• Dec. 20, 2007
Christmas, Just Around The Corner

This morning I woke to about 4 more inches of snow!  The desert is so gorgeous in the winter wearing this glistening blanket.  All my kid memories of playing in it till my fingers and toes felt like they might fall off, spring alive from my heart. 

I love the changes.  The sky crystal blue, fat fluffy clouds and a horizon of many miles away.  Who would think a sage brush could look so beautiful?  Or a scraggly Juniper tree? 

My grandson bought me bird seed with his own money and now we get to build a bird feeder in the back yard.  I am 54 now and suddenly realize how much more I want to store away in my heart of memories.  Jacob will be ten in July!  He is the oldest of going on eight grandbabes.  But, I considered the truth that they just keep getting older.  So I'd better make memories for them too.  Maybe even some that will carry them and keep them warm during a cold winter.

Today, I don't have to bake at the cafe so I will bake with Joseph.  He was sad because it wasn't his turn to go to town with his grandpa Jay.  So, of course I looked at his little three year old saddened cherib face and spoke before I thought.  But a promise is a promise.  Maybe I will have him make peanut butter cookies.  Any time in the kitchen with Grammy "muffins" as they call me is pure delight for them.  The mess, well, I just take a deep breath and carry on with it. 

I could go on and on but I know you are busy ladies.  Please enjoy the moments with your little ones, whether children or grandchildren.  Christmas is so special for them.  Blessings and wonder be yours this season.

Love in Christ,  Momgram (Patty)

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• Dec. 16, 2007
Plans Can Change

What a wonderful surprise to read your Birthday notes to me!  Wow, and thank you to my daughter for influence in the blogger world.  I did have a nice birthday, even at 54!  But, was more of a shock to my boat than turning 50.  Getting older is only a state of mind, if only I could remember what I went for from room to room!

We know that the plans of the Lord don't always meet the criteria or format that we have written in our brains.  Sometimes the things I write on paper end up being thrown away like an old grocery list.  You know the ones that seems to be lost in the pocket of a purse or jacket?  I seem to find them much later.  But the one sure thing I have written down comes from the living word of God.  That I am sure of.

So when we think we know we have a buyer for Hampton and the home we are looking at miles away from the high desert all look pretty good...then the truth comes next.  The buyer ends up getting a triple bypass instead of a small town and the home by the ocean gets bought by someonelse, Well, things remain.

This probably doesn't make a lot of sense to you, without lots of info, but we are still in Hampton.  Now, the owner decided that he needs $20,000.00 to sell it to us....or his wife will leave him.  Strange I know.  They have some problems.  Thus, we have till the end of December to come up with that or I guess out we go.  It will be an incredible loss to him to have this closed down to wait for a buyer.  But I know the Lord will direct our steps.  We are trying to get a loan in the mean time. 

Waiting is so hard.  Waiting for another grandchild to be born, waiting for Christmas, waiting for direction, or even snow on the ground.  So I cling to the words in Psalm 16:3,"Roll your works upon the Lord and He will cause your thoughts to become agreeable to His will so shall your plans be established and succeed."  It feels like holding an apple in your hand and expecting it to become a tree.  You just gotta get your hands dirty and bury the thing.  Water it in prayer and walk and wait.  I wonder how many apple trees are in an apple?  How many apples will that produce?  Only God knows it all.

I am sure you have had unexpected changes come into your life that you have to adjust to.  This summer Katie, our daughter in law, had to quite waitressing because she miscarried one of the babies.  I took her place on top of the other positions I was in.  But she was supposed to 'rest'.  How do you do that with four children?!  Plus... schooling two of them.  Some of you understand I am sure!

The really big question is will I trust Him?  Will I rest in Him?  Instead of rolling around in my sleep and not resting I want to be knowing Jesus as my Wonder Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace.  That is what I want for Christmas!   How about you?  I do pray that you are blessed in a sweet way by the One who Knows it all.  That you feel carried in His strong arms this next year.  That you would find He gives a wise and understanding heart.  God bless you and thank you again for your sweet notes for my birthday, I really needed that.  Love, momgram

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• Aug. 4, 2007
Hi ladies!

I will try to get some news to you today.  We are still planning to move from the hight desert to the coast at Reeds port.  Quite the transition but I am ready.  Our big, everything goes, garage sale is still happening and I am praying that at least the larger priced items, oh, like the appliances and truck and step van go down the road with somebody!  There are lots of clothes, mostly kids stuff and some of the typical housewares items.  Anyway, pray it becomes someone elses treasures. 

We are still trying to sell Hampton on ebay.  Hey, God is able to bring us someone to take our place here serving people on Highway 20.  Please pray with us for this all important, needed sale.  Thank you!

So we have been real busy around here since August is the busiest month in the year.  Also trying to get things ready to move, hopefully by the first week of September.  We found a small place nestled in the trees, where deer visit almost daily, and I dream nearly every night of the ocean breezes and the sweet air in Reedsport. 

Also  could you add to the list of prayer that we are looking into buying another business, one much smaller than here.  Pray that the lady who owns the place will favorably work with us. 

I will let you know when the big event takes place and then you can rejoice with me concerning my hearts desires.  God is so caring with us, that is what my friend wrote on her postcard from Israel today.  A perfect gift for me today.  He is all that the word of God declares.  And isn't it wonderful to know and rest in the fact that God is God all by Himself?  I sure am glad He is because I don't think I could nearly handle the lives of so many, and love so many.  Praise the Lord for His goodness, lovingkindness and mercy!

I will keep in touch as I am able.  Love to you as you endeavor to be the wifes and mommies that the Lord has gifted you as.  Look to Him because He cares for you.

In Christ,  momgram

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• Jul. 7, 2007
Finally!

 Hi ladies,

Yep, I finally found my seat on the chair in front of the computer.  By the way isn't the new look for my blog beautiful and gramma like?  Thank you Christina!  I love your love for creating.

We are in a transition from the desert at about 4500 ft. elevation down to about 15 ft. elevation!  Think on that one for awhile.  My body will certainly have to adjust but it shouldn't take too long.  Although I have never lived at the beach.  The change in the weather will be an asset for my skin, hair and state of mind! 

So this weekend we get to all go to Reedsport, our new destination, to look into buying a house.  We will be closing the cafe for Sunday and Monday and take this mini break away.  I know the kids sure need it because Daniel, our son, puts in over 80 hours a week running the cafe, with Katie by his side.  I still do the baking from day to day but have had to pull back because of physical health.  Jay works the grounds and gas station.  Oh, I also get to watch four of my seven grandchildren.

This month Christina and her family will come see us to celebrate her daughter Josephine's birthday along with Daniel's son Jacob for his birthday.  We always have a good time together and grammy gets to take lots of pictures!

Thank you for your prayers concerning the fires here.  This morning I woke about 6am to a golden pink sunrise.  Then I knew the sun was trying to shine through the smoke in the air.  Continue to pray for all of us in Oregon because we are so dry!  I guess the fire that Christina spoke of started from a car catching fire for some reason and the flames have now taken over 10,000 acres.  How sad!  So the firefighters need your prayers along with the ranches that spread east of us for miles.  Thank you.

I need to head to town today with my husband to trade the pickup in on something else.  He doesn't know what exactly, so we need wisdom on this account also.  You girls are great and so appreciate your thoughts and prayers for each other.  What a gift!

Have a wonderful day,  momgram

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• Jul. 5, 2007
URGENT Prayer Request! Update

I am writing this for my mom...

There is a bad fire out near my parents. They are ok so far because the wind is pushing the fire in a different direction but it is still scary.

There is 2 miles of stopped traffic because the fire keeps jumping back and forth over the highway. So many people are camping out by the restaurant. My brother is making sure people are fed who are hungry and my dad has been checking on everyone in the 2 mile line. They have run out of water, I am asuming bottled water and no paper towels.

Pray that they don't run out of anything else and that the fire fighters will be safe and that they will be able to get the fire under control. If the wind would die down then I think they would be able to do that, but just pray that it doesn't change directions on them.

Pray for me that I would be calm and not worry. This has been one of my fears with them living out in the desert with nothing around them.

Thank you so much for your prayers! They are truely appreciated!

Christina

I talked with mom this morning and it seems that things are ok... the fire is heading away from them and all those that were stuck at their place have gone...I don't know if they had to all turn around or if the fire crew took groups at a time thru the burning area. Still keep them in prayer as this is fire season and thunderstorms are always around. They could really use a bunch of rain to keep the area wet.

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• Jul. 2, 2007
It Has Been a LONG Time...

This is Christina aka giggles3... momgram's daughter. 

I came over to do some changes for her and to let you know how she is doing. She and the rest of the family have been doing a whole lot of work. Keeping up with a restaurant and gass station is hard work when it is only you doing it. They have no other employees because they live in the middle of no where. Just the 8 of them (her my dad, brother and his wife and 4 children under 8yrs). Things look to be changing though and it looks like they will be leaving the desert soon and heading for the green land near the coast! So very excited for them and it will be a better drive for us when we go to visit. Only about 3 hours!!

Please keep them in your prayers as they head into this new adventure. It is greatly appreciated! Heck, here is an idea: 

 if you are in the Bend, OR area just take Hyw 20 East out past Brother's and you will find them! The restaurant is called Hampton Station EXCELLENT FOOD!!... here is a picture of the store front looking to the west:

I think they will be having a HUGE garage sale here soon to get rid of a whole lot of stuff. I will find out and let you know. There is some construction on the road going on right now so it will look a little different.

You can leave comments and if she is unable to get to them I will. 

Have a blessed week!

Christina

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• Jan. 26, 2007
About My Grandones...

Hi again,

     I didn't want to go on and on in one entry.  So now will tell you what else is going on here.  Hope you don't mind.

     Jacob, our oldest grandson has been getting better at finishing his school work by lunchtime.  He has the encentive of working outside with his granpa or being in the cafe' with his dad.  Today, though school has been postponed, the wonderful thing about homeschooling!  He is on his way to town with granpa to get supplies in Bend.  That is an hour drive.  On the way he will probably see the large herd of Antelope that has been hanging out near the pivots and by the haysheds.  Lots to see.  He might even be able to spot an eagle or falcon.

     Samuel is home today building with his magnetic things, forgot the official name.  They get really inventive with their building toys.  His biggest job is to convince a rather eager 2 1/2 year old bother....I mean brother, to not knock them down. 

     Both Jacob & Sammy have been helping feed cattle one day a week with the rancher and his wife who live out back of our place.  They sure love doing that!  So good too.   

     Yep, Joseph is real good at being in the two's catagory.  Although we try not to expect that from him.  Hey, I went through it with just two children, sometimes I don't know how Christina and Katie manage having three and four!  I do so pray for them!

     Then there is Anna, cuttting three teeth at the same time.  She is almost 10 months now.  The youngest of our population of 8.   I guess that would make me the oldest.   Oh, well, I try to hold that baby as often as I can because she is so cuddly and soft and always has a big smile for me.  Girls sure are different than little boys aren't they? 

     I so miss Jonas, Thomas and Josephine!!!  Christina has some great kids and so far away.  Hopeing to see them in March.  And, starting Valentines Day I will begin to count the days down for that.  Christina sends me pictures of the kids and that helps so much.

    That will be all now.  Hey, I actually wrote twice in one day!  Funny!

Be blessed today,

Patty(momgram)

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• Jan. 26, 2007
Sunny In Hampton

Hi Ladies,

     We are having a winter tease.  Meaning it looks like it should be warm with all the clear skies and sun, but, still very cold and dry.  Hoping for some snow yet because we do need the water out here in the high desert of Oregon.  Hey, you are sure getting blasted in the east this week!  I pray that you are warm and safe with your families.

     I have been sewing aprons to sell in the cafe'.  They are turning out pretty cute and look great hanging on the walls with the quilts.  Other than that our business is kinda slow in the winter.  Still paying the bills but the strings are tight this time of year.  We ran out of regular fuel and diesel in for the gas station and are praying for the funds to resupply.  Very important for travelers on this lonely highway.

     Yesterday was a good day of baking in the cafe' for me.  I really enjoy that part of my job.  The maple cinnamon rolls don't seem to last but one day.  Then the carrot cake goes very well.  In summer I can hardly keep up with those!  I make the cookie doughs from scratch too, so there is always cookies in the basket.  Brownies, macaroons, pies, jams and sometimes fudge.  Hey, I am making myself hungry.  But the trouble is I have chosen to be off sugar.  My husband and I are trying to get to a healthier weight.  This isn't easy when you are baking for others and standing over a grill too.  Pray for us.

   Since this is the end of January and time just keeps rushing by I guess I will write again next month.  I would love to write more often.  Any encouragers out there?  Have a good week and let the love of Jesus wrap you up and give you a good hug.  Love your family, eat smart and remember to pray for each other.

Blessings to you,

Patty(momgram)

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• Dec. 24, 2006
Picture This For Christmas

     The snow is falling this morning after waking to an already white blanket resting all around.  Flakes as big as silver dollars doing their floaty dance, swaying back and forth on their way to the ground. 

     Now imagine the angels of heaven dancing, clapping and having a rejoicing celebration in anticipation of the baby Jesus soon to be born.  In all of their excitment feathers from their heavenly wings are shaken loose and begin to fall to earth. 

     In all my appreciation of snow, the floaty, dancing kind, this was my picture.  It still brings a giggle to my heart today on Christmas Eve, the day after the dance.  And to think I had that before I remembered the wallpaper Christina put on my blog!!   That is great!  A gift to my heart from heaven!

     Have a very Merry Christmas!!!  Love to you all

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• Dec. 24, 2006
Just Like Clockwork

      Merry Christmas to you and your growing families!  The Lord bless you bunches and wrap you in His strong and loving arms this New Year. 

     In teaching a daughter-in-law some things about child rearing the other day, I was struck with the thought of a priceless timepiece.  I shared with her that our children are like clocks and are easily broken if we aren't careful with them.  The internal mechanisisms, gears and such are only fixed again by the master clockmaker.  So, when we get sideways, selfish, too busy to listen, shout at them and downright mean sometimes we take the chance of causing the internal workings in them to get out of time, or even be broken to the degree that we are wondering why? 

     Why do they not answer when I talk to them?  Why do they act unkindly to their brother & sister?  Why can't I seem to get through to them?  The question we need to ask ourselves is not why but how did it happen?  Was it because I took my anger out on them?  These are hard questions and probably not something we want to think about at this time of year.  But, look at it this way.  This is why we can celebrate this time of Christmas.  Because of the Messiah that came to save each and everyone of us from ourselves.

     Soooo, I shared that now is the time for change.  Now is the time to search our hearts.  Because later, after the clock has been broken as a young child, that still broken clock gets older and is still broken.  Hurt comes to many and from many directions.  A tone of voice, a look, even a sigh can give a signal that is read leaving a gear that just doesn't run smoothly.  It is true that peer pressure is bad, but what about parent pressure?  I too have been guilty of that one.  I have even carried that into my marriage and after 32 years am confronted by the loving Holy Spirit to let Him do an adjustment and healing in my own life. 

     Remember where you came from, and where you have come to.  Apply the rich grace and mercy of Jesus in your home this New Year.  You will be blessed with the chimes of laughter, love and peace in your home and hearts.

     A precious treasure are our children.  Let's give them the same love of Jesus that we too have recieved. 

    Bless you dear women of God.  Vessels of honor and instruments of a heavenly song!  Love in Christ,  Patty(momgram)

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• Dec. 1, 2006
A New Day!

Hi ladies,

     Can you believe it's December already?  Personally I am glad November is behind us.  It was a tough month with everyone gettting sick and making the rounds.  My poor husband has been doing all of the cooking, cleaning and taking orders and pumping gas...alone...from 7:00 in the morning until 9:00 at night.  He is my hero!  I am very proud of him.  This having your own business and all your employees family can be a bear if someone is sick.  This hasn't happened before all at the same time, Praise God!

     But, a funny thing happened the day before Thanksgiving.  You probably know the phrase..."When it rains, it pours?'  Or something to that effect?  Well, everyone was home but Jay & Katie who were at the Cafe working.  Danny was asleep in the recliner and the kids were napping. 

     Let me explain, we share the same roof but have a wall that devides our living areas.  Okay, so I was watching Anna, now 7 months, while she played on a blankey on my living room floor.  But I heard Joseph crying so I peeked over and found him, up from a short nap, standing next to the recliner where his poppa was sound asleep.  Danny was oblivious in his fevered sleep. 

    I scooped Joe up and took him potty...yeah still dry!  Then got him adjusted on my couch to watch Muppet Christmas Carol.  It was then that Anna began her girlie, not so happy fuss.  I lifted her up and discovered her main reason was a stench beyond words.  Low and behold that stench showed itself clear through everything she had on.  Figures!  To the changing table we go.

     Now, all along I am listening for the buzzer on my microwave to bleep to let me know the zuchinni bread was done.  So far no buzzing.   I settled the two youngest and went to check the timer.  Ah, pooh, when did that go off?  So the bread was a deep, we're talking deep brown...okay so it was closer to burnt.  I can admit that after all I am a baker!  So Happy Thanksgiving to the chickens, they will love that bottom layer.

     That's funny, the rug is wet.  In front of the sink.  What does that mean?  You guessed it.  The drain pipe had come loose and there was water all over the bottom of the cabinet and running down on the floor.  All I could do was chuckle...really I did.  The Lord MUST be at work changing me.  So I called my ever handy husband and he fixed it in short order. 

     Now, for that cup of tea I had been longing for.  Funny how simple distractions can tumble down upon each other in under 30 minutes.  It sure got me to remembering when my kids were little.

     I believe we are on the up side and going to see a healthy December.  A month of Jesus peace and Holy Spirit comfort is what I am praying for.  I know Abba is watching over us and will perfect the things that concern me.  He is faithful and true to His promises to us.  Once again I am drawn to trust Him.  He is worthy!

Love in Christ,

Patty(momgram)

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• Nov. 29, 2006
Laughter & Laundry

     Thank you Christina for spuring me on to write.  You are a wonderful daughter and friend.

     Well, it is laundry day...again.  You know, that is one thing that always keeps growing from day to day.  It doesn't matter what the season, in sickness or in health, richer or poorer.  Hey, that sounds familiar!  So as I was saying, laundry day.  Goodie, goodie. 

     I guess to have a thankful heart I would start by saying I am thankful for the roos in the washer, the socks and things to cover this aging body.  If I didn't have them I would be in a different country!  But, I think I like it right where I am at for now.

    My mom emailed me this morning saying that my dad had to do the laundry because she is having lots of pain in her knee.  The laundry room is a few doors down and she couldn't make it.  So my dad had a rude awakening.  What do you do with lots of senior citizens waiting for the washing machine, when there are only two in the building?  Hey, complain of course.  Not fun for him.

     So I shared my little devotional with them this morning.  It goes something like this.  Revelation 3:5 says, "He who overcomes shall thus be clothed in white garments..."  That is a good laundry room scripture I think, although taken out of context.

     The devotion talked about doing angel work in Jesus' name as we demonstrate His love to others.  These kindnesses don't have to be costly or daring.  Simply the attitude of joy can make the difference in someone who has lost hope.  Smile and you might brighten someone's day.  Go a step further and add a chuckle or two.  That is something my dad is good at!  A laugh is just a smile with a soundtrack.  (from the book Daily Splashes of Joy by Barbara Johnson)

     So for a clean heart get into the Lord's washer then come out smiling and be clothed in joy.  Have a wonderful day and remember "A christian is a living sermon."

The Lord bless you & keep you,

Patty (momgram)

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• Nov. 28, 2006
Hi, this is Christina (giggles3)

My mom hasn't been here for a while and is sorry about that but they have been really busy.

And it seems the end of the year has been full of sickness in Hampton. Everyone is slowly getting themselves back on track so keep them in Prayer.

My brother is still dealing with it and has had laranjietus (I know probably not how it is spelled I just spelled it how it sounds)

Anyways the picture on the top is another of their snow days there in Hampton.

It is cold but the people are still stopping in so pray also that they will be able to make it thru this winter on top.

So that is all I have for now...hopefully here soon my mom will be able to post something again.

Have a Blessed Day,

Christina

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• Sep. 17, 2006
What stress? I am blessed!

     At least that is what my attitude should be right?  Well, did I have a week or what?  Yep, first Katie was sick so I got to work her time too here at the Lamplight Cafe.  That was tuesday...then Daniel, my son and best grill champion I know, got sick so guess what momma got to do?   Yep, you guessed it...the grill.  So that was three days of 12 to 14 hours a day constant and nonstop! 

     The awesome thing was that by thursday I really focused on the Lord.  I started with lifting my hands straight up like my grandkids do when they want to be picked up.  Then I spoke praise and thanksgiving to Him and asked that Jesus would just carry me all day so my feet never touch the floor.  So that evening here I am at home about 9:30pm and still able to stand!  In fact I didn't really feel tired and just kept moving from room to room.  Wow!

     I am amazed how the Lord of my life carried me through the three days of what could be incredible stress and physical pain.  Yet, in His amazing faithfulness and love He heard my hearts cry.  He is like that you know?  A perfect gentleman in all ways...taking the lead in the dances of the everyday.  I just need to get in position and talk to Him about my desires and He takes it from there.  I sure am loving Him!

     Whether your stress is work related, relationship related or your spiritual life feels like it is waning; when you take the time to count your blessings and name them one by one, as the old hymn goes, you find incredible peace of heart and mind available to you.  Any time, any place, any circumstance.

     I pray that with the challenges of the everyday stuff of life that you will find yourself carried in the strong arms of Jesus Christ.

I love you,

Patty(momgram)

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• Aug. 18, 2006
It's Friday!

That means that only one more day and I will have a day off this week...Yeah!

The end of bow hunting for the antelope that are all around us.  But there will be deer and elk yet to hunt so we should be busy through October anyway. 

I wanted to thank you ladies for the encouragement you are to me.  I know I don't write too often because of this busy season, but thank you so much for sending little notes to me.

This afternoon the house was quiet when I got home and so far it's just me.  I even got to read some and nod off to sleep for about 20 minutes before the phone rang.  I don't have any idea what to fix for dinner and not feeling too inspired after working with food all day.  You know peanut and butter sounds good to me!  But I am sure to fix something more substaintial for the hubby who will be here in a few.

I only have two more blocks to quilt on my wall hanging and then I can bind it.  Not sure if I will put it up in the cafe to enjoy or sell it on ebay.  Haven't tried that yet.  Praying about that one.

I will leave you with these words of wisdom to carry you through the weekend...

Brought to you by Little Kids instructions on life:

   *When your dad is mad and asks, "Do I look stupid?" don't answer him.

   *Never try to baptize a cat.

   *Never trust a dog to guard your hamburger.

   *Never tell your little brother you're not going to do what your mom told you to

     do.

Blessings on your precious lives,

momgram

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• Aug. 15, 2006
He is able

Oh, what a day!  Rude people who are traveling when maybe they should be home relaxing in their own back yard. 

Lord help me realize that I cannot please everyone and just do my best to serve.  And Lord help my flesh person not get so wrapped up with the circumstances of the moment.  Help me to breathe in the air that you give me and use my hands in serving the way that would please you first.

It's tough to be a good example when you are being cut down with attitude.  You know what I mean?  Well, I thought someone would today. 

The Lord says that we are to reply with a soft answer knowing that it is the opposite of how you might feel.   But...I want to feel the kindness and love for these strangers that come in hungry and tired.  Even though I think waitressing is out of my league.  I mean they take a lot.  But again the soft answer turns away wrath...or the attitude that stinks or the grimmace that darkens.  The hard part is I didn't do anything wrong and yet I have to be in the same space as them.  Can't just walk out and not return with the meal, you know?

So it was a lousey few minutes but I come home soon after.  I didn't even make it in the front door before dropping my bag on the ground and plopping in the chair by the front porch to cry my eyes out.  That helps some.  Then I ate a sandwich, washed dishes and put in a load of laundry....all in record time.  Adrenalin helped.

So many of the people we serve here in Hampton just come and go.  I do get lonely for somewhere to throw up (emotionally speaking) without making anyone else sick.  I am afraid I din't explain that in pleasant terms.  A friend who sticks with you, whether you're up or down.

Jesus is my best friend and I sure am glad He understands me and even knew the circumstance before it happened.  I want to trust Him to help me respond in any situation in a way of honoring Him. 

I guess in writing this down today I can more readily feel for you moms at home with oodles of energetic children all wanting you to serve them...RIGHT NOW!  And, on top of that, the daily demands of keeping home and hubby happy too.  The Lord bless you bunches today and keep you sane and pleasant on your little planet called home.

Have a good day,

Patty (momgram)

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• Jul. 27, 2006
It's cooking hot here!

Okay, even though it's very hot outside I am in the mood to make jelly.  Call me crazy!  So the recipe I am searching for is for pepper jelly.  Yep, another hot item.  But I think it would sell in my cafe/store.  So if you have this recipe, of any flavor pepper jelly please write to me.  Thanks!

We are all well and very busy here in Hampton, Oregon.  August around the corner will be the peak of our year in business but praying it carries through hunting season in the fall.

Please pray for our needs here.  We are without a working fan above the grill so our cafe kitchen has reached 112 degrees.  The Lord has sustained us and I know will continue to be our strength and song.  God is so good.

I can't chat too long today but would love to hear from you.

The Lord bless you and keep you and give you His eternal peace and joy this summer.

momgram

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• Jul. 16, 2006
Funny stuff!

Hi,

I wanted to share a funny thing with you that happened last friday.

A new car pulled up to the cafe' with four young people in it.  Two came in to say they wanted someone who knew something about engines to check their car.  My son, Daniel, was grilling burgers for customers so couldn't go out and see.  So he asked they if they checked the fluids.  Like oil and transmission.  They stood outside and pulled out the dip stick, never wiping it off first and decided that was okay.  Danny could see them cause we have a big window in our kitchen that looks out to the parking lot.  Then two came back in while the other two waited outside.  Their question was a real puzzle!   "Do you have blinker fluid?"  It would have been rude to laugh in their face, since they seriously wanted to know but we did have to put on our sign out front the next day...

"Sorry, but we are out of blinker fluid!"

We have had a huge response to our sign.  Some ask, " Is there really such a thing?"

Others, embarrased, ask shyly, when we would be getting more.  Too funny!!

So that was our big chuckle in a busy week. 

Laughter is good like medicine.  When was the last time you laughed till your sides ache and tears fall down your cheeks?  Laugh lots.

Have a good week,

momgram

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• Jul. 11, 2006
just wondering?

Hey, I was just wondering and wanting to hear from you.  The wondering part is are any of you grammas and living in close proximity to your children?  Even on the same property?  And what are your favorites times with the grandkids?  Funny sayings you may hear from time to time?  If you would like to share some info I would love to read it. 

Ours has been a pretty unique situation, running our own town and everyone in it related.  I do keep journals but was wondering if there are any others out there?

We have had a very busy summer so far and I covet your prayers for strength and rest.  The Lord has enabled me to be a wife, mom, grammy, baker,waitress, sometimes run the grill and clean bathrooms too.  Maybe more on days, depending on the needs.  Then there is always my love for quilting and reading...and quiet. 

We ordered Jacob's second grade curriculum with Alpha Omega.  Very excited about this because we used life pacs for our kids years ago.  Christina (giggles3) is also using it for Jonas.  It is wonderful that so much is available for moms to use now days.  When I homeschooled my kids it wasn't really the cool thing to do, not much support like you have here.

Be sure to take time to ponder the giftings of your children and pray for wisdom in being the tools that the God who designed them, would use you in their lives.  What a grand and glorious position.  A real honor that we all need to be reminded of. 

I am so proud of my children and in seeing them raise the little ones God has entrusted them with.  Again, they need lots of encouragement. 

So if you are a grammy and reading this I would love to hear from you.

God bless you bunches,

momgram (Patty)

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• Jul. 6, 2006
heartstrings

   Hello ladies!

We have had a busy summer!  Lots of new friends, lots of travelers, lots of truckers and bikers.  And the thing that is impressing me more and more is once you bless someone they will return to be blessed again and again.  When I take time to listen to people's problems and answer with, "I will keep you in my prayers."  they will return, if they can, to share answers to prayer.  Not all are even believers in the Lord Jesus Christ.  But this is a nation hungry for someone to come along and offer prayer for them personally.  I am finding that some have even gotten bold enough, on their way out the door, to ask for me to keep them in my prayers.  Who says God doesn't concern Himself with the many and the one.

This last weekend we had a wonderful time with the whole family.  Christina and Paul and their three (see pictures on Giggles3 blog) were here to visit us.  The household was noisey, many little feet running and jumping and the few struggles when you have 7 grandchildren all under the same roof and all under eight years of age! 

We got lots of pictures and had fun.  The guys went fishing.  Grandpa, son Daniel with his two oldest (Jacob & Samuel).  Son in law with their two boys (Jonas & Thomas).   The only one to catch a fish was four year old Samuel.  A 12 and 1/2 inch trout!  Boy, was he proud.  He would have been the last I would guess to catch anything since he wiggles all the time and is talking constantly!  Too funny.

The moms and I with Joseph, Josephine and Anna stayed home and did the rest thing.

I was feeling like grandma age when it was all quiet again.  Think I went to sleep at nine that night and slept solid for hours.  The whole time brought together memories to last a life time.  I praise the Lord for the hearstrings I have with my children and theirs.  I am in love with them all!  God is truly good! 

Have a wonderful summer making special memories including the simple pleasures.  Look for a frog and pick a flower out of the garden, run through the sprinkler, make memories in the form of a song before bedtime, a squeeze unexpected and long, whispers of love in the ears of the children whether 30 years old or 3 months!  And remember love is kind.

momgram

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