My birdfeeder was full of sunflower seeds and I would occassionally glimpse a cardinal in the mornings.  This morning I noticed that the bird feeder was nearly empty.  It had been full. 

Up the screen door....

Across the screen window...

Eyeing the prize

Making the leap!

Ahhh....just barely landed.

The rest of the story!

Back in Florida again.  The flight was a little rough as it has stormed here today and had tornado watches.  Angela picked me up at the airport.  When I got home I was too tired to go to the grocery store.  I didn't have a protective aunt making sure I ate my tomatoes and cottage cheese and cucumbers.  But, my neighbor called me and invited me for a bowl of soup.  My other choice was the nuts Vickie packed as a snack.  The soup was great and we had a chance to catch up.  I will save my snack for work for lunch.  Then I'll go to the grocery store. Please pray for Michelle and her family.  Her dad has serious althzeimers and is a great concern to her.  I didn't want to leave yet, I wanted to be there for my family, but I am glad I got to go.  Please keep Vickie and family in your prayers as she still has much to deal with.   \

As far as my arm goes, no such luck.  It blistered and is peeling and feels a little rough. It is undergoing a second peeling (like a bad sunburn).  Just have to watch it for infection.  I have lost my taste for oatmeal!

It was good to see some of my wonderful aunts and uncles from Hope and LA, even under such circumstances.  I sure do miss seeing them. 

A special thanks to LJ, Mom and Re....they pulled off a few miracle meals.  Yummm.  And lets not forget Hannah and the Bowlin boys.  They were great with the kids.  And Randal was always handy with a towell when an entire glass got knocked over...very calmly (3 times)!.  You are a good guy bro!  Katie, Shanna, Danielle and Savannah pulled through with kid care.  It was great seeing Jimbo and Audra.  They will be in Nawlins way too soon.  I know I have forgotten someone.  Kevin, Gabby, Wendy....and assorted helpers.  It takes a village!!!  Thanks again Mom, and Vickie, you are close to my heart and prayers.  Love to all.  I know this is just rambling, but it is from the heart.

Love to all

If you want to see some greatpictures go to RyMoHannah.   She has some awesome shots.

Mike and Vickie have been a great testimony to our Lord.  I had the priveledge of spending the day in Orlando with Mike and Vickie when he was able to get around fairly well and think clearly.  Mike talked to me about a lot of things that day, but I remember the tenderness and care with which he treated my sister.  She was like his princess.  It was very touching.  I almost felt like an intruder that day as they spent their special week together.  I have a great deal of respect for both of them as they have made God and family their priority in principal and practice.  Mike made me realize some things very gently that will stay with me forever. I have had a wonderful example put before me through my parents, my sisters and their families and my brother and his wonderful wife and boys.  I realize I am blessed.  I am proud to be a part of such a wonderful family.  It is a bittersweet time.  I will selfishly miss Mike, but am glad he is out of pain and with the God he loved so much.  Words are just not enough....I love you sis.

P.S.  My arm is much better.  I think I may get by with 1st degree burns.  It has not blistered yet!

A typical Monday for me.  The dogs had me up at 6:30 (on my day off).  I loaded them up and brought them home with me so I could get some stuff done to prepare for my faculty training tonight from 4-9for the university.  Some kind of new electronic portfolio for the state.  I was making oatmeal for breakfast and when I was taking the boiling bowl of water out of the microwave...it slipped and scalded me from my inner wrist to nearly my elbow.  I yanked  my shirt off, but not before it got a little on my side.  I called BCBS med coach to see what to do...she said get to the doctor.  It was hurting pretty bad by then.  So, a tetnus shot, lortab, burn ointment and a wrap later, I think I am taking off tomorrow too.  The doctor suggested I stay out until Wednesday when I go back for a re-check.  I hate to miss work because I haven't been there in a week and a half.  When I was hurting, I thought about Mike, and I realized my pain is nothing.  Maybe while I am left handed, I will develop some kind of artistic quality....NOT.  Will update later.

Love to all

Some of these may be repeats, but this is for you sis.  Love ya!

The birthday girl!

Love ya!!!

Safely home...dead tired.  Will post pics later, if there are any that aren't repeats.  My prayers are with Mike and Vickie and the travelers.  Anxious to hear from the Guatamala travelers returning.