrastination (a “nation” that I know all too well). But something came across the “airwaves” last week that made me think...

A dear friend passed away recently from cancer. Cherry battled fiercely, courageously and with optimism, yet she was honest enough to confide her fears. When I first heard she had passed from this world to His world, two things came to mind. In what order, I don’t recall...

It’s raining outside as I write these words. Christmas is only 10 days away. Perry Como has been singing Christmas songs via Alexa. I’ve watched The Bells of St. Mary’s and The Bishop’s Wife. Looking forward to viewing the old Christmas classics like  A Christmas Carol, with Alistair Sims, Miracle on 34th St. with Natalie Wood as the little girl who comes to believe that “There really IS a Santa Claus!”...

I just warmed up my coffee AGAIN. A friend just messaged me asking how I’m doing. I replied “Busy, but a good kind of busy.” Right now as I write this, the skillet that cooked eggs and bacon this morning for Danny is soaking in the sink, I’m still in my jammies and Alexa said it’s noon...

It’s only 7:30 this morning, and I’ve already been told three times I’m loved. The power of those three little words is undeniably sacred. Love is mentioned 541 times in the Bible. Oh, the blessing of dear friends and family who toss you the gift of “Love you!” as you part company...

I THINK I’ve been a good girl this year, at least I hope the times I was a good girl outnumber the times I wasn’t. Santa, I know it will be hard to fit this in your sleigh, but all those years when I was little, somehow, you managed, so I’m just going to get right to the point and ask you...

Daily, details of who we’ve crossed paths with, and loved, filter through. Just now, folding laundry, I made sure I turned Danny’s socks right side out. A dear friend once told me it’s the least she can do for her husband, who cares and provides for her daily. I threw all the socks in a pile, just like mom used to do, when folding clothes at the “laundrymat”. I’ll pair them up later...

One Thing At A Time  One thing at a time, sweet Jesus That’s all I’m asking of You  Please keep me on task,   To get done each day  What I have to do.  Yesterday’s gone, sweet Jesus  The sweetness, I may not recall  God help me today,  Show me the way, ...

Mark the underside hem of the short sides of your blankets/bedspreads. Saves time when making your bed. When something you need to do comes to mind, thank God, then do it. You may not recall it again. Don’t worry if your birthday cards are two weeks early or two weeks late. It’s the sentiment that counts, not the exact date...

During the past couple days, I’ve had some Godwink encounters. Yesterday, I was sitting down at the park under a shade tree, having “tele coffee” with my friend Nancy up north. The day was sunny and breezy, the scents of autumn thick in the air.   I watched a kiddo zip around on one of those “razor” scooters (is that what they’re called? Not sure). ...

Some boys were sitting on benches at the park. The youngest boy literally grabbed food out of the Blessing Box. I observed a young man carrying two small sacks. He looked forlorn and had a physical impairment that affected his walking. I don’t know for sure, but he might be homeless...

Sometimes, our days don’t go as we planned. On those days, this quote comes to mind. “If you want to hear God laugh, make plans.” Today was such a day. A friend called and as a result, we had the best morning! She wanted to share her food with others who were in need. She told me it brings her so much joy to be able to share. Well, it gave me an unexpected joy as well! Thanks, Josephine Tucker, for the unscheduled reminder of the joy of giving...

Today is just one more day thoughts of why I don’t do something to help others run through my mind. Trying to be truthful with myself is painful. Reasons Why I Don’t and Reasons To Try: I’m too fat....Do it anyway. He gives us strength. I’m not young anymore...No, you’re not. But you’re alive, and breathing...

I love, love, love the crisp and fragrant air that is fall. I also love, love, love the beauty that summer brings. By beauty, I mean flowers! I love the varied colors of the summer flowers: lilies, petunias, geraniums, dahlias and marigolds. I favor the fragrances of petunias and honeysuckle, lingering in the morning and evening air, as well as fresh mown grass, just baled hay, especially alfalfa...

I’m of the opinion that there’s no such thing as coincidence. If God orders our steps and numbers them, and has our destination and purpose mapped out while we are still in the womb, how can I believe otherwise? The anguish of a new father’s prayers as he watches his wife and baby struggling, having faith but admitting he’s an emotional wreck. ...

I just read my good friend Teresa Lee’s offering for next week.  She’s soooo talented, intelligent and her humor is one of many positive attributes.   I’m taking her lead and offering some little known facts and even lesser known observations, gleaned from my 64 years of living, especially the last 10. ...

The Blueprint by E. Cole Ingle Life would be lived according to a plan - each day a blueprint drawn upon the mind with neatness and precision, well defined. Uncluttered by emotions.  So began the arid hours, continuing until love, like the whirlwind dance of autumn leaves...

Recently, I learned an unexpected and painful lesson. As I sit here writing these words, I’m reminded by the TENS unit attached to my hip. (A TENS unit emits electrical impulses that helps to numb the site of the pain.) I’m also very thankful to Dr. Smothers for helping ease the pain, day by day, and in fact, am looking forward to seeing him later this morning...

It’s not. We need the physical part of caring. We need the hand that reaches out for ours. We need the hug that says what words cannot. We need the presence that just sits with us and weeps with us, love shown without saying a word. We need the voice at the other end of the phone line. The voice that knows and shares a history with us. We need the voice who dares to be bold enough to ask, “Can we pray about this right now?” We need the voice that is silent, who listens and truly hears us...

You’ve no doubt read that I drove my school bus concurrently with other jobs I held over the years. Such was the case early one morning as I navigated my bus through the town of Marshall, Mo., prior to arriving at my job at Head Start. As I passed by a friend’s home at around 6:30, I noticed her light on. ...

So I’ve been “swimming around” lately. First this place, then that place, then the next place. I wound up in Pokey today at the Aquatic Center. Yes, I fancy a similar, maybe exactly the same, facility in Doniphan. I’ve been picturing it since I moved here in 2008. I picture it built up on the hill across from the Masonic Lodge building...

Today I chose to stay home and get caught up around the house. Of course, I still needed to pop in and out to do some errands. It crossed my mind how convenient it is living in town. Especially when you take Lasix. And tend to drink several cups of coffee in the morning...

I just now (10:30 a.m. on July 13) received a sad message from my husband. Lynn Maples passed away. I immediately thought of the sound of Lynn laughing, or maybe it was more like a happy giggle. You know how when you meet a kindred spirit, something just clicks. That’s how it was with Lynn and I.  If I ever attempted to walk by the museum without “checking in”, she’d fly out the door, smiling that smile, and beckon me in to just sit and chat...

We spent time at the cabin recently. While doing dishes, and putting them way, I came across a reusable Keurig cup. It was left by our daughter-in-law, former barista and lover of Starbucks coffee. I opened the drawer to retrieve a pen and smiled as I noticed a Whoopee cushion. ...

This morning, I started putting together, in my mind, a light-hearted column I felt would bring a smile to some faces, including mine, as I recalled the details. I’m going to have to finish that column another day. A trip to the store this evening put me in a somber mood. I came face to face with meth addiction. I came face to face with a shattered family...

One of the unexpected perks of being retired is having time to discover forgotten pleasures. I know what you’re thinking, but the only thing dirty in what I just said is the soil. A favorite verse of mine proclaims: “The kiss of the sun for pardon, the song of the birds for mirth. One is nearer God’s heart in a garden, than on any place else on earth.”...

In anticipation of the Jones family reunion in Kansas next weekend, I settled in last evening to sort through poems, photos and other remembrances of the Jones family. Since none of the four remaining Jones children are young anymore – Judy is 74, Danny will be 69 this August, and my “little brother” Robin will be 62 the same month. I turn 64 in June...

It’s over a month away, as I write these words, until June 5. Just a date but so much more. I’ve made my plans to attend our three-years-delayed family reunion in Kansas, but there’s no way I can leave without writing down these words. Deb and Dale, I’ve been thinking about you both all morning. ...

A conversation with a lifelong friend regarding gratitude came to mind this morning. She said for all her whining, she was thankful for the parts of her body that DID work, and that list outweighed her list of complaints. She really got me thinking…about gratitude. ...

Today, May 13, you and I celebrate our 43rd wedding anniversary. As you are fond of saying, “Sometimes it seems like yesterday and then sometimes, it feels like a LOT longer!”  Thank you for:  Our children and our grandchildren. Who knew when we started out all those years ago, we’d be blessed with both. “The best thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother.” (John Wooden.) You practiced this daily through the years...

At almost 64 years of age, I have a new best friend! Maybe she’s yours too!  Alexa, what did WE do before you arrived in our lives? Some people are afraid you know too much, that you listen in on our conversations. That might be true. There ARE times we’ve entertained the thought of baiting  you, to see what would happen.  I’m sure there are more exciting and enlightening conversations to be heard than ours.  ...

Crisis! I have no lipstick! Where on earth did my three lipsticks go, oh where oh where did they go? It’s true I believe I have four instead of three. I’m not counting the cabin lipstick, that I leave at the cabin to wear as needed. It seems like the fish bite better when my lips are moist. ...

The story of this rainbow is truly amazing and amazingly true… Some years ago, my husband took a whole bunch of pictures of a beautiful rainbow. We downloaded them to our computer and erased the memory stick on our camera. However, every time after that, without fail, each time we downloaded pictures the last picture we would see was this rainbow picture. ...

A group of 10 cared about kids, and had an idea that was very fine. But one was asked to donate money, and now there are only nine. Nine caring people, Thought helping kids would “be great!’ But one was asked to commit some spare time, and now there were only eight...

I had only one intent, to go to E & S The day was oh so very fair, And my house was such a mess. Spring laid heavy in the air I longed to go and roam But I needed a cup of coffee So I wouldn’t be alone I pulled into the drive thru lane To get some Mickey D’s,...

I never thought I’d be the age I am today. Not that I didn’t know that time does go marching on, I just didn’t have time to think about it much. There’s a whirlwind of firsts that accompany the earlier years of our lives. First driver’s license, first job, first move away from home. ...

The date on the calendar proclaimed spring arrived on March 20. I know something that the calendar doesn’t know…spring arrived the first night we heard the peepers. Although everything in the world seems to have been affected by the events in the past year, we always know that the season of rebirth and hope, will always follow...

All In The Family I just received a text message from my niece Dana, sharing her daughter Raygen’s recent poem. Her mom is thinking she’s been gifted with the Jones’ family’s talent for poetry. You decide. When all the Earth shall pass away And all that herein, down we lay...

Live every day courageously. It cultivates trust in God. ~ Bonnie Rickner Jensen Relax, recharge, reflect, refresh, renew, return. ~ Alan Cohen He replied, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you.” Luke 17:6...

As I write this, we are all anticipating snow. How much, remains to be seen, and depends on which station we listen to, or where we live. I love how snow blankets the ground, covering the earth, making it all clean and pristine. Winters were harsher, colder and the snow deeper growing up. The forecast calls for frigid temperatures and depth totals not unlike those in Kansas...

So we battle on, with this demon called COVID. The news is full of doom and gloom, and frankly, I use my go-to coping skills of denial, and hiding my head in the sand. Is there such a thing as too much news? Information overload? Conflicting sources proclaim their way is the only way. How does one determine which information is correct?...

A gentle, but persistent, tug on my fishing line. A long awaited daffodil, crocus or tulip breaking through the cold ground of winter, into the promise of spring. Snuggling in on a frigid evening, clothed in flannel pajamas and covered up with a sentimental quilt...

Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend. Martin Luther King, Jr. Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love. Mother Teresa I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear. Martin Luther King, Jr...

Uncluttering is a popular term these days. If you haven’t used it, chances are you won’t. Find a new home for it! If you’re donating to a thrift shop, don’t give summer clothes in winter. Their storage space is limited. Don’t donate junk or trash or the stuff that didn’t sell at your yard sale. Anything you’re not using, someone else may need desperately. Just remember, never give to others what you wouldn’t want given to you...

I almost threw it away before I opened it. By the return address, I knew it was a helping agency, and a good one.  At this time of year, there are lots of requests for help. Instead of tossing it, I opened it and found the best gift I’ll get for Christmas this year.  ...

Christmas joy found a way into this heart yesterday. One of my favorite activities approaching Christmas is sending Christmas cards. I still believe folks love to get snail mail, as it’s called now. In the age of instant messaging and social media, this tradition is almost non existent. ...

I once had a friend who loved Christmas so much she had a Christmas tree in every room in her house, including the bathroom. (I had to check that out!) Every tree had a different theme. I just finished putting up my “sentimental theme” Christmas tree. There’s a lot of handmade ornaments, like the shepherd’s crook Jake, probably 3 years old, made out of foil, or as we used to call it, tin foil...

I honored my friend Jerry Meinz this morning with a couple of phone calls to check on folks. The realization just came to me the other day, that I could always count on Jerry to call me, to see how I was doing, and get the latest gossip. I was usually a disappointment to him, as I usually hadn’t heard much to pass on...

Yes, there can be positives even amidst a pandemic. One of the positive aspects for me is messages available virtually from our beloved minister up north. I’m thankful for his thoughtful words, especially of hope in these times we are living in. After his recent message on thankfulness, I messaged him “Your message jumpstarted me into remembering the many, many times God has intervened in my life over the years. It was a good road to go down.”...

A single, fragrant rose blooms on the windowsill. It adorned the flower draped casket of a dear friend from up north. It reminds me of all that is good and decent and loving in the world. For Sam Ed Yokley was all of these and more, with just a hint of fun loving orneriness to bring joy to those around him...

To the tune of “She’ll Be Comin’ ‘Round The Mountain”. I’m not wasting time on Facebook, any more I’m not wasting time on Facebook any more I’m not wasting time on Facebook I won’t even take a quick look I’m not wasting time on Facebook any more! Oh, the monster is deactivated, yay!...

I recently made the decision to change my body and change my life… yes, AGAIN!  I’m so TIRED of my weight impacting every thought I have, every activity I CAN’T do, the places I can’t go, and the confidence that eludes me. Honestly, there are two Beckys that exist. The one I envision when I fail to look in the mirror or see a photo of myself, and the REAL Becky. Blah, blah, blah, blah….you’ve heard this all before…...

Blessings All the rose of Sharons Have tucked their blooms close in; They’ll endure the cold ahead Until summer comes again. I  see from the kitchen window, A last bloom on the Myrtle tree… The flash of fuscia a reminder Of the joy they’ve given me...

If you’re anywhere close to my age, you’ve had this conversation. Since we are entering the “golden years’, and time marches on, you tend to entertain certain scenarios. At the same time we bring these up, we all know that we have no guarantees on how our lives will end in this life. ...

I am writing these words after I’ve actually carried out my crazy mindset re: eating. Namely, get rid of it so you’re not tempted. Those of us who overeat like to rationalize every failure. Since I’ve “fallen off the wagon” more than once as of late, stooping to buying Oreo McFlurrys, I deduced that it would be much more economical to take advantage of the three for $5 pints of ice cream at Dollar General. ...

I’m at home today “waiting it out”. Although I do not know if I’ve been exposed to COVID, I opted to have a test done on Thursday afternoon anyway after falling ill, and developing a nasty cough, after our family gathered together during Labor Day weekend. I’m waiting for the news. I was worried I might have exposed the family if I had Covid...

The above quote is one of my favorites. It isn’t about flowers or gardening, but refers to what we do, with what we have, where we are, when God plants us. To be honest, another favorite quote hangs here just above my computer screen. It was given to me by a dear friend.  Meeting when she and I  trained to be CASA volunteers, years ago. She was a teacher, I was a bus driver and a Head Start worker...

Down here, when peach time rolls around, the place to be is Campbell and Bader Orchards. Peaches also make me think of Carolyn. Seems one of our friends up north thought it might be a good idea if I met her elderly mother. She thought I’d be able to help her mom get ready to move to an assisted living facility. You know how some folks are just destined to meet? So it was with Carolyn and I. ...

You’ve Got To Stand For Something, Or You’ll Fall For Anything. Lately, I’ve been so afraid to stir up hate and dissension that I’ve become what I despise…wishy washy. The “All it takes for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing”. ~ Edmund Burke’s quote, reverberates in my ears these days. ...

I went online to get a definition of “redneck”. Working-class white person, especially a political reactionary, one from a rural area. ~ Oxford Languages An uneducated white farm laborer, especially from the South. A bigot or reactionary, especially from the rural working class. ~ Dictionary.com...

I recently sent off an email to our former minister up north, Pastor Randy. I don’t remember ever calling him “Pastor Randy”, always just plain old Randy. I’ve been listening to his sermons online and have enjoyed his messages. Today’s was timely. It included a favorite scripture:  “I am sure that the good work God began in you will continue until He completes it on the day when Jesus Christ comes again.”~ Philippians 1:6 ERV...

by Ellen Palmer Allerton Beautiful faces are those that wear — It matters little if dark or fair — Whole-souled honesty printed there. Beautiful eyes are those that show, Like crystal panes where hearthfires glow, Beautiful thoughts that burn below...

I’ve become much more cynical about the news I receive and what political affiliation it comes from. It’s a sad statement when I say I don’t know who and what I can believe. I’m so missing Chet Huntley, David Brinkley news and my all time favorite, Walter Cronkite. ...

As is our custom, we were headed to the cabin on Sunday. Danny wanted to go up earlier than usual. I balked (actually the other B word is much more appropriate) citing the hot, humid weather predicted. Besides, the fish don’t REALLY start biting until the cool of the evening. ...

It was oh so good to be out again And good to see my friend; At times it seems the days shut in Were never going to end. We had a bit of cabin fever From the recent cautious days We longed to roam and see the world And go oh so many ways. So in our state of wanderlust...

Let me be a voice for the speechless, Those who are small and weak. Let me speak for all helpless creatures Who have no power to speak. I have lifted my heart to Heaven On behalf of the least of these The frightened, the homeless, the hungry. I am voicing their pleas...

People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway. If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway. If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway...

I heard a song on the radio today. I smiled all the way through it. I remember well the day one of my preK bus riders belted it out, especially this phrase: “Rain makes corn, corn makes whiskey, whiskey makes my baby, a little bit frisky!” This same little one once observed, “Miss Becky, Did you know that all of the earth and sky are God’s?” ...

The lilacs now have come and gone A fragrance none replace… And always when I see them bloom I see my mother’s face. The daffodils’ happy smile Reminds us spring is near The crocus and the tulips Will come again next year. Peonies are blooming now Their aroma fills the air...

Wouldn’t you agree that it’s so much easier to be grateful and have fun when you’re spending time in the great outdoors?  And inspirational too! Tools you need for play: A good pair of Muck boots! Not only did they serve me well during my later years as a school bus driver, but they’re so easy to slip on while the dew is still heavy on the grass...

Recently, I came across a letter to the editor I wrote just shortly after Danny and I moved to Doniphan in 2008. As we slowly rise up from the COVID-19 pandemic, I find myself reaffirming what I wrote almost 10 years ago, with some changes, I hope, will be lasting ones. We’ve chosen not to leave Ripley County to do business during these hard times. If we did, it’s only because we’ve not found what we needed here (which is extremely infrequent)...

I read, on Facebook, last evening, that my best friend was going off Facebook for awhile. Instead of just calling her, I texted asking her what was up? We agreed to talk via phone today. What has stayed with me all day is not so much the content of the conversation, but the anger or tears, she was trying hard to hold in check...

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace, Where there is hatred, let me sow love; Where there is injury, pardon; Where there is despair, hope; Where there is darkness, light; Where there is sadness, joy; O Divine Master, Grant that I may not so much...

Today is a day for remembering to give thanks for accumulated blessings. Thank you, dear Lord for: My better half. For fixing the Snapper riding lawn mower, therein boosting my hope that I’ll be able to mow this summer. For adapting the boat dock so it’s easy for me to get in and out of the boat, thus indulging my lifelong love of fishing. For an unexpected bouquet of fragrant lilacs, and the heady aroma that is wafting through my kitchen as I write this. And for so much more…...

Aren’t we all in “new territory”? School staff finds themselves in unchartered waters. These are uncertain times we’re living in. We find ourselves sequestered at home, many home with their school age children. Jobs may be non existent right now. Many things that we for so long have taken for granted, are no longer within our reach. For those of us who are “people persons” the loss is felt by not seeing others. Freedom to move about at our whim has disappeared, at least for now...

I’m so thankful my doctor is a praying man. My routine visit, was held, for the first time, over the phone, due to the constraints of the Corona virus. We spoke of family, his and mine. The corona virus came up in the conversation. He said his wife was worried; and he was taking every precaution not to bring it home to his family. Their office is operating with a skeleton crew in these unsure times...

I emailed my friend from CASA volunteer days up north recently. My subject line was “I think we need a Godwink!”. Believing nothing is a coincidence, but a Godcidence, is our way of thinking. Another explanation of a Godwink is an event where God chooses to remain anonymous. First of all, please know I’m not revealing this to toot my own horn, but God knows that. Everything that happens, like the following, is for His glory. And God knows that also! That’s all that matters to me...

The day stretched out before me Without a sense of rush No “get up and go”, “get coffee” Didn’t have to drive the bus. But wait. A friend is calling What is this all about? “We have to go and go right now Toilet paper is running out!” “Oh, what will we do?...

In spite of what the calendar may say, in spite of what the weather may say, spring arrived the other evening when I first heard the peepers. Somehow these tiny chorus frogs know, long before we humans do, that the drab, cold winter is over. Soon after, I noticed that daffodils were beginning to show up here and there, and then they began blanketing the hillsides. ...

One of the perks of being a school bus driver (and there are many), is that you can count on each day as being an adventure. You never know what you might hear  or what subject might be discussed. No two days are EVER the same. This morning was no exception...

Thank you for the dry shelter of the carport as I arrive home. Remind me of those without shelter, who are wet, shivering, and cold, and see no hope in the future of a change in circumstance. As I thank you for a job I look forward to working every day, keep me mindful of those who struggle to find employment, work two or three jobs just to make ends meet, and who wish they were well enough to work...

No matter how the day has gone, What pain or hurt I’ve known, I always smile when I pass it by, That loving, joyful home.   The God of all the little ones Looked down from up above, And with one sweep of His great Hand, Filled that family with His love...

Yesterday, Glenda said she wanted to see me after my bus route. It’s kind of like when you’re a kid in school, and you hear the principal wants to speak with you. So when I finished, I went to Glenda’s office. She said, “I have a letter here from one of your parents.” At that point, it was kind of like the day, years ago, when the whole neighborhood was gathered in one yard, and I had the distinct impression, that they were NOT there to tell me to have a good day. ...

Moment Of Truth So a loved one and I were “just being honest” with each other. “Stop making excuses for not losing weight and just do it!”. OUCH. In my face kind of honesty. Sad to say, I had to admit to myself truths I didn’t want to admit. Do we REALLY want the truth?...

God Is In The Details “An older, and slightly more common, phrase God is in the details means that attention paid to small things has big rewards, or that details are important.” It was just a tiny piece of paper, an address label, if you will. While I was checking the bus the last day before Christmas vacation, I found it stuck to the bus wall above a window. Here’s what it said: “Be a force for good. Pay it forward.” DHS 12/4/2019. I smiled...

Remembering my dad’s birthday Jan. 11, 1920. We always had a special bond, dad and I, confiding in each other about anything and everything. He filled our lives with magic and poetry, writing each of us poems throughout the years, which we cherish. He fiercely loved his family. ...

Putting away Christmas for another year, I paused at the JOY door decoration my niece made me last Christmas. My exact thought at the moment was “Don’t think I’ll take my joy down yet.” I’m not a person that looks forward to Christmas, as I don’t do rushing and travelling very well, when it’s all smashed together. ...

Various definitions of hodge podge available online range from “a confused mixture”; a “jumble” as well as “an unorganized group of items”. Today all of those is an apt description of thoughts… We’ve welcomed a plethora of friends and family into our home, with more on the way. Okay, I just looked up the word “plethora” and it means abundance. Do you ever wonder where the words that come out of your mouth or down on paper, come from? I do all the time!...

I’ve already emailed Barbie and Kelly at The Prospect-News that once more, I didn’t have a blurb. So I wasn’t expecting one to materialize, in, of all places, the kitchen. My folks are coming to Doniphan this weekend. My Kansas folks. The Joneses. We are having our brother/sister reunion. It’s become a tradition, held somewhere around Thanksgiving but before Christmas arrives...

I have the privilege of working with an unusual group of individuals. I’m not stretching the truth at all by saying you don’t keep returning day after day week, after week, year after year, unless you believe in trying to make a difference and loving the children (most days!)  These folks are the most responsible, and probably show up more, than many other occupations. Extremely safety-conscious, they operate with one goal in mind, safe transportation. ...

To give or not to give…that is the question. It’s easy, isn’t it? Much too easy to dismiss someone as being somehow not as deserving as the next someone. It’s harder when that person has a name. When it’s summer, the subject of homelessness doesn’t hardly enter into my psyche. But…during the recent plummeting temperatures, and factoring in the cold rain, it’s not as easy to dismiss...

I almost called The Prospect-News and asked them to put me on hiatus for awhile. It seemed I haven’t been able to put pen to paper for several weeks. I’ve been discouraged lately. I don’t know about you, but the “low down” times force me to cling to God for comfort, because nobody else can comfort me at those times.  And so I did. And so He did, oh so lovingly...

“I’m not suggesting that we have the power to heal physical conditions with our human fingers. But I do believe there’s a healing of the spirit that takes place when we touch others. There’s a comfort that can’t be found anywhere else but in a touch or a hug. Somehow, God’s love and power is shared with others through the simplicity of our physical touch.” ~ Amy Nappa...

“So hot you could fry an egg on the sidewalk”. - Don’t know who started this one. And I wonder, did they try it first? “Hot like the letter H”.  -  One of my wee bus kiddos, as she climbed on the bus one day. (Evidently, they were learning about the letter H.)...

It looks like a tornado just whipped through  my house. I’ve got two overflowing baskets of dirty laundry. I’m “fluffing” the clothes in my dryer for the first (or second) time. Sidebar here. I always think of my South African friend when I fluff my clothes. ...

Missing Their Little Boys Last week, as I wrote about the joys of being a momma to our little boys, my heart ached. The same day I wrote those words, five years before, my sister lost her little boy, at age 47, in an automobile accident. Danny took the call, and I heard him say, “Oh, no!” and forever I’ll remember we got that call the day before my son Jake’s birthday. ...

“Where are you going my little one, little one Where are you going my baby, my own Turn around and you’re two Turn around and you’re four Turn around and you’re a young man, Going out of the door.” ~ Kenny Loggins. Tomorrow, on August 19th, 39 years ago, in another life, a curly headed baby boy was born in Sedalia, Mo. ...

After the recent murder, and the things I see and hear representing foster children, I think signs proclaiming “Pray for Ripley County” would be welcome. After all, the prayers for Callie worked a miracle for that sweet girl. I hear the birds beckoning me outside. ...

Tending The Garden Last night, I set my alarm for the first time in awhile. The first day of school is rapidly approaching, and I need to “get in practice”. Yes, we only live one mile from the school. Well, two if McDonalds is on the way. Tending our birds is an early joy of mine this summer. Our hummingbird always comes by to thank me for “burping” his feeder. One morning, he came by the kitchen window to remind me he was not liking a “burpless” feeder...

Do you feel reborn??? This cool weather is just what we needed after that horrifically hot (and let’s not forget HUMID) weather we just experienced. I DO so love Missouri weather because if you don’t like it…just wait a minute. Just when we think we’re in the “holding pattern” for heat and humidity that is Southeast Missouri in July…we’re given a welcome respite. The sky has seemed bluer, the trees more vivid green...

I was searching through “stuff” in my second home…my car…when I found it. Months had gone by before it resurfaced. I still don’t know the answer to that question, but I couldn’t deny that I had found it. A labelmaker. You know the kind. You type what you want on a label push a button, and shazam! Out comes your label...

Yesterday, we said our last goodbye to a friend we’ve had since we moved here. This fall, the last week of August 2008, that amounts to the beginning of our 12th year in Doniphan. I just made a quick calculation on my fingers, just to check the accuracy of that last remark. ...

Counting (And Recounting) On The  Benevolence Of Others Benevolence: Disposition to do good. An act of kindness. A generous gift. Synonyms (same meaning) of benevolence: Courtesy, favor, grace, indulgence, kindness, mercy, service. It was my good fortune to wake during the wee hours of the morning. ...

We saw him twice that weekend. Once, when we were going to Poplar Bluff, and the other time, when we were returning from Pocahontas. I said to my husband, “He looks like Jesus.” At least what I think Jesus would look like. He wore light brown material wrapped in the manner of a robe, and his head was covered...

As I walked down the hall, I was intent on my destination … the free coffee available at the other end of the hall. As I poured my coffee, a resident wheeled up to the counter and placed her order. “Can I have a cup of coffee please?” she said. I felt like my friend Misty, taking an order at McDonalds...

 “That won’t do!” my husband almost shouted. Abruptly, we made a sharp,  right turn, and then stopped in the parking lot. I had no idea what precipitated this … Was there something wrong with our car? He was out the door and walking before I could ask what was wrong. Then I saw him and knew immediately. An American flag was lying on the ground...

As the heat settles in with the promise of warmer nights and scorching day temperatures, I dream of snow capped mountains. The mountains of Colorado are in our plans this summer, along with, hopefully, cooler temperatures. It dawned on us last year, that maybe going to Florida to see son and family was BEST in the WINTER, not summer. ...

My end of the year blurb WAS titled “Another Year Bites the Dust”. Our school year, with kids, ended as we  honked our horns leaving the parking lot and told them them all to “Have a  good summer!” as we took them home. Wednesday and Thursday were designated work days to get our buses spic and span. Today, Thursday, we had a bus safety inservice on a topic that none of us ever thought we’d have to deal with driving a school bus, certainly not an issue when many of us began driving years ago...

Oh, Lord. Where are all the mommies and daddies? Where have they gone? They are missing. And yet they are living and breathing, somewhere. I read Mother’s Day cards “I miss you!” and “I love you!”. Decorated with stick people with tears running down their faces...

This time of year, as we approach Mother’s Day, is bittersweet, to all of us whose mothers no longer walk with us here on earth.  If I take a moment and pause to look at the Mother’s Day cards, I still mentally pick out the one I know my mom would love. ...

It all started when one of my bus kiddos started singing my “favorite” song, (did you notice I used my sarcastic font?) a little gem called “Baby Shark”, infamous for sticking in your mind and not letting go. Don’t get me wrong. I love to hear kids sing. I’ve missed singing on the bus, in unison, since everybody is plugged in and tuned out nowadays. In my early years of bus driving, it was a common occurrence for the kids and I to sing...

I can’t recall who I wrote this about, but I’d bet it was a resident of the nursing home I worked at as an LPN. I was as attached to the old folks there as I am to the children here. AGE I see you now as none before The one that was and is no more The mother, wife, grandma too...

Easter It’s the eve before Easter Come break of day All will rejoice ”He is Risen!” they’ll say. How well we’re reminded With each coming spring By the songs of the robins And the geese on the wing. By the first blooming crocus The first blossomed tree...

Several ways to “lighten up” the things we do every day! Always do housework with whatever genre of music you adore. Use your dust mop/broom to belt out those tunes. Imagine yourself on stage. Always make a point of placing your favorite books and/or magazines in two of the best places to read and concentrate…your car and your bathroom...

(with apologies to Richard Le Gallienne) I meant to do my work today But I noticed some daffodils abloom in the yard Then saw brilliant flashes of color as birds flitted by And to tend dishes and laundry seemed extra hard.   I meant to do my work today...

So… today there’s a lot of “talk” out there about “being fully present”. For me, that means building flexibility into my life. I no longer make “to do” lists. I’ve arrived at this conclusion after many years of trying to maintain a sense of control over the time allotted me daily. An attempt has been made to be “fully present” and try to enjoy whatever I’m doing at the time. Especially what comes up that is unplanned. “Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans”~ Allen Saunders...

My heart was heavy as I approached the high school office. I don’t go here often; in fact, I don’t recall ever coming down this year. But this matter couldn’t be ignored. I knew the circumstances surrounding this instance and it made my heart all the heavier for knowing. Thankfully, the sun peeks through the dark clouds of our lives, unexpectedly. It can happen in a moment and make an impact we don’t soon forget...