One of my most favorite things to see when we are on Kauai are the chickens that roam free over the whole island. I'm sure the locals get really tired of them but there is just something so cool about seeing them everywhere.

The beauty of the sea and the coastline always calms my soul. I respect the ocean but find it so peaceful to just sit and watch. Today we actually saw a huge turtle playing in the waves but by the time we got the camera on, he had disappeared.

The water is very choppy due to such high winds but it is a reminder of how powerful nature can be and of how powerful my Creator is.

Have a joyous day!

Noreen

Aloha

Greetings from the Islands. We arrived safe and sound after a very, very long flight; the weather is a bit stormy so hubby won't be golfing today but when I can just sit and take in this view it's fine with me.

Thank you for the wonderful birthday wishes and loving comments to my man; he is one of a kind and I wouldn't trade a day with him for anything in the world.

Hugs, Noreen

Happy Birthday Noreen!!!

To all of Noreen's readers ---- please, let me introduce myself -- My name is John, also known as "Hubby" on this blog!! I thought I would steal Nor's blog and wish my beautiful wife "Happy Birthday"!!! I also thought it would be fun to let you gals know a few things about her and let you see why I fell in love with her. :o) I don't think any of this has hit the blog, so sit back and I will fill you in on some of the highlight's with this wonderful gal.

First things first ---- Happy Birthday Babe!!!

So, let me back up a few years ----- Nor and I met when we were teenagers (we were both thirteen years old) and we had a mutual friend that lived right done the street from her. Nor and I lived about six blocks from each other but we went to different high schools and ran in different crowds so we lost contact in our high school years and for a few after that. Here is the best part --- Nor called my parents and got my phone number ---- one evening the phone rang and yes, there was Nor on the other end asking, "what is going on in your life?" With life being build around timing, we had both just gotten out of relationships and yes we set that first date up ----- now Nor being good with dates, times and places can tell you the exact time and place for that first date ( it was the beach --- I do remember that, but the date ??? --- I'm a guy --- sorry ). What I do remember about that first date was how beautiful Noreen looked and her long blond hair. :o) That is still in my mind to this day.

The smile on my face said it all!!

I also, remember thinking, "boy, I'm glad she called me". :o) We dated for five plus years and we had so many things in common --- we loved to water-ski, work on my sports cars (yes, Nor got her hands dirty) and when the Lotus or Corvette was running we would go for long drives in the hills. As I'm writing this so many good memories come to mind. :o) OK, here is one funny story about the Lotus -- Nor took the Lotus downtown to pick me up one day ---- she had a cute pair of shorts on and a bathing suit top, I come out of a store and there was three guys around the car ---- these guys were asking all kinds of questions and yes, checking Nor out ----- I'm thinking, "Wait a minute. She is mine and you three can get away from her!!!!" Well, I think it was not too long after that ---- I did finely propose to this beautiful woman and we got married.

All of you know we have two wonderful daughters, two great son-in-laws and yes, our ninth grandchild just arrived. Noreen is the best Wife / Mother / Nana that this growing family could have dreamed of---- her love for our daughters and their families is way above the norm. ---- I think her heart is double the size of the rest of ours; there is nothing she wouldn't do for those kids!!! Noreen has been the best Wife, Friend, Lover that this one man could have asked for. I have to give all the credit to her on how our daughter's live their life ---- Nor was a stay at home Mom and was always there for them and me. Nor did homeschool our girls through their Junior High and High School years and again, all the credit goes to her for how our daughters have turned out. Nor and I have entered a new phase of our life --- retirement -- and I would not want to spent it with anyone else!!! She is the love of my life!!!

I hope you gals will join me in wishing Nor "Happy Birthday" today!!

Happy Birthday Babe!!! I Love You!!!
John

Welcome Baby

Here is our daughter and her family, celebrating the birth of their newest daughter Adarynn.

Grandpa can't get enough of her~we have to get in two weeks of holding her before we leave.

Our peanut doesn't look so small anymore and she loves holding her baby sis.

Our big girl Miss S holding her baby sister. She absolutely loves her and will be a huge help to Momma.

Have a wonderful day!

Noreen

A New Baby

Faithful friends and family, Our new baby is here, yes she is finally here...thank you Lord.
Our daughter gave birth last night and delivered a healthy baby girl named Adarynn. Due to three active granddaughters that need attention, I can't spend time on this right now but we did see momma and baby and they are both doing well. I will be posting photos sometime next week but for now I am so very thankful that she was born before we depart for our vacation.
To all who upheld my girl during this time I'm sending a huge hug to you.
Blessings,
Noreen

Fabulous Friday greetings to you friends, During this holy season may you sanctify yourselves before the Lord, realizing anew just what He has done for you. Well, it looks like our new granddaughter may be born today or possibly tomorrow. Initially my girl was hoping that this little girl would be born on my birthday, this coming Monday, but I'm thankful she might come before then because hubby and I will be on our way to a long awaited vacation with hubby's golf buddies. The weather is looking quite nice outside so I think I will take my three granddaughters on a walk while our daughter is at the doctors. I am trying to walk every day and get into better shape but it is difficult when there is snow on the ground; not nearly as pleasant as nice spring weather.
Have a wonderful weekend friends and although I'll be busy on Monday I will be posting some photos over the next two weeks of our get away.
Blessings to you, Noreen

March Madness

I usually think of March Madness in reference to basketball but this morning we awoke to approximately 8-9" of beautiful white fluff. I think it is a study in white because everywhere you look, white is what you see. Reminds me of being cleansed by the blood of the Lamb; all that is left is clean and pure. I love the way trees look when they are covered, it is just so peaceful and serene. I do hope some of my blogging buddies are experiencing the warmth of spring.

Glad I don't plan on planting anything until May!

Guess it will be a great day to stay inside and work on our puzzle or just spend time in bloggyland.

Hugs to you today.

Noreen

Last night hubby and I watched a movie we had rented from Netflix; one I had seen in Safeway.
I immediately loved the title, "No Greater Love" and thought it was probably a Hallmark remake of a Jeanette Oake book but it wasn't. I would highly recommend this video to all; it was about a marriage that was basically non-existent but redeemed by the Love of Jesus. The acting was great and I think there are lessons each married person can get from it.
Have a warm and blessed day!
Noreen

Happy first Monday in spring, Well what a beautiful weekend we had here in Colorado. The sun was out all weekend and most of our snow from Friday melted. It is amazing how warm weather can make a person feel energized. I was able to get most of the birthday shopping done for our two granddaughters who have birthdays in April; this was another thing checked off my to-do list. Hubby and I spent time at each daughters house visiting and enjoying the company of our precious grandkids. Yesterday was such a nice day we took Reggie on a walk, not too long due to his age and stiffness and then after dinner we went on another 2+mile walk around the development we live in. This morning is still dark out and yes I'm up earlier than normal; daughter has a doctor appt. first thing so I'm heading over there in a half an hour. After that I'm off to get my hair trimmed and then will be home, ready to enjoy another gorgeous warm day. I'm delighting in each one because snow is in the forecast for tomorrow night and Wednesday. There's a saying about living in Colorado~ "if you don't like the weather, wait five minutes and it will change." and I can testify to that fact, for this year has been more like that than our two previous years here. All I know is that I'm loving getting out and walking again! Many people walk year round, we did our first year but I must admit that this year I haven't-it's just been too cold.
I hope that wherever you are, somehow you are able to manage a bit of time today to enjoy God's wonderful world.
Hugs, Noreen

Happy Friday to you all. Well, we had a very beautiful week filled with sunshine and a taste of spring but alas this morning at 4:00 am it began snowing. A winter storm warning was in effect as of last night at midnight. Our old dog, Reggie, wasn't feeling too well during the night so I was up with him four times while he went outside.
Today we plan to stay inside and enjoy a very relaxed day unless we get a call from our daughter saying it is time for her to go to the hospital. Last evening we visited with our friends and they sent us home with four puzzles; when the weather is cold or snowy we enjoy doing them. I imagine we will start one this morning sometime. I absolutely love our winters here and the snow~partially because we can hunker down inside and enjoy it without needing to be out in it. But spring has been in the air, I've been anxious to get some trees for the back yard and buy some new bird feeders but this will have to wait; possibly another month. I am thankful my brother and his wife came for their visit last weekend so we could enjoy nice weather and do some site seeing.
We don't have much planned for the weekend, I think a lot depends on our weather.
Whatever you do, enjoy it!
Hugs, Noreen

What a glorious day to be alive, what a wonderful time to live in. I see the Father's hand in so many ways around this big world and I pray for the repentance of our great nation, that we might once again live in a manner pleasing to Him.
Today I am thankful that I have finished the baby quilt for our newest granddaughter, before her arrival. I am thankful that my girl, her momma, is holding her own despite pre-eclampsia.
I am thankful that I am able, both due to living relatively close but also have the time, to help her whenever she needs it or just wants company.
I am thankful that we were able to share a traditional St. Patty's Day dinner last night and although our oldest & her family weren't with us, they also able to partake of the same meal.
I am thankful for the sunshine peaking through the clouds today.
I am thankful that hubby and I are visiting some good friends tonight, eating dinner with them and playing games. Although they live quite a distance from us, I am thankful that we are living in a time where vehicles are our mode of transportation not wagons being pulled by horses.
I am thankful for this life, the life the Lord has blessed me with. I am thankful for His great love for me and for different seasons of life.
Once again I have made a rather large baby quilt, one that will be used not only for baby but I'm sure for her sisters as well.

A friend recently told me to tell my grandchildren when they need their nana and I'm not available to wrap up in their hand made quilts and feel my love enveloping them. I love the thought of this; for the quilts have always been a gift of love stitched with prayers.

Have a blessed day my friends. Noreen



For more Thankful Thursday posts please visit Laurie at http://womentakingastand.blogspot.com/

They're here, they're here and I'm so darn excited! My brother and sister-of-my-heart arrived today from northern California. This photo was taken last year on my birthday when they surprised me by coming to Colorado during winter. I just can't spend enough time with them and I'm so thankful that they braved the elements and came back. Actually, they were supposed to come for Thanksgiving but in the end we all decided that the weather was too bad for them to fly in and have to drive up north. We will be spending lots of time with our daughters families and celebrating the upcoming birth of our newest granddaughter. Amidst all the craziness our life contains, we do hope to get them up to see some Elk. Whatever we do will be just perfect because we'll be together. I'm sure I'll have photos to post on Monday...so whatever you do this weekend enjoy-life is too short to waste it.
Hugs, Noreen

Happy Birthday John

Our first grandson, John, was named after both his grandfathers. John is such an amazing guy! He has a fun loving personality but is a deep thinker as well. He reminds me so much of his momma. A born engineer who loves to build things, either with his legos or outside. When we lived across the street from our daughter's family, John would be over every day to build something with his grandpa. He also reminds me of my hubby; his brother and sisters adore him and he is a wonderful help to his parents. I've never seen a boy take to holding babies more or helping with his sisters more than John does. He has a hard working personality, always ready to lend a hand and pretty much keeps up with the men folk where work is concerned.

We celebrated John's birthday Monday evening, but today is his special day.

What kid, or should I say person, doesn't like opening gifts. Of course help from brother, sisters and cousins is very important.

His mama made a lego cake for him-isn't it amazing! Our daughter's are so very talented! Plus it was very good.

John we are so incredibly proud of the young man you are. We know that as you grow and mature the Lord will bless you. He has amazing plans for your life.

Love, Nana and Papa

What a beautiful day it is today. Yesterday reminded me so much of the weather we had in Sonoma County but today is bright and sunny although a bit cool still. Makes me just want to sing and dance; this song immediately came to mind this morning~may it make your heart sing as well.

I Could Sing Of Your Love Forever by Sonic Flood

Over the mountains and the sea
Your river runs with love for me
And I will open up my heart
And let the healer set me free
I'm happy to be in the truth
And I will daily lift my hands
For I will always sing
Of when your love came down
[Chorus] I could sing of your love forever
I could sing of your love forever
I could sing of your love forever
I could sing of your love forever
Over the mountains and the sea
Your river runs with love for me
And I will open up my heart
And let the healer set me free
I'm happy to be in the truth
And I will daily lift my hands
For I will always sing
Of when your love came down
[Chorus]
[Chorus]
Oh, I feel like dancing
Its foolishness I know
But when the world has seen the light
They will dance with joy
Like we're dancing now

So lift your voice heavenward today and give praise to the One who deserves all glory, honor and praise.
Noreen

Monday Morning Musings

Words can convey emotions in such a profound way for each of us. Take the word Fear-it can represent such a variety of feelings in our lives. Have you battled with fear? I have, throughout my life, centered around different things. Fear of rejection hovered around me during childhood; while in college, being in dangerous settings, I experienced paralyzing fear that kept me from fleeing to safety. After the '89 Loma Prieta earthquake I experienced Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome on a small level but had great anxiety for approximately 8 mos. There are those folks that don't ever fear much and if they do they certainly don't talk about it. For many, there is a fear of loneliness, of financial despair, loss of loved ones and as we age, we often fear the end of days or sickness. Fear may start out like a small shadow but can build and build until it is overwhelming, suffocating a person. When I worked in a bank and was robbed I dealt with fear during and after that day. When we moved cross country in the winter and saw semi's jack-knifing around our vehicles, I remember being fearful. I also remember always crying out to Jesus to save me. He has never let me down!
So when I am overcome with fear I run to God's word and I can tell you that it helps.
Psalm 91
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High
Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say to the Lord, "My refuge and my fortress,
My God, in whom I trust!".
For it is He who delivers you from the snare of the trapper,
And from the deadly pestilence.
He will cover you with His pinion,
And under His wings you may seek refuge;
His faithfulness is a shield and bulwark.
You will not be afraid of the terror by night,
Or of the arrow that flies by day;
Of the pestilence that stalks in darkness,
Or of the destruction that lays waste at noon.
A thousand my fall at your side,
And ten thousand at your right hand;
But it shall not approach you.
You will only look on with your eyes,
And see the recompense of the wicked.
For you have made the Lord, my refuge,
Even the Most High, your dwelling place.
No evil will befall you,
Nor will any plague come near your tent.
For He will give His angels charge concerning you,
To guard you in all your ways.
They will bear you up in their hands,
Lest you strike your foot against a stone.
You will tread upon the lion and cobra,
The young lion and the serpent you will trample down.

Because he has loved Me therefore I will deliver him;
I will set him securely on high, because he has known My name.
He will call upon Me, and I will answer him.
I will be with him in trouble;
I will rescue him and honor him.
With long life I will satisfy him
And let him behold My salvation.

Today if the storms of life are threatening to overtake you, run-don't walk-to the Lord and to His word and you will find security there in His presence.

Have a blessed day dear friends.
Noreen

Warm weekend wishes to you my friends. Life continues to speed by at a very fast pace. We enjoyed a wonderful warm week-almost every day was sunny and comfortable outside-that always seems to brighten our spirits. I continue to help out my girl in the mornings during the week and also try to finish the hand quilting on the baby quilt so it will be ready when she arrives. I'm not so sure it will be but I'm trying. During this time, I am also trying to figure out some health issues before our trip. Next week my brother and sil(sister of my heart)arrive for a four day weekend-Yippee! I can't wait. I'll be here checking in on you and writing as I have time but please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Have a wonderful Saturday.
Noreen

Good Morning Friends~ Today I am thankful and grateful for so many things.

I am thankful for a place to write the rambling thoughts of this nana-my journey of life, family and faith for those I love but that also hopefully encourage you in your life today.

I am thankful that our daughter's ultrasound yesterday showed her little girl to be the perfect size for this point in pregnancy and that even if she arrives early, she should be a good healthy size. I am thankful that the Lord has my girl in the palm of His hand.

I am thankful for time spent with all the grandkids and of course their mama's-my girls. How blessed I am by them.

I am thankful for a week with the weather in the 50's-promises of spring. I am thankful for our old dog, Reggie, and his faithfulness to me. I am thankful for each day we have with him; for although he wasn't a dog I choose, he has been a wonderful companion to me.

I am thankful for dear friends, those prayer warriors, who will stand in the gap for another.

I am thankful that the Lord hears our cries even before we utter them.

I am thankful I can trust fully in His plan for my life, even when it isn't as I pictured it.

Nothing comes into my life that first doesn't filter through His hands. I am thankful that He is Yahweh Rophe-The Lord Who Heals and nothing is too hard for Him. I am so thankful that no matter how uncertain life may appear at any given moment, He will never leave or forsake me.

And as always, I am thankful that you stopped here for a visit. I am blessed by you dear friends.

Hugs today, Noreen

Don't you just love it when your week begins full speed with a promise to continue. Truly, what a blessing to be alive in such a time as this. Here it is dinner time and I'm just now thinking about a post, oh my! This morning I spent time with our youngest daughter, who is on restricted physical activity prompted by a recurring problem at the end of pregnancy. This week is filled with several appt's for her so I will be joining her girls bright and early tomorrow and Wednesday. I can't imagine life without our grandchildren nearby. This afternoon hubby and I ran out to our oldest's home; he worked on some model planes with the boys and I got to hold baby and also watch the two other girls work on a collage. Such Fun!
So over the next week or so I probably won't be posting as much as normal, but I'll be around. Even if I'm not posting, you can be sure I'll be visiting your blogs.
Blessings to you this day,
Noreen