More Hints From Grandpa

With more ideas to share since posting “Hints From Grandpa Ned” two years ago, I’m still big on repurposing to “save the Earth” and money.  [Worth repeating, as I’m still using] “… an old toothbrush to sweep lint off the dryer screen.  Also good for sweeping bugs into a bottle.”

Repurpose a mug to hold a water bottle upright by your bed; use another to hold toothbrushes in the bathroom. 

Delay gratification by saving ice cream to enjoy with a friend on his or her schedule; (delay “activates the prefrontal cortex, building stronger … decision-making skills.”)

Keep a few healthy snacks and books by your bed for convenience — morning, siesta, and night.  (Reminder: this blog is not about food.)

[Worth repeating:] “Slow down sometimes, read a good book, and know that God loves and guides His children.”

Be kind, keep the faith, and be prepared. 

two ships passing

Meeting interesting people at the Ogden community resource center is always a pleasure.  However, rarely does my wish for lasting friendship come to fruition.  It’s usually like (an idiom) two ships passing in the night.

Two years ago, I randomly stopped to see what was happening in that former Ogden Regional Family History Center, where I had volunteered for two years around 2007.  There I met young Dana Lou, the “Artistic Director” and “Creative Landscaper”, a notable example of lasting friendship.  Thanks to her, I soon got involved with myHometown Ogden.  Realizing a different meaning of the ships idiom, she and I often have contrasting schedules (night owl and early bird) as I go to volunteer several times a week.  

As a married couple raising children, Kay & I were often like two ships passing … (night owl and early bird).  As empty nesters, we settled into a more synched (synchronized) routine   (two night owls?)   Life is good … with love.

treasure trove

“For where your treasure is …”  (Matt. 6:21)

My sentimental stuff?  Our kids don’t want it.  Can’t take it with me.  Scan&Discard is working to let go and find a few treasures worth keeping in the process.  Time is passing too quickly as we help others deal with their stuff. 

What were Kay & I thinking in the 80s while we raised our family and remodeled the home in East Mill Creek?  Managing life and loving our children.  When the big property sold, good neighbors helped us lighten our load and downsize.  A trove of treasures hopefully went where things would finally be used.

Years later as empty nesters, we found freedom and peace in small apartments our five children visited.  We treasure memories and each other.