A Haven for Vee

Wednesday, June 22, 2016

A Dollar Short and a Week Late

You know that I always go to the Hodge Podge if I need a jumpstart, kickstart, something. And the thing is, Joyce isn't even having a Hodge Podge this week so I am off the hook for linking and participating. I'm just using last week's for blog fodder. 

1. If you could sit beside and/or jump in any lake in the whole wide world today, which lake would you choose and why?

I would swim in a lake I love in New Brunswick, Canada. I enjoy swimming in lakes over swimming in pools or the ocean. I have even swum in a Great Lake (Erie), which was as close to swimming in the ocean as I like to be...very brrrisk! 

2. What's your favorite 'fruity' drink? 

Lemonade

3. I read a list here of thirteen things to do right now to simplify your life. They were-

clean as you go, re-evaluate your relationships (cut toxic ties), unsubscribe (too many blogs and websites), de-clutter, write down your daily goals, reply to emails right away, forget multitasking, create a morning routine, re-evaluate your commitments (which hobbies and responsibilities are most important to you), say no, clean up your computer, and plan your day ahead

Which of the tasks listed do you currently find most helpful in keeping life simple? Which item on the list should you adopt in order to simplify your life this month?

I like all of those ideas and follow many of them most of the time. There's going to be an entire summer of cleaning up and sorting ahead from barns to basements. I'd like to give up multi-tasking, but it just seems to be something I must do and probably because I have the attention span of a gnat.

4. What did you do the summer after you graduated from high school? 

Since I would be off to college in the fall, I worked that summer cashiering at a grocery store. I also dated a lot that summer as I'd be saying goodbye to my boyfriend at the end of summer. He remained behind for a year and then joined the Army so there were many goodbyes through our dating years. Yes, I eventually married him and, though the marriage failed, I have two wonderful children and two wonderful grands so I'd not change my circumstances.

5. Are you a fan of podcasts? If so what's a favorite? 

Have listened to some I have liked, but can't remember them and don't listen regularly.

6. Do you think today's fathers have it harder, easier, or just different than fathers in the past?

Different and harder. Nothing is getting easier in this crazy society of ours.

7. Tell us one way you're like your father? Or not at all like your father if that's easier?

I have often been told that I am quite like my father in temperament. We seem to share a little issue called "directness." This is also known as not having a filter. Oh dear. My pastor once told me that I was very like my father in the nicest possible way. Ahem. =/

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

So many random thoughts swirling the brain. Let me keep it to one! 

I have been working on memory boards for John's service and so have been wading through this remarkable life of his with all the family, friends,  and experiences of a lifetime. Would you like to see some photos?

John on the cliffs of Grand Manan

John and sisters at their grandparents' 51st wedding anniversary party back in the day

Do all 12 year old boys look alike?

 One of 8 memory boards... This is looking a bit sparse to me so must add a few more photos, if I can find some.

my cluttered work corner


Thank you for the ongoing prayers. I truly need them and feel  sustained by them. Now I have a question for you: is it going to make you feel uncomfortable if I continue to chat about John? Needless to say, he is very much on my mind, but I don't want to cause you to worry about my mental health or when I'll get on with this life that is, after all, for the living.





65 comments:

  1. Nothing you write would make me feel uncomfortable if it is about John. You go right ahead and say what you want and need to as and when you want to. You cannot just cut someone off because they are no longer alive. By continuing to talk about them you keep them alive in your heart, with great love, and that is how you carry them along with you and how they continue to be carried along with you. So go for it!! A post of randoms is always a good way to go isn't it. You have inspired me because I wasn't sure what to write about today so randoms it is!! Hugs!

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  2. Vee, I saw on someone's blog ..something about Vee's husband John. You were the only Vee I knew...I was too scared to come by and find out it was you. I am so very sorry. Sorry for the lose of someone so loved by you and your family. Yes, You write about your wonderful husband as long or as many times as you like..It will even be helpful for you. Bless you. Hugs to you and yours, xoxo, Susie

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  3. Hi Vee, I learned more about you here today with Joyce's questions. I had to smile reading about the Pastor telling you that you are like your father.
    Please do share with us about John. I so enjoyed seeing his pictures today. His smile was always the same, very genuine. You remain in my prayers, truly. xoxo

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  4. Vee, I would love to hear more about John. The pictures of him are so sweet, from young man to grown. Yes, please write more about your beloved John. You are walking a path that many of us have or will walk one day.
    We are praying for you and your family. I pray that your grandsons are okay. Take care of yourself. xoxo ♥

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  5. You, my sweet friend, keep on talking about John...I always enjoy your/our conversations....keeping you in prayer, Vee....

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  6. It would not make me uncomfortable at all. Grieving is a process and I can only imagine how much he is on your mind right now. We are friends who care about you and your life and what you are feeling and I would like to know more about John. Sending love and continued prayers...

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  7. You have been on my mind so much lately and in my prayers. I'm so happy to see this post and would love to see more photos and hear whatever you want to talk about while you heal. Sometimes it helps....other times not so much. But you'll figure it out as you go and we'll be here my friend. Lots and lots of hugs, Diane

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  8. It wouldn't make me uncomfortable in the least if you continue to share more about John. It would be a blessing to learn more about such a wonderful man.

    And I was thinking about that sparse photo board ... if you can't find more pictures for it, you could fill it out a bit by putting a backing of card stock behind each photo. Just a thought! So happy to see you here today, Vee. Continuing to keep you close in my thoughts and prayers.

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  9. Oh Vee, you chat all you want to about John. If it bothers someone, they don't don't have to read it. We are here for you as you continue on. My prayers are ongoing for you. Love and God bless you.

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  10. I can't begin to tell you how wonderful it is to see you here this morning, dear Vee. You have been in my daily thoughts.
    A Hodge Podge is an ideal way to jumpstart things and I enjoyed learning a few more facts about you. Smiling at the not having a filter issue and your pastor's comment :).
    It is so good to see photos of John's earlier life. Although I haven't really met him, it feels so much like I have due to the way he was such a presence on your blog through the years. Personally, I think it would be very nice to see more photos and learn more about the life of this man we have all come to care so much about.
    Sending loving thoughts and continued prayers your way this morning, Vee.

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  11. Oh please do share your thoughts about John. They are sweet to read and so healthy for you. This whole grief thing is a process.

    I laughed out loud when you said you have the attention span of a gnat. Very cute, and you are not alone with that!

    Bless you, girlfriend. The Lord continues to prompt me to send up a prayer for you throughout my days.

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  12. So glad to have you back. Have missed you. So sorry to hear about your great loss. Have enjoyed seeing photos from time to time of your John and hearing little snippets about him in your blog. I remember sometime after my mother died, someone mentioned to me about remembering see her out in the yard working. And that meant so much to me that someone remembered. I will welcome seeing photos of John and hearing more stories about him. Blessings and peace to you, Sharon D.

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  13. You continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. Yes, please talk more about John. That way we can celebrate his life with you.

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  14. I've been thinking about you and how you are doing, tho I've not blogged much (too busy with life). You talk about John as long as you need to, we are here to listen.

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  15. Vee that is the healthiest way to grieve. We all admire you and understand
    how hard it must be to lose your partner. I will keep you in prayers for a long time and we will all celebrate John. Even though most of us have not met each other I feel like we are all friends. Pen Pals if you like. I too have the attention span of a gnat. We are both almost 80 and our time could come anytime. My blogging friends are very important to me. So grateful to be a sista blogger with you.

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  16. Oh Vee - it is so good to hear from you. I have been praying for you and your family! Please keep chatting about your John as much as you want - blogdom loved him so because of the way you shared about him and showed, through words and pictures, your deep respect and love. The memory boards are such a great idea! Hugs ...

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  17. Loved reading all your answers...you so seem to have it all together...I've wondered more than once what my life would be without Mr. Sweet....of course, I can't even imagine....
    Of COURSE you must continue to write about John...not only because he is on your mind constantly right now but also because it's part of the healing process. Prayers continue....and love to you. xoxo

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  18. I would love to hear more about John, I think it is healthy to talk about a loved one. The boards are such a wonderful idea. Know that you are still in my prayers.

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  19. It is perfectly acceptable to continue to talk about John. The boards are nice and I'm sure it has been a blessing to look back at those photos.

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  20. I've got to come back and think about all of those questions. ~ I hope you continue to talk about John and share photos. How long, before you were married, did you know John? It's fun to see those pictures of John. You mentioned the memory boards are for his service. That's such a great idea. John will forever be part of your life and I would worry much more if you didn't talk about him. Love and prayers sent your way.

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  21. Absolutely write about John. Absolutely. I feel John's loss too (to a much lesser degree, of course) and I want to remember and honor him. Plus, he is important to you and since I love you, I want you to be free to share with us.

    Love your memory boards!! Is it cathartic to be gathering these memories and assembling them? I am sure it will mean so much to everyone who gathers for his memorial.

    Can I just say that I love your answer to HodgePodge #4? Too many people cannot look past a hurt, but you see the good (your children and grandchildren) that came from your choices and rejoice in that. Amen.

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  22. John will forever be a part of your life and a part of ours too, through your Haven. It's healthy and good to talk about him.

    Those memory boards will be special for everyone to look at. How fun to look at these younger photos of him and 'see' him in them. My mother in law's features and shape of face have changed so much since her youth.

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  23. You talk about your John all you want to Vee. This is YOUR blog and your people will stick with you. Your memory boards are lovely, a beautiful tribute to your husband. Love the photo of him standing on the rock by the water- Grand Manan.

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  24. Dear Vee, it's so good to see you here again. Do talk about John all you want; it will be nice to learn more about him through your memories, words and photos. A wonderful tribute to him as well, I think. You have been in my thoughts and prayers and will continue to be. A big, warm hug to you. Sara

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  25. Sweet Vee, just knowing that you can write about John is cheering to us all I'm sure, and yes, please feel happy sharing more of him with us any time. We now know you are being kind to yourself, very important at this difficult time in your life. I don't know if I would be able to handle such a loss as you are doing but, if it ever comes to that, I pray I can be strong like you.

    You remain close in thought and prayers.
    Thank you so much for sending me get well wishes too. I'm coming along well.
    This was a wonderful post and I feel I know you much better for it.
    Blessings - continue to be kind to yourself.
    Mary x

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  26. Vee, CHAT all you want about your precious John! I wish I could hug you...But if you close your eyes sweet lady and just imagine...a blondish-brown short haired, 5'1 (never mind the weight)stylish eye glasses (yes I do have some stylish ones now) lady that truly has prayed for you giving you a big old hug.... Hugs and blessings, Cindy

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  27. I was soo pleased to pop on here this morning and see that you had posted! I soo enjoyed your hodgepodge. But I am truly blessed by anything you chose to share about your beloved John. I really enjoyed your pictures. The fact that he was frequently mentioned in ALL of your blog posts in the past, would make it seem only natural that he would continue to be in your blog posts in the future. He's always going to be in your heart so chat, share, post pictures, and whatever else your heart leads you to do and I guarantee you we will all be right there with you. Can't tell you how often you have been in my thoughts and prayers. I've just hurt so for you. It's so funny isn't it how close you can feel to someone you've never met. And though we probably never will this side of heaven, I KNOW you are a kindred spirit. Wish I could give you a hug. Blessings to you!!! Debbie

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  28. Now Sweet Vee since I have said what my heart truly wanted to say in another post I would like to answer your hodgepodge today.
    1. If you could sit beside and/or jump in any lake in the whole wide world today, which lake would you choose and why?
    Well to be honest I can't think of a lake I'd like to jump in right now. I'm not the best swimmer to be honest and I am one of those that just wants to get wet long enough to get cool!

    2. What's your favorite 'fruity' drink?

    Lemonade or Raspberry Tea

    3. I read a list here of thirteen things to do right now to simplify your life. They were-

    clean as you go, re-evaluate your relationships (cut toxic ties), unsubscribe (too many blogs and websites), de-clutter, write down your daily goals, reply to emails right away, forget multitasking, create a morning routine, re-evaluate your commitments (which hobbies and responsibilities are most important to you), say no, clean up your computer, and plan your day ahead

    Which of the tasks listed do you currently find most helpful in keeping life simple? Which item on the list should you adopt in order to simplify your life this month?

    I like all those listed. I am working on saying NO as I struggle with that since I tend to be people pleaser. I used to could multi task great! Now...not so much because I get side tracked easy. I have already began deleting blogs that are on my list for one reason or another.

    4. What did you do the summer after you graduated from high school?
    Planned a wedding. I graduated in June and married my high school sweetheart in September...nearly 39 years ago now.

    5. Are you a fan of podcasts? If so what's a favorite?
    Not really.

    6. Do you think today's fathers have it harder, easier, or just different than fathers in the past?

    Things seem to be getting harder and harder and got a feeling it's going to get worse!


    7. Tell us one way you're like your father? Or not at all like your father if that's easier?

    I've had people tell me I look a lot like my daddy.

    8. Insert your own random thought here.
    I am hoping to sleep in about Friday morning!

    Hugs and blessings, Cindy

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  29. I enjoyed your answers to the hodge podge questions. It would give me comfort as well hearing more stories about John.
    Hugs,
    Penny

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  30. Vee...it blessed my heart to see your post this afternoon. Great hodgepodge answers and I could relate to your answer about being like your dad. I am nothing like my sweet, quiet, meek and mild mother. My dad was full of it and so am I, most of the time! Thank you for sharing these wonderful photos of your John. Those memory boards are going to be such a blessing to all who see them. And as far as you not talking about him? Well, why shouldn't you? I would so enjoy hearing more about him and I appreciate your wanting to share some of those memories with us. We all grieve and heal in our own way and this sounds like something your heart is telling you to do. I will be looking forward to reading anything you have to say :) Keeping you in my prayer!

    Hugs!

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  31. I like the picture of John at the top and believe memory boards are a nice way of making a funeral or celebration of life a less tearful occassion. I know they helped when my good friend Joan passed away suddenly, kind of an ice breaker for people to gather around and reminisce.
    You talked about John and snuck photos of him to share on the blog before so it makes sense that you continue to talk about him for as friends we still want news on things you think about, or do involving John.
    xx

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  32. It's your blog, write whatever makes YOU feel comfortable. I am privileged to be able to read it. 😊

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  33. Heaven's no, Vee, chat away. I love to hear about your John and your happy days together. I'm glad you are back to blogging again too.
    I don't know who came up with memory boards for funeral services but it is a brilliant idea. Still praying for you Vee.

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  34. Dear Vee, write and live in the sweet memories. Rest and walk and enjoy what you can. Life is so short... Hugs Roxy xo

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  35. I would be so honored to read any memory or thought about John that you would chose to share.
    He was a good man and so passed through life mostly without the kind of press that dishonorable men so easily accrue.
    Go ahead, change the balance. Do talk/write/report about the small and large moment of your good man's life.

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  36. I was so pleased to see a post from you today, Vee. I haven't been around much and just popped by - so glad I did. I think it would be odd if you didn't write about John here. He was always there in the background of your blog, very much a presence. You just do and write whatever makes you feel good - feel right - and I will be happy to read it.

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  37. Hello, Vee. Please do write more about John. You included him in so many of your posts that we feel like we know him, too, and would love to know more of his life. In answer to your question about 12-year-old boys - yes, I think they all look alike - endearingly awkward.
    Your answer to #4 struck me as so wise - good things can come out of hurtful experiences.
    You continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs to you.

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  38. Vee, I was so very happy to see your post today, you're in my thoughts daily. Please do continue to share photos and memories/thoughts of John. As Lorrie says above, we all feel we know him as he has been "present" on your blog, whether in the background or foreground. I for one will be happy to keep reading your thoughts and memories of your life with John. Sending warm hugs to you, Vee.

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  39. I was just going to send you an e-mail and then I saw you had a new post up. So let me leave a few comments right here. You have been in my thoughts and prayers often this past while (speaking for both of us). Praying that the memorial service is wonderful and meaningful...a celebration of John's life. And yes, do continue to share about John! May his memory live on! Hugs to you!

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  40. Dear Vee...I have been so behind in blogging I had no idea...

    I am sending many prayers and tons of hugs as you make your way through your grief. I think it would be really great if you continued to post pictures and write about your happy days with your beloved John.

    This is a wonderful post. I had to shake my head in agreement when I read your thoughts on simplifying.

    Love to you,

    Jane

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  41. Oh please DO talk about John. He is alive, just not here at this time. And one day all the saints will be united with our Lord. So talk on. John is still a part of the body of Christ. And I think that 12 year old boy was pretty darn cute! Prayers of friends surround you. May God give you joy and comfort amidst the rough circumstances. xo

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  42. I'd love to hear as much as you want to share about John and I love seeing all the photos. I am so happy that I got to meet him.

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  43. I'd be shocked if you didn't.

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  44. Please, please share about that sweet man!!

    Loved that bit about being direct like your father. I got some of that from mine as well. There is some tempering from my mom's side which helps. :-)

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  45. No better way to honor him than to share your thoughts, Vee. I think it is healthy way to mourn also. Thinking of you often.

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  46. I'm so glad you are sharing more about John. That is such good 'therapy' for you and I certainly enjoy hearing about his life and seeing these old photos of him - his stance was evident from 12 on wasn't it? Grand Manan eh? :) I laughed at your answer to #7. I think I get my outbursts of anger from my dad. Scary!! Something God has helped me control though. I'll be thinking of you over this weekend dear Vee. Blessings and hugs.
    Pam

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  47. Oh yes, please continue to right about your beloved. One of your friends said that there is no better way to honor him than to share your thoughts...I agree! Write to your hearts content, dear Vee.

    It is truly a blessing to read your posts...you are continuing on, taking each day as it comes. Love and hugs to you!

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  48. I keep thinking of you! Sending prayers and hugs. Yes, please. Talk about John.

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  49. Of course not Vee! I wouldn't expect you not to blog about John. Just keep blogging from the heart, as you've always done. Love and prayers for you, Deborah

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  50. Sending {{hugs}} to you. You know our blogs are our diaries...leastways mine is to a certain extent :) As Deborah says above..blog from your heart.

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  51. ...just to be sure you know this....
    http://www.bluegatemusicals.com/#!mennonite-girls-can-cook/cz2d

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  52. never mind, dear heart...I see you were there..:)

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  53. Hi Vee,

    I'm sorry I'm just now getting to leave a comment; I'm still playing catch up-here. The last six weeks have been hectic for us, and I'm slowly getting around to visiting my friends.

    I loved reading your answers in this post. Lemonade is also my favorite fruity drink -- one of my favorite drinks, period. :) My father also has that lack of filter thing going on, so I get you.

    I think the memory boards are a WONDERFUL idea, Vee! That first picture of John is just great; he looks like a real outdoorsman! I most certainly don't mind your talking about John here on your blog; I'm happy to learn more about him and hear your feelings for as long as you need to write about them.

    Sending you much love and prayers,

    Denise at Forest Manor

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  54. Dear Vee
    How could you not continue to talk about John? Of course you should! All your faithful readers feel as if we knew John and we also miss him! The photos you shared are precious and show some of the wonderful years of his life. I know you will celebrate his life and accomplishments and his kind and loving heart at his memorial service. Please know I am keeping you in my prayers {{{Hugs}}}

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  55. Dear Vee, I think of you and pray for you all the time during my days. I was thrilled to see you had posted something today and must tell you that I think it is natural and healthy to chat about John. These photos are wonderful!

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  56. Look at all of your blogging friends Vee....remarkable isn't it? How lovely to remember and think about your dearest John. It most likely will help to linger over all your memories....it would be so extremely difficult...something we must all go through. God will see you through the difficult days ahead....sending you prayer and hugs...

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  57. Dear Vee, you and your family remain in my thoughts and prayers! Please keep taking about John, though I never met him, I felt as though I knew him personally!
    I enjoyed reading your hodgepodge answers especially the list of things you would do to simplify your life, good luck I am been trying for years!!
    thanks for sharing all the photos!
    Love,
    Sue

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  58. Oh dear Vee, talk about John all you feel like doing. I always enjoyed/enjoy hearing about John. I'm happy to hear you are being sustained by prayer. May God continue to comfort you and hold you in his hands!

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  59. Oh goodness dear Vee, of course you should talk about John. This avenue to chat with friends is why we are here. I would love to sit and visit with you over some Macintosh Toffee and strong tea but this blogging back and forth will have to do.

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  60. I think it's very healthy to chat about John! I still talk about Kelly because I think it would be an injustice not to recognize the remarkable life she led and we shared with her. I love seeing your photos and I think the memorial device will be amazing. Love you, XOXO

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  61. ...just by tonight to say I'm thinking of you...xoxo

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  62. Vee, I've been away from blogging and visiting blogs, so please forgive me for being so late in giving my condolences on the loss of your dear John. Please talk about him all you want. This is your place to put whatever you like. I think it's very therapeutic to talk about those we've loved and lost. It makes them feel close to us, although it's also painful. Much love.

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  63. There is nothing like an ice cold glass of lemonade on a hot sweltering summer day, is there? :)

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  64. I WAS SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO glad you got to John by the end of the post! I continue to pray for you and mention you to my husband. God has bond you on my heart. Fun post...oh swimming in ocean or lake, I just love water, it refreshes my soul. Even just being near it does the same. Blessings.

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