Papas World – A guest Christmas Story

December 25, 2019December 11, 2019 / Tom / Leave a comment

December 25th. 2019

Today I post a story – a story written not by me – but by a friend.

A special friend and a special story for all.

Wishing you a blessed Christmas
and a Happy New Year

The story takes place years ago –

in the memory of a little girl

Her mother – and siblings

” A CHRISTMAS STORY”

Tiffany Ford

One of my favorite Childhood Memories of Christmas was the year we couldn’t afford a tree. I don’t recall who had the idea, but it was decided that we would put nails in the wall in the shape of a tree & string lights on them and that would be our tree that year.

We lived in an apartment at the time, and our neighbors were very confused about all the banging! To my childhood self, that tree was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen.

I grew up very poor. After my dad moved to another state with his new family, it was just me, Mom & my brothers.

Mom worked hard, often at multiple jobs, and we cleaned offices as a family in the evenings to make ends meet. In spite of this we still sometimes needed housing assistance & church pantry meals to get through.

We lived on generic everything, Dry Milk, Ramen & loads of pasta & potatoes. I am honestly so grateful for all of it. I never look back on my childhood Christmases & think “I wish we had more”.

Because even in the years when there was enough money for gifts, I couldn’t tell you what I received. What I do remember is the look on my mom & my brother’s faces putting up nails for the tree on the wall and the faith that our family would have Christmas no matter what.

We were the freakin’ Who’s down in Whoville. If all we did was play board-games & color & eat spaghetti it would still be Christmas, and it would probably be more memorable.

Maybe that’s why I’m not super traditional about Christmas, making do with what you can find forces a person to be flexible.

🎄I remember the blue stuffed dog I got from Toys 4 Tots he was my favorite for a really long time
🎄I remember the 4 of us lying on our bellies coloring in the living room waiting up to see if Santa would come.
🎄I remember the years we were each allowed to pick out our favorite cereal, even if it had Sugar in the first 5 ingredients
🎄I remember the mornings that we found a box on the porch with a turkey breast & a bag of potatoes so we could have a real dinner.
🎄I remember my brother and I removing the labels from the tuna cans & rolling them across the floor to each other
🎄I remember Mom was not amused the year the “Santa box” had both tuna & cat food cans 🤣

The year we had the wall tree, some friends from our church showed up a few days before Christmas with a real tree & a stand for us. They helped us set it up & decorate & we cried happy grateful tears.

If you ask me though, the real tree was never as beautiful as the lights on our “tree” on that wall.

I guess what I’m trying to say is if you’re struggling financially this year, know that your kids will be ok. Real magic never comes from things. The real magic in life comes from the unlikeliest of places.

The places where we struggle, stumble, fall on our faces, learn which friends will help us to rise, and discover the person we have become as we climb back to our feet.

Happy Holidays my friends, whatever holidays you choose to celebrate may this season fill your heart with real magic

#holidaymagic
#realsappy

In this day of the celebration of the Christ child

Let us pray and if we can – help those in need.

A pair of mittens – a warm scarf or a “box” of food.

A helping hand – a can of tuna –

You never know just how much that means.

Thank you Tiffany for sharing – giving from the heart.

Tiffany was honored when we asked to share this story

NO TIFFANY – it is our honor.

God bless

I am also going to post this to her unknowing

Tiffany Ford

Real Estate Consultant

at EXP REALTY

Phone # 703-946-0191

She did not ask of me – but maybe someone out there

is looking for a great agent

in the NVA area!

Thank you for reading Papas World

my site

livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Where friends meet the family

Papa’s World – cleaning up the desk – one day in my life

December 24, 2019December 8, 2019 / Tom / Leave a comment

EARLY TO BED – EARLY TO RISE – so do not text me past 8:00 PM.

I will answer at 5:00 AM.

Our daughter( Tammy ) and her husband ( Marcus ) – celebrated 14 years of marriage yesterday –

and one year of her store which she is standing in front of – 529KidsConsignment !

Very proud of them both – and her taking the leap of faith and running with her dream.

Although he is gone – I will remember him always – his wit and humor –

his nick names for everyone – he was my friend.

Two in the morning – none at night – makes sleep just right – MILD !

Maddy -middle under coach Donavan – white shirt

Through the years – Maddy – and once again last night – a playoff win –

advancing to the final Thursday night – against Handley –

and guaranteed a spot in Regions next week .

At least two more games in H.S. before graduation –

then on to University of Lynchburg – Va. to play soccer !

We once had a dog named Samantha – Sam for short –

Now we have a salamander – in our Strawberry patch – courtyard –

So – I named him / her Samantha or Sam –

Anyway – IT eats BUGS – so it works for me !

I picked these yesterday – this is the 5 th time of picking !

I take the strawberry plants out of the Tower Garden in the Fall –

and plant them in THE PATCH beside the house – and they spread –

And we have Strawberry’s each Spring !

My wife and best friend – Sherry –

called MORMOR by the three youngest grand kids –

MORMOR means MOTHER’S MOTHER in Swede !

Just cleaning up my desk – odds and ends of another day in my life.

I have a LOT of stories and blogs here – and mostly deal with my life

and that of family and friends.

Health – nutrition – lifestyles –

Up beat and positive – good news – bringing a smile –

But most of all – after I am gone – a place for family to go and read.

A place that I call home and a place of memories.

I hope you enjoy a little piece of that.

Here’s to you ! ” CHEERS ” !!!!!

livinglifedoingitmyway.blog #homeagain http://www.sf.juiceplus.com

Papa’s World – “HEY WILMER – HERE’S A NEW LIST “

December 23, 2019December 8, 2019 / Tom / 2 Comments

Every week – this little tidbit shows up in my emails – and the frustrating part – it is a ad with a ” NO REPLY ” email from SIRIUS RADIO !

The first time I got this – not knowing – I replied –

” TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN – MY NAME IS NOT WILMER ” !!!!

After I got the second one – I then saw in the address-

” THIS IS A NO REPLY EMAIL ” !

The urge – after the next 4 or 5 – was well not something I will say here – but – to let you know –

I do remember four telephone numbers –

the first is that of my Mother – the second is my sister – both gone –

the third is my wife’s and lastly my own !

So – now instead of getting mad – and needing something for the head ache –

I will just delete as soon as they show up !!!

Now – the thought I have is that SOMEWHERE out there

is someone by the name of WILMER –

wondering why he has not been contacted by SIRIUS RADIO !!!!

So – I have come to accept this – I thought about calling them –

but I have negotiated with them every 4 to 6 months on pricing –

yes – you can do that –

HINT – never give them a credit card – make them invoice you – and not automatic renewal –

And if you can get through all the transfers – you can do it – but it takes time.

Make the most – delete them – and live on

My advice when you get a email addressed to WILMER – just move on –

DELETE it – smile and live another day –

it is funny in a way –

WILMER – I truly hope that when you see THOMAS –

just delete it –

think nice things and smile –

life does go on – one day at a time !

#homeagain #JP #HGD #just http://www.sf.juiceplus.com

Papas World – some say I am not normal – & I know that!

December 22, 2019December 8, 2019 / Tom / Leave a comment

Ever since I can remember –

the first bird chirping –

My bedroom as I got older after my older brother

left for college –

Was right in the front of the house –

Facing East and those first rays of the Sun.

GOOD MORNING EVERYONE !

I have always awoken either before those first rays

or shortly after!

I am up early each and every day –

first cup of coffee

BEFORE the morning paper hits the pavement!

And it is that way even if I force myself

To stay up and watch the BALL DROP for NEW YEARS!

My wife and I just had this conversation

About how over the years – we use to party –

Now it is CAN WE STAY AWAKE !

And – I am good with 7 to 71/2 hours of sleep –

BUT – it has to be when I am tired ( 8 to 8:30 PM. )

If I go to bed then – I SLEEP – solid –

seems in my later years –

I always wake up once to go to the bathroom! LOL

But – if I stay up –

I wake up the same time each day –

and then I feel terrible the rest of the day!

It’s like I have a internal clock

( I do not use a alarm clock)

If you tell me you want up at a certain time

I WILL WAKE YOU UP with NO alarm clock!

I do not know how that works – but it does for me!

My wife is opposite ( we do attract each other)

She likes to stay up later – somewhere around 10 to 11:30 PM.

She will wake up from 5 to 6 am. and read her phone –

I think it is her phone –

She is the lead in our book club from church

and she reads the books on line –

BUT – after a half hour or so – SOUND ASLEEP AGAIN! LOL

7:30 to 8:00 AM. she is up and ready to go-

Me – I have done all my face book – email – and my writing

read the entire paper front to back

and had two cups of coffee & ready for shower!

Morning Sunrise
I get to see this
each and every morning

Life has it’s own schedule for everyone

mine happens to be EARLY

And I can remember those mornings back to my childhood

That bedroom not only faced East – but had huge maple trees

with lots of birds – all chirping with the first rays of Sunshine.

There was the main highway as we lived on the main street of a small town

In NWPA.

In the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains

I could hear the trucks going by –

and behind the house the railway tracks

The ” Click – Click ” as the wheels of the train as it passes

Lulled me to sleep each night!

Yes – I am up at the crack of dawn –

That is just who I am –

I like my morning solitude

My quiet time – my time to write – think and read.

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Where friends meet the family!

Your day is just starting – mine is hours old –

So Sunday mornings – I get dressed and head to church –

8:15 AM. service

By that time – my day is well on it’s way –

AND I DON’T MIND AT ALL!

Thank you!

Papa’s World – eating healthy is not the only thing – flowers

December 15, 2019November 29, 2019 / Tom / Leave a comment

We walk – we eat healthy – but the mental part is also important !

A healthy body also has to have a healthy mind – at least mine does !

So – when we moved into our house thirteen years ago –

I started digging up – replanting – moving – shrubs – putting in trees

( 3 Crepe Myrtles ) and numerous rose bushes – flowers that came back year after year.

I had to dig these trees on my hands and knees – being so many rocks ! With that being said – when they bloom a bright ruby red – I just love them – and it all was worth it !

Flowers and color do a lot for my mind and peaceful thoughts.

But – as you get older – weeding kills your back – at least mine !

So – this year – I bought the mulch from the boy scouts – and actually paid them to spread it around – 25 bags !

It was well worth it and half the cost of anyone else.

These roses will bloom off and on until Fall – most everything in the beds comes up each year.

Walking home – when coming in sight of the house- gives me a great calming thought – seems like any stress just goes away –

and that is for my mental being.

Sherry always plants the planters around the house – in back -the patio and the front porch.

So – when people visit – the visual of flowers – the welcome mat – sitting on the front porch or in the enclosed patio – brings calm – that is why we do it .

Each year – in the back – we plant flowers and the Tower Gardens –

which provide our vegetables daily.

In front of these are the other two Crepe Myrtles that I hand planted – all the trees and bushes here I also planted.

Yesterday’s harvest from our strawberry patch

We also grow our own strawberry’s – enough to provide us each morning for breakfast while they last.

Living a healthy lifestyle – to reduce stress – we plant – we grow and produce vibrant colors all Spring – Summer and Fall.

We actually grow even in Winter inside our garage.

For a stress relief – try flowers – smell them – watch them grow –

it can do wonders for your mental health.

I hope this blog helps you today – #livinglifetotheplus http://www.sf.juiceplus.com

PAPA’S WORLD – EATING HEALTHY IS NOT THE ONLY THING – FLOWERS

#homeagain #JP #HGD #just

Papa’s World – get me going in the morning – flavored !

December 14, 2019November 29, 2019 / Tom / Leave a comment

Sometimes you drink a little wine – you do silly things – but you always smile – but – to start my day before some wine is ” COFFEE ” !

For those of you who do not know me – I have always gotten up EARLY !

Like I am up by 5:00 AM. every morning – I only need 6 to 7 hours of sleep and then I am wide awake.

Have been this way since my youth ! I would wake up – my bedroom was the front upstairs bedroom – and right outside the two windows – was a huge Maple tree.

It would be full of birds chirping in the morning -and that bedroom faced East.

So – the combination of Sun light coming in and the birds singing – well -that was my favorite before I was old enough to drink coffee !

My grand father David & my grand mother Nora

I was raised in my early years by my grand ma – she was a widow and had moved in with us.

My very first time I can remember having coffee – was when she made me ” COFFEE SOUP ” for breakfast – as she called it !

During the depression when she had her farm and family -11 kids – they had to improvise to feed everyone.

And one of the staples living on a large farm was -they had milk from the cows –

they bought barrels of flour ( homemade bread ) – big bags of sugar – and raised pigs for side pork !

So – ” COFFEE SOUP ” became a norm for them – coffee being a treat for the whole house – and she would make bread and rolls – pies and cakes all day long.

She would slice me a big thick piece of home made bread – put it on a plate – a piece of side pork that she fried –

then pour coffee on top of the bread – a little milk and sprinkle sugar on it !

To this day I remember that and how good it tasted with that side pork !

That was my introduction to COFFEE all those years ago.

And – another lunch time feature from the depression years – was Milk off the farm and white crackers and sugar mixed together !

Although I have never had either since – I was raised that way !

Today – first thing is fix my coffee – a little flavored cream –

and I try to have flavored coffee – not strong – I tend not to like strong flavors – beer included –

and I do not really like wine unless it is a little sweet !

Nothing better than to sip coffee in public and people watch

Sipping my coffee while blogging –

sitting in public with a coffee and people watch –

between church services – getting a cup of java and talking.

Those are the little things in life that as you get older – you cherish.

Much like I do in my memory of my grandma.

COFFEE became a staple in my life along time ago – and since I am up before dawn –

it is all the more tasteful in the quiet space of peaceful thought !

Sherry does not like COFFEE – she is a TEA drinker

My wife – Sherry – does not drink COFFEE –

she is a TEA drinker – I think that is the SWEDE coming out in her !

Hope you like the blog today –

a little bit of nothing on nothing !

#livinglifrtotheplus #homeagain http://www.sf.juiceplus.com #HGD #just #JP

Papas World – in the South – a Christmas Parade

December 13, 2019November 29, 2019 / Tom / 1 Comment

We had traveled to Raleigh N.C. to see Sherry’s sister.

On that Saturday – we went into Raleigh early

11-23-19 parade started at 9:15 am.

to find a parking spot

and meet up with her daughter – husband and two grand kids.

Tom and Sherry
in downtown Raleigh
waiting for the parade
to start

This happened to be the 75th. year of this parade

a parade that was scheduled to go for 2 1/2 hours!

But – rain was predicted

we hoped we would see it all!

The first marching band was from

The University of North Carolina State

North Carolina State marching band
I am guessing some where
around 5 or 6 hundred
in the band

They kept coming
and performed just past us

The end of North Carolina State marching band

We managed to see all kinds of units

clowns – horses – cars – trucks – drill teams

But the marching bands kept coming

And they almost all were High School and huge

The uniforms were just fantastic

and most seem to be from this area

We got to see them all perform just past our spot

Our niece Kristy – daughters and husband Casey
along with Sherry’s sister Debbie

The rain held off – there were floats – Queens and courts

both local and state.

Gingerbread – followed by a band – preceded by a band

They were running with the shark
and would run toward the crowd
on either side of the street
and at the last moment
turn away
the kids loved it!

There were about a dozen trucks like this

Star Wars
20 to 30 people
dressed up
like all Star Wars people

It was here that it started to rain harder

we had watched for two hours

a dozen or two of marching bands

We started gathering up our chairs

covering our heads

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

We stayed as long as we could

I felt sorry for the remainder of the parade

as I looked up the street – there was no end in sight

we had seen in two hours so much it is hard to explain

or to remember.

Sherry
watching the marching bands
Put this parade on your bucket list
It was not on mine
but I want to return
it was that good!

Thank you

Papa’s World

WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY

The Christmas parade – RALEIGH NORTH CAROLINA

Papa’s World – ten years living life – looking ahead

December 7, 2019November 24, 2019 / Tom / Leave a comment

Living life – doing it my way – the name of my blog –

And that is how our life together has gone.

Phoenix TEN years ago
Juice Plus Conference

The years have passed – but we still maintain a healthy lifestyle

Traveling – helping other people –

To this day – we love our life

When you come close to passing away

at least for me

there was no flashes of my past

no profound moments

but there was a inner peace

one that just ” LIVE FOR THE MOMENT”

and be grateful for what I lived.

We could not do this without each other

Sherry – Certified Health Coach

Her health business

and my number one cheerleader

The one who keeps me healthy

11-23-19
Raleigh North Carolina
75th. Christmas Parade

Today – we gather our belongings

pack up and head home

but first a trip to the Farmers Market

then the highway.

Our next long awaited trip

in February with our second oldest grand child

a trip for her 16th. birthday

One month in the warmth of Florida

and one week for her and a trip to

Star Wars theme park.

She is a huge fan !

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

Looking ahead to the next ten years

AGING HEALTHY

My blog

livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

WHERE FRIENDS MEET FAMILY

Papa’s World – just THINGS in my life!

December 3, 2019November 20, 2019 / Tom / Leave a comment

We have been busy the last year –

Friends have visited – almost all of them –

at different times –

So we have toured D.C.

Played golf ( 2 different times – different friends)

We have just sat back and talked –

We entertained overnight a Movie Star

and a World class musician on the piano – accordion and organ.

We have traveled the country –

We both are into health –

Sherry is a certified Health Coach

after a life of Lab Tech – Office payroll – Billing – Manufacturing –

Manager – Logistics – Outside Sales –

And now a SSC ( Senior Sales Coodinator )

for Juice Plus Company

We travel – her team is countrywide.

We live life for ourselves – our friends – our family

and our kids and grand kids.

We do many things at our church and for our church

Book club ( Sherry has monitored for NINE YEARS !

Wednesday night social ministries

Altar guild

Communion assistants

SAS committee ( Steward ship for all Seasons )

Icon class

Photography

Editorials

We belong and practice our faith.

OUR LIFE IS FULL
And many people fulfill the above

I live life one day at a time – to the fullest –

I have experienced in my life

Four times of near death

I therefore look ahead one day at a time

This is but a few moments in our daily lives

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

my site

livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

my email

fitztdf@aol.com

PAPA & MORMOR
As our grandchildren
call us
Tom & Sherry

Papa’s World

WHERE FRIENDS MEET FAMILY

THANK YOU !

Papa’s World – What Community means in Community – church

November 30, 2019November 18, 2019 / Tom / Leave a comment

Sherry and Taylor
walking to Community
Lutheran Church

I sat in the Narthex – waiting for a young man –

Who would speak to the congregation on how our church

has impacted his young life.

I greeted him as he passed through and went outside

as if he was not sure quite what to do – the first service had started

In a email I had told his person of contact

He would speak at the end of the first service

and the beginning of the second service.

We went inside and found seats in the back –

Then it was time for him to speak –

He had told me that 2 or 3 minutes – the time he was to speak –

Was not nearly enough time – he could go on for hours !

You see – our church is a outreach church –

In the Community – in the area and beyond – Rwanda.

The young man spoke from his heart – no notes –

How when he walks through these doors twice a week –

He is safe – he is home – he is with people who love him.

Our lighted tree
in the circular drive
for Christmas

The young man described his lows and highs –

In the Granger room where they meet

and in the fellowship hall where they gather.

All in Community Lutheran Church – his safe place.

He has been sober for over a year – he is once again felt wanted.

MAR THOMA
India
In English
Saint Thomas
one of the Twelve

The outreach also goes to another Christian denomination

A congregation who had no home –

A congregation who holds services each Sunday afternoon

And also during the week.

They also call this home.

A place where God gathers all his children

A place that is safe – a place of solitude –

Outreach has its many forms –

Taking place each and everyday within these walls.

All Gods children are welcomed –

Open arms- open doors – open hearts – where it is safe.

The classrooms are full – all 7 or 8 of them –

each school day – full of children

not only from the congregation

but from the Community

A safe place – a outreach – a Community .

There are Icon classes – every Tuesday night.

Book club every first Tuesday of the month.

Two groups of quilters – one from Community

and one from the Community.

There are Boy Scouts -once a month.

Youth group – Choir groups – Wednesday choir for the youth

and Dinner for the congregation –

Once a month – during the above – Green Meadows –

A group with disabilities for dinner and sing along’s after.

Bible study and adult education each Sunday.

Numerous committees meeting weekly or monthly.

Sunday school and nursery

Sherry ( MorMor) Bode Taylor and Cassidy

For years our outreach knows no borders –

We support a school in Rwanda –

each year sending two students through school until they graduate

paying all their costs – and then two more are selected.

Donating money for buildings –

Water – necessities of life – watching the campus grow

watching the increase in students

where genocide wiped out almost all adults.

And then each Sunday – the collection of LOOSE CHANGE

by the children from the Congregation

into the bucket –

allowing for Community Lutheran Church

to write a check last week

THE NOISY OFFERING as it is called

For BACKPACK BUDDIES

A program for children to have food on weekends

Where as the only meal they get are school meals

The September and October offering results of this children’s gathering

resulted in a check for $1655.25 for food for low income children

to take home on weekends.

Taylor Sherry ( MorMor) Bode during service

Prior to that -the offering went to WGB –

WOMEN GIVING BACK – a non profit in Sterling ( Community’s neighbors)

Helping Women and children in crisis

by distributing clothing at no cost.

The outreach goes on –

Link food pantry where the first Sunday of every month

is brought in on both services and taken to the food pantry

Low income family’s bags of food delivered by our volunteers

to people in need.

Coffee and conversation between services

New – THE WELL – once every 1st. and 3rd Wednesday evening –

to gather to pray for the community – neighborhood and the World.

The mitten tree -where toys are distributed for families in need.

Gifts for Hope – Sweats for Vets –

There are many more –

A festival
this December
for the Community
at Community
another outreach

A Festival to benefit MOBILE HOPE –

For children who have no home who live in tents

in the woods –

some have no parents or guardians

They are provided with coats – jackets – toilet articles -hygine

They have been deserted

left alone to fend for themselves

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

where friends meet family

Today – Community Lutheran Church

Sterling Va.

WHERE COMMUNITY MEETS COMMUNITY

my blog site

livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

my email

fitztdf@aol.com

Papa’s World – all he wanted was his cousin – ELLA !

November 27, 2019November 14, 2019 / Tom / Leave a comment

The birthday was earlier in the week – turning five –

His one request – ” I WANT ELLA TO GO TO TOP GOLF ” !

This is a five year old who adores his sixteen year old cousin !

For the last few years – he has been fascinated with her.

Going where she is and asking her to play with him.

And she is so good with him –

You can hear him yelling ” ELLA – ELLA ” when she plays soccer !

Cheering her on and she in turn can hear him.

I do not know how to explain this –

only that he became attached to her when he was between 2 and 3 .

The other two – Taylor and Cassidy –

form that same bond only with Sarah –

Ella’s younger sister.

We are a family of mostly girls
mother and daughters
Bode the lone boy

Bode and his father Marcus
instructions on golf

It was Bode who asked to go here

It was chilly – 35 degrees –

but we kept warm with the overhead heaters.

Debby – Tammy – Sherry
Mother and two daughters

We had a fun time – over two hours –

It is always fun when you spend time with family.

A cold night – but a time he wanted to spend with Ella

Thank you fro reading Papa’s World

where friends meet family

Cassidy and Me
my blog
livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
my email
fitztdf@aol.com

PAPA’S WORLD – all he wanted was his cousin ELLA !

THANK YOU

Papa’s World – First visit to dorm room of grand daughter

November 13, 2019November 5, 2019 / Tom / Leave a comment

After two and one half months – we went South 3 1/2 hours

To Lynchburg University – in Lynchburg Va.

Actually – this city has FOUR UNIVERSITY’S !

We were here to watch her play soccer and also to see the campus

and her dorm room !

She came in with 19 minutes left in the first half

( only two Freshman subbed in )

and she played the rest of the first half –

all of the second half and the overtime !

He has moved her to back row defense !

Her mother and sister also came down –

and we rented a airBNB for the night –

After the game we walked around the campus

and went to her dorm room

Maddy bring up the ball
in a playoff game
on Monday
which they won 4 to 0
This game she played
almost the whole game

The coach seems to have adjusted her from midfielder

to defender – which then has her playing 75 % of the game

as a freshman !

We took a tour of the waterfront in the old part of town.

We stayed the night with her mother and sister there

and then they had to leave early as Ella had a travel soccer game

( they won 4 to 0 )

We went back to the air BnB to celebrate Maddy’s 19 th. birthday

With dinner and cake.

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

my blog site livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

my email fitztdf@aol.com

This Cemetery dates back to the late 1700’s

On the historical register

with over 20,000 graves.

We got to spend time with Maddy

And share a morning and early afternoon and lunch.

Hang some block out curtin’s
in her dorm room

We got to share family time

ELLA & MADDY
look who has gotten taller !

Thank you

Papa’s World

WHERE FRIENDS MEET FAMILY

A day with Maddy !

Papa’s World- our daughters store – 529kidsc0nsignloudoun

October 31, 2019October 26, 2019 / Tom / Leave a comment

When you children go forth and start a adventure –

you always worry – you pray – and then you sit back and watch!

That happened some 14 to 15 months ago –

A dream came to reality –

A high end kids consignment store was opened by Tammy –

Our youngest –

Store front
21020 Sycolin Road
125 Ashburn Va.
571-417-3060

She dreamed of this for over 10 years –

and today she does a healthy business –

walk ins but the majority is over the internet –

She posts multiple pictures of high end – upscale children’s clothes !

Only the best are taken in – most never worn !

The concept is easy – take pictures – post on line –

customer pays on line – she then ships directly to customer !

Of course walk ins are also welcomed –

and the consignments decrease in value the longer they are there –

with a three month window –

Then they are returned or if the person does not want them back

they are donated to charity !

She is very selective on brands and condition –

a high percentage of clothing has never been worn !

the site address is 529kidsconsignloudoun

You can view pictures – sizes and gender on the site

It also explains how to pay and her ship direct is very affordable !

Or you can call 571-417-3060 !

Store inventory
includes other items besides clothes
Shoes – bags – strollers – maternity
Pictures – cards – gifts

While there I noticed new pictures of the family

Bode and Tammy – first boy grand child after five girls !

The photography by Erica D.
The twins – Taylor and Cassidy
” I AM LITTLE – SOME DAY I WILL BE BIGGER “
CASSIDY

Some of the best photography !

I think in my mind – she (ERICA D.) nailed this one !

TAYLOR !

Today – we watch – we help out when needed

But a dream has formed and come true

You still worry

But pride over comes that

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

If you like reading my blogs

and wish to read more

just type in the following

livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

my email fitztdf@aol.com

Sherry – certified Health and Nutrition Coach

For HEALTH & NUTRITION

http://www.sf.juiceplus.com

email ssherrylynn49@aol.com

WELCOME TO PAPA’S WORLD

Papa’s World – A young woman – in college – playing soccer – Maddy

October 18, 2019October 16, 2019 / Tom / Leave a comment

Good Morning
Two months ago
she left in the
middle of August
to attend the University Of Lynchburg

We had not seen or talked to her in that time –

She was at University – early – for the women’s soccer team.

She had been training all Summer –

running – she had to run two miles in under 12 minutes !

The coach – Dr. Todd Olsen – is a motivator –

Team bonding – both mental and working together –

achieving a goal placed before them.

His teams have reached the NCAA Division Three playoffs

TWELVE STRAIGHT YEARS !

Winning the NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP in 2014.

Losing in the Quarter finals last year

Being involved
building that trust
in one another

I have watched from afar

His program is the real deal

” WE DO NOT REBUILD – WE RELOAD ” !

is what he says !

Today they are in second place in their conference

out of fourteen teams

having won the conference last year

with a 23 – 3 – 1 record

Today they are 9 – 3- 1 having played a power early schedule

Playing the number two team in the country

to a 1 to 1 tie.

Not bad for having graduated TEN SENIORS from that team.

Maddy as a freshman – does not start -very few do –

But she has played in 90 % of the games

They are stacked at Mid fielders –

So – he has moved her to defense

back line in front of the goalie !

When she first started playing soccer

that is where they put her

because of her quickness and speed

Later – because of her ball skills and passing

they moved her to Midfielder.

When you play this level in college

everyone is quick and fast !

With her time playing midfield
she brings to that back line
the ability to advance the ball
and draw in the defense

I could see that she adjusted well –

She has the skill

She played a total of 25 minutes

He has 33 players on the team

With 11 being seniors !

Maddy is one of 10 Freshmen !

He subs in and out – keeping them fresh.

Maddy’s number 13
was passed down to her
from a senior from last year
who assists the team this year
saying
” She wanted that number’s tradition passed down “

As a Freshmen – Maddy finished 5th. overall in the two mile

She finished first among the Freshmen.

She has handled the switch extremely well

She loves the team – the coaches and the school

A scavenger hunt designed for team building
Each team had a color theme
The coach does this team building
once a week
and twice a week in the off season
Every FOUR years
he takes the Team to
Puerto Rico
To do social work
Helping others in need !

Maddy – after the game
with her three little cousins
and Bode screamed the entire time
she was playing
“MADDY – MADDY “

Sarah 13 sister Debby (mother) Maddy & Ella 17 sister

We brought her home to sleep in her own bed

after two months being in a dorm room

but more important –

for her Mother’s birthday

and spend time with her sisters & family.

Mike ( father ) Sarah and Bode
Maddy and Sherry ( grandmother)

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

my email fitztdf@aol.com

She is excelling – she is happy – she is now a “HORNET ” !

For University of Lynchburg , Va.

Women’s Soccer team.

SHERRY
CERTIFIED HEALTH COACH
for health and nutrition
go to
http://www.sf.juiceplus.com
for business
go to
ssherrylynn49@aol.com

Papa’s World

WHERE FRIENDS MEET FAMILY

Papa’s World – The Lutheran Way – Going to miss him.

September 29, 2019September 25, 2019 / Tom / 4 Comments

The letter came in the mail – ” I AM RETIRING ” !

For 12 years – we have called him “PASTOR JOE ”

and with much sadness

We are saying goodbye September 29th. 2019.

We have belonged to our church I guess 13 or 14 years –

and he has been there for the better part of that.

Then – around seven years ago –

Pastor Annabelle –

joined him as our associate pastor –

” One of our own ” as the Bishop said yesterday.

Having been raised in our Synod –

and ordained –

Becoming our co – pastor after her call to Community Lutheran Church.

It was a sad day yesterday –

for we had our Bishop –

who also is retiring at the end of August –

Doing the service and afterword –

A open question and answer

with the Pastors and the Bishop

And knowing in a few short months –

we shall not see Debra ( wife ) – and Joe again.

For in our Lutheran church –

they must leave and have no contact for years.

Joe and Debra
Along with Joe is Debra
a staple and a enduring influence
on the church
as a whole !

Joe and Debra
on one of our trips
into DC to see a play.
Debra has many roles in the church,
which will take a church full of people
to replace her.

Debra and Sherry
at the Washington National Cathedral.
Sherry for one is really going to miss her at book club.
But plans on keeping her informed through email
on what books we are reading and hoping she can once again
supply her insight and critique of that which we read through email !!
DEBRA – WE ALL SHALL MISS YOU !!!!!

Debra and Joe brought this every day-
they both will be missed – but we must forge ahead
as Gods work does not rest
and once again – with Pastor Annabelle
we will unite and make Community
the place of comfort for those seeking.

With sadness comes hope – for you see – in the Lutheran Church –

The next Pastor will be called by our membership –

After extensive vetting.

As was Pastor Joe and Pastor Annabelle.

One goes and one remains –

Pastor Annabelle has become endeared to us all.

Her smile – her compassion – her voice rings clear in service.

For years and years – every Thursday or Friday – she sits in the coffee shop –

Offering free prayers and consultations to any and all – with open arms.

She truly is one of a kind.

For a time – we will count down the time and say our goodbyes –

Our memories – laughter at book club with Debra –

Her wit – her insight – her presence will be missed greatly.

Pastor Joe – his drive forward – his open arms –

his eyes taking in all new people in the pews and extending a welcome.

Their leadership – their compassion –

has led Community Lutheran to this point –

A welcoming to all –

We – the congregation – are the winners here –

To know both Pastor Joe and Debra –

To have them in our lives all these years –

Has been a blessing –

And to Have Pastor Annabelle and Jeff – her husband – to move forward –

We have had the best of two Worlds.

Already from what she said on Sunday – moving ahead –

Moving the congregation toward that common goal they both established.

The doctrine of the Church – the Open arms –

Community , as the word says – involving all –

Young Clergy Woman moving us forward –

We shall always remember – as when we first came and Pastor Paul retired.

We moved on and new beginning took shape –

And in a few months –

it shall happen once again.

Welcome Pastor Annabelle & Jeff – Farewell Pastor Joe and Debra

” LEAVING ON A JET PLANE ” as the song goes –

Saying fare thee well –

” I’LL BE HOME AGAIN “

Saying welcome to Community Lutheran – FREE PRAYERS AVAILABLE !

They both are moving forward – each in their own direction –

But with in the Spirit of the Lord –

each with COURAGE AND HOPE –

Fare thee well and Hello and welcome

PAPA’S WORLD – THE LUTHERAN WAY – GOING TO MISS HIM

I hope you enjoyed the read –

For more blogs -just type in the following

livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

for my email

fitztdf@aol.com

For HEALTH ( Sherry – my wife – is a certified Health Coach )

http://www.sf.juiceplus.com

for her email

ssherrylynn49&@aol.com

Thank you for reading PAPA’S WORLD

Papa’s World – Smile a little- Happy July 4 th.

July 4, 2019June 27, 2019 / Tom / Leave a comment

Every once in a while – you just have to sit back and see the funny side!

As we prepare to celebrate our NATIONS BIRTH – have a cup of brew –

Take a sip and relax – read the paper or better yet – some funny stuff !

Political ” STUFF ” is just that –

sometimes go to the back page and smile

At all the advertisements –

Release your inner self – look at the funnies !

See what is in front of you and be creative –

Smile for it could make your day !

Sometimes – you just have to know – you are smarter than them !

Look in the mirror – you own it – make the best of it – and make the change.

Don’t fool yourself – it is a waste of time –

Be proud of who you are –

There is only one of you !

No matter what – either one works !

It all comes down to the ” SPACE” between your ears !

You be the judge – you determine –

after all – it’s your mind – it’s owned by you

Your dreams are your escape – your memories are yours –

Think back to your childhood – the good moments –

They belong to only you !

Look at the bright side – at least you have one –

You decide –

But feel good – look positive – emotions play a big part of this !

Surround yourself with TRUE FRIENDS and FAMILY –

They believe in you !

Take this day and recharge yourself – family – friends –

But always remember – there is a funny side out there –

You just have to look for it !

You just can’t make up this reality into fiction !

I hope this brings a smile to you –

A good vibe –

A HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY !

From us to you

HAVE A GOOD FUN DAY !

Thank you for reading PAPA’S WORLD

For more reading just type in the following

livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

For my email

fitztdf@aol.com

For HEALTH ( Sherry is a certified Health Coach )

http://www.sf.juiceplus.com

For her email

ssherrylynn49@aol.com

PAPA’S WORLD Thank you !

I

Health Family friends grand children senior living

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Papa’s World – just THINGS in my life!

Papa’s World – What Community means in Community – church

Papa’s World – all he wanted was his cousin – ELLA !

Papa’s World – First visit to dorm room of grand daughter

Papa’s World- our daughters store – 529kidsc0nsignloudoun

Papa’s World – A young woman – in college – playing soccer – Maddy

Papa’s World – The Lutheran Way – Going to miss him.

Papa’s World – Smile a little- Happy July 4 th.

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