Giving Thanks For My Computer

I never realized how valuable my PC has become- it serves as my game room-my dictionary-my banking assistant-my correspondence to a great degree-my solving of almost any question or difference of opinion that arises, and more importantly, my ability to sign on to a blog and hear about, and oftentimes, see pictures of family.
Three weeks ago my pc buddy died- just died without warning- and I soon went into "limbo" shock. You know- your daily routine is non-existent and you wander around wondering what to do with all the time on your hands (yes, I have the good fortune of being blessed with time- something lacking in my younger, working girl days.) It was almost embarrassing to realize the time spent in front of a screen that expands my world while making the old brain cells work overtime.
Now, with a sparkling new Touchscreen HP, Iam back in business.

Looking forward to Thanksgiving I will have fewer loved ones seated around the table- each year seems to find the numbers dwindling. Still, I will be blessed with Kirby, Cindy W., Patty, Cindy S., Frances, and my kitchen helper husband, Dick. Cooking for such a small group will seem strange, but leftovers should be abundant. I'm told that Scott, Rachel, and Brendan will be spending Thanksgiving in Idaho with grandma and grandpa Nufer, Brianna and Elyse. That should be a happy occasion for my daughter who will be fixing her first turkey, and I'm confident she'll do a bang-up job. With her shoulder surgery still fairly new, the helping hands should be welcomed.
My heart goes out to Kevin and Holly- they will be spending the Thanksgiving holiday in Peru- that statement even sounds facetious. Go for it, kids, and have a great time! They visited weekend before last to make up for being absent on the holiday. A fun day...

This past Wednesday Dick and I were joined by Patty and Cindy S. for a one night visit to Yuma, Arizona. Dick and I are "Cracker Barrel" devotees, and we travel two or three times a year just to eat at our favorite restaurant. It used to be a turnaround trip for us- then the Indians built a great casino just nine miles from the Cracker Barrel which will change our routine to overnight adventures. By the way, I got pretty lucky on the one armed bandits, Dick didn't fare as well, but both Patty and Cindy brought winnings home. Cindy had her eyes on a pair of boots prior to the trip but decided she couldn't afford them, and now she is the proud owner of said boots. All in all a fun trip- a good time had by all!

As anyone who knows us will attest- we are very proud great-grandparents. 2010 promises to bring two more little ones into our lives. Scott and Rachel - Kevin and Holly-we are so happy for the four of you. If only all children could be blessed with parents who want them and provide them with the love and care they deserve. How proud we are of all of you!

I occasionally have a meaningful conversation with Elyse- this is pure joy. She is such a neat kid. Brianna has done a wonderful job in raising this cutie. Our trip to Idaho last September gave us the opportunity to spend quality time with Miss Elyse. Hopefully she will continue to remember Poppy and G.G. Pat through our telephone chats and occasional visits.
Our Canadian great-grandchildren, Emily and Ella, are kept aware with pictures and mentions of Poppy and G.G. Pat. I recently chatted with Emily who sounded as if we were long time acquaintances- that was really nice. And of course, if I can get a trip to Vancouver this next year I won't complain in the least.
And thanks to Rachel who keeps that handsome Brendan in her blog and posts the comings and goings in their lives- keep up the good work.
Well, Happy Thanksgiving to all who chance upon this blog- wishing you safe trips, healthy appetites, and the blessing of family. And love to all...