A Seasonal Personal Post

After being out last week, I look forward to rejoining the Hodgepodge bloggers for

Wednesday Hodgepodge.

Thank you Joyce!

1. In two or three sentences tell us what Veteran's Day means to you?

Will Rogers is well known for this saying:  "We can't all be heroes because somebody has to sit on the curb and clap as they go by."  Veteran's Day is that special day when we can do just that - appreciate the heroes who have fought for the freedom to sit on the curb and clap.

2. What's your favorite film with a patriotic theme woven into the storyline?

"American Sniper" but also I liked the old movie, "Patton."

3. Flu shot-yes or no? If you answered no, do you plan to get a flu shot? If not, why not? Have you ever had the flu?

I do not plan to get a flu shot this year for several reasons.  First, I don't like putting the virus in my body in order to prevent getting the virus.  Second, I have never had the flu and third, I am not around children or a large gathering of people on a regular basis in order to be exposed to the virus.

4. I've seen lots of people posting pictures of their Christmas trees up and decorated. Many stores have had Christmas on display since well before Halloween. Red cups are back at Starbucks, sans the holiday decor, and that has some people up in arms. What are your thoughts on all the holiday ruckus this second week of November?

I haven't even decorated for fall yet!  So what does that tell you?  After our little anniversary party that can be seen HERE, I just haven't been in the decorating mood.  I never do a lot of Christmas decorating anyway because for the last several years we have not been at home for Christmas.  Now, what do I think of all the early ruckus?  I think it unnecessarily gets earlier every year.  There is admittedly a very short commercial Christmas season if they wait until after Thanksgiving, but many stores are putting decorations out in mid October.  Much too early!

5. What 'critter' are you most afraid of encountering unexpectedly? Why that one?

Either a mouse or a roach.  Can't tolerate either one!

6. Do you like building things? What's the last thing you 'built'?

I don't think I'm a builder unless you want to consider the two books I "compiled" or built for our anniversary celebration.

7. In keeping with this month's theme of gratitude...what are you most grateful for that brings beauty to your daily life?

I am most grateful for and humbled by the unconditional election of my Sovereign, Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

I am also grateful for and humbled by the unconditional love and acceptance of my Hubby.  For instance, this morning he sent me this video and then walked in with a beautiful plant.  Just because!

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

We have been so thrilled to be able to watch our grandson play football on national television the past few weeks.  He plays for Western Michigan, who I might add is undefeated in the Mid-America Conference.  They play Bowling Green tonight on ESPNU or ESPN2 at 6:30.  Look for the handsome guy wearing #65 and DAY on the back of the jersey.

 This past week, I spent some time with one of my sisters - the middle one.  We cleaned out and organized closets, took road trips, and just enjoyed each other.  On Friday, we met our youngest sister to watch her grandson play his last regular season football game as a senior.  He did a great job.  I had forgotten how fun and different high school games can be.

Nothing like sister time!

 It was Parent's Weekend on the University of Texas Campus and granddaughter #2's sorority, Alpha Phi, participated in the Red Dress Gala fundraiser for the American Heart Association.  Is this not a great-looking family?

 I am very blessed and so very grateful for all the good things He bestows.