A Different Kind of Grandparenting

The Lord directs even the smallest steps.

This morning marked the grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony at the NorthState Clinic. There was a prayer for protection, followed by a tour of the facility for anyone who hadn’t seen it yet. Many of the builders, electricians, plumbers, and everyone who contributed to the construction were in attendance.

It all smelled so nice and clean. 

They offer baby formula, brand-new car seats, new toys, and strollers, with all baby equipment required by state law to be new. The clothing is either gently used or brand new. The intake room is equipped with great washers and dryers, and I’d love to work in the boutique, though it seems to be a popular spot. Karen, the head of Volunteers, prefers I take on an advocate role since my husband is already coaching the young fathers.

I probably won't officially start until June. 

Everything is free for the new moms and moms-to-be. 

There is even maternity clothing. 

 

Directly across the street from this clinic is the Women’s Reproductive Health Clinic - a facility that performs abortions every Wednesday. That reality wasn’t apparent when they first looked at the building, but once known, it became an important part of how they understood the work God had placed before them.

That’s why the Christian community here, along with neighboring towns from all denominations, has come together to support this. 

In this season of our lives, God has gently filled the spaces we once thought would stay empty. Instead of grandchildren to hold, He’s given us little shoes to straighten, tiny outfits to fold, and young families to encourage. What a gift it is to stand right here, in the place He’s planted us, offering love and support to the ones who need it most. Our arms may not be full of our own babies, but our hearts are full all the same.

Hopefully I'll see you tomorrow. 

Debby

Stepping out and Stepping in

This first Monday of May has me feeling excited, as I am stepping out of one role and stepping into another or diving in as the photo shows...

Back in March, I decided to step back from BSF leadership starting next year, and I wanted to finish strong this year, and now it's done, with Wednesday being my last time. My fellow leaders are just finding out. Not only does it feel like Wednesday is the last day of school for me (remember that feeling), but it feels like I have graduated. It’s time to make room for something new, as my time as a Group Leader has served its purpose in my growth and served as a springboard to mentoring young women. Now I will be able to focus more on the training at the CareNet clinic, and I won't be overcommitting. 

I'll still be attending BSF - same group of ladies, and I mentored a gal from our group of ladies who agreed to lead. So the only thing that has changed is that I will be 20 hours a week lighter! 

At 72, I sometimes wish I had embraced all these opportunities that keep coming my way sooner - there just seems so much more I want to do and be involved in. I want to be out there in the trenches! I’m just grateful for my health and that I am still able and willing to say "yes" to God's nudges, even if it leads to moments of uncertainty. 

By letting go of “no” and “never,” I discovered new possibilities.  Change is healthy; it prevents life from becoming a routine that feels more like a rut. And who wants to stay in a rut? 

In the meantime, I told Karen at the clinic I could start in mid-May to mid-June. She understands that I do need a break. I'm forcing myself to take a break because deep down, I am so ready to get started. But this is a ministry with deep heartstrings, and one needs to be rested and refreshed. 

I’m really looking forward to some fun projects this summer! First up, I can’t wait to paint my fence. I’ve been thinking it’s time for a big, deep clean at home, and reorganizing things around the house, patio, and planting some beautiful flowers. Spending more time with my sons, maybe some fishing??  We're planning to go up to Oregon and over to Nevada. 

And of course, I can’t wait to explore more and revisit the backroads here in Far Northern California.  There’s so much more to see and discover before it is gone. 

Have a great week.

Until next time...or a thought suddenly sparks in my head and I have a burning desire to unload it all on you. 

Debby

I'm seeing the Light at the end of the tunnel

 

I’m not there yet, but I can see it. 

It's coming...

Yesterday was the last group discussion at BSF! I can’t wait for next week when we all get to kick back and listen to our ladies share their experiences from the past year and what God has been up to in their lives. 

We're starting bright and early, connecting with all the amazing leaders: group leaders, children's leaders, and admin! We’ll swap stories, enjoy some yummy food, and fellowship.  After that, we’ll gather in the sanctuary for the rest of the sharing from this year’s study on The Jewish Exile and Return to Jerusalem. 

And then, it’s summer break for me! I can’t wait! 

I was really starting to drag...

I’ll probably be posting more! 

After spending sometimes up to 20 hours a week preparing and then one morning on campus on Wednesdays from 8 am to noon, I’m left with the daunting question: 

What on earth will I do with all this

 free time? 

I don't dare say, or else I'm bound to disappoint myself. I'm better off with just saying - whatever strikes our fancy the moment we roll out of bed.

Yeah that works. No expectations! 

Okay, so I passed the background check. Guess I've been a good girl. 

 Once we finally make the big move to the new clinic that we’ve all been anticipating, I imagine the gears will really start turning.  I’m buzzing with excitement. By September, when BSF kicks off again with Romans, I should have most of my training wrapped up and be ready to roll.

The roses my husband planted at the clinic are blooming beautifully and looking really healthy!

He’s pleased. Before they set up the sprinkler system, he used to go over there and hand-water the plants himself.

He also picked up some daffodil plants on clearance. Mainly for the bulbs, but they’ll brighten up the garden with some color every January and February!

And speaking of flowers...

Oy vey! This Wax privet is really making things rough for me! As soon as I step out of my front door, that sickeningly sweet scent fills the air all around the neighborhood. I’ve had to keep my door and windows shut because it’s overwhelming. Even inside my house, I can smell it, and honestly, it’s not the best fragrance -  just too much sweetness! 

I’ve learned that for some flowers, the fragrant sensitivity can cause headaches, nausea, a sore throat, and some respiratory irritation. Thankfully, it doesn’t usually come with sneezing or a runny nose. The good news is that things improve when I can get away from it. But right now, they’re blooming like crazy!

I don't usually take medicine, but this season has been tough it gets into my chest and makes it hard to breathe deeply. So, I finally decided to grab some non-drowsy Allegra and the nasal spray, Flonase, that my doctor recommended last year. I sure hope it helps. 

Unfortunately, my morning and evening walks are on hold for now. I’m planning to test it out this weekend, and I really hope for some relief so I can enjoy the outdoors again! There’s just so much I want to do, and I really don’t want to resort to wearing a mask. 

Okay, that’s plenty for one post! I have things I need to do before my husband comes home from the college. I hope you're all savoring the little joys and vibrant moments that each day brings!

Now on to May! 

Until next time, 

Debby

The last Monday in April

The guys returned Saturday evening. Throughout the week, my youngest son kept me updated with texts, which I loved. He brought a satellite phone and GPS for safety since the Lost Coast is so remote. One message shared that they were relaxing on a cliff, eating their dinner, watching gray whales migrate, and enjoying the peaceful solitude. Isn’t that amazing? Being far from civilization and listening to the ocean waves, seagulls, and the excitement of the elephant seals molting season is such a beautiful way to connect with nature! Now that's living!

They were exploring the Lost Coast between Shelter Cove and Mattole Beach, where the tide can be tricky, and some areas become inaccessible at high tide. The beach is narrow, and those rocky cliffs drop into the ocean, so they need to be cautious and only access it at low tide. As a mom, it's tough not to worry, but I remind myself they’re grown men now. Trusting their judgment helps me feel more at ease, and I’m grateful for my dad’s advice to let them be men. Thanks, Dad!

This week, my town celebrated Kool April Nites, a 10-day classic car event that started in 1990 and is now the largest in Northern California. I attend every few years, as they all start to look the same.

The Redding Rodeo is a big moneymaker for our town. In just a couple of weeks, this local classic will be back again. Busy time of the year around here. 

We've been enjoying our evening walks after dinner around 7 PM. This time, we decided to stroll up to the neighborhood pond, then we crossed the road to where a rather unfriendly man lives. I didn’t feel comfortable taking a photo of his house, which is on the left side. 

Back on this road are many ranches 

and white fences 

From this spot on the top of this little hill, we could hear the lively sounds of the crowds and cars from the Kool April Nights parade, just a few miles away. 

I much prefer the quiet sounds of this time of the evening. 

Starting to get dark, so we headed home. 

A Waxleaf Privet

I'm really allergic to this bush that's blooming right now. My husband had to pull them all out of our yard, so I'm fine as long as I stay at home. They pollinate in the mornings and evenings, and when they do, I get a terrible headache, and it becomes hard to breathe. There were some along the path during our walk, and as we went up the little hill, which I can usually handle, I felt like I was 100 years old and struggling to breathe. The only other tree that triggers my allergies this badly is the Acacia. It seems like my reactions are getting worse as I get older. I wonder if wearing a mask would help with the symptoms?

Are you allergic to any plant or flower that causes you some distress? 

On Saturday, I came across these charming wooden takamakura pillows and couldn’t resist bringing them home! I just set them on the shelf for a quick photo, but I still need to give them a little cleaning and add a touch of distressing. Can’t wait to see how they turn out!

I've always had a special fondness for Japanese accents in my decor! It takes me back to my childhood when my best friend, Taddi, who was Japanese, would invite me over to her traditional home. I loved spending time there! It's no surprise that she became a talented surgeon and now lives in Portland, Oregon. From what I hear, Portland has a vibrant Japanese community, which is perfect for her!

Well, they could definitely use a good cleaning and a little love, but I'm really liking them! I think I might dig out some items my dad brought back from Japan and Korea when he was on leave during the Korean War. We'll see. I’d love to add a photo of him, too. His birthday is coming up on May 11, and I know he always cherished his time in Japan. 

IN OTHER NEWS

The Care clinic will be moving into its new facility this week, so that is exciting. All my references have come in - now I have to get my background check and then take the two-hour course for mandate reporting and exam per the state. Things are moving along. 

Isn't it crazy that we're almost to May? It doesn't seem possible. Time just keeps whizzing by, and I'm still standing here wondering what happened. Did time always go this fast? 

Hopefully, after this week, I'll be able to post a bit more during the week. We'll see. 

Until next time...

Debby

Bloom where you're planted

 

My dad planted these roses over 20 years ago...

Isn't this absolutely beautiful? It really brings a smile to my face, especially since my husband cut back on the roses quite a bit this past Fall. My roses usually bloom in winter, spring, and Fall but this year was a bit different due to the drastic pruning; they skipped the winter, but they are coming in now abundantly and beautifully. But hey, better late than never!

You know, I'm a little different from most folks. I like to keep my roses and flowers in the garden. If I want some for the house, I just pick some up at the store. I love keeping all that color in my yard, for the bees and butterflies, plus my cat really enjoys munching on them if I have them in the house. As I get older, I've noticed that some floral fragrances tend to give me headaches. But those pink roses? They always remind me of the fragrance of the rose milk body lotion from back in the day! 

Does anyone else remember the Rose Milk body lotion? 

I've got some of the red ones coming in, too! Dad planted these as well.  They're lovely, but I have to say, the pink ones really take the prize for fragrance.

And of course, our California poppies that just "pop" up where they want.  This is the time of year when they are blooming all over - 

The Pregnancy Clinic hasn't opened yet, so last week my husband and I went over to plant in preparation for its opening. Not only does he "coach" the young father-to-be, but he seems to have taken over the gardening as well, and I guess I am his helper.

Since it's just five minutes away (very convenient for us) and the sprinkler system isn't turned on yet, either he or I will go over and bring our hose to water the newly planted bushes until this Friday when the system gets turned on.

They are hoping for an opening on April 22.

My goodness! Because they had to tear down walls and make some electrical changes, they had to jump through many bureaucratic hoops, which delayed the opening from Jan to now April 22.

We planted a few lavender plants, and the daffodils were already there, spread across the dirt and mulch.

By 9am this morning, we were on the Sacramento River Trail. Nice spring day for a beautiful walk. Not really a hike - it's a trail for walking, biking, scooters, and is handicapped accessible. 

It's that time of the year for the spring melt from the mountains and frozen lakes. 

 I can already tell the river is high. 

It is so peaceful. I saw many ospreys and vultures - quite a bit, actually. 

Poppies are just beginning to bloom here -

This shrub in the buckthorn family (Rhamnaceae) is known as Lemmon's ceanothus. It is endemic to California, where it grows on the wooded slopes of the Inner North Coast Ranges, the Sierra Nevada foothills, respectively, of the Sacramento Valley. The abundant flower clusters are clusters of pale to bright blue or purple flowers. 

The Manzanita tree! 

Native to California, the Manzanita tree thrives in our Mediterranean climate. It's drought and fire-resistant, making it quite resilient. Additionally, it has medicinal uses, aiding headaches, poison oak issues, and stomach problems.

 

While hiking, and it's HOT, its bark can be up to 11% cooler, earning it the nickname "Refrigerator tree." Resting your head against it can provide a refreshing coolness! I learned this survival tip in Girl Scouts, and it has stuck with me ever since!

Snowdrop (this has various names) 

We pulled into the driveway right at noon. After lunch and a short power nap, my husband is now mowing the lawn, and I'm here posting to you all while doing my laundry. Well, actually, the washing machine is doing all the laundry. I'm just sitting here. 

This Easter was quiet, just my husband and me at home. Our adult kids were working, which I've come to accept as a reminder to "bloom where you're planted." Plus, they are serving others, and that makes it all worthwhile. 

 

Volunteering at the pregnancy clinic is a blessing for my husband and me - I'm already hunting for baby clothes on sale for the Boutique. When I visited the clinic on Thursday, they hinted I might work in the Boutique.  I'm excited about this program's impact on the community, though I likely won't start until after our BSF semester ends on May 6.

 

I'd best be moving on -  I have clothes to fold and a kitty that needs attention. Susie loves to watch me fold laundry. It's a game. 

Until Next Time, 

Debby

The Evening That Was Never About a Dress

I was there a good hour before it started. 

💗

Last night, my husband and I attended a fundraiser Gala for a ministry very near and dear to my heart for personal reasons. This crisis pregnancy clinic serves young women and protects the lives of the unborn.

Back in November, I had written about this -  how the local Christian community in our area came together to raise one million dollars to buy the building, and another church bought and donated 2 acres to the clinic - outright.

 No mortgage and enough operating funds for one year. 

A definite God-job!

The clinic will be opening on April 15, Lord willing. 

SORRY NO DRESS PHOTO

I really appreciate your sweet requests to see a photo of me in my dress. It means a lot that you care about the little details of my life! However, I have always chosen not to share photos of myself or my family for privacy reasons and to keep this space focused on other topics. I'm not always perfect at sticking to that goal, but it’s something I aim for. 

Honestly, after last night’s event, sharing a photo didn’t quite feel right. The evening was all about celebrating life, supporting young women in need, and recognizing the quiet, impactful work being done to help them. I know you completely understand where I’m coming from. 

They organized a fantastic silent auction filled with amazing deals! You could find everything from delightful $50 gift baskets to a dream trip to Tuscany, plus some incredible getaways to Hawaii. There were also some fun Bay Area adventures available, like fishing on the bay, sailing, boating around San Francisco Bay, and exploring Wine Country. It was such a great opportunity to snag something special! 100% of everything collected went to the clinic. Someone even paid for the venue there at the Sheraton. 

My husband has been volunteering as a coach for young dads, and it’s been such a rewarding experience! After years of discipling Christian women through divorce, the staff has suggested placing me in a similar role, focusing on young moms.

 

I’m just so grateful for the chance to serve, and honestly, I’d be happy to help out in the baby boutique if that’s where I’m needed. It’s funny to think that I used to work in the infant and maternity department at Macy's—a little blast from the past!

 

I can't believe I only have about 7 weeks left in my leadership role with BSF! I'll spend a week with the kids, take a break for Easter, then I'm off until September. It feels like the right time to transition into a new ministry over the summer with a 6-month training program ahead.

In the end, it made me realize that fussing over my dress didn’t matter as much as the real purpose of the evening. 

ON THE HOMEFRONT

We've been having such a lovely, warm spring lately -  hitting the high 80s. And 94 degrees at my place yesterday.  We still have a bit more of our rainy season, though, which starts to taper off in April.

 

Last night, we had a little frog right under our bedroom window, croaking away all night long! I was so tired that I actually slept right through it, but it reminded me of what I wrote about yesterday - regarding how wildlife responds to the spring equinox. This morning, I woke up to the delightful sound of even more birds chirping at sunrise! It’s such a beautiful reminder of the changes happening in nature.

It's truly a wonderful season, isn't it? 

Until Next Time,

Debby

And So, I Remain Grateful

Almond Blossoms

My husband and I have been amazed at how God has filled our retirement days. We prayed for purpose and direction, and He answered in a BIG way.

I feel I am living my best life right now, and I couldn't be happier.  I’m grateful for every opportunity we’re given, knowing that there will come a day when our energy, strength, or health may limit what we can do. My only regret is not stepping into this season sooner. I always had an excuse for not taking on more risks.  I wish I could have more good years to pour out what God has so generously poured into me.

Sure, there are times when I think we should be traveling, after all, that was the original plan. But to be perfectly honest, it doesn't interest me at this time.  I did pray to God, that I wanted to serve Him in bigger ways than ever before. I finally wanted to step away from excuses and step into what He wanted. More of Him and less of me! 

Two days of the week feel like a gentle whirlwind with my husband and I. We're like two ships passing in the night, crossing paths briefly in the morning before heading in two different directions with purpose. 

 It's all good.

Isn't this fun?

This week at Bible study, the ladies surprised me with an AI-generated cartoon made from a photo they took of me. It took barely a minute; there it was, and it pretty much captured me right down to exactly what I was wearing. So sweet of them. I love these women God has placed in my life. 

I’m truly grateful for my Thursday carpool with Debbie! Each week, we share an hour together—thirty minutes each way before our Isaiah study.  Her engaging conversations keep me interested, but I really need to pay attention to driving.  She joked that she has a “directional disability,” and yes, this is true. The other day, she had me switching lanes at the last second in busy traffic. By God’s mercy, we arrived safely.  

 

Rosemary in Bloom

With so many bushes, trees and flowers starting to bud and bloom, I’m starting to envision time spent in the garden this spring and summer, although the blessing of rain continues to dominate the forecast. Yesterday, the windows were open, fresh air moving through the house. Next week promises daily rain. 

For Valentine’s Day, the husband and I are leaning toward a brunch, skipping crowded restaurants and leaving evening reservations to young, blossoming love. Brunch feels fitting for us. (much cheaper!) We had hoped to go on a hike, but the weather may force us to switch to plan B. 

(whatever that is) 

And then woven through all of this is a sorrow that never fully fades.

A photo of my grand-niece and nephew at their mother’s gravesite breaks my heart.  Nina, my niece, passed away in November 2020, and now I only see her children through pictures shared by my former brother-in-law on social media that my son grabs for me. 

I wonder if they ever think of me? 

I am the only one left. I keep a suitcase filled with Nina’s little treasures, photos, and such, and also with my sister's things that I know she would want them to have. Perhaps, one day, they might look for me. Hoping they will want to know more about their maternal family through the small tokens they have left behind.

I can’t visit her gravesite in Sacramento due to their strict guidelines, and that is best. 

It's just a grave. 

Isn't that just the way life is for some? You have your good, and then you have sorrow, and all of it rests safely in His care. I will remain grateful. 

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend doing whatever you want. 

Until Next time, 

Debby