Tuesday Four ~ Four Seasons, Four Questions

 

Welcome to Toni Taddeo's Tuesday 4...

Join here. 

1. Do you have a favorite day of the week and how about  a favorite month of the year? Why?

I  love Mondays! A brand new week always looks so good to me.

There's something about the Autumn months that makes me so happy. The cooler temperatures feel refreshing, and I can't help but look forward to a cozy, rainy winter after we’ve had such a hot and dry summer. 

2. What’s the most beautiful or magical thing about each of the four seasons?

We start with Spring, which heralds the arrival of new life, as vibrant blooms burst forth and the world awakens from its slumber. Our new life is found in what Jesus did for all of us - awakening us from our slumber. 

Then we transition into summer, it’s a time to relax and savor the warm weather - enjoying long, sunny days.

Autumn arrives, painting the landscape in rich colors of orange, red, and gold. A season of abundance that brings harvests and a sense of gratitude for the year’s blessings. 

Finally, winter comes, blanketing the earth in glistening snow, and for us on the west coast, we see our winter rain. We also get to pause and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.  This is a time for rest, contemplation, and the joy of cherished moments spent with loved ones, as we celebrate the blessings life offers us.

3. Summer is coming... what does this mean in your life? How will things change, stay the same,etc?

I’m retired now, so life hasn’t changed too much, but I do find myself coping with those scorching 105+ temperatures and keeping an eye out for forest fires nearby.  It’s that time of year when we get our “go packs” ready, check that we have new hoses that work, and turn on the Watch Duty fire app on our phones for real-time notifications. Also, make sure we have our neighbors' phone numbers as well. We don’t venture too far from home during the summer months because we have a cat at home. However, we really enjoy the beautiful mornings outside, and by noon, we’re grateful to be cooling off indoors with the AC on! In the summer, we get up just before dawn so we can have as much outside time as possible. 

4. What do you look forward to in each season?

It is a new beginning, and every season brings something different to each of us. 

Thanks for the FUN! 

Debby

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Tuesday Four - Jobs

Hello!  It's time again for Toni Taddeo's Tuesday 4, and I am happy you stopped by to join in.

This week's idea for questions came from Pamela Steiner, and it's all about your occupation and work.

I think that's a great idea, so here are questions for you to ponder.

1. What did/do you do for work, and how long did you work in that position? 

From August 1977 to June 2000, I was a stay-at-home mom to my three sons, and truly, that was my main career and passion. 

For 16 of those years, I also ran a licensed daycare out of my home called Kidcrossing, specializing in infants, toddlers, and twos.

Living in Silicon Valley, I saw a growing need as more and more moms entered the workforce and needed reliable childcare. At the same time, I was facing instability in my marriage and realized I needed a way to support myself if it ever came to that. (which it did) 

And with my son Michael’s disability, leg braces, and medical needs at the time, traditional daycare wasn’t an option for him. So I built something that allowed me to be present for him and provide for my family.

Looking back, I can see how God was already making a way before I even knew I would need one.

What started as a need became a thriving business.

When I first opened, I charged $88 a week per child. By the time I closed to become a live-out nanny, I was charging $275 a week per child for six children.

Let’s just say… location, location, location! 😄

Now I don't know how people can afford childcare. 

2. Of the jobs you've had throughout life, which was your favorite? 

 Hands down, it was being a mom. No competition.

My own mom stayed home, and that example shaped me more than I probably realized at the time. One thing led to another: being a mom led to running a daycare, which led to becoming a nanny once my boys were grown and off to college and the military.

I loved my daycare years, and I especially loved my 12 years as a nanny. My Nanny kids are now in their mid-20s, which makes me feel both proud… and slightly old. 😉

One recently earned her PhD from Northwestern University and works in sustainable chemistry. Her twin brother is a senior mechanical engineer in the aircraft industry, and their younger sister is also a chemical engineer.

Watching them grow up has been one of the sweetest “paychecks” of my life. I'm still close with the parents. They are an extended part of my family. 

Tell us why you loved your job. 

Because I was there.

For the after-school talks, the sick days, the summer, the Christmas vacations… all of it. My sons never had to wonder if I’d be home; they knew. And to me, that was worth more than any title or paycheck.

That kind of presence felt more like a calling to me, not just a role.

Caring for these little children has always been my true passion, and it has really helped me be a great mom! It’s a bit funny to think that even with all this love, I won’t have any grandchildren of my own. 

I would have made a good one. 

3. What did your job entail? 

Well… loving children, for starters. But also running a full-fledged business out of my home.

I had contracts, policies, and routines (because toddlers without structure? No, thank you 😄). I even put together a monthly newsletter that parents actually enjoyed reading.

We built a little family-like community, annual alumni summer BBQs at the park, Christmas parties, and Halloween BBQs during our neighborhood block party (which just so happened to be excellent advertising… totally by accident… of course 😉).

I stayed full with a waiting list, especially for infants, and created a monthly curriculum for my toddlers and twos to keep their little minds busy and growing.

Did it require special education?

Yes, I earned my early childhood education certificate, kept up with the required yearly training in child development, nutrition, and safety, and business classes. 

Because behind every “just playing with kids” or "you're just a babysitter" comment… was a woman running a successful business. 😊

4. List all the jobs/occupations you have had.

A few days after graduating from high school, I began my working journey at California Dental Service in San Francisco. The position offered me a salary that was notably high for someone of my age, allowing me to gain financial independence quickly. With my newfound income, I was able to secure my first apartment, which was a junior one-bedroom with an ocean view. Additionally, the following year, I made the significant purchase of a brand new car. I loved living on my own with no roommates. I honestly think those TV shows, " That Girl " and the Mary Tyler Moore show, influenced me. Fun fun times, and it gave me the confidence I would need years later when I would be solely responsible for my three young sons and myself. 

I also worked part-time at Macy’s in the Children’s World department. Just 13 hours during the week and a 5-hour Saturday shift. The real perk? Keeping my boys clothed with that employee discount! 

I’ve always had a little side hustle going direct sales, crafts… you name it. I guess you could say I’ve always been a bit of a scrapper. Oh, and I have been with Avon since the 1980's. I no longer sell to people - I order once in a while to keep my discount. I keep waiting for them to fold, and after 135 years, they're still plugging away. 

My last business venture was with Kannaway in 2010, a CBD, hemp, and wellness company with a yearly trip to Denver for the Cannabis Cup. Now that was a trip. 😇

I found myself officially “retired” when all three of our adult children fell on hard times, moved back home at the same time, and the house was full again! It was a delicate situation, especially since they were used to living on their own and wanted to still live life on their own terms. (Cooking bacon at 2am while the rest of the house is sleeping) It took a lot of adjusting as we navigated this temporary season together. There were some challenges, but after a couple of years, they all found their own places again, and I was so happy for them to leave.  It was a wild ride, but I’m grateful for the memories we made during that time! Now they appreciate it all, with one of them knowing what it is like to have never-ending house quests. So what goes around eventually comes around. 

And when I look back over it all, I can see how each season had its purpose, even the unexpected ones.

I appreciate you all taking the time to visit. I've had a wonderful time reflecting on everything, and like all of us, I am sure there’s still a treasure trove of thoughts and experiences we didn’t even manage to share.

Take Care,

Debby

A Dollar Tree Haul, Calla Lillies and a Tuesday 4

The other day, we found a lost dog in our neighborhood. After we wrangled him, brought him into our front yard to get a leash, my husband walked around the neighborhood with him, hoping to find his owners. After about 20 minutes, nothing. However, I did see a white car driving up and down the street, and she saw my husband and her dog!

So, Scout and his owner were reunited, and they live just up the street.

Their daughter used to sell us Thin Mints.

I know, you might be wondering what this has to do with

 Calla Lilies.

She asked if we wanted to dig up her Calla Lilies. My husband feels nostalgic about these flowers. As for me, not so much - I remember when I lived in Pacifica, they seemed to attract every snail and slug.

But when you're married, there are give-and-takes. So off my husband went, wheelbarrow in hand, to haul back the Calla Lilies to plant in the backyard. Once the rainy season ends next month, we'll face an eight-month dry spell. Snails and slugs don’t like that, which works out well for me. He’s planning to plant the lilies on the hill and around the yard, and he’s really enjoying it. Half my garden is made up of cuttings from neighbors. People don’t share like that as much anymore. When I was a kid, it was common to ask for a cutting, and people would happily give you one. Every geranium or fuchsia I’ve had started from a cutting, a snip, or a transplant, and all my irises and lilies came from a friend.

Dollar Tree Haul 

I decided to swing by the Dollar Tree to grab something specific - a deviled egg carrying container with a lid. At our little get-together last week at BSF, a lady brought deviled eggs in this container. She let me take some leftovers home and mentioned she got the container at Dollar Tree. 

The moment I walked into the store, I couldn’t help but notice these beautiful glasses - they’re just my color.  

They’re the perfect match for my kitchen cabinets!

 (although the photo doesn't pick that up) 

A couple more dish towels and pot holders 

I found this little garden sign that I will hang over the archway in my garden! Everything I got was under $20. It’s hard not to reminisce about the days when each item was just a dollar. It really would have been a bargain haul; I could have scored it all for $10! Oh, how times have changed! Grrrrrr! 

 Welcome back to another Tuesday 4 

👇

In Like a Lion- Out like a Lamb

They say March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb.  

  March 29-31 are the "borrowing days," when the weather is traditionally rough or stormy, and the month was named for Mars, the god of war, because March was the time for the start of wars.

1.  What brings out the lion in you? What brings out the lamb? 

My first thought is the Lion of Judah! 

I'm a lion for those who can't defend themselves, like vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly in poorly run care facilities, and animals that are treated badly. And injustice brings out the lion in me as well.  ROARRRR!

The Lamb of God

Lamb:  I get emotional when I hear the word of God. and beautiful worship.  I melt over the innocence of newborn babies, precious animals, and Creation in all its forms.

* I didn't use my family because that's a given. 

2. What are you enjoying in terms of TV, movies, or books right now?

We started a couple of months ago, rewatching all the Survivor seasons from Season 1, working our way up to Season 50, which is currently on, and we will continue until we get to 50. Right now we're on season 37. 

Books: I am currently trying to tackle a book recommended to me, called Flatland, by Edwin A. Abbott, written in 1884.  I like it so far, but it's a thinker. 

3. It's Spring now... are you happy to see it come?  Will you be going out more?

Yes, it's always nice to welcome in a brand-new season, and yes, we'll be out more. We're pretty much outside year-round, except if it rains or is 110 degrees.  

4. Create an ideal weather scenario for each season. The perfect weather for summer, spring, autumn, and winter. 

I thrive in a dry climate because humidity and heat drain my energy and make me feel clammy.

Here, I enjoy very low humidity and mild temperatures year-round, except in summer, when temperatures can reach 115+, which is expected since we are in the northern part of the Central Valley. My town is considered the Sunniest town in California and the 2nd sunniest town in the US according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) 

Thanks for dropping by. 

Until next time

Debby

Tuesday 4 - Things About You

 

Things About You

 Welcome to  Tuesday 4. 

This week, you are the topic. 

Join here

1. What is something you are proud of that we don't know about?

I'm proud of my firstborn son, Michael. Born with a rare bone dysplasia that caused severe dwarfism, his diagnosis came as a shock when I was 23, yet from the beginning, Michael met life with courage and determination. Despite significant medical and physical challenges, he grew into a bright young man who excelled academically, graduated from college, and was preparing to begin his master’s degree when he suddenly passed away from a massive heart attack. Along the way, this remarkable child also led me to Christ. At just eight years old, his simple, sincere faith brought me to Jesus. I am proud of Michael not only for what he accomplished in 25 years, but also for his quiet strength, faith, and love, through which God touched so many lives, including my own. 

2. What subject or things are over rated or talked about too much in your opinion.?

There are many things I believe are overrated or talked about too much - but I'm not talking about it. 

3. What things and topics should be talked about more often or are under rated in your opinion?

Mental health crisis and homelessness.

4. Are there any things you've changed your mind about in the last few years?

During and after the pandemic, I changed my mind about many things. You learn from what you live, and that was an awful time. Each year I live, another layer is added to the things I won't do anymore. 

Thanks for dropping by. 

Debby

Tuesday 4 - We've Got Questions

 

We've Got Questions

Welcome once again to Toni Taddeo's Tuesday 4.  

 Join here

1. Where did your mother and father grow up? 

My mom grew up in Dayton, Ohio. She was a city girl. 

Dad was a country boy and grew up in Eastern Tennessee, in the Cumberland Gap plateau of Appalachia. 

 

 2. Where did you grow up? 

The last place before we moved to Pacifica.

I lived in 3 different houses in San Francisco's Cole Valley near Haight Ashbury in the 60's (same street) and then grade 4 we moved to Pacifica, Ca. 

 I really was a scrappy city kid. Growing up in the city was fun and it had its perks, like independence, meeting people from different backgrounds, exploring cool places, riding public transit, and trying all kinds of food. I picked up street smarts back then that has been valuable throughout the years.

Then Everything changed ...😩

when we moved to Pacifica, a town so new it felt unfinished. That first year, I hated it. I missed my friends and was convinced nothing exciting ever happened there. It was not as vibrant as living in the city. The only good thing was the Pacific ocean, was just two miles from my front door step.  As the years passed, the beach became my sanctuary.

I carry so many fond memories, in both places and as Charles Dickens so eloquently put it,

It was the Best of Times and the Worst of Times. 

3.What was your favorite meal your mother made? What is your favorite recipe to make?

It's hard to pinpoint just one meal - I only wish I could enjoy one of her meals now. I'm looking forward to a home cooked meal from mom, when I get to Heaven.  You think???  🤔

My favorite recipe? I'm at the point, where I am looking for new recipes. I am burnt out from all the cooking throughout the years. 

4. What are the advantages you enjoy where you live?

A slower pace than I grew up with. Who knew, I would appreciate less noise, no traffic, fewer expectations, and more space to breathe.  

 People here are nice, friendly and laid-back. We have a strong sense of community with events happening all the time. We're the gateway to outdoor recreation - both summer and winter! I’m grateful to live somewhere that matches the season of life I’m in.  

“I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances” (Philippians 4:11).

 The main downside here is our summer heat. We don’t use a “feels like” temperatures around here.  What you feel is what you get. When it’s 119 degrees, it really is 119. We’re known for our extremely hot weather and very low humidity. The dry heat can actually be beneficial if you have osteoarthritis. 

Here's a post explaining why we're so hot here. 

https://myshastahome.blogspot.com/2025/07/why-is-my-town-one-of-hottest-cities-in.html

So that's it with this Tuesday 4. 

I can't wait to read all of your answers.

God Bless. 

Debby

Tuesday 4 - Housekeeping, Chores and White Sales

Tuesday 4 welcomes you - 

To join in, click here 

Can we talk about housekeeping and chores today since January was usually the time for white sales and replacing linens and towels for the household.

I recall the white sales in January back when I was working at Macy's. There were major sales throughout January, and, along with my Macy's employee discount, I always scored substantial savings on high-quality bedding, etc. 

1. My mother ironed sheets and pillowcases. I iron the cases but not the sheets.  I feel that the cases feel better after ironing and I like the fancy ruffles etc  to look better.   

What do you do?  Is ironing a waste of time for you?

I no longer iron, but still keep the ironing board and iron, just in case. It's not so much a waste of time, but if I take my clothes out of the dryer, there is no longer any need. 

MEMORIES: My mom ironed our sheets and pillowcases until she got a dryer and percale sheets! But she continued to iron the pillowcases - all while watching As the World Turns. 

Later, as I got older, I was given the job of ironing pillowcases and Dad’s handkerchiefs, and tableclothes, too.  

2. A few friends really enjoy ironing.  Are there any articles of clothing you iron?  And do you send clothing to the dry cleaner?

I used to enjoy it years ago. I would iron a piece of fabric or the hem if I were sewing. 

No, I no longer send anything to the dry cleaners. No need. 

3.  Home is enhanced by good cooking, clean rooms, freshly made beds, quilt and the lovely touches women bring to things.

What special touches do you put on your home to make it special, cozy, and warm?

No special touches - just keeping my home clean and uncluttered, and I try to rotate decor so as not to overwhelm the senses and still try to keep that minimalist look I prefer. I love to air out my home with fresh air when I can. 

What makes my home warm and cozy are the people in it: my husband and my two beloved pets, Laydee and Susie. 

A dog lying in her bed or on the sofa feels cozy! 

Just as a cat curled up in a favorite chair makes a house feel like a home.

*They both wouldn't cooperate, so I took their photos anyway. 

4. Do you recall Mom or Grandma sprinkling and ironing clothing?  Was there a laundry day set aside and an ironing day?   What is washday like at your house? 

I remember my mom sprinkling the clothing before ironing. Laundry day was Monday, and she ironed on Tuesday.  I was in school, so by the time I got home, clean sheets were on my bed, and I had a pile of folded clothing to put away. 

Tuesday Four - Just Wondering

Mt Shasta last year looks like the cover of a Christmas Card, doesn't it? One of the prettiest photos I ever captured. 

I can hardly believe that tomorrow is Christmas Eve, followed by Christmas Day! It amazes me how quickly time passes. Blink, and we'll be in another new year 

Tuesday 4. Join here. 

https://tuesdaysplace.blogspot.com

1. When was the last time you tried something new? 

I avoid crowds. I typically prefer smaller gatherings, but the recent  excitement surrounding our town's Christmas Tree lighting and the grand opening of the much-anticipated public market drew me in! Although the event was bustling with crowds, (practically shoulder to shoulder) I found it to be a delightful experience. The atmosphere was vibrant and cheerful, and everyone we met was so friendly.  It was a wonderful evening filled with warmth and community spirit. 

 2. Who in your family do you compare yourself to?

My Dad - 

He was quiet, a deep thinker and he liked working with his hands.  He gave me my love for the great outdoors. He was an entrepreneur and  he had a successful business. 

The older I get the more I am amazed at how much we are alike. But without leaving Mom out of the equation, I'm noticing her influence as well. 

 3. What lesson in life did you learn the hard way?

Having lived the first 30 years of my life, doing my own thing, I eventually learned through the natural consequences of that selfish life that my life was out of control - I wasn't happy and I needed to change my ways, and follow God. Over 40 years now and I'm grateful every single day! 

 4. What can you do today that you weren't able to do before.

I say, "NO" real good now! 

Thanks for stopping by. I know the next couple of days will be hectic, for all of us.  May you all reflect on that precious Babe in the Manger and be truly blessed by His first coming and ever expectant for His second coming. 

Debby

Tuesday 4 - Thanksgiving

 

 Welcome, welcome to 

Toni Taddeo's Tuesday 4 

What are your Thanksgiving Days like?

We're enjoying perfect sunny weather! It’s the ideal time to enjoy the outdoors without being stuck inside cooking.  I'm looking forward to our family dinner at my daughter-in-law's house this Friday. 

On Thursday, I invited our two single adult kids to join us for a cozy lasagna dinner. It will be nice to connect and share a meal! We'll see them the next day as well. I never have my fill when it comes to my boys. 

1. Do you celebrate with family, friends, or by yourself?

Family and whoever needs a family. My middle son has brought home the homeless to our table many times. 

2.  Do you watch the Thanksgiving Day parade from Macy's in New York City?  The appearance of Santa at the end signals the start of the Christmas season.  What does the day hold for you?

I don't watch the parade. 

For me, the day after marks the joyful start of Christmas! It’s our tradition to bring out the Christmas tree, pack away Thanksgiving, deck the halls, play festive music, and transform our space into a cozy Christmas home.

3. What foods are the hit of Thanksgiving Day for you?

I absolutely love mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, and pumpkin pie! My family enjoys our meals, but we don't overindulge - we never have. We truly savor every dish! I make it a point to avoid leftovers, so I happily box them up to share. However, I always keep a few slices of turkey for my husband because he loves his turkey sandwich. 

4.  We say grace before and after meals. Is grace a part of your Thanksgiving meal?

It is a part of every meal at our house. 

I wish you all a blessed and thankful Thanksgiving Day. 

Debby

Tuesday 4 ~ Weathering the Storms

I'm linking up with  Toni Taddeo's

 Tuesday 4...

 When thunder and lightning happen, cats, dogs, squirrels like to be in a small, safe , enclosure. Inside animals will hide under beds, outside they are appreciative of a box or little house to hide in. People are no different it seems.

1. Do storms frighten you or make you cautious?

I look forward to a nice storm - I'm referring to "nice" as one that isn't harmful or catastrophic. 

2. What is the worst weather you can remember?

As a child, my family had a duplex in Tahoe, close to the Heavenly Valley ski area. During the 60s, we experienced some intense snowstorms in Tahoe, and one time we were trapped in our vehicle while slowly making our way back to the Bay Area—it was a complete whiteout that extended our journey home to 12 hours.

On another occasion, while we were on our way to visit family, we were parked in our travel trailer for the evening when a ranger knocked on our door in the early hours of the morning and told us to evacuate the area because a tornado was heading our way. This happened in Grand Isle, Nebraska. My mom was panicking, my sister and I were scared, and my poor dad had to handle everything, and get us out of there.

3. Are you in a personal storm right now and do you need our prayers to help you through it?  I think many bloggers are prayer warriors indeed.

Thankfully No 

4.  What is the best advice you can give to others about weathering storms of any kind.

When you're going through a personal storm, it's important to remember that God is with you and for you. The challenges you face are not a reflection of God's displeasure or punishment. Instead, they are often a result of living in a fallen world. Jesus Himself said, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). This means that while difficulties are inevitable, you can find peace and strength in Christ.

Finally, remember that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). While you may not see the purpose or outcome of your current storm, you can trust that God is at work, bringing about His good purposes in your life. Lean on Him, and allow His peace to guard your heart and mind (Philippians 4:7).

I have weathered numerous personal storms throughout my life, and I often reminded my boys that it is during these challenging moments that God performs His most profound work.

Thanks for dropping by - 

Debby