Pamela's Daybook: July 15th

Today: It's Friday! I had the best talk with my Aunt Jean. I called to find out about Aunt Posie, but we chatted about a lot of other things, too. One thing she told me is about a family (near my childhood home) who lived in a three story house, a bathroom on each level. But -- they had only one towel and they had to carry it from floor to floor. That just made me laugh. 

Both Aunt Posie and Uncle Jim are in a care facility. They share the same room. Uncle Jim cannot hear anything. The last time I tried to talk to him on the telephone he couldn't hear me at all. All I heard was him telling Aunt Posie, "I can't hear a thing she's saying." Aunt Posie isn't doing well, but at least she's in a place that provides great care. I'm so thankful for that. 

At my writing desk: Lots of writing going on today. 

Praying for:  Uncle Jim and Aunt Posie

Thankful for: Aunt Jean!

I'm reading: I asked Aunt Jean if all my cousins read. My Great Papa Gromley read, my Grammy did, all of her daughters, my mother and three aunts, are (were) readers. Aunt Jean thinks all of the cousins read, too. We are four generation readers -- my daughters read voraciously, making them fifth generation readers. My grandchildren are sixth generation readers. That makes me smile! Is it hereditary or environmental? 

Journaling prompt for today: Write about something you made by hand.  I was crocheting a shawl, probably back in the 70s. I crocheted the whole way to Chicago. We were staying with RB's sister, on Lake Shore Drive. Someone broke into the car, stole my shawl and leather coat. I could understand the coat, but who steals a half-crocheted shawl? 

Postmarking: I got all my mail out this week. I also had six young women from a Bible Study join our group. They all played volleyball together and now have formed a Bible Study. How awesome is that?!!

Favorite quote: The journey of a lifetime begins at the turning of a page. Rachel Anders

Pamela's Daybook: July 11th

Today: Shawn took the older boys to band camp and Melanie is bringing Morgan and Camron to me. I get to keep them overnight. Shawn's taking Melanie away to do a little shopping. RB is teaching Monday nights at Portland. It's the only place he teaches that I can't go with him. So my evening will go fast with the kiddos. It reminds me of my girls' adopted "Ganga." Papaw traveled a lot, so she was always taking one of the girls for company.

At my writing desk: I had to start early this morning to get my curriculum writing done. The kids would let me write, but I'd rather have fun! I do have so many words pushing at my heart, but no fun writing until I catch up some hours from last week. 

Praying for: The needs sent in for Shelter: Postmarked. 

Thankful for:  My sons-in-law -- I love how they go the extra mile in their marriages. Shawn has a million and one things he could do for his company, yet he's taking time to be with Melanie. Jonathon surprised Emily with two large sets of markers in an Amazon box. Other girls may dream of roses and expensive baubles for their home, but he knows just what Emily loves. 

I'm reading:  "How To Make Money Blogging: How I Replaced My Day-Job and How You Can Start A Blog Today," by Bob Lotich. For my blogging or wanna-be blogging friends, the book is free on Amazon. 

Journaling prompt for today: Write about something in your life that is "worth it." I spend many hours with Shelter: Postmarked Group. I've personally sent over 500 pieces of mail since January. But that is one activity that is "worth it." To encourage others is my passion, and my mother would be so pleased that we are passing on her heritage. My team members are a blessing in my life, and many faithfully send out one or more cards each week. 

Postmarking:  I skidded in just under the wire this week. And I got the sweetest box from my friend, Janene. Tea, a cinnamon tea mat (On front: Old books and a tea cup -- You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me. C. S. Lewis), and three different teas. She also tucked in the brochures of the southern plantation where she purchased the teas. She had posted about being there and I told RB that was where I'd love to go. The package made me feel like I was there.  

Favorite quote: "A perfect summer day is when the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, the birds are singing, and the lawn mower is broken." James Dent (This is funny to me because we've had ours worked on four times already this summer.) 

Pamela's Daybook: June 28

Today:  We are getting ready for my Daddy to come spend the holiday with us. We're all so excited -- even little Emma who has only seen him once. The guest room is on the list to be done today.

At my writing desk: This is one of those Heinz 57 days. A little bit of lots of things. 

Praying for: The people of Istanbul 

Thankful for:  Neighbors who share their garden's produce

I'm reading: The Benghazi report's cover letter. I won't try to get through all 800 pages of the report, but I do want to understand the timeline, etc. Reading it makes the men who gave their ultimate sacrifice more human to me.

Postmarking: Emily and I stopped by Family Book Store yesterday. I found some "perfect" cards. I love Dayspring's cards. It seems I can always find a card that "says it right." I just don't always like their prices!

Favorite quote: God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him. John Piper

Pamela's Daybook: June 22

Today: Melanie and the kids were here for lunch. Sloppy joes on homemade rolls -- the boys' favorites. So many laughs. The kids are all reading books this summer, and I love to hear about them. Landon finished "The Boxcar Children" -- a favorite of mine at his age. I wanted to live in a boxcar! 

At my writing desk: Traded cooking and some house cleaning for writing. Tomorrow is another day. It all gets done eventually. 

Praying for: James Pinkerton and his family. He has been through so many physical issues and received more bad news this week. 

Thankful for: Daughters and where they live. I'm aware not everyone can have theirs close by, so I'm especially thankful to God for allowing my sweet girls to live ten minutes away. 

I'm reading: Reading "The Widow of Larkspur Inn" for my book club. I'm not a big novel reader, but this club is pushing me to read them.  Once I get into them I'm okay, but it takes me a while to shut off my mind. I downloaded a sample: "Broken Hallelujahs: Learning to Grieve the Big and Small Losses of Life." Love the title!

Postmarking: Didn't work on cards at all today. Did receive some names sent for the next list.

Favorite quote:   "It's not luck, it's God's favor."  For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace (John 1:16).

Pamela's Daybook: June 21st

Today: Productive day so far. It was a Rhonda day -- and these days are always good. Headache's gone! She gave me a beautiful deep purple African daisy in a ceramic pot. It's supposed to close up at night and open in the morning. 

Emily had a case conference today, so I had Emma for a couple hours. We enjoyed a party that involved chocolate, doughnuts and sprinkles. I'm planning a reading evening.

At my writing desk: Started out with curriculum again. I feel like the morning hours are my best hours. I don't always do it that way, but I follow this routine when possible.

Praying for: A mother of four whose husband left her and the children.

Thankful for: Answers to prayer. 

I'm reading: Hopefully finishing Dressing Your Truth tonight. 

Postmarking: I found seven letters in my mailbox today. How fun is that?!! I also received some Facebook thank-yous for cards team members have sent.

Favorite quote:  One benefit of summer is that each day we had more light to read by.  Jeanette Walls

Pamela's Daybook: June 15th

Today: This has been a quiet day here. Like many of you, we've kept the news on. We are grieving for the families in Florida who lost their loved ones in such a terrifying way. Finally I just had to turn it off and listen to Pandora. "Open the Eyes of my Heart" is my prayer.

At my writing desk: I worked on curriculum until almost 11:00 last night. So this morning I worked on it first while my brain was fresh. You just may be a children's editor if your work space is surrounded by paper turned into crowns, staplers, colored pens, etc. God gave me such a great way to tell the story this morning. I had to see if it would work. It did!

Praying for: The family of the little boy who was taken by an alligator at Disneyworld. My heart can barely stand the thought of it.

Thankful for: Raspberries! My bush is blooming. RB brought in the first two ripe ones this morning.

I'm reading:  I'm reading Abraham's story in Genesis. It's where I'm editing curriculum, and I find immersing myself in the same Scripture keeps me focused. 

Postmarking: Going to get three done tonight. I'm so happy that my Facebook friends send me requests -- many I wouldn't know about. We don't just send a card; we pray for the needs, too.

Favorite quote: If we don't teach our children to follow Christ, the world will teach them not to. (unknown)

Pamela's Daybook: June 14th

Today: I wasn't able to go with RB last night. It was a "terrible, no good, very bad day." I've been working double speed this morning. One of RB's students celebrated her last class last night, complete with a luscious strawberry cake the graduate baked. She sent me a piece. It was so fresh, with strawberries in the not-too-sweet cake and a light icing. Unfortunately, she's a caterer and doesn't use a recipe. I think it could easily be made with a natural sweetener.  

At my writing desk: I got my article in early afternoon. Worked on blog promotion, and just now getting to curriculum. I'll be working this evening. I don't mind, but usually I do it first, because I think better in the mornings.

Praying for: The victims' families in the Orlando terror--still!

Thankful for: Surprise 5-minute visit from Emily.

I'm reading:  30 Days and 30 Ways of Doing Good  by Maurice Smith. It's a "read for free" book on Amazon, with practical ideas how to shelter others, along with a devotional for each day and hyperlinks to different ministries, podcasts, and printables. One of the best books I've read on the subject lately. 

Postmarking: Finished up last week's list and am ready for our new addresses.

Favorite quote: Good deeds should be done with intention, not attention. (unknown)

Pamela's Daybook: June 13

Today: Oh my, the to-do is long, but I'm eager to get started marking things off. The problem is, everything around me is swirling in miles-per-hour mode. I'm hoping it will cease soon because RB teaches tonight and you know what that means!

At my writing desk: Fun projects waiting for me after my Day Journal is written. I'm starting with curriculum, then will work on my article for The Banner. After that I'll continue my own project. I was able to work on it this weekend.

Praying for: The victims' families in the Orlando terror.

Thankful for: Book stores -- and the shelves of books-yet-unread

I'm reading: Dress Your Truth by Carol Tuttle and a novel for my book club -- The Widow of Lakespur Inn by Lawana Blackwell. This month the book had to be set in somewhere I always wanted to visit.

Postmarking: For the first time, I was late getting my postmarks out. I still have three, then on to this week.

Favorite quote: Your greatest test is when you are able to bless someone when you are going through your own storm. (Loveoflifequotes.com)

Daddy-Daughters Date
Emily-RB-Melanie

Pamela's Daybook: June 10th

Today: A quiet day for me. The girls and RB are going on a Father's Day Father/Daughters date tonight. Out to eat and a concert at the University. 

At my writing desk:  Editing a lesson about Abraham's blessing. I worked on a project of my own last night and it's been working in my head ever since. I have a page of notes to work off of. (Did you know it's acceptable now to use a preposition at the end of a sentence for informal writing? Yeah for no awkward sentences trying to fit it in.) 

Praying for: RB and I have a request. We'd love for you to help us pray.

Thankful for:  Grace -- underserved, yet willingly given.

I'm reading: I'm reading a children's book for research. Fun!

Postmarking:  We postmark sheltering encouragement, but this sheltering idea brought tears when I saw it on Pinterest.  

Favorite quote: When my arms can't reach people close to my heart, I hug them with my prayers. (QuotesIdeas.com)

Linked to:

Pamela's Daybook: June 6th

Today: It's Emma Day! I have Emma today and tomorrow because Emily is at a conference in French Lick. The 8 oldest Clemens boy cousins are at Shawn's sister, Stephenie's, this week for a basketball camp. Melanie has the three girl cousins. So Emma's spending some time there, too.

Emma picked yellow searsucker material at Joann Fabrics for a skirt. Tomorrow we'll be sewing.  She loves to sew. Of course we'll have to make a skirt for her babydoll, too.

Supper at Melanie's house in the woods. Her lasagne is the best.

At my writing desk: No writing yet today (Emma came at 6:00), but after a good nap I'll get some curriculum editing done.

In the mail: I had three letters and a postcard yesterday. Funny how they all come at once. 

Praying to: Be more like Jesus (Thomas Chisholm)

Oh! to be like Thee, blessed Redeemer,
This is my constant longing and prayer;
Gladly I’ll forfeit all of earth’s treasures,
Jesus, Thy perfect likeness to wear.

Oh! to be like Thee, full of compassion,
Loving, forgiving, tender and kind,
Helping the helpless, cheering the fainting,
Seeking the wand’ring sinner to find.

Oh! to be like Thee, lowly in spirit,
Holy and harmless, patient and brave;
Meekly enduring cruel reproaches,
Willing to suffer, others to save.

Refrain:
Oh! to be like Thee, oh! to be like Thee,
Blessed Redeemer, pure as Thou art;
Come in Thy sweetness, come in Thy fullness;
Stamp Thine own image deep on my heart.

Thankful for:  An evening without cooking!

I'm reading: Last evening at Barnes and Noble I picked up "Spark Joy" by Marie Kondo, author of "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing." Those who know me know I believe there's no need to use something ugly if something beautiful is available. But I just shook my head when she suggested taking the label off your laundry soap bottle and tying a ribbon around it's neck. People do that?!! It seems a bit far-fetched -- Do any of you tie ribbons around your Tide bottles? Would it "spark joy" when you did the laundry?

Postmarking: One of our team members is on vacation and plans to buy notes wherever she goes. That's the number one thing I look for when I'm in tiny gift shops. 

Favorite quote: You don't need more space. You need less stuff. (Marie Kondo)

Pamela's Daybook: June 6th

Today: Today would have been RB's parents' 78th wedding anniversary. It's a Barnes and Noble day. I'm racing the clock before we leave.

At my writing desk: Already have my curriculum hours in.  Plan to write on another project at Barnes and Noble.

In the mail: No mail over the weekend. They say snail mail is a party in an envelope, so does that mean I didn't have a party this weekend? Naw...we attended an Eagle Scout induction and graduation party and they had cake! We may or may not have hit Ivanhoes while we were there. 

Praying for: Uncle Jim and Aunt Posie.  They are being transferred to senior care facilities. There's not a double room available, so they will be at two separate homes until one becomes available. Uncle Jim was determined to stay home, so this is a good move. 

Thankful for:  The heritage of good marriages both RB and I have. 

I'm reading: My Grandma Cessna's journal from 1973. I learned where my family's love of desserts came from. In one entry she wrote where they had supper, then wrote, "No dessert."  My grandma and granddad were sincere Christians. I'll be writing more that I glean from her journal.

Postmarking: Got the addresses posted last evening, then worked on getting cards ready to send. I have six ready to go. I'm taking my mailbag tonight, so I may get some more written.  

Favorite quote: True love stays by each other's sides in good days, and stands even closer on bad days. (Unknown)

Pamela's Daybook: June 3rd

Today: I got to see both my girls today, which was good for my soul. I saw Rhonda, which was good for my body -- and got rid of my eternal headache. As I was leaving Melanie's, Camron said, "I love you, Mawmaw, to Infinity and back." 

At my writing desk: Well, it happened. Something I never thought would. I wished my time at Barnes and Noble would hurry and be over. I just couldn't get comfortable. I don't think it will happen again any time soon. On Monday I'll be eager to go again!

In the mail:  I came across this site: Cards for Hospitalized Kids. The creator of this program was an 11-year-old girl after she received a handmade card while in the hospital. It would be a great summer program for your children.

Praying for: A very special boy, William's, graduation. Praying he stays healthy through all the celebrations.  

Thankful for:  My eyes. The red strawberries picked from my yard make me smile. What if I couldn't read? Or see my grandchildren?

I'm reading:  I finished my book on Huntington's Disease last night at Barnes and Noble. The subject was depressing, but I learned more about the disease. If you like your book to end with a bow tied on it, you wouldn't enjoy this one.  It was fun to hear what Melanie, Emily and the grandkids are reading today.

Postmarking: Mailed four today. The post office personnel know me. Today the clerk asked if I wanted stamps on the envelopes or the print-out postage sticker. She knows I don't like those big white stickers. 

Favorite quote: Never trust anyone who has not brought a book with them. Lemony Snicket

Pamela's Daybook: June 2

Today: It's been a few days since I wrote a Daybook post. I've had a fun Red Lobster date with my love, traveled to Pennsylvania, spent time with my daddy, Melodie and Steve (my sister and husband), Nathan and Lori (my nephew and niece), and Aunt Jean. I actually left my computer at home and just relaxed, read, and worked on a few cards. We got home last night at 11:30. Today is catch up, and then a Barnes and Noble night.

At my writing desk: Curriculum this morning (still working on Abraham) and some fun research and writing tonight at Barnes and Noble. 

In the mail: We've been away since Monday, so I had 5 wonderful envelopes: one from Canada, one with 2 old 6-cent stamps, one 10- cent, and one 3-cent with a new first class stamp. So cool! Traci used a paper sack for her envelope. I still have 3 to open. Spreading them out!

Praying for:  Missionaries Jason and Becky Corbin, and Sam and Christine West. 

Thankful for:  A husband who makes sure I'm as comfortable as possible every. single. day.

I'm reading:  I'm reading a book on Huntington's disease. Riveting. For my June book club selection I'm to read a book by an author that's new to me. I haven't settled on one yet, but five hours at Barnes and Noble tonight may fix that!

Postmarking: I'm trying to use up some of my notecards, but I'm drooling over these and these. 

Favorite quote: A pretty face is nothing if you have an ugly heart.(Unknown)

Pamela's Daybook: May 25th

Today: One of those days I'd like to sit in the sun and read. That whole "being responsible" thing keeps me inside, hitting the computer keys. RB has meetings at the University all day, so I can hear things banging around in my head. I need an internal file cabinet to separate the ideas.

At my writing desk: Working on preschool age Abram and Lot today. I think we all need a friend or family member like Abram. Lot selfishly chose the best land, but when he needed help, Uncle Abram was ready to help.

Whenever I am in a Christian Book Store, I look to see if they carry any of my books. I was in one this week and found quite a few. It made me smile. It's not just seeing them in a store (although that's fun), but it's that they are still being published and used.

In the mail: Empty mailbox! What price was a stamp when you were born? A first class stamp was 4 cents the year I was born.

Praying for: Our students at Accelerated Christian International Convention.

Thankful for: The impact the State and International Student Convention had on Melanie and Emily. In two years I'll have a grandson going. 

I'm reading:  I received an email from the book I told you about yesterday with the wrong rating. I was reimbursed for the full amount. That's good service! I'm an eclectic reader, so the "Twelve by Twelve" book looks interesting. It's about a successful physician who lives in a 12 x 12 cabin without electricity or running water -- two things necessary to my survival! 

Postmarking:  I sorted a box of my mother's correspondence last evening. The interesting thing to me was to see how she wrote to people of all ages -- young to elderly. 

Favorite quote:  Try to be a rainbow in someone's cloud. (Maya Angelou) 

Pamela's Daybook: May 24

Today: Still smiling over a picture Melanie sent me yesterday. Our Camron is simply adorable. He was cuddled up to me the other day and said, "You smell good." 

And, it's National Escargot Day. Anyone have snails on your menu? 

At my writing desk: I got everything accomplished yesterday except for the chapter. I think tomorrow I'll start with that. When I first started writing, I got up at 4:00 and wrote for three hours before the girls got up. That's not going to happen at this time of my life. But I'm thinking of getting up just one hour earlier. My clearest writing is done before noon.

In the mail: 3 pieces of mail -- an open house invitation, and some fun new note cards, too.  

Praying for: My niece's (Pammy Jo) husband and family. Their grandmother went to heaven and some of the family are traveling to South Dakota.  

Thankful for: A fun night at Barnes and Noble. Honestly, those six hours fly by.

I'm reading:  I need to find a Biography for the Book Club I belong to. Any ideas? 

I order a lot of books through Amazon Marketplace. I've never had an issue. Yesterday a book rated "very good" arrived in less than acceptable condition. I messaged the seller. I only paid a penny for it plus 3.99 shipping, but if we don't hold sellers accountable, we'll all start getting books in an unacceptable condition. They did send me a free book. 

Postmarking:  I'm sending three out today, and have ten I started on last night to send tomorrow. 

Favorite quote:  Kindness is just love with its workboots on. ~Author unknown

Pamela's Daybook: May 23

Today: It's a Barnes and Noble and Michael's day! 

At my writing desk: Three hours of curriculum, daybook, and a chapter in another project. Also some promotion of my blogs.

In the mail: I got several pieces of happy mail last week. I had one envelope with teeny tiny writing that made me smile. I knew without looking it was from my sweet sister!

Praying for:  The Knuth family who lost a son in a motorcycle accident yesterday.

Thankful for: A good private school my grandkids can attend. Last Thursday I attended their graduation/awards night. The kids do so well in their studies.

I'm reading:  Oh my, y'all will just laugh when you hear what I've been reading.  This girl who won't read fantasy or time travel, etc. just read a book that included gnomes and giants. I was too far into the book when they popped up. Most of you will know why "Piano Girl" spoke my name. Plus, it was free. I was halfway through when it said Part One was finished and I could purchase Part Two. For real?!! Yep--for real. I was thankful for Amazon Prime that let me read it for free.

Postmarking: There are so many hurting people on our list this week. I'll start sending cards from the list tonight. You, my dear readers, are welcome to join our team or send the address of anyone you think needs some encouragement -- kids through adults.

Favorite quote:  Joy is prayer; joy is strength: joy is love; joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls. Mother Teresa

Pamela's Daybook: May 12

Today: It's a Barnes and Noble day!

At my writing desk: Three hours of curriculum.  I have a few hours to make up, but I'll do that tomorrow. I do get more done at Barnes and Noble because I'm not thinking about laundry or a dirty kitchen floor. 

In the mail: Happy mail yesterday was sent to RB -- a thank-you for participating in a faculty development session.

Praying for: Emily. She went back to teaching today. I'm not sure how she's going to endure it except through strength from God. Unfortunately, she's not finished with her day when school dismisses. Emma has a visit with her dad, and then a therapist visit. 

Thankful for: An answer to prayer for my brother-in-law and sister.  The kind of answer that will splash over and bless a lot of people.

I'm reading:  I'm rereading "The Gift of a Letter" by Alexandra Stoddard.  “An inspired letter can be as riveting as a stare. It can move us to tears, spur us to action, provoke us, uplift us, touch us. Transform us. When written from the heart, letters are dreams on paper, wishes fulfilled, desires satisfied. Letters can be powerful.” Alexandra Stoddard

Postmarking: Sending two today. Both with pink and orange paisley tissue-wrapped "prizes" tucked inside.

Favorite quote:  "Letter writing is an excellent way of slowing down this lunatic helter skelter universe long enough to gather one’s thoughts."  Nick Bantock

Pamela's Daybook: May 11

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Today: While I'm not happy Emily is in pain, it's a treat to have her curled up here. She thought she would go to the school at noon for a case conference, but realized she couldn't walk from the parking lot to the meeting site. She's calling in to do her part. Don't tell anyone, but I think I was a tad (or bigger) bit happy Jonathon had to work.

At my writing desk: Called in sick. Ha! Maybe mental health -- RB told me he really liked my outfit. I looked down to discover a purple, black, and white skirt with a red and burgundy paisley top. I changed my mind after I had put my skirt on, but my brain didn't tell me to wear a different (i.e. matching) top. We had a good laugh. 

In the mail: I don't remember getting the mail yesterday. Do you have a favorite go-to brand of note cards, or do you use a variety? I have favorite brands (Rifle Card Company, Paper Source, Papyrus), but for economic reasons I use other brands. However, I draw the line at super cheap envelopes. 

Praying for: A couple whose 8-month-old baby was smothered by a blanket while sleeping. 

Thankful for: Camron -- He gave me seven kisses Sunday when I kissed him good-bye. Made this Mawmaw's heart so happy.

I'm reading:  Lysa Terkeurst's post -- "Devastated But Not Destroyed."   In the midst of our own devastation, Lysa reminds us that "God is a Redeemer. A Healer. The Author of hope. The Pathway of restoration. The great I AM."

Postmarking: I worked on some cards this morning while visiting with Emily. If time, Emma and I are going to work on some after school.  

Favorite quote:  "We must exchange whispers with God before shouts with the world." Lysa Terkeurst

Pamela's Daybook: May 10

Today: This is an at-home day. Dreary outside, but the candles are lit and it's cozy in here.

At my writing desk: Whatever. It seems more like a reading day than a writing day. Maybe I'll take a mental health day!

In the mail: Happy mail from Michigan and Maryland. One of them included a deliciously long letter.  

Praying for: My Emily. She inherited her Pop's back issues. She was acting silly last night and put her back out. 

Thankful for: My pinterest pin that went viral -- 7.7k almost overnight. One near and dear to my heart -- Affirm a Child.

I'm reading: Excerpts from "The Life Giving Home" by Sally and Sarah Clarkson. Melanie sent some pictures of a few of the pages about letter writing. "In the lilt of each loop, the way we dot our i's and cross our t's, we infuse ourselves into our words. The very act of writing tends to bring out a greater depth of emotion in us, and it communicates to the receiving individual that we are invested personally in this gesture." 

Postmarking: I worked on some cards last night at Barnes and Noble. I found a box of cards to buy, too. By Paperstyle -- a new brand to me. You Make Me Shine.

Favorite quote: "What happens most is developing the habit of noticing and appreciating the gifts we are given and learning to express our gratitude, love, encouragement and support in the most gracious and effective ways possible -- in the words we speak, type, or write by hand." Sally and Sarah Clarkson

Pamela's Daybook: May 9

Today: Barnes and Noble for five hours. Enough said!

At my writing desk: Finish June Banner article and have-to writing. I'm racing the clock so I can do some fun writing at the bookstore. Fun writing is something I'm not under contract or obligated to do.

In the mail: Happy mail! A special Kate Spade package from my friend, Eleanor. We live in the same town, but she knows just how much I love my mail, so pays postage to send it.

Praying for: Family coughs! RB, Emily, Melanie, Ethan, Morgan, Camron -- that's quite the list. It seems to just hang on and on and on.

Thankful for: Memories from yesterday's blessings from my daughters and husband, text messages from my sons-in-law and so many friends. I am blessed.

I'm reading: Just started "Comedy Writing Secrets" by Mel Helitzer. "When the mouth is open for laughter, you may be able to shove in a little food for thought" (Virginia Tooper).

Postmarking: Starting on the list for this week. Planning on taking a few notes with me. We sent over 100 cards out this week.

Favorite quote: "Dinosaurs don't read. Now they are extinct" (Sign outside a bookstore).