Tuesday, February 25, 2025

Project 365, Week 8

Life, in this season. I'm thankful to know, deep down, the love of the Father's that allows me to be "rooted and grounded" even when the days bring trouble and pain.

February 17
When I checked in at the front desk of my usual building in Westchester, I was told the appointment was actually in Manhattan. If that sounds familiar, its because that same thing happened a month ago. I should have noticed it, and also there are a number of factors involved with the scheduling and appointments. At any rate, it was frustrating but we got it done. 

Amy's been there with me more times than I can count. About 5% of my appointments are easy, the rest are hard, weighty, important. She never shies away from it...she's a show-upper, loving and loyal. I'm so grateful for her.

February 18
My view for the day when I was awake.


February 19
Because my appointment was so early on Monday, 48 hours with the pump ended early on this day. It was good to be out of bed.


February 20
Climbing out of the chemo hole. Again. 


February 21
My view from the kitchen at 6:45 am.


Amanda's school was doing a weekend outreach at Yale. Since they were going to be in Connecticut anyway, Amanda and one of her roommates left early and spent the night at our house. 


We really enjoyed getting some time with Journey...she and Amanda are super sweet together.



They went to youth group and then out to dinner.


Found this gem of Amanda and Journey serving at the campus/community church.


February 22
That pretty lady in pink, my Aunt Janice, got to go be with Jesus this day, my dad and much of her family had the chance to say goodbye.

We were separated by 2,000 miles most of my life, but whenever we were together, the family connection was strong. Her love for Jesus and her family was fierce and she had a whole lot of grit. My dad was very close to his sister and she could still get under his skin in a way only a sibling can do and that tickled me. A hole will be left in place of her love and her laugh but I'm so happy she's partying with Jesus.





During Aiden's soccer game, I watched the live stream of the evening service at Yale, 600 students representing many universities. Pretty special!




Jack got trivia set up for us and then we moved on to finding countries. We had some good laughs!


 

Monday, February 24, 2025

February's 10 on 10

A hybrid-type of Ten on Ten post...

Pretty start to the day!


Amanda was still home from the weekend and she was logged into class by 8 AM.


Such a pretty view at the office.


We burn a candle all day, everyday at the office. It makes it cozy its very popular with clients.


Jack had mentioned to Avery a while back that he'd like to do a murder mystery. So, for his birthday, she surprised him with a dinner party.


Amanda worked the kitchen and served the table all evening, making it flow well and easily.  She was truly happy to serve.



Avery's guests arrived excited, a little unsure and happy to be together.



People came dressed in costumes, 1950's theater.








It was such a fun evening and Shaun and I were honored to be a part. Brought back so many treasured memories from the many years we hosted a Valentine's Murder Mystery.















Saturday, February 22, 2025

Project 365, Week 7

We're working through these winter weeks. Yes, its busy with tax season, but its the perfect weather to be inside working. And the days were punctuated with some special things.

February 10
Avery hosted a Murder Mystery party at our house for Jack's birthday. (I'll post more separately.)


February 11
Amanda was still home and she buzzed around trying to help where she could. She tackled Aiden's bathroom, just to bless him. She sent me before and after pictures...for the benefit of all, I'll just post the "after".


I was terribly annoyed to have my test day land on a day when Amanda was home, but it actually went as smooth as it could. Seeing this lady's Strawberry Shortcake phone case, I could almost smell my doll from 40 years ago.


I tried to convince Amanda to be a college dropout but she took the road less traveled and headed back to Pennsylvania. It was so good to have her around for an extended weekend!


February 12
Aiden had a school delay so I took him to shovel and we stopped to bring donations to the local food pantry. New this year, Nathan is offering a coupon to every client who brings in two or more donations.  In the past I've thought that the candy and giveaways we have at the front desk provide an interesting case study of people, but this donation thing is an even deeper look into human nature. Fascinating.


February 13
Amy's screenshot is the only picture I had from the day. I know we're still paying dearly for the pandemic fallout, but we're also living with some of the benefits. Telemedicine with my doctors in NYC has been life-impactful.


February 14
These three posed weeks before for our last Valentine's card, willingly. I updated a post with all the years here. How can life flash through in just a couple of scrolls?? Goodness, I love these three and it is an absolute wonder to me that they love me too.


Festive at the office. :)


I was leaving TBQ practice when Shaun asked me out to dinner. We were both tired but I'm so glad we went to do a cliche date on Valentine's Day! He's one of the good ones and he's mine.


February 15
TBQ Meet, last one before districts. There were quite a few kids out sick and a storm was expected in the afternoon, so we switched things around last minute and shortened the day a bit.




Dakota's mom is with a really sweet guy right now. He asked us to babysit so he could take her on a surprise Valentine's date.



February 16
Church was canceled, so they were out early. Avery can always be counted for wanting to go sledding. It was a cold, icy, wet mix and I'm thankful for the hard work my crew did to get everything clear.









A group of Aiden's friends took advantage of the holiday and did a "sleep"over, which included a rambunctious game of indoor basketball.