Friday's Fave 5 & Saturday 9

A week ago we were at my granddaughter's Senior night. So thankful that we could be there for her.

My son Daniel got there after the presentation because 

he had to work. So we took a second picture. 

There are around 800 seniors and they are acknowledged 

throughout the year at various programs 

they are involved in and accompanied by family.

Jazzy left Song/cheer to be on Sports Medicine that she loved.

So thankful for my family!

Thankful that I was able to go shoe shopping on Saturday and found some Brooks. I also found some pants in my size and a hat on clearance. Sunday I greeted at church, went to the market and then rested the rest of the day and caught up with some of our shows. 

Thankful to be able to sleep in on Monday. I was so tired from a busy week, and I am still getting over the cold I got the previous week. We took Minnie to the vets for a well check and were there a couple of hours because they had an emergency. The doctor was surprised to see how well Minnie was doing. She gained weight and the doctor does not want her gaining anymore. She is blind in one eye and has loss of vision in the other. The bad eye had a cut on it and she was prescribed antibiotics. Then I told them to look at her ear, and she had an infection in that too. So, she had it cultured and a spray medication was put on it. I can relate because I have had ear infections too. In fact, I have an appointment next week to have my ears looked at it and if I am still stuffy I will bring it up. I want to make sure my ears are okay before I fly. Minnie also had her nails clipped. Toward the end of the appointment, she was barking at the vet. The vet left and we put Minnie down and she pooped on the floor. Minnie must have really had to go, probably because she was scared. She has only had one accident in her almost 10 years. That was when she was sick. She will have to stay on the stool softeners and steroids because of the mass. We left after one so we decided to get some In and Out hamburgers and got a no salt patty so she could have a little bit. 

Women's Bible study that night was great!

Thankful that I had canceled my Bible Journaling group for Tuesday and our marriage group was canceled too. I was able to get a lot of things done as I prepare for Isreal. I am thankful that I can order things from Amazon and one thing got delivered the same day. Thankful that when I have to return things I can go to Kohls and they give me $10 off if I shop at the store. Thankful that my new backpack for Isreal holds what I need. I wrote about this in my previous entry.

Saturday 9: Don't Take Your Love from Me (1956)

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) In this song, Doris Day sings about what happens when you take a petal from a rose. When did you last get or give flowers as a gift? My husband had flowers for me when I came back from my girl's get away last week.

 

2) This song is about a woman who fears losing her love. What's the most recent thing you lost? (Hopefully it's not as consequential as a great love. It could be as small or unimportant as the back of one of your pierced earrings.) I have lost a lot of time trying on shoes.

 

3) Doris was known as The All-American Girl Next Door. Who lives next door to you? Rosalie, a 86 year old spry lady that loves to talk. I hope I can be as spry as her when I am her age!

 

4) As a young girl, Doris Day was passionate about dance. She recalled that concentrating on her lessons helped distract her from the pain and embarrassment of her parents' divorce. When you want to escape from what's troubling you, what do you do? Listen to music, pray, read.

5) The maitre d' at one of Doris' favorite restaurants wanted to ask her out. Knowing how she loved her dogs, he impressed her by handing her a bag of meat scraps and bones to take home. They began dating and, in 1976, he became her last husband. What's the best way to your heart? Saying something nice.

 

6) Over her long career, Doris received Golden Globe and Grammy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. She was also inducted into the Ohio Women's Hall of Fame, honored for being one of the most celebrated women to have been born there. Name a famous person born in your home state. Diane Keaton. She was born in Los Angeles and moved to Santa Ana and graduated from Santa Ana High in 1963. I graduated from that same high school in 1973 and my mom graduated from SAHS is 1953. She was in the drama club and also acted at Santa Ana College.  

 

7) She was frank about her financial difficulties, yet some people are uncomfortable discussing money. Are you one of those people? I discuss it with family. Sometimes with close friends.

8) In 1956, when Doris released this song, The Wizard of Oz was shown on network TV for the first time. What movie have you seen multiple times? Gone with the Wind. Fiddler on the Roof. The Ten Commandments.

9) Random question: Would you rather have a chef or a chauffeur? Chef!

Friday's Fav 5 & Saturday 9

I always say how fast the week goes by and it does! If it wasn't for my calendar and photos on my iPhone, I would not remember everything! So, onto the

On Saturday, my grandson took me to downtown Disney to see what was left of the 70th birthday celebration merchandise. It was nice to spend time with him. He did this after he worked. He has been working as many hours as he can, because both jobs were seasonal. His hours will cut back now that school is over. He starts the university in September.

Monday was our 52nd anniversary. Our grandaughter was able to stay with our dog, Minnie. We had a nice lunch at Longhorn Steakhouse. We also did a few errands, and one was for her. We had to get her backpack for school which was the next day. So it worked out great! 

Wednesday was my granddaughter's birthday, and she shares it with me. We got a picture together before she left. My friend picked me up and we went to Senior Fellowship. My friends said Happy Birthday. My pastor did too and said his spiritual birthday was on my birthday from 40+ years ago. I told him I did not feel 71 and he said he didn't either. Our bodies age, but our minds don't. Thankful for another year!

Enjoying my free birthday drink,

Matcha green tea with orange cream foam!

Thankful to be able to get to the gym Thursday. The strength training is helping. I can tell my muscle are getting stronger. My rear is not as flat as it was a few months ago. Thankful that I get a free membership with my insurance. Thankful that I am doing better! Thankful for the hydro massage. 

Thankful for health insurance! I had another dentist appointment. I am done until next year! I just need to make an ear appointment. Minnie is doing okay. She is always hungry because of the meds. She is pooping fairly regular. I know that sounds weird. But when we did not know she had the mass, she could not pass hard poop and she was struggling and in pain and it was a mess. It made her very sick. So for now, she is doing okay. Thankful that hubby gets up with her at night. I do all the med prep.

Saturday 9: Blueberry Hill (1956)

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

This month Saturday 9 will be tasty, featuring songs with food in the title.

1) Fats Domino sings about a hill named for blueberries. According to the Old Farmers Almanac, blueberries can grow just about anywhere in North America, as long as they have plenty of direct sunlight. Do you have a garden? No, but I just got some tomatoes from my neighbor's garden.

2) Blueberries are low in calories and rich in fiber. Are they a regular part of your diet? I eat them on occasion. I have some frozen ones in the freezer.

3) They also have a high moisture content. Staying hydrated is important to human health. Do you drink the standard recommended 8 glasses of water every day? No, but I try to drink as much as I can. I also drink 2 glasses of milk a day.

4) Fats originally had a big hit with "Blueberry Hill" in 1956, and then enjoyed the record's renewed popularity in the mid-70s, when "Blueberry Hill" was often referenced as Richie Cunningham's favorite song. Without looking it up, do you remember what show Richie Cunningham was on? (Extra non-existent Saturday 9 points if you can also name the actor who played Richie.) Happy Days, Ronnie Howard. 

5) Born Antoine Domino, he took the name "Fats" not just because of his physique. Growing up, jazz pianist Fats Waller was one of his heroes. If you were to adopt the first name of someone you admire, what would we call you? Madeline, my mom.

6) Despite his warm and friendly stage persona, Fats was shy around strangers and hated giving interviews. Tell us about something you did only because it was part of your job, not because you enjoyed it. Talking on the phone to Postmasters when I had to give them information that meant they had to do something regarding the vending program I was the coordinator for.

7) In 1956, when this record was topping the charts, the Olympics were held in Melbourne. Have you ever been to the land down under? No

8)  The star of the 1956 Olympics was Austrian Toni Sailer, who won all three gold medals in Alpine skiing. Do you prefer snow skiing, water skiing, or just watching other people ski? I like to watch. I had my first injury to my lower back when I was 21. That kept me away from many sports.

9) Random question: Do you believe everyone has a jealous streak? Yes, to some extent.

Previous post has our anniversary pictures and they food we had.

Thanks to Susanne and Sam for the memes, links are on the left.

Friday's Fave 5 and Satruday 9

Thankful for a slower pace and getting rest. I don't always sleep well because of the issues with lower back and neck. When I do feel well, I tend to do too much and end up hurting. I am using a heating pad as I write this. If I feel better later, I will go shopping. Meanwhile, I am happy to be in AC while it is 100 outside and reading and working on my crafts and studies.

Thankful for the things I am learning as I prepare my lesson for next month's Bible study. I have been going over places Jesus visited. Last year I was going over names of Jesus and Beloved came up as Jesus was baptized. Now my focus was on the place he was baptized. I looked through several of my Bibles and took notes. I also checked Bible Hub online. Some Bible translations say that Jesus was baptized in Bethany, beyond the Jordan. But other translations say Bethabara. or house of crossing. This location is different from Bethany that was near Jerusalem, the home of Lazarus, Mary and Martha. What is interesting about Bethabara is this location is where Joshua led the people into the Promise land by crossing over.  It is also the place where Elijah stepped into the Jordan and was taken up to Heaven. The main thing is that it is a place of crossing over, or a new beginning, physically and spiritually.

Thankful that my grands are all doing well. My grandson Eddie is working two part-time jobs before he starts college in the fall. One job is at a local amusement park. The other is at Tilly's a popular clothing store and he gets discounts. He is still volunteering at the local hospital 4 hours a week. When he has time, he is putting together a shed for us. His sister is enjoying her summer and only had to go to 2 practices for sports medicine. That group goes to all the football games and provides care to the athletes. She tried to do this last year, but cheer took more practice time, and she could not do both. She gave up cheer. She decided to do what was more important for her during her last year. Most of her classes in her senior year are also transferrable to college. She has been getting lots of college invites and wants to go to school outside of California. My other granddaughter just came back from youth camp and had a great time. She is the one that is on the worship team, and also sings at her youth group. The 12-year-old grandson is enjoying doing nothing but playing games with his friends. 

I am thankful that I got a shorter layered haircut that is much cooler for the summer. Also much easier to color. Thankful for good insurance. I met with one ophthalmologist and will meet with another and decide who will do my cataract surgery. It won't happen until the fall, after my trip to Israel if we still go. I am still hopeful, but the ongoing war just makes it less likely.

Thankful that Minnie is still holding her own, though I do see when she is hurting because of her panting. It doesn't happen often, but we are keeping an eye on her. She still wants to eat all the time and we make sure she is getting enough water. There is no more blood in her poops and that is good and she is pretty regular with the help of the stool softeners. All depends on how quickly the mass grows. Meanwhile, she is getting lots of love and attention. Thanks to those of you who are leaving well wishes and prayers.

Saturday 9: This Is A Very Special Day (1953)

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) In this song, Peggy sings that she feels good enough to climb a hill. Will you be doing anything athletic today? Yes, I do strength training everyday.

2) However she was also tempted to climb back in bed. Is a nap in your plans for today? No

3) She tells us that she looked in the mirror and told herself it was time to "lose the blues." Do you ever speak out loud to yourself? Yes

4) Peggy wrote this song for the 1953 remake of The Jazz Singer. She performs it in the movie, too. In the 1950s, female singer-songwriters were unusual, but not so today. Can you think of another woman who not only sings but writes her own material? Carole King.

5) Her co-star in the film was Danny Thomas. Today he is best remembered as a philanthropist and founder of St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, but he was quite a star in his day. He appeared in nightclubs and movie musicals and, from 1954 to 1963, had his own sitcom. Do you know the show?

No, but I remember his daughter, Marlo Thomas.

6) When Peggy Lee was trying to break into show business, she supported herself as a short order cook. She was required to turn orders around quickly. Are you fast and efficient in the kitchen? For the most part.

7) Just when her career started to take off, Peggy had to take a break when she had her tonsils removed. Do you still have your tonsils? No, I had them removed when I was 5. I still remember the pain and the popsicles. 

8) In 1953, when this record was released, Matchbox Cars were introduced and they remain popular today. Did you ever play with Matchbox Cars? Yes, with my sons and grandsons. There are probably a few left on the ottoman.

9) Random question: You're walking past a filthy puddle. Floating on top you see a dead bug, a cigarette butt, and a $1 bill. Would you bend over and rescue the dollar? I might have at one time, but not now.

Thanks to Susanne and Sam for the memes, links are on the left.

Tuesday 4 & Wednesday Hodgepodge

1. What brand of shampoo do you think works best for you and what does it do for you?

I use Trader Joe's Tea Tree Tingle Shampoo with Peppermint, Tea Tree and Eucalyptus Botanicals. I like how it makes my scalp feel and it cleans my hair well. I like that it has natural essential oils and doesn't bother my allergies. They also have a body wash that is nice!

2. Do you use cosmetics and if so what do you use? I don't wear a lot of makeup unless I am going to church or out with friends. I wear mascara and use a brow mascara for my greys. I like to wear a light plum color lipstick from Avon and Burts Bee products. I wear CeraVe moisturizer with a SPF 30 and CeraVe Night moisturizer as recommended by my dermatologist.

3. Do you use a washcloth on your face? Sometimes.

4. Do you have an all-time favorite perfume or scent that you wear? If you don't wear perfumes, is there a scent that you love in general? I can't wear fragrances, but I can wear essential oils. I like one called Stress Away by Young Living. It has lime, lavender and vanilla. 

1. Do your goals and dreams energize or exhaust you? Elaborate. There is only one goal, dream I have right now and that is to go to Israel. I am praying this war will end, but so far it only gets worse!

2. July 23rd is national lemon day. Are you a fan of this flavor? What's a favorite dish or beverage you enjoy that calls for lemons? I do love lemons and we have a Mayer lemon tree in our backyard. We mostly cut up lemons to put in our water. Sometimes we add it to certain dished like lemon piccata. 

3. "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade"...is this something you're pretty good at managing? Have you had to do this recently? If so tell us about it. There are some things that are pretty sour like the news, so I limit my time on the news. So I try to stay off it and work on my studies, crafts or declutter process. I am doing good on that. 

4. Something you love that is lemon yellow in color? I just got a shirt that has yellow in it and I really like it. I like a mellow yellow color and like to use it when I am crafting.

5. How would you describe your attention to detail? I am a very detailed person. When I look back to certain committee's I was on, I always liked to add things to make it special. Friends said they could tell I took the time to make is special. I am the same way with my Bible journaling. 

6. Insert your own random thought here. Minnie is holding her own but is still always hungry. We know she is blind in one eye and bumps into things and can't see things we put in front of her. We wonder if she also has a bit of dementia. Yesterday morning, she just laid in my arms and did not even get up when hubby went to bbq some hotdogs. Then later she was acting like she was catching flies like she use to, but there were no flies and she can't see really well. She wants to go out but then stands there. She paws at the door and forget she has a doggy door. Most of the time she follows us and then plops down on her side which is a new everyday behavior. So we have stayed home a lot. We have not gone out together since the last time we took her to the vet. She wants to be close to my husband who is her alpha and I am second. She still gets happy to see the grands and that is good. We are cutting back on her steroids and so far it seems okay. If she seems to be in pain, we will call the vet up.

Fridays Fave 5 & Saturday 9

I am thankful that Minnie is holding steady. Hubby stayed home with her on Sunday, and I was able to go to church after missing it or two weeks. I was able to see my granddaughter sing the National Anthem I am thankful that I can watch service online when I can't be at church. but I do like to see my friends and family there. 

Thankful that the younger grads came down on Monday and on Monday night I had all 4 grands here. It is rare to get pictures with all of them now. The younger grads were supposed to be here through Thursday along with the grand dogs, Plans were changed because of Minnie and their other grandma picked them up on Tuesday. She was able to see Minnie and Minnie was happy to see her too Thankful that our grands have their grandparents to help out. Here are Coco and Daisy.

Thankful to do some shopping on Wednesday after Senior Fellowship. I found a pair of pants and a top I can wear them now and when I go to Israel in October. I was talking to my 3 friends that are going to Israel too. We all want to go know things are in God's hand. But since the US attacked Iran, things have gotten worse. The travel agency says tours are still happening and we will know more as we get closer to October. If is not safe to go. the travel agency will let the Pastor know. Will we be sad? Yes, but like I said, it is in God's hands. I will get my money back and maybe I will get new flooring. But for now, I am still hoping and praying. 

Thankful that we can have dreams and also be realistic when life happens.

Thankful for a better night's rest. I have been turning the tv off and reading before bed. Thankful that I have the AD series of books in my library. I read them back in the early 2000's there was a lot I had forgotten. The series is by Brock and Bodie Thoen. It follows the people that lived during the year of Jesus. It brings Bible people back to life like the bling man that Jesus heals. The character is named Peniel/Penuel which means face of God or to see the face of God or to turn toward the face of God. Many of the correct names of characters are used. Biblical references are also listed. Jacob is from Genesis 32 and wrestled with God and named the place Penuel. Jacob then is known as Israel, one of Biblical hierarchs and the son of Abraham It also gives the historical perspective during that time. The emphasis is on the people that were healed by Jesus. I love historical Christian fiction!  

Saturday 9: There'll Be Some Changes Made (1962)

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) In this song, Ann-Margret sings that she's going to change her way of living. If you could simply snap your fingers and change something in your life, what would it be? Better health, good eyesight and increase in muscle mass.

2) She tells us she's going to change her name. Have you ever changed your name, or asked people to refer to you differently? (Example: "Don't call me Betty anymore. I want to be Elizabeth.") I go by Susan or Susie. but do not like Sue. My mom called me Susan and my dad called me Susie. My sisters call me Susie and my brother calls me Susan

3) Ann-Margret was born Ann-Margret Olsson in Sweden and when was 5, her family moved to Winnetka, Illinois. She is fluent in both Swedish and English. When did you last converse in a language other than English? My granddaughter was sharing what she is learning in her Spanish class. We exchanged a few words.

4) Olivia Newton-John was a big Ann-Margret fan. When she was cast in the movie Grease, Olivia asked that her character's name be changed from "Sandy Dumbrowski" to "Sandy Olsson" in tribute. Grease is one of the most profitable movies ever made. Have you seen it more than once? Yes

5) Ann-Margret celebrated her 85th birthday earlier this year. Back in 2024, Ann-Margret told a reporter that she planned to celebrate her 83rd birthday with a spin on her motorcycle, a lavender Harley-Davidson. "I love speed," she explained. Do you always observe the speed limit? Or have you been known to zip along a little faster? I have gone faster in the pass on an open road.

6) This week's song was written in 1921 and over the last 100+ years it's been recorded more than 400 times. Before today, had you heard it? No

7) The lyrics were written by William Weldon Higgins, who was better known as vaudeville comic Billy Higgins. When did you most recently laugh out loud? At Senior Fellowship this past Wednesday. Pastor decided to pop in for a game of Bingo and won!

8) The music was composed by William Overstreet. In addition to writing music, he was a respected director at Chicago's Grand Theater. When did you last see a live performance (concert, play, etc.)?

January 25, several shows on our cruise ship. I saw Cece Winans in concert February of 25 with my granddaughter. My granddaughter and I are going to a musical play on July 11.

9) Random question: Do you have more or less than $20 cash in your wallet right now? Yes, $22

Thanks to Susanne and Sam for the memes. They are linked on the left. 

Tuesday 4 & Wednesday Hodgepodge

Tuesday 4 What do you call it?
1. In New Jersey you put your groceries in a paper bag or plastic bag.  In Athens, Ohio where I went to

university, you put them in a paper sack. Is it bag, sack or something else where you live? Bag.

2. Though no one seems to wear them anymore, NJ says  Stockings.  Athens, Ohio used to call them "hose" and in Britain they are tights. What about where you live? We called them nylons.

3.Soda, Pop, Coke? Hero, sub, grinder, hoagie? Soda, sub.

 

4. Shopping cart or trolley. buggy? What do you call it? Cart or basket.

1. What's something you enjoy now that your younger self would never have appreciated? Time

2. What was peaceful about today? 

3. It's National Blueberry Day (July 8). Will you celebrate?  You can have one of the following right now-a slice of blueberry pie, a warm blueberry muffin, or a stack of blueberry pancakes...which do you choose? Pie.

This or that-blueberries or raspberries? blueberries or strawberries? 

4. Do you need a break? From what? A break from back problems. 

5. What has surprised you most about getting older? How quickly the days/years go by. 

6. Insert your own random thought here. I still can't believe I am almost 71. My mind does not feel that age, but my body reminds me. My youngest grand is a pre teen at 12. My oldest is 18, has two jobs and starts the university in the fall. He still hangs out here, so I guess I won't be getting my craft room back. But I am okay with that. Someday it will change. When we were busy raising kids and working, our parents were doing things with their friends. Then we were doing things with our church. When I look back and see why my parents worked into their late 60's. They had a successful real estate business. They enjoyed having the family over on weekend. Then mom got Alzheimer's. She was 75 when she died. For a few years I had this mental clock running that was working off that 75. But a verse in the Bible reminded me that only God knows our time. I can live life to the fullest for as long as I can. If it is safe, I will be going to Israel in October. I really want to go, but I don't, I will plan something else. Taking care of my health is important. Wednesday is senior fellowship and I plan to go. Socialization is important.

Minnie update. She is holding steady right now. She is always hungry because of the steroids and because we have to feed her smaller amounts. So we feed her 4 times a day. The stool softeners are really helping. she doesn't walk slow like she is hurting. She bumps into things. We looked into her left eye and you can see that the pupil look bad. She is content for now. A couple of weeks ago we thought we were going to lose her. Thanks for your prayers. We will enjoy each day as we can. All my grands and grand dogs are here as I write this and they are still asleep at 10 am. Thanking God for family.

Fridays Fave Five & Saturday 9

Every Friday I stop to list things I am thankful for from the week and link with Susanne

I am thankful that the medicine has helped our sweet Minnie. She is walking better now and has even started barking again. Now that the stool softener is working, she is not struggling as much to potty. I am sure the steroids have helped with pain. For those that have not read my last few blog post, she has a mass blacking her lower bowels. The specialist and regular vet both suspect she has cancer and that her time is limited. We are determined to make her as comfortable as possible. She is always hungry, probably from the steroids. We have to give her smaller amounts of food, but we feed her about 4 times a day instead of two. I can tell she has lost weight, but her past increased weight might be from the mass.

I am thankful to those of you have read my blog and shown your concern.

I am thankful that our life is slow right now so we can take care of our Minnie. My husband's family reunion was a success and all our kids and grands went. I stayed home with Minnie. He will stay home this weekend so I can go to church and maybe do some shopping.

Thankful that I can have time to work on my crafts and Bible study/journal. I did this spread in 2020 and want to do it again in my Faith workbook. 

Thankful for the beautiful weather we have been having. 70's and 80's is great but we are heading to the 90's next week. That is still okay. We do get several days of 100 and thankful for air conditioning!

Thankful for my family and that they are all believers. Thankful to be a part of the USA!

SATURDAY 9: God Bless America 

Unfamiliar with Connie Francis' version of this song? Hear it here.

1) Irving Berlin's lyrics celebrate our mountains, prairies, and oceans. Which of these geographical features is nearest your home? The beach is about 35 miles from me. The mountains are about 50 miles. The desert is about 50 miles in another direction.

2) Berlin donated his royalties from "God Bless America" to the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts of America. Were you ever a Scout? Yes, I was a Girl Scout. 

 

3) While this week's song has been recorded many times, we're concentrating on Connie Francis' 1959 version. It was never intended to be a hit, released as the B-side to her popular "Among My Souvenirs." But it took off when it was played at school rallies and patriotic events. Do you know all the lyrics to "God Bless America?" Could you sing along with Connie? Yes, I learned it in Elementary school. 

4) After she wrote her autobiography, Connie said she wanted Valerie Bertinelli to play her in the movie. Even though Valerie isn't known for her singing, Connie liked that they were both Italian-American and 5'5". If we made a movie of your life, who should play you ??? I am only 5 feet tall!

 

5) Connie had a passionate romance with Bobby Darin, and their relationship is included in the Broadway show about Bobby's life, Just In Time. While Connie expressed her support for the production, she never saw the show because hip problems made flying difficult. How about you? Are you dealing with any aches or pains today? Yes, I have disc issues in my neck, mid back and lower back. I use my heating pad a lot. I can't pick up anything more than 8 pounds. I take Motrin when I have to. I have a cavity that is bothering me and it will get fixed in a week.

 

6) The Fourth of July means we're in the middle of summer. Are you careful about applying sunscreen? Yes, I have too. I got skin cancer on my face last year. Sadly, most skin cancer from today is from sun exposure in the past.

7) More beer is purchased for the 4th of July than any other holiday. What beverage will be served with your July 4th meal? Ice water with fruit and a touch of Snapple diet peach tea.

 

8) Emergency rooms expect an increase over the July 4th holiday. The most common causes are sports injuries (like jammed wrists and wrenched knees) and the unwise use of home fireworks. Have you  been to the ER or Urgent Care during 2026? No, thank God! But my precious Minnie has a few times.

9) New York is home to Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest every year on the 4th. Will hot dogs be consumed in your household this weekend? Hubby made some last week, and I would prefer a hamburger for this weekend.

Previous entry has my 4th decorations.

Thanks to Susanne and Sam for the meme questions, links on left.

Friday's Fave Fives & Saturday 9

This week has been hard. As I mentioned in my previous post, our Minnie is sick, she has a mass in her colon that was diagnosed this past Tuesday. We have to give her medicines at specific times and take h er out frequently. I have had some anxious moments, and I have to pray for peace. I had the same feeling when my dad was dying, and I have to do what I can to cope. Minnie is getting a lot of attention because she needs a lot of attention. 

I am thankful for my husband who has the night shift. 

Also Minnie's love and trust as we care for her.

Thankful that family is visiting her because it makes Minnie happy.

Thankful for the meds that are helping her right now. I get those ready.

Thankful for this computer and so I can ask for prayers and keep my mind busy.

Thankful for music that ministers to me.

Saturday 9: Cadillac Ranch (1981)

Unfamiliar tune? Hear it here.

1) In this song, Bruce Springsteen sings about taking his father and his aunt to see The Cadillac Ranch. Have you recently taken a road trip? If yes, where did you go? We have not taken one in a couple of years. Hubby and I took a trip to Lake Tahoe and Yosemite in 2019 and it was a long but fun trip. We have taken a few since then, but this was a favorite.

2) The Cadillac Ranch is real. It's an outdoor art installation in Amarillo, TX. Tell us about a statue, mural, or other piece of outdoor art in your community. Our city was known for its' races and the city has a street that goes in a circle and has the nickname as Crown Town.

3) Not only is Bruce singing about a real place, he mentions three real people. The first is "James Dean in his Mercury 49." That refers to the 1949 Mercury driven by James Dean in his first starring role, Rebel Without a Cause. Though he remains a legendary star, Dean made only three movies before his death at age 24. Have you seen any of his films? Yes, Rebel, East of Eden and Giant.

4) The second is "Junior Johnson runnin' through the woods of Caroline." Junior Johnson was a folk hero, famous as a NASCAR driver and notorious for running moonshine through North Carolina. He was the inspiration for "Midnite Moon," an animated old Ford in the 2017 Disney movie Cars 3. What Disney movie did you enjoy when you were growing up?Too many of them to mention. But I really enjoyed Fantasia because of the music and of Leopold Stokowski. I played Walz of the Flowers for one of my piano recitals. I also enjoyed, Dumbo.

5) The third man Bruce sings about is "Burt Reynolds and his black Trans Am." This is a reference to Burt's biggest hit, 1977's Smokey and the Bandit. Burt also had success as a restaurateur. He co-owned Burt and Jack's, a popular steakhouse at Port Everglades, right on the water. Tell us about a restaurant that offered both good food and a memorable view. In 2022, we went to Salinas for my husband's brother's 60th birthday. Salinas and the surrounding cities produce many veggies and fruits for the state and export it other states. We had some fresh picked artichokes that we had just seen on our way to Monterey Bay. This area was a theme of a Steinbeck book. The restaurant we at was just a block away from Cannery Row, a title to one of his books along with East of Eden and Grapes of Wrath

Great seafood at Scales

6) For decades, Cadillac was the gold standard of luxury. For example, an eatery referred to as "the Cadillac of restaurants" would be best or most prestigious. Think about your neighborhood. Tell us about a restaurant, hotel or business that is "the Cadillac" of your community. Miguel's overlooking a lake. We usually eat at their fast food chains. 

7) Since he's been singing about America and cars for decades, it should come as no surprise that Bruce Springsteen has a collection of classic American cars. For the cover of his autobiography he chose a photo of himself leaning on his favorite, a 1960 Corvette convertible. Think about your favorite photo of yourself. What are you doing? Any photo with my grands is a favorite. This photo was taken June 26, 2022 at Mammoth. This waterfall could be seen across the lakes.

8) In 1981, when Bruce released this recording, Dolly Parton had a hit with "9 to 5." What's your favorite Dolly Parton song? Her duet with Zach Williams, There is Jesus. I am not a country music fan, but I like Dolly and this song really ministers to me,

9) Random question: When did you last DIY and fix something around your home or yard? I am not fixing anything right now. I am going through a decluttering process right now and making progress. I have a few plumerias that need to be planted.