tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74327376619780322072024-03-20T21:24:10.685-07:00Simply BalishaBalishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.comBlogger278125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-9281519483045079142015-03-10T10:32:00.000-07:002015-03-10T10:32:04.792-07:00Safely In the Arms of Jesus<span style="line-height: normal;">Hello all,</span><br />
<span style="line-height: normal;">My lovely wife Patrica J. Cerasa, lost her fight with ovarian cancer at 12:34 PM yesterday and went safely to the arms of Jesus and all of those in her family that have gone before her. Her family was by her side right up to the end. I will miss her terribly. Please pray for her soul and for all of us left behind.</span><br />
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<span style="line-height: normal;">Peace be with you all,</span><br />
<span style="line-height: normal;">Joe Cerasa</span>Balishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com86tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-66473340148082735212015-02-21T13:37:00.000-08:002015-02-21T13:37:15.008-08:00Dear friends. There comes a time when life as we know it must end it has come for me. I am in serenity house it's a lovely place to. Spend my last days beautiful room with sliding glass doors overlooking. Bird feeders French doors into small living room for family to sleep meals, anything I want no visiting hours. Visitors anytime. A peaceful place with loving workers. I'm happy here I am texting this post. Hard for me to do I just wanted to tell you all what you mean to me. Love comes along in our lives and I feel so lucky to have all of you so, good bye for now. Someday we will meet again. Balisha. XoxoBalishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com61tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-18518674653344164682015-02-17T14:53:00.000-08:002015-02-17T14:53:44.210-08:00Morning by BalishaMorning...by Balisha<br />
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Waking up this morning....I'm in my cozy bed,<br />
I heard a birdie singing and this is what he said...<br />
"Good morning dear Balisha...I'm visiting from above,<br />
The skies are clear and beautiful and I am full of love.<br />
I came so early to cheer you up and make you feel OK..<br />
Some other friends are here with me and this is what they say"..<br />
The little wren (my favorite) brings songs so full of joy...<br />
The robin with his winter coat....is being oh so coy..<br />
The black bird on the wire....is too shy to come down..<br />
He squawks his message from above..his face is in a frown.<br />
The chipmunk out of hiding he gives his little grin...<br />
The possum shyly gives a smile....and turns to go back in.<br />
The sun is up ... gives me a nod and stops to say hello..<br />
A sunny day is what we need to warm us down below.<br />
I turn toward the downy bed to rest a little more...<br />
All is well today... a good day is in store.Balishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-91568351064041132802015-02-16T09:19:00.000-08:002015-02-16T09:19:06.080-08:00Today<br />
Simple Pleasure:<br />
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Warm blanket from Karen.<br />
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Sunny day today. Not such a good day. Maybe afternoon will be better.<br />
<br />
Balisha..HugsBalishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-33173006384563276742015-02-14T09:26:00.001-08:002015-02-14T09:28:53.705-08:00Valentine's Day<br />
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Simple Pleasures for Valentine's Day...<br />
Feeling loved by family and friends.<br />
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This is a good day. We are pretty much alone today, because of weather. Roads are hazardous and I wouldn't want family to take any chances. So, Joe and I are here alone and it's quite nice. I got a box of Pixies from him and because I had nothing for him....I ordered a dozen boxes of bran muffin mix from Amazon. He loves my bran muffins and this way he can mix them and I might be able to cut up the fruit to go in. Another simple pleasure.<br />
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Balisha....HugsBalishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-49831105680155504172015-02-13T16:37:00.001-08:002015-02-13T16:37:48.150-08:00HoW Can I Not Respond?How can I not respond?....Sitting here reading a few posts from others, and just itching to touch the keys. I love this blog and can't seem to stop. The chair is still most comfortable. Maybe I can post a short one....just to keep on going.<br />
Your comments are so lovely......I am so touched by the out pouring of love and prayer.<br />
I'll leave with a ...<br />
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Simple Pleasure of the day....<br />
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Sitting on the edge of my bed, at 2:30 am eating a cinnamon muffin..... made by my neighbor, Terry...So good!<br />
Balisha... HugsBalishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-43961010020594941222015-02-11T07:29:00.004-08:002015-02-11T07:29:53.365-08:00My Last Post<br />
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This is so hard for me....I think this might be my last post on the blog that has been my way of speaking to so many for several years.<br />
I am at home with hospice care right now. It was totally my decision to bring this to an end...after hearing that my ov.. cancer was stage 4 and involved my bowel system too. The chemo treatments are so hard and with that diagnosis...I saw no real future except that of dr visits, hosp, surgery down the road, and just ending my life feeling like I do now. Without treatment I might have 3 months.<br />
During the night, a week or so ago, I was tossing and turning and sleep wouldn't come. I made the decision to stop treatment and try to live what is the end of my life with some dignity, family around with their wonderful memories, Joe and I here at home, some peace and beauty and most of all wonderful people.<br />
I awoke that morning, and felt at peace with my decision. A calm came over me and the fears were gone. When I looked in my children's eyes.....my heart just broke. They might have wanted me to continue, but after our talk, they knew that their Mom was making the right choice.<br />
So, the treatment was stopped and I came home to hospice care. I'll be here until I am too much for Joe to take care of. Then I will go to Serenity House Hospice.....a facility for 8 patients nearby. The very best place for this care.<br />
Our Church has been wonderful...sending meals, prayers, communion at home, visits, Priests coming to call etc. Most of all, they are caring for Joe too. He has been here, not in good health himself, caring for me.<br />
While trying to focus on happier things...my mind always came to this blog. I have loved keeping this journal....loved making so many caring friends that I never would meet. I felt your compassion when my son passed and now feel it for me. I can't name you all, but you know that you are all in my heart.<br />
Deb, thank you for the beautiful flowers .....they arrived just as I came home from the hosp. Please know how much I enjoyed them. Please don't feel that any of you need send flowers or anything. I am a simple woman, who may sit here and read your comments and feel the love.<br />
I sit here typing, for the first time, with my oxygen and hair falling out. Don't I paint a pretty picture? Today comes the haircut and a visit from an old friend.<br />
So, my friends, this is maybe a good bye. Thanks for always reading and know that each of you has a special place in my heart. My heart is bursting with love right now. So, continue on with your blogs and be sure to enjoy each moment that God gives you. The time might be short.<br />
I feel that God gave me a gift.....the last days of my life to tell family and friends how much I love and cherish them.<br />
Hugs....Balisha<br />
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<br />Balishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com52tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-57399975751513219092015-01-30T14:29:00.000-08:002015-01-30T14:29:13.844-08:00TodayThis thing just progresses. Chemo hit me with a bang. Rough night last night and today is not much better. How will I tolerate more chemo?<br />
Wonderful man was here and cleaned the whole house. I love a clean house...so gave me a lift.<br />
Joe and I just laid on the bed and he looked at me and said,"We're a fine pair to meet."<br />
Still no appetite...jello and ginger ale are delicious. Supposed to keep hydrated, but hard to do when I'm carrying this big belly around. I really feel full.When I get rid of this belly of water on Mon, I know I will feel better.<br />
Balisha<br />
Sunny day is nice.<br />
<br />Balishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-5409421853778214292015-01-29T07:45:00.002-08:002015-01-29T07:45:35.689-08:00TodayFeeling weak this morning....I guess a natural thing with chemo. Don't know how I can feel much worse.<br />
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Do you really want to hear a play by play each day? Very depressing to read...I would think.I know you all care, but this is really a downer.<br />
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So much going on here....almost too much to handle.<br />
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On a lighter note....when I was reading comments during the night...I heard two owls in our front yard. I've never heard an owl here before.<br />
Poor birds...I'll bet they wonder where Balisha is.<br />
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Hugs Balisha...back laterBalishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-64877539148523170022015-01-28T10:14:00.004-08:002015-01-28T10:14:59.558-08:00She shaved her head<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is my daughter LuAnn. She lives in DC and was here at the beginning of all this and will be back on the 6th of Feb. She and I are very close and I know how hard it is for her to be so far away.She was hooked up through Iphone, so she could participate in the family meeting with the oncologist. She could hear everything and ask questions. Yesterday, while talking to my son, John, he said, "Have you been on Facebook today? You had better check, because there's a picture you might want to see." When I opened FB.....there she was with her head shaved. Her beautiful hair was gone...just fuzz left. I laughed at first.... then cried. She did this to show her love and support for me. I'm having my head shaved in a week or so and we will probably have a picture taken together. Love this girl....<br />
BalishaBalishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-48631425014505883312015-01-27T07:09:00.001-08:002015-01-27T07:34:59.823-08:00The Gift<br />
This is the day for my first chemo treatment. Feeling weak and just have to sit or lie down for a few minutes. This chair is comfortable and the computer is just around the corner from my bed. Yesterday, I mentioned that I would tell a few things about how I feel.<br />
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I'm surprisingly calm about what is wrong. Typically frightened of what's to come as far as chemo goes. I asked my Priest, why if I have a strong faith, am I scared. He said..."It's being human."I've heard such horror stories about this cancer and chemo. I've had a lot of time during wakeful hours to think about this. I've come to the conclusion that it is sort of a gift. I'll explain....<br />
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Here I am in the center of it all. Joe has been doing the best he can. He's not in the best shape, so we need all the help we can get. He's learning patience.<br />
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My kids and my brother and sister in law.....have always been there for me. We went through their Dad's death and then Tim's a couple of years ago... together. They love me so much and we are a tight family. Daughter in law, Karen, and grand kids are part of this tight family... I know they care deeply.<br />
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I told Joe the other day, about my feeling that it's a gift. He said, "A gift???"<br />
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As far as the feeling about being a gift....this has helped Joe's kids to see that their dad is old and might need more help. God's already working on this. It is teaching patience and compassion. It has made me understand a relationship in my family...and I have found that just getting to know someone and listen has helped. It has brought a couple of my friends together. It has made friends here in Byron concerned and helping so much. It has helped the Church be able to help someone who needs it. It has brought more prayer among people. Maybe it will bring someone back to Church. I has brought loving comments from my blogger friends...and they are praying.<br />
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I feel like I'm in a circle with God's work swirling around. I feel secure . We always hear about bad things happening to good people and wonder why. Why does God let a little child die? Maybe this is the reason....it gives people a way to show what they are made of. Extending prayer and help...where they might not have done so before.<br />
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The Lord works in mysterious ways, you know. I can see his working for me everywhere.<br />
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These are just a few thoughts of mine.<br />
BalishaBalishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-30494755139814358842015-01-26T07:05:00.001-08:002015-01-26T07:05:31.880-08:00Real NameHello,<br />
Feeling a bit stronger this morning. My real name is Patricia. I got the nickname Balisha from Joe when we first married. He loves to rhyme names...you know....Patricia Balisha. So, when I started blogging, and really didn't want to put out too much info...I used Balisha. The name caught on and feels almost like my own. Real name, Pat Cerasa email...patc38@yahoo.com. I've been asked for my address, but I don't feel safe putting it here. So, if you want it...email me.<br />
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I feel a bit stronger this morning. Blood pressure has been in the 70's and 80', so that's not helping. Today, I'm getting ready for tomorrow. Hair wash, shower, and a little tidying of the bedroom. We have lots of things in the fridge for me to choose from.... after chemo. I still don't have much appetite. My wonderful blog friend, Ernestine, fills her posts with healthy foods that she is eating. Looking at her posts has always made my mouth water. So, E. just keep on posting....you are my nutrition person.<br />
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I'll be back later today to write a little about my feelings at this point.<br />
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Love, Patricia-Balisha<br />
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<br />Balishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-89536212415454852022015-01-25T08:07:00.000-08:002015-01-26T07:05:53.138-08:00The picture<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Finally figured it out....here I am with Willow, one of my daily canine visitors. Dogs are so calming and one little fox terrior just snuggled up next to me and we looked into each other's eyes. Such a simple thing brings such pleasure.<br />
BalishaBalishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-8309716948569888742015-01-25T07:55:00.002-08:002015-01-25T08:14:25.349-08:00TodayWaiting for them to bring Communion from Church. I've been up for quite a while. Just one day at a time......that's how I' navigating.<br />
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No appetite. Joe, who eats a lot, keeps watching me and trying to get me to eat more. Simple foods...no mixtures for me right now. Tiny portions often throughout the day. I think I should be able to have a sweet once in a while :) Ginger ale tastes best to me.<br />
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Have a picture to send of me and a hospital therapy dog, but couldn't figure out how to do it...maybe later.<br />
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May be back...I'm to stay up more and try to gather strength for Tues. Don't know how I can feel worse than this.<br />
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Sorry for such a downer....does me good to vent.<br />
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Just read this from Margie's sermon at Margie's musings....<span style="background-color: #eeeecc; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">God will be our refuge, but the refuge does not protect us from experiencing the storm, but rather it strengthens us </span><u style="background-color: #eeeecc; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">during </u><span style="background-color: #eeeecc; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">the storm. </span><br />
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Can't possibly thank everyone for comments. I read and reread them and am so appreciative for them.<br />
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Balisha<br />
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<br />Balishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-22569697538821810992015-01-24T08:28:00.000-08:002015-01-24T08:28:07.963-08:00Just a note from meAfter being in the hospital all week and going through a million tests....they found cancer cells in the fluid that they drained from my abdomen. They also drained fluid from my lung to make it easier to breathe.The final diagnosis is Ovarian Cancer. The tumor is about 7 inches across.....about the size of a honeydew melon. I had my yearly physical at the end of Nov and everything was fine. So, starting chemo on Tues. After an aggressive chemo....I think for 6 months....I will have surgery at Universary of Madison, Wis.I'm so afraid of the future...I guess the mystery of not knowing how my body will react to the treatment is why. I hope you all continue to pray for me.<br />
I'll be back here probably daily if I can manage.<br />
Hugs from BalishaBalishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-54471042846583471982015-01-17T06:02:00.001-08:002015-01-17T08:16:11.410-08:00Just to let you know...Well here goes.<br />
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I spent several hours in the ER yesterday. My belly was swollen as were my feet and legs. The doctor wanted me to go to the OSF clinic for an abdominal x ray. I felt that it would be too much for me to travel an hour and then have to wait for treatment. So, Joe decided to call the paramedics and have me transported by ambulance. I can't say enough good about our fire dept. They are so caring and gentle with people and know just what to say to calm you down. So far, they have given me the best care.<br />
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So that brings me to this....after x rays, ct scan etc. We found that I have ascites. There is fluid in the abdominal cavity that shouldn't be there. I look like I'm about to have a baby at this point. Weak as a kitten and shortness of breath. I haven't been able to sleep.They told me that not much would be done over the weekend and I could go home and come back if I get worse. I am to make an appt at a gastro enterologist as soon as possible. There are a couple of things that might be causing this. Liver not working right or bowel. I don't drink alcohol...never have smoked and don't use caffeine, so the cause of this is a puzzle.<br />
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Now, we have to find a doctor that can take me soon. Now, I'm on my soapbox....the health care system in our country is really bad. The days when you could just call the doctor and he would see you are gone. You almost have to jump through hoops to get attention today. Old people seem to be lost in the shuffle. Where are the geriatric doctors? You think you are doing the right thing by going to your doctor and having regular checkups....and then if they do find something... it will be taken care of. Now, you go to the doctor and then do followups with his nurse on the phone..... that's how it's done today. Sometimes waiting all day for them to call back. A phone call or two isn't enough....how can they see your progress by talking on the phone?<br />
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I don't know what is going to happen. That's the scary part. I try to keep a positive attitude, but that is slipping away.<br />
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I appreciate all your loving comments....this old computer chair is the most comfortable place for me. During the night, I often come here and read them over and over again.<br />
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I have a strong faith that God will see me through this. Please pray for me.<br />
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Love to all of you,<br />
BalishaBalishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-85813190188772451692015-01-13T07:29:00.001-08:002015-01-13T08:02:11.078-08:00Pneumonia<div style="text-align: justify;">
I really appreciate all the prayers and comments over the past few days. I've got pneumonia and I am still feeling miserable. The doctor says maybe 6 wks before I'll feel good. I need another x ray in 4 to 6 wks. <br />
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I haven't felt like blogging....just couldn't get myself to put anything together, but the computer chair has been my lifesaver for this short time.It's the most comfortable place for me. I come here and just click on the comments, once in a while read a post or two, and just know that there are friends out there...who care about me. </div>
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When you are my age, pneumonia can be rough. I'm weak as a kitten, and really can't do anything except take care of my own needs. There's no room for impatience I've found. The disease always wins. I have to learn to just go with the flow. I'm learning :)</div>
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Starting my 2nd round of antibiotics today...took me off prednisone, and continue with cough meds and pro biotics. I am hoping that this antibotic will be the miracle drug.</div>
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I've never been laid up like this before and don't like having to depend on others for meals etc. It's a whole new learning experience for me. Letting others do for me.</div>
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I have found that keeping a freezer full of little meals from now on is essential. Keeping <b>go to</b> foods in the freezer <b>upstairs</b> is essential. Keeping things like tea, gatorade, and juices... essential.When I think of all the holiday prep that I did, when I could have been stocking my freezer... was sort of silly. Preparing for an illness is sort of like preparing for a storm or earthquake. We need certain things on our emergency shelf and with an illness....the same is true. We hope to never have to use these things, but they are there just in case.</div>
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We have lots of food here.....just that everything needs long cooking. We did just stock up on freezer entrees by Stouffer's. They are surprisingly good. </div>
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As I close this I just want to say....that you find out who really cares about you when you are down. So, thankful that I'm not alone here. Thank you if you've left a comment and even if you didn't, I know that there are so many out there who read this, almost daily blog, who care.</div>
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I'll be back later...maybe tomorrow to let you know how I'm doing.<br />
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Love to all of you,</div>
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Balisha </div>
Balishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-6596527848835533672015-01-07T13:21:00.002-08:002015-01-07T13:21:45.894-08:00Under the Weather<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm a bit under the weather...be back soon.<br />
BalishaBalishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-59665989109299485512015-01-04T09:34:00.002-08:002015-01-04T09:39:52.047-08:00An Afternoon with Maya<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I watched something on TV that has really touched me. It was on Oprah's Master Class. I haven't watched many of these programs, but when I saw that Maya Angelou was going to be featured...I recorded it. Yesterday afternoon, as I sat here alone, I turned on this program and wasn't disappointed. Maya has a voice like no other. When she speaks.....you listen. Her soft gentle way is so soothing. I love her poems and love to hear her recite them.</div>
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Sometimes I get a little sad that I am approaching 80 yrs old in a couple of years. Maya began the interview by saying that she was celebrating her 80's...something she's looked forward to. She said, "My 60's were good and then the wonderful 70's and now the 80's are here." She looked like she was so full of joy. Here was a woman bubbling over with anticipation of what's to come. </div>
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The interview went on telling about her life and then the program was only Maya....telling about some of her views on life. </div>
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She said that words have power....watch your words. Be careful what words you use and let into your home. </div>
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She said that God puts rainbows in our clouds. People who are kind can be a rainbow. We carry everyone who was ever kind to us in our daily lives. Those people are there to help us. Be a blessing to other people. </div>
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When you have a choice in a questionable situation.... Just do right. This will satisfy your soul and no matter what happens....you will be peaceful with your decision. Be the best human being that you can be...at work, home, and your Church. Think about how people perceive you...decide to do better. </div>
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She says we are all children of God. Thinks it amazing that the one who created a flea and a mountain created her. She says that she is a human being and nothing human can be alien to her. We have the same makeup as people who do bad things. We make a choice to do the right thing. </div>
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She speaks of her grandmother and says that her grandma always said, "When you get.....give, When you learn.....teach."<br />
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She believes that Faith is the evidence of things unseen.<br />
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She ended with Love Liberates.</div>
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This remarkable woman died this past year. She was 86 yrs old. There are so many things on the internet about her. If you get to see Oprah's Master Class in reruns....take some time to watch...you won't be disappointed.</div>
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Balisha</div>
Balishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-53836235145354230892015-01-02T06:48:00.001-08:002015-01-02T06:48:13.341-08:00Looking Ahead One Day at a Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I begin the new year by hanging a new calendar. I pick one out for the breakfast nook and next to my computer. Every fall, a favorite thing to do is go through the calendars for the new year at Amazon. What one to choose? Joe says, "With all the free calendars that we get...you still need to buy one?" I needn't remind him that he chooses one with Springer Spaniels each year :)</div>
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I appreciate a beautiful piece of artwork on my wall. Look forward to turning the page to see the next month. I never look ahead....the element of surprise is what I love. I have chosen ones by Susan Branch so often. I keep some of these throughout the years and sometimes use them in my own artwork. Lately I have chosen a narrow one by Susan Winget. It fits next to my computer in a narrow space on the wall. With my vision changing, I may have to choose a new one next year....one with bigger squares. Her calendars always show the warmth of country living. Quilts, apples, flags, pumpkins and snow men with a few flowers mixed in fill the pages of her calendars. I enjoy reading about the artist at the end of the calendar. As I hang my new calendar, I can picture her working in her studio at home...on next year's calendar.</div>
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Then there is the calendar that we put in a wooden frame on the wall in our breakfast nook. I sit at the table and look ahead to see the beautiful artwork of the month. This calendar is the creation of Annie LaPoint. There is a piece of scripture on each page. The pages are full of mossy green flower pots...(most of them are terra cotta) and ivy topiary, vintage gardening tools, favorite flowers and seasonal things. Since I love ivy, topiary, terra cotta and moss...this is a no brainer for me. I love reading the little bit of scripture too.</div>
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I have bought one by this artist for the past 3 yrs. I love reading about her life and her ministry...building Churches in poor communities. She and her husband are working with volunteer groups to build <u>Mi Casa Children's Home in Mexico.</u>...soon many children will have a home. </div>
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So, as I hang my new calendar, I look forward to a new year. One filled with hope and promise. </div>
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I hope that you all have God's peace and I promise to continue with this blog as long as I am able. </div>
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Balisha</div>
Balishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-92140019115211411862014-12-31T07:39:00.003-08:002015-01-01T08:09:05.136-08:00Balisha's Garden 2014 Review and 1st New Year's Eve<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Sometimes I don't like those year end reviews on TV. So here I am following the crowd and taking you through my last year of gardening. I'll try to make it interesting. Here goes: </div>
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Spring came and my little garden by the drive started blooming. Daffodils and hens and chicks. In spring, we are thrilled by anything that blooms. We had a rough winter and this past spring was looked forward to like no other. The bloggers were lamenting the cold weather from east to west. Spring was a respite from all that weather, so that anything blooming was appreciated. Before long the mulch will be hidden.</div>
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Tulips and daffs. Such a little bouquet compared to some of the other bloggers gardens. This little planting is special to only me. It was a pot of springtime from my daughter years ago. I just plopped them in the ground as they were in the pot. They come back every year and I have divided and planted them in other places in the garden.</div>
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Mary's Garden just starting to take off. I'm not a good judge of how things will fill in. Always think I need a little more. Do you see those little hostas?</div>
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My little veggie garden in containers just starting out. One tomato, two tomato. Herbs and lettuce in the other pots around the yard.</div>
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The early hosta surprised me with lots of blooms this year. Must have been a good year for them. This is where I found the little green tree frogs.</div>
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Do you see how Mary's Garden is filling in? </div>
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Tim's garden filled in too. The orange lilies will have some company this next year. There will be a bit more orange in my gardens.</div>
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This hosta, one of seven, was so pretty. A bird built a nest in amongst the vine this year.</div>
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Purple coneflowers bloomed for so long. Some years their stems get a bit ugly, but not this year. They bloomed and bloomed. Great munching for the finches. </div>
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We put some planters out at the end of the drive. They were planted with just geraniums and did so well.....I will do that again this year.Our mail carrier had a bit of color with the red and then the yellow day lilies.</div>
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Here are the tiny tomatoes mixed in with the Purple Hyacinth Bean vines. A handful a day....some made it to the house :)</div>
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Birds dropped sunflower seeds in several places....sunflowers filled in where weeds might have. This one is in my stackable planter on the deck. We got to see the finches up close as they stole a seed or two.</div>
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Now this is a pretty flower. Star Gazer Lilies popped up in several places around the yard. They were brought in and graced our home with their beauty and fragrance.I seldom make bouquets from my yard. I love to see them growing outside.</div>
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A basket of tomatoes. Enough for us two. BLT's for lunch...yum!!</div>
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Black Eyed Susans and Japanese Anemones mix together well. They are indestructible and well worth the wait. </div>
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Can't forget the woods. It's the end of the growing season and this little bluebird house is empty. The Honeysuckle vines are turning yellow and gardening has come to an end. </div>
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Well, not really the end. There was still the dreaded fall cleanup. All the bloggers were dreading this, but we got it done. I did most of it, but the final raking out was done by the fellow who mows for us. The first year that I couldn't really get it all done. When we had our first frost...the yard was cleaned up and I could walk along the woods edge and sprinkle wildflower seeds. I think that the birds were following just behind me, but a few seeds will grow in the spring...always a surprise for me.</div>
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So, my year end post has been done. As I look back on the 2014 garden, I am thinking that I did quite a bit more than the past year. Doing things a little at a time is my way. I don't know what 2015 will bring......whether I'll be able to do more or less. My lesson from 2014 is to be patient....things will grow....things will fill in. </div>
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Balisha<br />
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As for New Year's Eve. We will go out for an early dinner in Rockford and then home to watch the new year come in in NYC. I'm making a couple of snacks for us.<br />
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We'll probably tell the old story of our first New Year's Eve, when Joe was in his house and I was in mine. His companion...Laddie the Springer Spaniel. Mine was Maggie the Cocker Spaniel wearing her party hat. We were on the phone and both watching the same show on PBS TV. He toasted the New Year with a martini and a steak and I had a little bottle of wine from one of those 4 packs and a lobster tail. We were getting the idea of marrying....thinking that we didn't want to spend New Year's Eve like that again. We got married 5 months later. The rest is history.<br />
Happy New Year to all....Hugs, Balisha</div>
Balishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-41979542696797030112014-12-29T11:25:00.002-08:002014-12-29T11:28:19.604-08:00This and That<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Christmas is almost over. We have one more celebration on the 4th. Did it seem like Christmas this year? I have heard several people say that it just didn't seem like Christmas to them. Maybe the fact that we didn't have any snow, but there are lots of places that never have any snow. Do those people get the Christmas blahs...I wonder.I seem to have those blahs today....so I will get out and visit my local grocery. Our fridge is sort of empty, after all the holiday feasting.</div>
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I rented a movie called <u>The November Man</u> over the weekend. I thought that Joe would like an action film. Then last night, he went to the video store and brought home <u>Magic in the Moonlight</u>. It was a film starring Colin Firth and Emma Watson. He knew that I would love this film. Loved the clothes....sort of like the clothes in Downton Abbey.(Can't wait for the 4th...when Downton starts the new season) We both enjoyed seeing the old cars and lovely gardens on the estate. A couple of days ago, I watched Truman Capote's <u>A Christmas Memory</u> starring Patty Duke. A cup of hot chocolate, an easy chair, my afghan and a wonderful film to enjoy. </div>
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I've developed a cough. It's a lot like and asthma cough. Chest gets tight and uncomfortable. I only cough here at home. As soon as I come in the door...I start in. I've tried to think of anything new that I have put in the house. My geraniums, that sit right next to me in the computer room, were just blooming. I decided to toss them. We just switched bed covers and I put the down comforter away. I love milk, but I have stopped drinking it. I've always been bothered by allergies. My son has asthma, grandson too. My brother is allergic to pine trees. Dad was allergic to down, and different cheeses, and he had asthma. Until I married Joe...I lived amongst smokers. My daughter and I were the only ones who were non smokers. At my yearly physical, I talked to the Dr. about this and he told me to try Musinex. He said my lungs are clear. So, here I am trying to find the culprit. Thinking that we will have the carpet cleaned. We usually do this in the early spring or fall, but I want to do what I can to stop this. Any ideas???</div>
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Well, it's nice to see the sun today. It was a nice trip to the grocery. Everyone is so kind...a pleasure to shop in our little town. So much more personal than the big stores. Friendly, helpful clerks at my beck and call. Help out to the car with my groceries. Friendly conversation. Recipe exchanges often. I know it's more expensive, but I have an argument for that. There isn't as big a selection in a small town store. Not so many temptations. If you watch the sales and make a detailed list...I do believe that you can spend about the same at each store...counting the gas that is spent for driving a distance. Maybe a little more at a small store, but the benefits are many. Joe prefers the big stores in Rockford, but I don't like the drive. So, he does 1/2 the shopping and I do the rest. It works out well for us. </div>
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Guess I better close. I have chop suey cooking for dinner. I was going to have shrimp stir fry, but since we have already had fish over the weekend, I decided to change the menu. Stir fry will come later in the week.</div>
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Have a nice day....Balisha</div>
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Balishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-30364738824251710702014-12-27T08:39:00.002-08:002014-12-27T08:41:45.572-08:00Our Christmas....So Far<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We spent Christmas day with Dan and Melody. Dan is Joe's son. Their home is always so pretty at Christmas time. I forgot to take a picture of their beautiful Christmas tree. Mel has been collecting white ornaments for years...for this all in white tree. She puts all the ornaments on herself...just so. When it's time to pack it all up...she is very particular about how it is packed. She also has a collection of stuffed Christmas animals. There are three stairways where they are displayed. She couldn't get all the animals out this year. She said, "We need a bigger house!"</div>
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These are so colorful with their white carpeting.</div>
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Dan carving the ham. He must have taken lessons from his dad. I loved watching the two of them as they moved from job to job...not getting in each other's way. The appetizer tray was delicious with Mel's homemade dip. The meal was excellent. Baked ham with pineapple, mashed potatoes and gravy, green bean casserole, tossed salad, rolls, and for dessert...cannolis. </div>
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We were treated royally on Christmas. They made us welcome and gifted us with several nice presents. We were waited on hand and foot. </div>
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It's nice to have Christmas spread out over a couple of weeks. We get to enjoy each family and really get to talk and visit with each other. Our next event is on the 4th of January...when we get together with the other members of the Cerasa gang.</div>
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My family Christmas was early...the 13th of December. Grand daughter, Xoie and her husband Kyle and little boy Clifford were home...so we did it early. My daughter and grandson Collin are in Ecuador as I write this. Today they are flying to the Galapagos. This was an early graduation gift to Collin from his aunt. Grandson, Tyler is in Florida with his girl friend's family, and my son, John is leaving to spend the New Year in Mexico. So, my family is scattered for the holidays. </div>
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Christmas is wonderful...no matter how you celebrate. Our Church plays a big part in our Christmas. We went to Mass on Christmas Eve and found our Church decorated so beautifully. The Christ child was in the manger and Christmas carols were sung for the first time this season. Today we will again go to Mass and then a Holy Day of Obligation on the 1st of Jan. With all the hustle and bustle of Christmas it's wonderful to find a peaceful place in our world. </div>
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Balisha </div>
Balishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-76103779907667386242014-12-24T07:31:00.002-08:002014-12-24T07:40:08.621-08:00The Last Christmas by Balisha<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
I was looking back at some of my old Christmas posts and found this one. Hope you enjoy it...B</h3>
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<a href="http://balisha-neverenoughtime.blogspot.com/2009/12/last-christmasa-story-by-balisha.html" style="color: #707070; text-decoration: none;">The Last Christmas...a story by Balisha</a></h3>
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<strong><span style="color: #006600;">Once upon a time in a cottage near the little woods, lived an elderly couple. They lived here alone, for many years, because they had no children. They had each other and were still very much in love. This was a hard year for the couple, because it was found that she was gravely ill. She would soon be leaving him all alone. Her husband tended to her every need, treating her very gently. He had lost the twinkle in his eye...it had been replaced by a tear. Each morning, as she sat by the window, in her rocking chair...he would bring her a cup of tea in a favorite china cup. There she would sit, watching her special chickadees...flying to and fro, carrying sunflower seeds to the little woods. He would prepare the tastiest meals...hoping to coax her to eat. Day by day...she was getting weaker. Christmas was coming but this year was different. No shopping in the village, no gingerbread smells coming from the little kitchen, no candles burning, and no Christmas decorations in the house. The days went by one after the other..until finally it was Christmas Eve. She went to the bedroom to try to take a nap...she often did this in the afternoon. Today she was feeling sleepy but sleep wouldn't come. She could hear her husband rummaging around the kitchen. What was he up to? She was too weak to get out of bed and investigate. It was getting dark...her favorite time of the day. She called it twilight time. On days, when she felt strong, she would sit in her rocker by the window...and watch night fall. She loved nights when the stars would twinkle like the lights in her husband's eyes. Sleeping a little now, she heard a noise coming from the other room. What was that sound? Away in a Manger filled the room...she heard little voices singing that familiar Christmas carol. Her husband came into the room and said, "I have a wee surprise for you, sweetheart." He went to the bed and picked her up in his arms...wrapping her old worn quilt around her. He took her into the living room where she saw his wonderful surprise. Clear glass jars with strings of tiny white Christmas lights in them, were placed everywhere.. making the room twinkle like a Christmas tree. She had tears in her eyes. Her husband had been busy in the kitchen emptying the storage jars and filling them with lights. It was a simple Christmas treat for his love....a memory in the making for him. She heard tiny children's voices filling the room with Silent Night. He carried her to the door and there on the porch was the children's choir...from St. Mary's. Little children in warm clothes, woolen scarves and tousled hats, with bright apple cheeks...were singing their hearts out. The couple stayed by the door until they were finished with their songs. They invited the children into the warm house. They had no cookies to offer, but gave them each a shiny red apple. This was the last Christmas that they would be together. Now several years later, as he sat in her rocker by the window, he thought back on that night...the night he had lit up his wife's world and made her eyes twinkle.</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: #006600;">Balisha</span></strong></div>
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Balishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7432737661978032207.post-2425398546073926522014-12-23T14:43:00.003-08:002014-12-23T14:43:58.675-08:00From Our House to Yours<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzYULx03chgDf-k5x1wA8Jmy3tfI-tp8shaYWXZieiFnfS42rckhK0ZkimBFnzfh5DGCuPkgd1NbD80XKNlwCxvQxOtzG6ACOkAbL-ZppLzZf0qgbqIz9RTOvkAQGWBpWia8_hpI3HIF65/s1600/100_0932.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzYULx03chgDf-k5x1wA8Jmy3tfI-tp8shaYWXZieiFnfS42rckhK0ZkimBFnzfh5DGCuPkgd1NbD80XKNlwCxvQxOtzG6ACOkAbL-ZppLzZf0qgbqIz9RTOvkAQGWBpWia8_hpI3HIF65/s1600/100_0932.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
From our house to yours....Merry Christmas!<br />
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The gifts are bought and wrapped, the house is decorated, the cookies are baked, the cards are mailed and now it's time for Christmas. We will celebrate at Mass tomorrow evening and then have dinner at Dan and Melody's on Christmas day. We will celebrate with Joe's side of the family on the 4th of January. We already had Christmas with my side on the 13th. So, you see....we just keep on celebrating. </div>
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I may be back here before Christmas, but if not....I just want to wish all my blogging friends the happiest of holidays. To those who aren't feeling up to par...get well soon. To those going through hard times...I hope that times get better for you. To those suffering a loss...take care and know that we bloggers stick together and help each other by reading and leaving heartfelt comments. </div>
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Merry Christmas....Love, Balisha</div>
Balishahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823703470631008618noreply@blogger.com14