Ida Is On The Way

I don't like this. I don't like this at all; hurricane Ida is in the Gulf and heading our way. Yeah, they forecast it may diminish in strength and end up being a tropical storm, but that still can equate to power outages. It will definitely lead to much flooding in our neighborhood and I am thankful we are not in the flood areas.

We would not mind staying home and riding out the storm, but when the power goes out it is no fun. Take in account that we never know when it will come back on and I have medications that need to be kept refrigerated and you understand why it would be wiser to evacuate. I hate that with a passion.

It is one thing to leave home for a trip or a vacation. It is another thing to have to leave and not know what you will come back to, or if there even is something to come back to. I hope and pray that those who are directly affected by Ida will be spared any devastating effects. May God protect them, watch over them and bless them abundantly!

Ezra 8:21
Then I proclaimed a fast there at the river of Ahava, that we might humble ourselves before our God, to seek from Him the right way for us and our little ones and all our possessions.

The Option

It has occurred to me that many bloggers are more and more looking for another hosting service which gives them their own domain. Main health sites already have taken advantage of that and if I had know that my site would grow to the proportions as it is now, I might have done the same.

I have met many bloggers who are looking for solutions, or just like to talk with others about their condition and the impact it has on their lives. Had my blog been on another hosting service then I could have set up a forum and provide the means for a better and quicker interaction between them.


I would have taken the opportunity to make some inquiries first, which is easy. I can find the best, cheapest, or most appropriate web hosting all on one site. They are neatly categorized and the ratings would tell me exactly which one comes out on top.

I would have a lot more options with another webhost and if the possibility for people to encourage, comfort and share with each other would be feasible then I am all for it. Who knows, I may still decide to switch hosts some day. :-)

The Reorganisation

We finally got around to cleaning up and fixing a few things in our storage building yesterday. That was something we had been dreading for so long now, but in order to be able to get to anything it needed doing. It sure was a major undertaking and it took up almost our entire day.

The result was worth it though. We can walk around in it again! Previously, we had to tiptoe from one spot to another, stepping over stuff, and holding on to anything to keep our balance. We often came back out empty handed, because we could not get to, or find what we needed.

Our garbage can is filled up and we had a nice fire when burning up all the empty boxes which were stacked up in the building. Well hey; you never know what they were good for; in this case fuel for the fire, hehe.

Cleaning up, reorganizing and fixing up is not just something we need to do when it comes to our environment. We also have to take stock of the inventory of our hearts and minds and 'throw out the garbage' and maybe even do some repairs there as well. We don't have to do that alone; God is waiting to lend us His helping hands!

Psalm 51:10
Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me.

For Rent

I can not begin to tell you how much I enjoy this laptop. Without it I could not do the work I am doing now. My previous one was starting to come apart; several keys had come off and a couple were not working well anymore. Actually, they did not work at all.

Our oldest had bought this laptop, but was hardly using it. If she had not been so kind to let go of it, it may well have been that I would have taken advantage of one of the laptop rentals which are available. All my work is online, so I really can not do without.

I kind of like the option of being able to rent one; you don't have to come up with the money all at once to purchase one and you always have the state of the art at your fingertips. It is a great solution for those who only use a computer, laptop, or even a projector for that matter, on rare occasions.

It does not matter for how long you would want, or need the computer rental; it can all be arranged according to your wishes and needs. Here is another benefit: it would also be a great option to try out which device you would like best before buying one!

One For All

It had been a while since I had bought some new shirts, but I finally got around to it. Reflecting upon the trip, something struck me as odd. I wear an 'S' and I hardly ever had problems finding shirts in my size; not this go around!

There were hardly any shirts in my size available and I had to settle for an 'M'. That is not too bad I can pull it off, except for the neckline being a little wide. I guess the fashion industry is starting to catch on to the fact that most people don't have that 'skinny as a rail' model look and stores probably sell more sizes 'M' and up.

I have to either keep that in mind or fatten up a little. Anyway, in case you run in to me and notice me wearing a Barbie T-shirt, you can safely assume I was forced finding fitting apparel in the teenage section. Grin.

That is what I like about The Bible; it does not matter who you are, how tall you are, or what you weigh. There is advice, guidance and leadership for everyone and every situation. Yeah, you could say one size fits all. :-)

Isaiah 28:29
This also comes from the LORD of hosts, Whois wonderful in counsel and excellent in guidance.

Cum Laude

I have always admired social workers; it takes an incredible ability dealing with all the problems they are being confronted with. No wonder that it takes lots of hard study and practice to pass a social work test and why there are so many requirements from the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) before obtaining a bachelor's or master's degree.

Succeeding for a Social Work Licensing Exam has been made a lot easier with the Social Work Guide. This extensive guide contains in depth study material and questions all geared towards ensuring the students will pass with ease.

The guide has already been tried and tested and... passed cum laude!

Thankful

There are not many kids living in our neighborhood; it is either a young couple without any babies yet, or older folks like us. Therefore, we did not have any trick or treaters coming to our door this year. Too bad, I enjoy seeing how cute all the kids are dressed up.

We heard through the grapevine that lil' Kc was going as a soldier this year and that lil' Leo would be an itsy bitsy spider. Emma, or Emmy as she is called, does not have to wear a costume. She is a doll already. :-)

Apparently, they did not go trick or treating either. From what we heard going out with three youngsters was a major undertaking which their mom could not handle all by herself. She had wanted to take them up to a major grocery store where they held a trick or treat event for kids. Unfortunately, not this year and the plans went up in thin air. We felt sorry for them, but there is nothing we can do about it.

I hope we are able to see some pictures of our little guys, but the chances are slim to none. Then again, you never know; God works in mysterious ways. We are already so thankful that we are able to keep up with them through our oldest daughter. Yeah, He always provides. :-)

Colossians 3:15
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.

Framed

We were talking about putting pictures up of friends and extended family. We have so many photos and the stack is about to increase as well. The problem was figuring out where to hang them all, until it suddenly occurred to me that we had a Digital Photo Frame somewhere.

I am not quite sure where I put the digital photo frame, but I have no doubt I will find it; it can not be far. I don't know why I did not think about it before, but it is time to put it to good use. If I remember correctly the Digital Photo Frame is 10". It could even be 15" and a slimline digital photo frame as well.

Utilizing a digital photo frame opens up a whole new world of options. We can set that anywhere or even hang it on the wall and add to it to our heart's content; it holds so many photos, it will take us years before it is full. With this Digital Photo Frame we will constantly be able to see all our loved ones, simply by putting it in the slide show mode.

A digital photo frame is one of those presents which will be highly appreciated by many. It may be a good idea for businesses as well considering it as a corporate gift. With the Holidays coming up, a digital photo frame may be something you would want to put on your wish list.

Cabbage

Cabbage comes in many varieties; white, green and red cabbage, savoy, drumhead cabbage and several more. This veggie likes fertile soil and needs to be closely watched for pests and other harmful insects. If you like to grow cabbage, you may do well to pick a variety which is suitable for your area.

Cabbage

A dieter's dream - cabbage has only 25 calories per cup - while providing an excellent source of vitamins C and K.

Red cabbage is a good source of folate, while green cabbage is good source of vitamin B6 and manganese. Green cabbage is an Antioxidant Superfood, providing the highest levels of two anti-cancer glucosinolates, which are converted upon consumption into compounds that may inhibit tumor growth.

Research shows that one compound (allyl-isothiocyanate), disrupts the cell division of colon cancer, while the other compound (indole-3-carbinol) may lower the risk of developing estrogen-related cancers, such as breast and ovarian cancer. Yet a third compound released could inhibit the growth of human prostate cancer cells, according to research from the University of California at Berkeley.

In addition to potent anti-cancer activity, the large quantity of glucosinolates stimulate the body's own natural antioxidant systems.
~Source: Dole Food Facts.

I also found that cabbage is an excellent source for Riboflavin, or vitamin B2 as it is also called. It is full of dietary fibers and glutamine which fights inflammations.

This vegetable can be eaten raw, cooked, or preserved and is used in coleslaw, soups, stews and many other dishes. Sauerkraut is entirely made out of cabbage which is pickled and then stored to ferment.

Since cabbage is low in calories, it fits in with any diet. A cabbage paste wrapped around an inflamed area gives relief and peptic ulcers are healed a lot quicker with fresh cabbage juice.

The best way to cook cabbage is to slice it thin and cook it for about 4 minutes. The longer cabbage is cooked, the more the smell will fill up your house. The smell is actually an indicator that the cabbage is being overcooked. Something to keep in mind, huh?

I have heard that sauerkraut (actually cabbage in general) is a good detoxification; it cleanses the blood by getting rid of the impurities.

That is something we ought to keep in mind: getting rid of our impurities. We need to find our sins and instead of overlooking them, confess them and ask forgiveness. It is essential for a carefree and happy life. :-)

1 John 1:9
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Buying Online

Our couch needs replacing and we had talked about getting a leather sectional sofa. I like the idea of leather; it is durable, cool in the summer and so easy to clean.

We watch TV a lot and our oldest daughter enjoys renting movies. All of us like to be comfy and stretch out on the couch. It could well be that home theater seats would suit us better.

I don't mind buying online, especially not when the store is registered with the Better Business Bureau. That assures me of good quality, excellent service and delivery right at our door without any shipping costs. That suits me just fine.

I must be a couch potato already, huh?!

White As Snow

There is a large field across the road from us. Looking out of the window, it appears like it is covered by a blanket of snow. Yup, the cotton is ready to be picked and I expect that will be done any day now.

Our new neighbor asked us what was growing in the field. Being from New York, she got all excited when she learned it was cotton. She wants to pick some and use it for decoration. I laughed out loud; it was exactly what I did when I saw the big, white cotton puffs on the plants for the first time.

Kc thought it was silly to use cotton as a decoration when it is growing all around you. I do see his point. I suppose it would be like adorning your home with wooden shoes while living in the Netherlands, haha.

Even though I have seen the cotton grow for many years now, I still am in awe of the beauty when the field has turned all white. It reminds me even more of God sacrificing His only begotten Son, so my sins would be washed whiter then snow. How awesome!

Isaiah 1:18
"Come now, and let us reason together," Says the LORD, "Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They shall be as wool.

To A Tee

Since we are trying to be a little bit more active these days, it crossed my mind how many Arthritis sufferers are prohibited by this disease; the pain often does not allow for much activity. So, I tried to come up with some exercises that would not be too hard on the joints and be fun as well.

I was considering golf. The sport is outdoors, a caddy can carry the clubs, or you can utilize a golf cart to transport them and yourself as well. For playing Golf Myrtle Beach would be a great location and it would make for a nice getaway as well.

You are not required to make Myrtle Beach Golf Vacations specifically about golf; there is much more to do and experience. It is an excellent opportunity though combining a bit of activity with catching some fresh air.

The Myrtle Beach Golf Packages are easy on the budget and worth taking in consideration; especially if you are planning a vacation in which the entire family can take part, including yourself.

I think you would get a kick out of a Myrtle Beach Golf vacation. Even if you would not swing a golf club at all, you could be the 'designated' golf cart driver and still enjoy the outdoors and the company.

It may well turn out that it suits you to a tee!

Haunted Hay-Ride

I was going to tell you about my first haunted hay-ride!

We had read about it on the Internet and it was not very far from us. The location was a large farm that had made a true art out of spooking and entertaining people for Halloween. A family with children could easily have spent an entire day there; they had so many attractions and play areas.

Anyway, we went specifically for the haunted hay-ride and after waiting in line for just a few minutes we could climb on board. Well, after being forced to take a terrifying D-tour through a bus wich was lit by strobe lights. It scared the heebee-jeebees out of me, but it was fun.

The ride was almost one long scream, haha. The costumes, make up and entire entourage was really very professional and Kc's arm must be black and blue by now from my squeezing. I got very scared one time, when creeps with a chainsaw jumped up on the cart. I burried my face on Kc's shoulder, but I smelled the fumes from the buzzing chainsaw and thought I was going to end up with less then I came.

Our oldest went with us and she was sitting on my other side. Right from the start she grabbed my arm and squeezed it black and blue, haha. I am not going to tell you all the frightening stuff; you need to come over next year and go with us. :-)

The greatest fun I had however was with four 8 or 9 year old girls. The poor critters got so scared, sat down on the bottom of the cart, cried and screamed and did not want to see anything anymore. When the ride was over, one of them stood up and said loud and clear: "That was AWESOME!" I could not help it and bursted out laughing. I suppose that not seeing most of the ride was the awesome part, haha.

I enjoyed it so much, I want to do it again next year. It was a thrill. Maybe I should say: it was a thriller! hehe.

Even though I had a lot of fun, I don't like to be afraid. It occurs more often then not that a situation scares me, but reminding myself of the fact that I am not alone is a great help and comfort. God's protective hands are around me and nothing will happen outside of His permissive will! :-)

Deuteronomy 31:6
Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you."

Going International

I have been thinking about our youngest and our grand babies a lot lately and I feel so sorry for her. Our oldest daughter has been in touch with her on a regular basis and she was told that our son in law will be going to Afghanistan for his tour of duty, after he is done with school.

I can imagine our youngest would love to talk to her husband regularly, but placing a call through her phone company might cost an arm and a leg. Calling Cards have toll-free access and several cards don't have connection, service or maintenance fees either.

It would be wise for her to look in to phone cards which make international calling a lot easier and less expensive. She could find 200 different phone cards of high quality, low rates and with lots of practical features on one website. Many cards even have local access and all cards have toll-free access. Every penny she can save is one!

Like I already mentioned, using prepaid phone Cards is easy and in case she would need help or has questions, customer service is more then happy to answer them and offer help from 9:00 AM to 1:00 AM ET via phone, email and also live chat.

I wish I could let her know this. Maybe we will use our oldest as a mediator; she may be able get it across to her. :-)