Saturday's Catch up Post

 

You’re all so sharp—I knew you’d figure it out! Just having a little fun with you all. Keep those amazing brains working, huh? 

Happy Saturday! 

I will do some catching up with all of you about the last couple of days.

On Friday, my husband and his friend Patrick traveled to the college to set up their Friends of Israel table.  

With prayer surrounding them, they experienced a remarkable absence of confrontations—only positivity prevailed, and they were warmly welcomed by everyone who approached the table.

In addition to the Community College, we are blessed to have two Christian colleges in our midst. While we're still awaiting a response from Simpson, we are excited about Shasta Bible College. One of the professors visited their table and graciously invited my husband and Patrick to share their insights with students during Wednesday's Chapel on occasion.

How cool is that? 

It is inspiring to see many denominations striving to overturn the years, or even centuries, of replacement theology.

I went out with my son, Foodie, in the morning, which is always a nice visit. 

When I was alone, I stopped at a funky place that had a lot of metal art and sculptures I liked.

And these unique bird baths - 

This is my favorite. 

I visited the little market to check on the offerings at the farmer's stand. The farmer's wife informed me that her husband was currently  "ripping" the ground. This process is essential for loosening the soil, which improves its quality and prepares it for planting.

Heck, I'm a city girl - I had no idea. 

The dog was enjoying the freshly turned earth, relishing the cool, moist soil beneath his paws. 

On the farm, there’s always a task waiting to be tackled, particularly when the sun is out and the weather cooperates. 

I admire her unique and eclectic style rather than perfectly manicured yards. 

I love how she can turn just about anything into a container.

Amazing the pumpkins are still remaining intact and in good condition.

I've always wanted to try this... she's got a few "flower beds."

Spotted this heron...

Looks like she’s been working hard at her little stand. She’s got goats milk soap with blackberry sage and lavender scents.

4 berry Jams left 

Heart glass-shaped bath salts with dried roses and lavender grown on their farm.  

A sweet little Valentine's gift...

What an inspiring woman!

I think I mentioned once that she grew up on a dairy farm and has never left the farm life. 

I don’t get why I put myself in these situations. I had no cash at all! They go by the honor system, but I’d rather just come back with cash and buy more. I believe the honor system is great for situations like when you might be short a dollar or so. It’s more about helping each other out rather than just using it as a way to take things without paying.

This is Fire cider

This particular remedy seems to strengthen the immune system and can help prevent ailments commonly associated with cold weather. Its flavor is unique. Additionally, it has a potent aroma that some might describe as off-putting or pungent. 

I came home and got ready with my husband to go out to eat with Navy and his wife at my favorite Mexican restaurant, which was packed and loud. We usually dine out midweek, so I had to use my outside voice to talk. The food was delicious, and we had a great time. The lively, boisterous atmosphere created an energetic vibe that made the evening enjoyable.

It's a little after 5 pm and time for me to rustle something up for dinner. 

Enjoy your evening and I'll see you soon. 

Debby

Friday's This and That

If we all lived nearby, I would share some lemons, oranges, and mandarins with you.

The corner of my dining room has a delightful scent.

Today is a lovely day; it's 61 degrees and sunny. Sitting in the sun feels quite pleasant, but once the sun sets behind the mountains to the west, it gets cold.

Earlier this week, Susie received her new scratching post and her very own plant. I’ve mentioned how she munches on both real and artificial plants, but this one is safe for her to eat.

Once it was assembled, she quickly went over to scratch at it and paw at the foliage. I think she likes it.

No, I know she likes it. I woke up in the middle of the night to her running down the hallway and back into the living room, using her Stephen King meow. When I came out this morning, I saw her toys scattered all over the room.

Silly Cat

Today, I ran out to the market to get just a few things. I'm doing well, just using what I already have on hand but I always need milk, eggs, and some produce. 

Petaluma large eggs $10.96 

I buy eggs every week, so I usually just open the refrigerator at the store and take them out. Today, an elderly woman asked me if I had checked the price. I hadn’t, and I was shocked by what I saw.  Nevertheless, I bought them anyway. Laydee has an egg a day, and we eat the rest. Prices always rise in winter, and when you factor in the shortage, it leads to even higher costs.

I came home and put all the groceries away. Then, I noticed a package of cookie mix that I had recently won in a basket filled with various cake and cookie mixes, along with some baking utensils. I thought it would be a good idea to use them. The cookie mix was for macadamia nuts and white chips cookies. 

To prevent overeating, I make the dough and bake only enough for the day.

I must say, they were very delicious.

On these sunny days, we see the garden come alive again - This mum I've had for years now - I cut it down, and it grows back. 

I forgot to mention that my stepdaughter, Char finally got a job as a cashier at Walmart. She’s been there for about three weeks and is still in training. I really appreciate Walmart for hiring her despite her mental disability. So far, things are going well—she does have memory issues and can be slow at the register. Some customers have gotten frustrated with her for taking too long, but her trainer has spoken up for her.

Due to her SSDI and other benefits she receives, such as her housing subsidy and her care manager, she can only work a limited number of hours and cannot bring in more than $2000 combined income in a month. She started at $20 an hour. Amazing while my first job paid $1.65 an hour. Times have really changed! She receives several benefits, including free delivery for online purchases, free food delivery. 

The first Lavender 2025

My husband lost his car key fob, and it will cost us $460 to replace it at the dealership. We checked with locksmiths, and while the cost of the fob itself is one expense, the programming significantly increases the overall cost. We are still deciding whether it would be more beneficial to go through the dealership or to use a locksmith. Additionally, I am exploring a digital startup through the KIA connect app that utilizes our smartphones, to start and open our car -  I need to figure it out before presenting it to him.

All of this is currently pending.

Yesterday, my husband and his Tikfah friend, Patrick went to the two local colleges to ask permission to be on campus and set up a table about Israel, anti-Semitism, and Zionism. Shasta College is a community college, and Simpson is a Christian four-year liberal arts college. 

Shasta College was enthusiastic about it and approved them. They have permission for the rest of the semester. We are still waiting on Simpson. 

So they will have tables set up on Monday and Friday of next week.

 

And speaking of Israel - something you rarely hear from on the news

Israel also sent a team of highly skilled firefighters, who have stated that they will fully cover their own expenses without seeking reimbursement. In contrast, Mexico, Canada, and other states are being reimbursed, and there's nothing wrong with that. It's the norm but to think that little tiny Israel always steps up in a big way, shows how they continue to be a light to the nations. 

Margarette Daisies, I confess, are not my favorite, but my husband loves them. 

I cannot remember what these are—it seems that since the last iPhone update, I have been unable to identify the plants from my photos. I just refuse to add another app to my phone. All I know is that it is extremely drought-resistant and blooms profusely in the winter. They are a bush. 

Look for the bee! 

That is it for me this Friday. We are going out tonight, and tomorrow afternoon, we have a memorial to go to. 

I hope you all have a wonderful, cozy evening and a good weekend. 

Debby

Friday Forgots - A Surpise Box in December

 

Here's something I forgot to post - 

In December, we were blessed to receive a box from the Friends of Israel, a Ministry in which we volunteer. The box had invaluable resources for us to share with others. 

Who doesn't enjoy receiving a box filled with goodies? 

My husband received his box, and I received mine!

 We had no idea and weren't expecting it, so it was a pleasant surprise.

Volunteering with this incredible ministry and connecting with others around the globe through Zoom - brings a spirit of unity. We have Zoom meetings once a month and a monthly newsletter sharing what we have all been doing. Not to mention ongoing online training. My husband just finished some courses on:

 Zionism and Anti-Zionism - the History of Opposing Ideas.

Religious Anti-Zionism

The Middle East; Islamic and Arab Anti-Zionism

We have a variety of stickers available to distribute, and we offer a free subscription to "Israel My Glory," an excellent magazine that is available at no cost. We are reaching out to churches in the area to see if they would like to display this magazine in their lobbies and provide free subscriptions to interested individuals.

An inspiring read!

Empowering reading material to equip us 

Understanding your Jewish friends' customs alongside their culture enriches connections and inspires lasting friendships.

A wealth of handouts and guidance on serving, exploring diverse ways to inspire and connect.  

Engaging online classes and transformative immersion programs.

**Resource and Gift Catalogs**  

Explore the profound impact of giving with our 2024-2025 catalog, featuring the following initiatives:  

- The Holocaust Care Fund—a lifeline for elderly survivors across the globe.  

- Save a Life in Israel—providing essential trauma counseling centers for those in need.  

- A contribution of just $50 can fund vital medical care for one Jewish patient in Buenos Aires.  

- On a grander scale, you can sponsor a Jewish immigrant in their journey to make Aliyah.  

- Reach out to those in need in Ukraine and Eastern Europe—supporting Jewish communities in Ukraine, Poland, Moldova, Lithuania, Belarus, and the Baltic region.  

- Extend your love to the forgotten Jewish communities in Russia.  

Inspiring pamphlets to empower and enlighten the churches in our community.

Empowering our communities with more handouts to the churches and information tables on campuses, and we received t-shirts! 

My husband and Patrick, another member of Tikfah, are planning to set up a table at local colleges. Many students are misinformed about Israel due to social media and YouTube videos, so they will be handing out books and other materials to provide accurate information. FOI has informed us that they will send a box of supplies to support this effort, along with prayers for protection, as there are individuals on campus who may not welcome their presence. 

But knowing my husband and Patrick, 

they can both handle it! 

When we first met Patrick and his wife, Debra, they came to our house. As I opened the door, Debra and I instantly recognized each other from BSF, where she is also a discussion group leader!

Small World. 

So exciting times are happening around here - 

Keep looking up! 👀

Debby

A Friday Wrap-Up

Let's see what's been happening around the house this past week. 

Monday marked Veterans Day, and this year, was the first time I chose not to attend the ceremony. My husband, as always, participated allowing me those moments of solitude to focus on my studies. When he returned home, he brought with him two offers for complimentary sub sandwiches, each requiring a $3 donation that would contribute to the annual Christmas wreaths adorning the Veterans cemetery. 

Today, after I finished my grocery shopping, we decided to redeem the coupons since it was the final day to use them. The place was bustling with veterans, both young and old and in-between! Their bond was heartwarming, a true testament to the camaraderie that exists among them. We have a close-knit community of Veterans here, and pretty much everyone knows each other due to the various Veteran organizations: VFW, CalVet, DAV, American Legion, AM-Vets, and more. 

As it was my first visit to this place, I ordered their classic pastrami sub sandwich. It was a generous mound of tender, flavorful pastrami piled high on fresh toasted bread, melted cheese, tangy mustard, and crisp pickles. Each bite was delicious, a perfect combination of savory flavors. However, a couple of hours later, I began to feel uneasy. It seems that my love for pastrami has come back to haunt me, as I realized it no longer agrees with my stomach. After months of peace from IBS episodes, I now find myself adding one more thing to the growing list of foods I must avoid. 😬

I know the cure! I finally bought some mint chocolate chip ice cream for tonight! Yep, yep, that will help me! 

We have a Baby Boy

Monday turned out to be quite an eventful day, especially for the ladies of my Bible study group. One of the women joyfully announced the arrival of her third son! He weighed a healthy 9 pounds and 10 ounces.

Christine, from my Bible Study, underwent a hysterectomy on Tuesday. Now that it’s behind her, she feels relieved and grateful. The pain she had been enduring for so long will now be relieved. 

Brenda, who lives nearby and attends the church Bible study, was feeling overwhelmed after her husband underwent two complex back-to-back surgeries due to his substantial midsection. He was finally discharged from the hospital this past Tuesday, and in an effort to ease things, Brenda asked her sister to pick up dinner and his medications from Costco. 

Later that evening, Brenda called me in a panic, realizing Costco was closing in 30 minutes and her husband's pain medications were critical. Although I usually dislike driving at night, I appreciated that my husband was already getting ready to help. Just as we were about to leave, Brenda called again to say her sister had arrived. I was feeling the urgency in her stress. I'm glad it worked out. 

And last but not least -

My husband went to the VA to pick up his new hearing aids, which were specifically designed to help him manage his service-related tinnitus. He called me from the appointment, all excited as he shared that these hearing aids come equipped with Bluetooth technology. It means he can now talk to me directly through the devices without needing to hold his phone! It warmed my heart to hear how much this new feature delighted him. Great but can you hear? 

So far, he has reported a significant improvement in his condition; he barely hears the tinnitus that has been a persistent annoyance for him over the past several decades. It's a relief for both of us to see him finding some peace from that constant ringing in his ears. Plus, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that the VA not only covered the full cost of the hearing aids but also the batteries required for them. They’re really small and skin-toned, and I can’t see them in his ears.

Some maintenance issues came up unexpected - the kitchen faucet was loose and the garage door track was stuck so those were easy and quick fixes. 

We had a good rain on Wednesday. The kind where you can hear the pitter-patter on the roof and it continued all day. Thursday it rained a little in the morning hours and then cleared off, to display snow on all three mountain ranges- the north (Mt. Shasta) the East (Mt Lassen) and...

 the West 

(Shasta Bally and the Trinity Alps)   

And that my friends, means we are entering our beautiful rainy season, which is winter to us. It's getting off to a good start after years of a dry rainy season. 

We're looking at the next couple of days of no rain, followed by a solid week of rain! 

My trees are gonna  LOVE IT!

Have a wonderful Friday evening. 

Until next time,

Debby