Among Friends

[DeLaney]

Helloooo in here! A blessed Sunday to all. 😊

Snappy, I read your good news on your current and future treatment plans for the UTI. Sounds promising, and won't it be nice if and when this is completely behind you? Praying to that end, and for Shirley's vision, too. True enough chemo can be damaging to the eyes, but it's often temporary or correctable. Hope she got no shingles in either eye. That can be terrible.

Was nice that you could volunteer to work the polls for 20 years. Dad did this back home in IRE, too--even thru some very risky times and he's still not fazed by the current climate here either. I thank you (and all) for praying for his safety. I am likewise for everyone's. Do you ever wonder about out mail-in ballots not being scanned? It crosses my mind each time, and I'd rather vote in person on E-Day, but don't want to take the chance on missing out entirely. Happened once when I had to go to admissions with a patient and things were backed up there so badly that I didn't get home until after 2:00 AM. Just never know. . .

Sure your GS may be influenced by popular culture, and those same age-old temptations that we all face-off with. You're wise to trust our Savior, and His timing, to deliver him. . . and to (as Selah says) complete the work in him--in us all! I'm far from where I need to be (in perfect love) but thankful that I'm not where I once was. So sweet of him to try to reassure you, and he seems to be a very genuine family man. Bless him, his wife and little Star!

Speaking of fear. . . Our pastor has now asked me to help out in the prison ministry with the Christian counseling. I've never stepped foot in a prison. It's the drug addiction problems again, that has so many parents separated from their children. He knows that Mike and I are helping out with the foster care program. Some in prison are getting drug rehab there, and many show an interest in Christian (or other faith-based) counseling. He has helped to set up this program and said I can help serve there, rather than at the church for a time, if I'm willing. I know the rehab is vital, and this is the only opportunity for those serving time (mostly impoverished). So, I'm praying over this opportunity and I don't fear for my safety as much as my inexperience in this setting.

I also know that some will "show interest" in any program simply because it'll look good to the parole board. That, tho, is better left to Christ who knows every heart's true intensions. I want to help these families (and single parents) to give their children a chance to thrive. Too many children starting out in life with too many painful obstacles. Please pray for my guidance--I will need all the help I can get from Above. TIA and best wishes to you with the IDS. I know one of your loving children or grandchildren will get you there safely. ❤️

Agnes, sorry for the off day! We all have those, especially when our sleep is disturbed. You're all too aware of the obvious NPD symptoms as they manifest in your poor mother. It's your natural love and wanting to protect your father that sometimes compromises your judgment. Easier to just give in, but you sell yourself and others short each time you do. I admire your strength so much, and I know you'll be well prepared to guard yourself emotionally from any potential attacks from the flying monkeys (likely already enlisted). Before, during or after your trip when you'll be painted as uncaring or worse. Anyone who knows you, and so loves you, realizes how preposterous such insinuations are. Be calm and carry on. ❤️

Mike's surprise began with an early dinner at Whitefish Lake Restaurant. Great service and food. I highly recommend it! We had for our starter, the crab cakes. Then the grilled sirloin over fresh spinach salad. No room for dessert.

Then, just in time to see the sunset over the valley, we took the guided Walk the Treetops tour!

Stunning views from up there, and so very peaceful. Glad it didn't rain and wasn't windy.

We ended up here at the tree house chalet he rented for the night:

Cozy, and yes--very romantic! Have no idea when he arranged all this, but it's a birthday I'll never forget. ❤️

Now I'm making your soup recipe. I added two fistfuls of long-grain rice, so a cup more of chicken broth. Smells great! Made six of Joy's moist corn muffins to go with it.

Just waiting on BabyGirl to arrive soon, but she's been just fine! I'm glad your Jacob had such a nice Halloween, and that Doug treated you to your first popcorn ball! 😍

Issy, sorry to hear that your lawyer friend and colleague will be leaving. So kind of you and Simone to treat her to lunch, but I know you'll miss her so much. Hopefully she will stay in touch and not have to miss you two, too. ❤️

Selah, thanks for clearing up my poor communication so well here! With tipping thru the tulips, I forget that people can't read my mind. 😜 I can't believe how tall your oldest GD has grown since I last saw her. She's going to be tall like your son, tho she still looks so much like her mother. Both boys favor you a lot, and their sister is so much like your DD, Tanya. Beautiful group of grandchildren, having a wonderful time! Thanks for sharing. ❤️

Will be watching Poldark and Outlander tonight. Be back soon. A peaceful evening to all. Enjoy that extra hour of sleep, friends. 

--Marcia 💋

[Q-Anu]

Howdy, all! Loved the Trick or Treat pics of the kiddos. So cute. 🤗 

Marcia, what a birthday surprise Mike planned for you! How will he top that on your anniversary? I love the treehouse chalet, though I would have been nervous doing the Tree Top Walk. Even those monkey bridges scare me. I have an aversion to heights, unless standing on solid platforms. This was perfect for you two, though! 

I will pray, just as you've requested. That is a tall order, but you are long on spirit and highly qualified professionally. Those with serious addictions need the tangible tools to fight for their lives, and faith in the One who loves them and can only want their best for them and their families. May He be magnified through you, your pastor and others working in these programs as conduits. 

I meant to ask you and other fans here, if you caught Ryan Bingham on Off Camera With Sam Jones? That's the AUD channel, btw. If you missed it, they'll be showing it again soon. A very honest and all too humble interview. He'll be performing here at the Kessler Theater on 12/7. Logan and I will hopefully get our tickets soon. 

Wanted to suggest that Rowan and Selah check out the LifeFactory Glass Bakeware for Winona. Potential gifts. I like the grippy silicon sleeves - safer handling - while only glass touches the food. 

Amazon is offering free shipping just when UPS is about to go on strike. I'm doing all my online shopping immediately. Hope to finish that up this weekend. 

All of you with back problems may want to check out the ComfiLife Memory Foam Knee Pillow. This is the only one that I've tried that doesn’t go flat. I'm a side sleeper and this thing has helped me a lot. It's supposedly good for sciatica, too, but I've never had that, so cant vouch.  

Hugs to all, 

Anu 💞

[LurkyLoo]

Anu, it seems like everyone is trying to get the JUMP on their holiday shopping! 😅

[LurkyLoo]

Bless the little birds- they seem to love this weather and I enjoy watching them frolic about. The worms wash up from the ground- easy pickings. Must be a smorgasbord out there today. They're filling up before the ground freezes, I guess. 

I'm all but done with my shopping and thankful, since UPS will go on strike. That will put more pressure on FedEx and the USPS, too. I may look into this knee pillow that Anu mentioned, as I like to sleep on my side, too. Can’t hurt! I know they are supposed to help keep our spine and hips better aligned and take the pressure off our knees. Thank you for the tip. 

I don't know who Ryan Bingham is, but he's a very handsome lad. Don’t believe I get that channel on my basic cable. Will say that at this point I'm enjoying The Woman in White remake from a classic film (and book)- this PBS miniseries holds my interest more than Poldark now. Has that element of mystery. Since it's been so long since I saw the 1948 original.. I can’t recall how it ends and they may have made some changes. Poldark just seems to go in circles for the most part. Won’t miss the lecherous vicar! 

Marcia, I will pray for your guidance as well as your safety, should you decide to try the prison ministry program. I would think the pro CBT methods may help those with addictions, as well as CC. There is no conflict. Is Mike okay with you doing this? Also I imagine that should you get the call for an adoption- full time parenting.. you may have to rethink this again. I'd make your pastor aware of that, if you haven’t yet. All this drug abuse is destroying families and driving the crime rates up. Just yesterday we had a teen here robbing a drugstore. Armed robbery. 

You and Mike certainly know how to enjoy yourselves! What a fun and unique way to celebrate your birthday. 😍 Good. You both work hard, take care of your families and others.. you need to relax together, too. Brings balance. Some people have trouble finding that- can’t relax. Others can’t seem to get motivated. Praying for Owen's safety today as he helps at the poll.

Selah, I love the pic of your grands! That little astronaut looks so excited in his NASA suit. 🤗 I know you can’t wait until they arrive. How did the cake turn out? Hope your father had a nice birthday. I have a good salmon cake recipe that I'll share below. I know your family and others here like salmon. My SIL made this for our Sat supper. We'll have it again as an appetizer for Thanksgiving, with shrimp cocktails.

Since it was so rainy, Smoky stayed in a lot. He sat and stared at me with those huge golden eyes. Then showed me a couple of the toys I'd sent him, as though to say he liked them. Rubbed against my legs, took treats and then went on about his prowling and napping. 😽 I wanted to brush his beautiful coat, but he wasn’t in the mood for any pampering. Yes, still mannish! 

Snappy how did your and Shirley's appointments go? Well, I hope. It will be so nice for both of you when DD goes on her fall break. Then you have your trip to the rented house to look forward to for Thanksgiving! I guess the babies will get to visit Disney while there, too. I like the Marie Callender's frozen pies, but have never had a fresh one. I'm going to make one banana cream pie with the graham cracker crust. That's very easy- and light. Not everyone likes the heavier desserts after a big meal. 

I'm praying for your healing from the UTIs and grateful you're sleeping well. That in itself is a blessing! So many are unable to get a good night's sleep due to pain or insomnia. Take care and I'll check back with you soon. 

Love to all you dear friends, 

❤️ Ruth Ann

[LurkyLoo]

Salmon Cakes

Ingredients
* 1 lb fresh salmon filet*
* Olive oil
* Garlic salt to taste
* Black pepper to taste
* 1 medium yellow onion 1 cup, finely diced
* 1/2 red bell pepper seeded and diced
* 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided
* 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
* 2 large eggs lightly beaten
* 3 Tbsp mayonnaise
* 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
* 1/4 cup parsley finely minced

Instructions
1. Preheat Oven to 425˚F. Line rimmed baking sheet with parchment or silicone liner. Place salmon in the center, skin-side-down, drizzle with olive oil and season with garlic salt and black pepper. Bake uncovered for 10-15 min (depending on thickness), or just until cooked through. Remove from oven, cover with foil and rest 10 min. Flake salmon with 2 forks discarding skin and any bones then set aside and cool to room temp.

2. Heat a medium skillet over medium heat with 1 Tbsp olive oil and 1 Tbsp butter. Add diced onion and bell pepper and saute until golden and softened (7-9 minutes) then remove from heat.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combined flaked salmon, sautéed pepper and onion, 1 cup bread crumbs, 2 beaten eggs, 3 Tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp garlic salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper and 1/4 cup chopped parsley. Stir to combine. Form into patties (about a heaping Tablespoonful each) and mold with your hands into 2" wide by 1/3 to 1/2" thick patties.**

4. In a clean non-stick pan, heat 1 Tbsp oil and 1 Tbsp butter until hot then add salmon patties in a single layer. Saute 3 to 4 min per side or until golden brown and cooked through. If salmon patties brown too fast, reduce heat. Remove finished patties to a paper-towel lined plate and repeat with remaining oil, butter and salmon cakes.

Recipe Notes
*Substituting Salmon: If desired, you can substitute the first 4 ingredients listed with 15 oz of well-drained canned salmon or salmon in packets. Leftover salmon from dinner can also be used if available.

**Cook's Tip: If salmon mixture is too dry to hold a patty shape, add an extra tablespoon of mayo and if it is too moist, add more bread crumbs.

[snappyfrappy]

Hi agnes and Issy...hope you don't mind being addressed together. I lose things here from time to time and am glad they usually are saved, but not always.

Thank you for your newsy reports. It's 75 here today, such a relief from the heat.

DD#2 is in district meetings today so has a sub. Has to go to her room after school to make order for tomorrow, but no kids today. Only 2 weeks and then a week off for Thanksgiving. She knows I love it when she is here, but I try to soft pedal that so she can feel I'm safe while she works. We have the Ring on the front and now also the back. She can watch me move around the house or I go out and wave and speak to her.

The exterminator came and sprayed this morning. No ants inside since he started that. SO thankful.

Tomorrow morning I take the last of the antibiotic. Not sure the UTI is gone, but it's better.

Have my regular dental visit in the morning. DD#1 is coming to take me.

Waiting for authorization for the infectious disease doctor.

I ordered 3 ornaments from Amazon last night, and the Plow and Hearth stool for DD#2. I think she will like it in her classroom. Got the one with the penguins. Teaching about them is part of the curiculum.

Ordered one of Valerie's gingerbread houses for the dear lady who cuts our hair. Almost finished...

Hi to cute, bathina, MsLomo and all the KS friends.

snappy

[snappyfrappy]

Hi, Selah!! So very thankful you can breathe once again...oh my what a blessing.

Thank you for all you had to say about the spiritual condition of my GS and actually all my GKids.

I always hang on to "Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ". It's true, true, true.

I may not live to see the reality I look for, but that's okay. Since God is omnipresent, He's in what we call the future as He is in what we call the present. He's working His purposes and He choses to use our prayers. How awesome is that?

The babies are a big concern to me. I told my DDIL to read the Word to them. It's alive, and the HS can and will use it in their little minds even at this age.

My UTI is better, but I doubt it's gone. Don't know what to expect from the IDD, but that's not today's problem.

I'll get started on Christmas decorating soon. Probably VPHills carolers will go up first on top of the piano.

Have to wash the floors, possibly when I finish here.

Love reading what you all have to say.

My sister's shingles are getting better. She has suffered some sort of vision change in her right eye, probably because of the chemo, and is in some pain which has her concerned of course. A PET scan is scheduled for next month.

Have a great week..

snappy

[snappyfrappy]

Hi, DeLaney,

So good to hear from you. Your birthday sounds just oh so romantic!! That little cottage is absolutely out of fairy land or something.

It's interesting, but logical that you would be approached about possibly working in counselling in the prision. I am praying for wisdom as to whether or not it's what the Lord has for you. You are doubtless right that some sign up for things like that to score points, but we can't know that, and even if so, the Lord may be drawing them. I read about some who do come to the Lord, like Chuck Colson. Genuine.

I can't stand to watch the news today. I've prayed for what I believe would be better, but only God knows. So the prayer that never fails...Thy will be done, is what I ask. Nothing is ever going to be perfect in this world until it's rightful Ruler comes.

Ah...

snappy

[snappyfrappy]

Hi Lurky, for some reason, I'm drawn to birds. Possummink posts lots of pictures of them on the WT and I marvel at the ones we would never see otherwise. Amazing creatures who probably have no idea how gorgeous they are...well, I suppose the males do...hehe

Glad you are all but finished with your shopping. Me too. Had no idea that UPS might go on strike. I guess this is a good time for them to want more money. They do work really hard. Run, run, run.

Hope I get the authorization soon to see the IDD. They sent me one for a kidney specialist by mistake, so it's start all over.

God's timing is always best anyway.

My symptoms aren't gone, but the medication will be tomorrow morning.

Tomorrow I have my 6th month dental checkup. Routine as far as I know.

I'm sure the babies and their parents will be at Disneyland over Thanksgiving for sure. Star's parents may spend more time with DD#1 and her hubby than the rest of us since they live with her folks and don't have as much privacy as they would want..IMO.

My sister is eperiencing pain which has her concerned that the cancer might be back. Next month she is to have her scan. Oh, I pray there's nothing there!

Do take care.

Oh, so glad you got to see Smokey and that he obviously loves your gifts. Manly for sure.

snappy

[agnesann]

Hi, @snappyfrappy! Feel free to post to me however you like. I'm honored to be paired up with @Issy379. 😊 

Would you prefer I post to you separately? Whatever makes it easier for you and your eyes is just fine by me. 

I had good news yesterday. I won in the drawing at my Pilates class for the free one year membership! 😍 That sure made my day. Every little bit helps the budget and I want to keep at this as long as possible. 

A little bad news today, though....to balance out the week. Jacob was sent home early with a cold and slight fever. I got him all the OTC meds until his doctor can see him tomorrow. Something going around at school. Lots of absentees the school nurse told me. 

I'm glad you have the Ring on your doors and it makes you and your DD feel better about your situation. Just good to have some kind of home security these days anyway. Our local LE is warning us about a man in a van acting very suspicious around the mail boxes - in broad daylight! We're to watch and report any sightings immediately. The mailbox is so far from our house - in a group of 3 - that we can’t see it. May have to put a camera in it. 😏 

I hope your UTI is gone for good - like the ants! Maybe the IDS will determine that no further treatment is even necessary. What a blessing that would be! 

We KS ladies like to exchange ornaments each year, but I usually buy those locally. So many pretty ones, especially in Old Towne. I like the Plow and Hearth stools and you ordered my favorite! Love the penguins and there are no sharp edges to catch the kids' legs.

I will try to make another gingerbread house soon, if I can keep the guys from eating the pieces. 😜 They both love gingerbread. I do, too, but the soft, gooey kind like my grandmother made. 

Enjoy the rest of your week! 

❤️ Agnes