2025 May 31 Saturday in Round Rock
PROOF OF LIFE PHOTO
BREAKFAST: This morning, I decided to make homemade biscuits with sausage gravy for breakfast. I didn't use a recipe for the biscuits and just went from memory. Rather than heat the oven I choose instead to "bake" them on the stovetop in a skillet with a lid. To my delight and some surprise, the end result turned out to be pretty delicious. The biscuits were on the heavy side and a little chewy. But that went well with the sausage gravy. I was rather proud of myself for accomplishing this without any instructions, and it made the meal even more satisfying. It is not unusual for me to step out of the comfort zone and take risks in the kitchen. Who knows, you might just end up with a tasty breakfast like mine. Overall, my homemade biscuits with sausage gravy were a tastysuccess.
AGENDA:
⚖️Do Justice❓*
🫶Love Kindness✔️
🙏Walk Humbly With God✔️
❤️Love Your Spouse✔️
🐾Dog Sit✔️
SUN June 01 tomorrow
⚖️Do Justice
🫶Love Kindness
🙏Walk Humbly With God
❤️Love Your Spouse
🐾Dog Sit
🚙Go Home
🐾DOG SIT: He was lying with his head on my chest until I tried to take a photo. So, imagine that photo because that would have been cuter.
Here is Truck surveying his domain.
LUNCH: We opened a canned ham and a can of applesauce. Both of which we brought from home. We opened a can of baked beans a and baked two potatoes from the kids’ pantry for lunch.
*DO JUSTICE: As you may have noticed, there are three new additions to our daily agenda: do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God. These words come from today's scripture verse at the end of this post, a verse that I have heard quoted countless times. I make an effort to live by these principles, but I have decided to add them to our daily agenda not because I am likely to forget them, but because I want to consciously acknowledge them as a part of who we are. Just like how "love your spouse" is on the agenda, not because we might forget to love our significant other, but as a reminder of its importance in our lives. However, on days when we may not be actively doing anything that requires us to "do justice," it can be challenging to figure out how to fulfill this action. Yet, I believe that simply being aware and mindful of the concept of justice can bring about a subtle yet powerful change in us. It can inspire us to actively seek out opportunities to promote fairness and equality in our actions and thoughts towards others. Ultimately, these additions to our daily agenda serve as a constant reminder to strive towards being better individuals and spreading kindness, humility, and justice in our daily lives. What are your thoughts/feelings?
CARDS: Yesterday we played one hand of canasta and quit. Today we played two new hands and quit again. Each time I was embarrassingly further ahead of my bride. By leaving the games unfinished she never lost she was only behind.
WEATHER: The day had finally arrived, a blessedly boring day. The sun, when it peeked through the scattered clouds, had warmed the air to the upper 80s before once again ducking out of sight. A gentle northeast breeze, barely stirring the leaves at around 5 mph, did little to disrupt the calm. It was, in essence, a perfectly unremarkable daytime.
As evening approached, the partly cloudy skies lingered for a while before gradually giving way to a clearer expanse. The temperature had begun its slow descent, eventually settling into the upper 60s. The wind, ever so subtly, had shifted, now a soft southern whisper, still around 5 mph. Indeed, it had been, at last, a wonderfully boring day with nary a storm in sight.
🏥HEALTH: Heart Rate 70 bpm, Blood Pressure 109/70, Oxygen 97%, Stopped breathing 2.5 per hour, Weight 263.2 lbs., Sleep 10:20 P.M. to 07:30A.M., Total 10m, Deep 05h 25m, Light 03h 45m, 2000 steps.
GRADUATION: One of our great grandsons graduation high school today. We were able to watch it live on YouTube this morning.
LAUNDRY: This is our last night here and Ella wants to do our laundry and the kids’ bedding before we leave. She walked the dark clothes tonight and got them in the dryer. The white clothes asking with the sheets, pillowcases, and duvet cover will go in the wash in the morning. Then dried and back on the bed before the kids arrive home tomorrow afternoon.
VERSE: Micah 6:8 He has told you, O mortal, what is good, and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice and to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God? - NRSVUE
COMMENT: God expects us to fulfill our responsibilities and treat others with fairness, kindness, and respect. We should strive to do good deeds willingly and lead a humble life in His presence by following His commandments. It is important to maintain a strong connection with God by surrendering our will to His guidance. Ultimately, living according to God's desires is more important than any sacrifices or offerings we could make.
For instance a person who consistently helps their neighbors, treats everyone with respect, and follows the teachings of their faith is living in a way that pleases God. This individual prioritizes kindness, humility, and fulfilling their responsibilities, showing that they value their relationship with God above all else.
©2025 Thomas E Williams
2025 May 30 Friday in Round Rock
PROOF OF LIFE PHOTO
🐾 DOG SIT: Around four in the morning, the peaceful silence of the night was interrupted by the sudden onset of lightning and thunder. The atmosphere now filled with loud booms and bright flashes that shone even through the blackout curtains. Truck, a healthy and muscular pitbull, who exudes such strength, was now trembling uncontrollably. His sturdy frame shook like a nervous Chihuahua. The storms of these last three days show a side of him that is rarely seen. The storms have caused him real fear. This reminds me that even the toughest of God's creatures can have moments of fear and weakness. As he lay on the bed between Ella and I, we each placed our hands on him in an attempt to reassure him that he was safe with us. As the storm passed and calmness returned, Truck regained his composure and went back to sleep. However, this has left a lasting impression on me.
Once again this morning Truck was loath to go off the deck into the wet yard. I was determined to wait-him-out. I'd already gone to the bathroom. I was betting I could wait longer than Truck could. And I won. He eventually had to descend the stairs to do his business.
BREAKFAST: I made pancakes and eggs this morning. I perfect to eat my pancakes with an over easy egg instead of syrup. Anyone else do this?
🗓️AGENDA:
❤️ Love your spouse✔️
🐾 Dog sit Truck✔️
SAT May 31 tomorrow
❤️ Love your spouse
🐾 Dog sit Truck
🌡️WEATHER: The day had begun with an early morning thunderstorm, a rumble that faded as the hours wore on. The daytime temperature settled at 83 degrees under a mostly cloudy sky. Though the storm had passed, the clouds lingered, keeping the highs in the lower 80s. A gentle north wind blew, ranging from 5 to 10 mph. The sun pushed through the clouds as if he was ashamed to be seen. As evening approached, the sky remained mostly cloudy, and the forecast predicted lows to eventually settle in the mid 60s. The wind shifted slightly, now coming from the northeast at a similar speed of 5 to 10 mph.
LUNCH: We had the leftover goulash from yesterday. We reworked it into a lasagna-ish fish with cheese and cottage cheese mixed in. It was better the second time around.
📰MAY 30th NEWS: NASA: A new investigation revealed a developing region of weakened magnetic intensity over South America. This poses significant risks to satellite technology and requires scientific research. • ESPIONAGE?: The Federal Government will start cancelling visas for certain Chinese students, specifically those affiliated with the Chinese Communist Party or studying in crucial areas. China's Thousand Talents Program enlists experts with valuable knowledge to help transmit information back to China. This can include technology and research data. The FBI warns that this is part of China's plan to exploit weaknesses in Western systems. • LIBERTY HILL: Liberty Hill has undergone a significant growth due to the emergence of advanced technology and innovation in nearby cities. This has resulted in an increase in trade and enterprise, with major players like Samsung, Tesla, Dell, and Apple establishing themselves as the hub for technological advancements. • LOCAL STORMS: Recent storms have resulted in considerable destruction, including hailstones the size of golf balls. There has been extensive harm to roofs, trees, and various buildings. The storms also brought in forceful winds, leading to power outages and property damage.
🏥HEALTH: Heart Rate 63 bpm, Blood Pressure 109/75, Oxygen 95%, Stopped breathing 2.5 per hour, Weight 262.7 lbs., Sleep 01:30 A.M. to 08:10A.M., Total 06h 40m, Deep 02h 40m, Light 04h 00m, 1809 steps.
📖VERSE: 2 Corinthians 9:7 Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not regretfully or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. - NRSVUE
👨🏫COMMENT: Paul is sharing with the Corinthians fundamental, biblical principles regarding giving to support fellow believers. This verse reveals two additional principles.
Firstly, it is God's desire for each believer to personally and intentionally decide on the amount they will give. They should then follow through on this decision. This amount could be a specific sum in a particular situation or a percentage of their income on a regular basis. As Paul stated in the preceding chapter (2 Corinthians 8:12), it should never exceed one's means and should be proportionate to what has been received. The key aspect here is that it is an individual choice based on personal conviction and one's own relationship with God.
Why is this significant? It holds great importance to God that giving among Christians always stems from a voluntary heart. It should never be seen as an obligation or a tax. A donation, whether monetary or otherwise, is truly considered a gift when there is no sense of duty attached to it.
The second truth about giving mentioned in this verse is that God delights in those who give joyfully. The opportunity to contribute towards the needs of others should bring joy to His children, and when it does, it brings delight to Him as well.
©2025 Thomas E Williams
2025 May 29 Thursday in Round Rock
PROOF OF LIFE PHOTO
🗓️AGENDA:
❤️Love your spouse✔️
🐾 Dog sit Truck✔️
FRI May 30 tomorrow
❤️ Love your spouse
🐾 Dog sit Truck
🏥HEALTH: Heart Rate 71 bpm, Blood Pressure 119/73, Oxygen 97%, Stopped breathing 1.0 per hour, Weight 263.1 lbs., Sleep 12:00 A.M. to 08:00A.M., Total 08h 00m, Deep 04h 21m, Light 03h 39m, 1809 steps.
🌡️WEATHER: The morning dawned with a sky owned by clouds. The diffused light that filtered through reflected on scattered puddles left from last night's quick passing storm. As the morning hours ambled by, the blanket of grey began to fray, patches of blue courageously peeking through, promising a brighter afternoon.
By the time King Sun reached his zenith, the sky had largely cleared, revealing its brilliance. He settled into a comfortable eighty degree warmth rather than producing a searing heat. As a five miles per hour southeast breeze passed through, she barely disturbed the leaves. As evening approached, the temperature began its slow descent, the predicted seventy-four feeling pleasant after the day's warmth. The clouds that had been earlier deposed by the King of the sky dethroned him once again by the simple act of placing their gossamer threads between him above and the earth below. The southeast wind, uncaring of the battle between clouds and sun, continued her five mile per hour journey while making plans of her own for the coming morrow.
SEVERE STORM RISK
Thu 8:00 PM to Fri 7:00 AM. There is a Slight Severe Storm Risk for your location.
🐾 DOG SIT: Truck, Ella, and I enjoyed some quality time outside on the deck, taking in the warm sunshine and fresh air on this beautiful spring day. While part of the reason for our outdoor excursion was to encourage our furry companion, Truck, to do his business, it ended up being a fun and amusing adventure. We couldn't help but laugh as Truck avoided going down the steps to the damp ground and grass as if they were hot lava. After some persistent coaxing, or perhaps his full bladder, Truck finally ran down to do his business against a tree before sprinting back up to the safety of the deck. It was comical.
MAY 29th NEWS: CLAIMS KILL: Israeli claims Hamas’ Gaza leader, Mohammed Sinwar, was killed in an Israeli airstrike this month on a hospital in southern Gaza. • FUEL CELL: A novel fuel cell design has the capacity to hold three times more energy compared to the most advanced battery technology. The initial model utilizes liquid sodium metal as its fuel source and has potential uses in the field of electric aircraft. • FUEL LEAK: SpaceX indicated Starship test flight 9 destructed by a gas leak.
📖VERSE of the day: Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. - NRSVUE
COMMENT: Proverbs 3:5-6 provides a timeless and foundational principle for a life lived in relationship with God. It is a call to a profound trust that engages the whole person, a humility that prioritizes God's insight over one's own limited understanding, and a commitment to actively seek and recognize God's presence and will in every area of life. The assurance is that such a life will be divinely guided, with paths made clear and straight by the wisdom and power of God. It remains a source of comfort, challenge, and direction for those seeking to navigate the complexities of life with faith.
®2025 Thomas E Williams
2025 May 28 Wednesday in Round Rock, Cedar Park, and Leander
AGENDA:
🚮 Take out trash✔️
🐾Dog sit ✔️
❤️Love your spouse✔️
⚕️10:15 a Wellness check✔️
THU May 29
🐾Dog sit with Truck
❤️ Love your spouse
WEATHER: Day 77° Mostly cloudy with numerous showers and scattered thunderstorms. Highs in the lower 80s. East winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.
Night 72° Partly cloudy with isolated showers and thunderstorms in the evening then mostly cloudy after midnight. Lows in the upper 60s. Southeast winds around 5 mph.
This morning, we were awakened by the loud and continuous sound of rolling thunder, signaling the arrival of a storm. The dog was less bothered by this storm than yesterday's. We could hear the drumbeat of raindrops against our windows. However, as the morning came, the sun broke through and its warm rays illuminated the landscape. It was as if a switch had been flipped, transforming the scene to colors so overwhelmingly vibrant. The trees, in particular, were a sight to behold - their leaves glistening in the sunlight as if they were adorned with diamonds. It was a beautiful reminder of the power and beauty of nature, and how something as simple as a change in weather can bring about such a remarkable transformation. Despite the earlier storm, the day now holds endless possibilities and promised to be filled with natural beauty and wonder.
This evening another round of thunder, lightning, and rain came through.
“Round Rock, Texas * At 6:06 PM CDT... The Earth Networks Total Lightning Network is indicating a thunderstorm with a significant rate of lightning occurring in your area and moving in your direction. This storm has an increased potential to produce severe weather such as very frequent lightning, heavy rain, hail and/or damaging winds and should be considered dangerous.“ Truck, the dog, really does not like the thunder. Long before I could hear it he began pacing back and forth throughout the house. I sat and petted him and told him it was okay. He was shivering and panting and wouldn't leave my side. I went to the bedroom and he and I lay there until the storm had passed.
DOCTOR: Kamal had a student shadowing her. Her name is Mancy (not sure if proper spelling) from Iran. This was for our annual Medicare wellness check. We both came away with referrals to neurologists and for blood work. Ella has a referral for a mammogram. I also have a referral to a podiatrist. More doctors! I remember when I had a family doctor who did it all. Now everyone is a specialist. Sometimes I feel like the ball in a pinball machine being bounced from doctor to doctor.
BLOOD DRAW: It took us so long at the doctor's office (9:45-12:30) to get all of our referrals corrected that when we arrived for the blood draw that they were closed for lunch. The good news-we were first in line when they opened. Neither of us giveup our blood easily however the two nurses were professionals and quickly filled two vials from us each. Then for the second time today we had to pee in a cup.
MAY 28th NEWS: STARSHIP 9: Last night, SpaceX conducted the ninth test flight of their enormous Starship spacecraft prototype with varying degrees of success as the ship achieved orbital speed but disintegrated during reentry. • OOPS: Harvard has withdrawn the tenure of Francesca Gino, a professor at the Business School and a specialist in ethics, following an internal inquiry that revealed she altered information in several studies to validate her findings. • GAZA: Pandemonium breaks out at the recently opened distribution hub in Gaza as a multitude of individuals strive to obtain assistance from the distribution organization supported by both the US and Israel.
🏥HEALTH: Heart Rate 69 bpm, Blood Pressure 119/78, Oxygen 98%, Stopped breathing 1.8 per hour, Weight 264.1 lbs., Sleep 11:40 P.M. to 08:10A.M., Total 08h 30m, Deep 04h 42m, Light 03h 48m, 1000 steps.
VERSE: Philippians 1:9-10 And this is my prayer, that your love may overflow more and more with knowledge and full insight to help you to determine what really matters, so that in the day of Christ you may be pure and blameless, - NRSVUE
COMMENT: In this passage, the writer expresses their prayer for an overflow of love in their readers, accompanied by knowledge and insight, to help them discern what truly matters in life. This prayer is not just for temporary gratification, but for a lasting impact that will lead to purity and blamelessness on the day of Christ. It highlights the importance of love and understanding in making important decisions and living a meaningful life. By having a deep understanding of what truly matters, one can avoid distractions and focus on things that align with their values and beliefs. This prayer serves as a reminder to prioritize love and wisdom in all aspects of life, ultimately leading to spiritual growth and a closer relationship with God. It also reflects the writer's desire for their readers to be prepared for the day of Christ, where they will stand before Him with a pure and blameless heart. This prayer encourages us to continually seek knowledge and insight, guided by love, to make decisions that align with God's will and purpose for our lives.
©2025 Thomas E Williams
2025 May 27 Tuesday in Round Rock
PROOF OF LIFE PHOTO
🗓️AGENDA:
🎂Sue S's birthday✔️
🐾Dog sit with Truck✔️
❤️Love your spouse✔️
🚀Starship nine launch✔️
WED May 28 tomorrow
🐾Dog sit
❤️Love your spouse
💸PAY RENT
⚕️10:15 a Wellness check
🌡️WEATHER: Day 85° Partly cloudy. Isolated showers and thunderstorms in the morning then scattered showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs in the mid 80s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40 percent.
(Nope not a hint of clouds or rain)
Night 75° Mostly cloudy. Scattered showers and thunderstorms in the evening then scattered showers with isolated thunderstorms after midnight. Patchy fog after midnight. Lows in the upper 60s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40 percent.
Despite all the dire warnings last night this is the extent of damage we see this morning.
📰: DRONES: A significant drone and missile attack by Russian forces on Ukrainian cities on Sunday resulted in the deaths of at least 12 individuals and injuries to numerous others. This onslaught, consisting of over 350 explosive drones and nine cruise missiles, marked the most extensive strike in the ongoing three-year conflict. • DIESELGATE: Four former Volkswagen officials were found guilty of fraud for using "defeat devices" in their vehicles to cheat emissions tests. These devices allowed the cars to pass tests but produce more pollution on the road. This affected over 11 million cars worldwide, and was done because engineers were under pressure to save time and money. • FLIGHT 9: SpaceX is preparing for its ninth launch of the enormous Starship, scheduled for tonight at 7:30 pm ET. • TARIFF DELAY: The due date for a 50% tariff on goods from the European Union has been postponed to July 9 by the White House, as trade negotiations continue. •🚀STARSHIP 9 launched on time and made it to booster separation without any problem. The booster was intentionally stressed to a breaking point and performed better than expected. The ship made it to suborbital engine shutdown. The payload door failed to open so the dummy satellites were not ejected. Telemetry failed which lead to an early rapid disassembly.
🏥HEALTH: Heart Rate 63 bpm, Blood Pressure 109/73, Oxygen 98%, Stopped breathing 0.6 per hour, Weight 262.4 lbs., Sleep 09:10 P.M. to 08:30A.M., Total 11h 20m, Deep 07h 05m, Light 04h 15m,
📖VERSE: 1 Timothy 4:8 for, while physical training is of some value, godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. - NRSVUE
🎙️COMMENT: Focus on developing godliness by practicing religious principles and embodying godly traits, instead of prioritizing physical activity. This means striving to avoid worldly pleasures and sin, and actively working towards spiritual blessings. Simply staying away from negative influences is not sufficient; one must actively pursue godliness in their daily life. Those who dedicate themselves to godliness will be rewarded in the end, while those who only focus on physical exercise will not receive the same promise.
Instead of spending all your time at the gym, make an effort to incorporate religious practices and virtues into your daily routine. This could include attending religious services, volunteering to help those in need, and making conscious efforts to cultivate qualities such as kindness and compassion. By prioritizing godliness over physical activity, you will ultimately benefit from spiritual rewards and blessings.
© Thomas E Williams
2025 May 26 Monday Memorial Day in Round Rock and Leander
🗓️AGENDA:
🐾 Dog sit with Truck
❤️ Love your spouse✅
MEMORIAL DAY
🩸 INR Check (Home)
TUE May 27 (Tomorrow)
🎂Sue S's birthday
🐾Dog sit with Truck
❤️Love your spouse
🚀Starship nine launch?
🌡️WEATHER: Today began with a bang - quite literally. A clap of thunder woke me. A check of WeatherBug showed this: Round Rock, Texas. SEVERE STORM RISK Mon 8:00 AM to Tue 7:00 AM
TORNADO WATCH: Mon 2:36 PM to Mon 10:00 PM. Supercells will increasingly occur through mid/late afternoon across the Hill Country and 1-35 corridor of south-central Texas. Very large hail is expected with the most intense storms given the magnitude of the instability, while some tornado threat will exist as well. Clusters of east/southeastward-moving storms may evolve by early evening with a heightened severe-wind potential toward the Hill Country/I-35 vicinity.
FORECAST: Day 92° Mostly cloudy this morning then becoming partly cloudy. A chance of thunderstorms. Showers likely mainly this morning. Highs in the upper 80s. Southeast winds 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.
Night 74° Mostly cloudy with a chance of showers and thunderstorms. Some thunderstorms may be severe in the evening. Lows in the upper 60s. East winds 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50 percent.
Busy weather day/night
🐾 DOG SIT: Last night, Truck the dog joined us for a peaceful slumber and slept in between my bride Ella and me. Throughout the night, he seemed to have a particular affinity for Ella's feet as he nestled himself comfortably there. It was evident that Truck had developed a special bond with Ella and had become more of her dog than mine. He was quick to obey her commands, although he did have moments of disobedience towards me. Nonetheless, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of jealousy as Truck showed his loyalty and devotion to Ella. It was heartwarming to see the strong connection between them, and I couldn't help but feel grateful to have such a loving and obedient dog in our family. Despite being more attached to Ella, Truck still showed me love and affection in his own unique ways, making him an irreplaceable member of the household.
Ella took this beautiful photograph of Truck. I cropped it, blurred the background, and sharpened it a little but it was already a beautiful photo before I fiddle with it.
❓QUESTIONS: The kids have this deck of cards that ask questions. This one asked, “Would you rather age forward or backwards from this point?” Since I'm 78½ years old I figure I don't have nearly as many days ahead as I have behind. If I could age like Benjamin Button and remember all I've learned I'd go backwards. I would be more or less guaranteed another 79 years of life. Either direction you would end up helpless and being diapered. Though those last 9 months would sure be interesting. How about you? Age forward or backwards? Why?
🚙 HOME: We found that the kids have very little food on hand. They have teenagers at home. That explains a lot. So we went home and loaded up meat, cheese, veggies (fresh and canned), bread, eggs, and milk. Since it was already lunch time we stopped at Wendy's for burgers and fries.
🏥HEALTH: Blood Pressure 119/72, Heart Rate 59 bpm, Oxygen 97%, Sleep 12:20 PM to 09:t0 AM, 09h 30m total, Deep 06h 20m, 03h 10m Light, 756 Steps
📖VERSE: John 3:16-18 "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. "Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world but in order that the world might be saved through him. Those who believe in him are not condemned, but those who do not believe are condemned already because they have not believed in the name of the only Son of God. - NRSVUE
COMMENT: Even though God was the one who initiated the gift of grace, it is the responsibility of humanity to accept it and have faith in Him. This means entrusting their lives to Jesus. In John's Gospel, we are introduced to the idea of believing and knowing Jesus. This is not just a mere intellectual understanding, but a heartfelt faith that leads to a transformed life from death to eternal life.
Thanks to God's gracious act of reaching out through Jesus Christ, we can avoid being condemned to eternal hell by simply believing in Him (verse 18). However, those who do not believe are already under condemnation (verse 18). This is not because God desires for anyone to go to hell but because they have refused to believe in the name of His only Son.
It's crucial to understand that if someone chooses to reject Jesus and die without Him, it is not God's doing but their own decision. He has made the first move by offering His best. Thus, if anyone ends up being condemned, it is not because of God's fault but their own lack of faith in the Son of God.
For example: Imagine a teacher offering extra help to a struggling student to pass a test. The teacher provides all the resources and support needed, but it is the student's choice whether to accept the help and put in the effort to pass. If the student refuses the help and fails the test, it is not the teacher's fault, but the student's decision. The teacher's role is to guide and support the student, but ultimately, the student must choose whether to accept the help or not. Similarly, God offers His grace and salvation through Jesus, but it is our decision to accept it or reject it.
2025 May 25 Sunday in Leander, Liberty Hill, and Round Rock
☕COFFEE CAFE: We arrived at Cross Tracks Church at 7:42 A.M. I began turning on lights and unlocking doors. After that I began setting the café chairs down from the tables. They had been placed there while the carpet was vacuumed. While I did that Ella began making the first of four pots of coffee. When I tried getting a cup of cold water from the water cooler I discovered that it was out of water. I moved a five gallon bottle of water into place and Ella inserted the hose/pump into it.
📖SUNDAY SCHOOL: We saw episode three of the series of "The Message of Jesus: Words That Changed the World" by Adam Hamilton. We then had a short discussion of the book as well as some of the parables that Jesus told.
💒WORSHIP: Today's scripture reading came from Luke 4: 16-21. Pastor Brad’s sermon title was “More than Enough: Renewal”. It is the first in a series about God's year of jubilee as found in Leviticus 25.
🐾DOG SIT: The kids left home around 11:00 A.M. and we arrived at their home at 11:46 A.M. so Truck wasn't alone for very long.
🗓️AGENDA:
❤️ Love your spouse✅
☕ 8:00 a Coffee Bar✅
📖 9:00 a Sunday school✅
💒 10:00 a Worship✅
🐾 11:00 a Dog sit with Truck✅
MON May 26 (Tomorrow)
🐾 Dog sit with Truck
❤️ Love your spouse
Memorial Day
🩸 INR Check (Home)
🌡️WEATHER: Day 95° Cloudy this morning then clearing. Highs in the upper 90s. South winds 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph. Highest heat index readings up to 106.
Night 76° Mostly clear in the evening then becoming cloudy. Lows in the upper 70s. South winds 15 to 20 mph diminishing to around 10 mph after midnight.
GAMES:
🏥HEALTH: Blood Pressure 119/⁷⁷, Heart Rate 78 bpm, Oxygen 95%, Sleep 11:30 PM to 6:00 AM, 06h 30m total, Deep 04h 24m, 02h 06m Light, 2305 Steps, 1.07 Miles.
📖VERSE: James 1:19 You must understand this, my beloved brothers and sisters: let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger, - NRSVUE
©2025 Thomas E Williams
2025 May 24 Saturday in Leander
CARDS: Ella and I played Five Crowns this afternoon. Except for the third hand she had great luck and never added anymore points
AGENDA:
❤️Love your spouse✅
☕9:00 a Coffee at the Hills❌
🧺Laundry Day✅
SUN May 25 tomorrow
❤️Love your spouse
☕8:00 a Coffee Bar at Church
📖9:00 a Sunday school
💒10:00 a Worship
🐾11:00 a Dog sit with Truck
🧺LAUNDRY DAY: Ella though not normally an early riser, when it came to doing the laundry, she rose early to begin the task of washing, drying, folding, and putting away our clothes. It was a chore that she takes very seriously and one that she does not trust to anyone else, including me. We quickly learned in our marriage that we had vastly different approaches to tackling the laundry. I was content with a quick sort of white and colored. Ella was more efficient and organized, making sure that every piece of clothing was washed and put away with utmost care. I had to admit, her expertise in this area far surpassed my own, and I happily left this important chore in her capable hands. Thanks to Ella's commitment and attention to detail, our laundry is always done with perfection and I can't imagine anyone else doing it better.
PACKING: As we prepare for our week away from home, my bride Ella and I have started the process of packing. She has carefully selected her clothes and accessories, while I made sure to grab my to-go bag from the closet and add a week's worth of medications. Tomorrow, we will pack our CPAP machines and power strips to ensure we can comfortably use our phones, tablets, and watches throughout our stay. Additionally, I will make sure to bring the charger for my hearing aids and the device that monitors my pacemaker, as these are essential for my health and well-being. A travel bag with assorted games is ready to go. With our packing nearly complete, we are both excited for the adventures that await us on our week-long dog sitting assignment.
PHONECALL: Adam called to verify that we knew what time they are leaving tomorrow. We also talked about Tate‘s graduation and other graduations.
REFRIGERATOR: With our upcoming week-long absence, it was the perfect opportunity to clear out the refrigerator of all the forgotten containers of leftovers. You know, those plastic containers that get pushed to the back and left to grow fuzzy with mold. Well, it was finally time to bid them farewell and feed them to the disposal. As the dishwasher worked its magic on the empty containers, I took the chance to clean the cook surface of the range and countertops using just some water and Dawn dish soap. After a quick scrub down and drying with paper towels, everything was left sparkling clean and ready for our return. It felt good to leave the kitchen in such pristine condition before our absence.
🌡️WEATHER: Day 93° Partly cloudy in the morning then clearing. Highs in the upper 90s. South winds 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph.
Night 75° Mostly clear in the evening then becoming mostly cloudy. Lows in the mid 70s. South winds 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 30 mph.
🏥: HEALTH :BP 109/78, 💓Pulse 70, Oxygen🫁95%, (Sleep 💤 03:40 AM - 08:00 AM, Total 04h 20m, Deep 02h 10m, Light 02h 10m, Awake 00h 00m), 2.5 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight 264.4 lb., 2215 Steps
📖VERSE of the DAY: Matthew 25:35-36 for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.' - NRSVUE
©2025 Thomas E Williams
2025 May 23 Friday in Leander and Cedar Park
PROOF OF LIFE PHOTO
🥞: Arik and Jenny treated us to breakfast at First Watch in Cedar Park this morning. Beket was unable to join us because he is ill. Ella had the prettiest French toast I've ever seen. I had eggs, sausage, artisan bread, and mixed fresh fruit.
🗓️AGENDA:
✅Love your spouse❤️
✅9:00 a Arik & Jenny🥞🍳
✅6:00 p Happy Hour🎉
SAT May 24 (Tomorrow)
Love your spouse❤️
9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
🌡️WEATHER: Day 93° Partly cloudy this morning then clearing. Highs in the upper 90s. South winds 10 to 15 mph.
Night 74° Mostly clear in the evening then becoming mostly cloudy. Lows in the mid 70s. South winds 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph.
📰MAY 23rd NEWS: Arik and Jenny: It was nice to spend time with the kids this morning. It had been many months since we had seen Jenny. We got an update on her mom, Sofia, Beket, the new dog, and their rental property. • No Pennies: The U.S. Treasury will discontinue the production of pennies due to their high cost of production at approximately 3.7 cents per coin, resulting in a loss of $85 million in 2024. • Hate Crime: This week, two employees of the Israeli embassy were fatally shot outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, DC. • One Big Beautiful Bill: A controversial bill was passed by the House of Representatives. It includes tax cuts for Americans, increased spending on defense and border security, and cuts to food assistance and Medicaid programs. This has divided opinions among lawmakers and citizens. •
🎉HAPPY HOUR: Another Friday with light attendance. I brought a cake made with Dr Pepper and pancake mix plus a pan of green beans and bacon. Both went well.
🏥HEALTH: heart rate 59 bpm, blood pressure 109/73, oxygen 99%, quit breathing 2.2 per hour, (Sleep: 02:30 AM to 08:40 AM, 06h 10m total, deep 03h 05m, light 03h 05m, awake 00h 00m.)
📖VERSE of the DAY: Matthew 25:34 Then the king will say to those at his right hand, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world, - NRSVUE
🤓COMMENT: This passage from the Bible shows Jesus praising those who help others and live with kindness. He promises them a place in heaven. It teaches us that by showing love and compassion to those in need, we are following in Jesus' footsteps and will be rewarded in the end. It's a reminder that our actions have lasting effects and that true blessings come from helping others.
©2025 Thomas E Williams
2025 May 22 Thursday in Leander
PROOF OF LIFE PHOTO
☕ COFFEE KLATSCH: Joan, Grace, Suzie, Muriel, Donna, Donna, Ricky, Dianna, Ella, Larry, Rose, and I were at coffee today. Larry and Rose are new to the apartments.
🗓️ AGENDA:
✅Love your spouse❤️
✅9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
❌11:00 a Over The Hill Gang🧓👴
✅6:00 p Bingo🅱️🔟
FRI May 23 tomorrow
Love your spouse❤️
9:00 a Breakfast Arik & Jenny 🥞
9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
6:00 p Happy Hour:🎉
🅱️🔟BINGO: There were nine bingo players tonight before I arrived i played one game and then came home
🌡️ WEATHER: Day 95° Partly cloudy in the morning then clearing. Highs in the upper 90s. Southeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
Night 76° Partly cloudy. A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms in the evening. Lows around 70. South winds 5 to 10 mph.
❌NO OTHG: We did not go to Over The Hill Gang today. The funds were not available today. Also they were having chili and we just had chili yesterday.
📰 MAY 22nd NEWS: Dropping Investigations: The Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice is rejecting ongoing settlements and discontinuing inquiries into various police departments in the US. • Gift Jet: The Department of Defense has received a $400 million extravagant Boeing aircraft from Qatar, which is intended to function as Air Force One. •
🏥 HEALTH: BP 109/70, 💓Pulse 72, Oxygen🫁99%, (Sleep 💤 03:40 AM - 08:00 AM, Total 04h 20m, Deep 02h 10m, Light 02h 10m, Awake 00h 00m), 2.5 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight 263.4 lb., 2215 Steps
📖 VERSE of the DAY: Galatians 5:13-14 For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for self-indulgence, but through love become slaves to one another. For the whole law is summed up in a single commandment, 'You shall love your neighbour as yourself.' - NRSVA
🤓 COMMENT: In Galatians 5:13-14, the Apostle Paul writes to believers, reminding them that they have been called to freedom in Christ. However, he warns them not to use this freedom as an excuse to indulge in selfish or worldly desires. Instead, Paul encourages them to use their freedom to serve and love one another, fulfilling the law of loving their neighbor as themselves. In this passage, Paul emphasizes the importance of putting aside selfishness and striving for unselfish concern for others. This means actively seeking the best for one another and doing things for their benefit. By following this precept, believers can demonstrate the unconditional love that God has shown us through Christ. This passage serves as a reminder for Christians to not only focus on their own desires but also to prioritize caring for and serving others in their relationships.
©2025 Thomas E Williams
2025 May 21 Wednesday in Leander and Liberty Hill
COFFEE KLATSCH: Donna, Donna, Michelle, Dianna, Joan, Grace, Suzie, Val, Muriel, Ella, and I had coffee today.
AGENDA:
✅Love your spouse❤️
✅9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
✅10:00 a Canasta at OTHG 🃏
❌12:00 p Making Room for Jesus✝️
✅1:00 p Town Hall meeting🧑⚖️
THU May 22 tomorrow
Love your spouse❤️
9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
11:00 a Over The Hill Gang👴🧓
6:00 p Bingo 🅱️ 🔟
🌡️WEATHER: Day 89° Partly cloudy. Highs in the mid 90s. East winds around 5 mph.
Night 71° Partly cloudy. Lows around 70. Southeast winds around 5 mph.
🃏CANASTA at OTHG: Nathern and I beat the partnership of Anne and Ella today at canasta.
📰MAY 21st NEWS: UK/ISRAEL: Yesterday, the UK temporarily halted discussions on trade with Israel due to worries surrounding the recent intensification of the conflict in Gaza. • 10 inmates escape last week from New Orleans jail. 6 still at large. • NFL team owners have given their approval for players to participate in flag football at the 2028 Summer Olympics. • A recently identified type of flapjack octopus, characterized by its large eyes and crimson tentacles, has been found in a deep underwater ravine near the shores of Australia. • The EU has implemented four additional sanctions against Russia, focusing on a group of vessels secretly transporting oil, in the midst of ongoing conflict updates. • The Trump administration has successfully freed an American Air Force veteran from imprisonment in Venezuela; according to the veteran's father, his son went to the country for medical treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder. •
TOWN HALL: I stayed for part of the meeting but the records in the room and all of the people who were talking while the apartment manager made it impossible for my hearing aids to sort out the voices. I came home. I'll read the summary of the meeting once it is posted.
Gg guy getting hh
🏥HEALTH: BP 119/73, 💓Pulse 68, Oxygen🫁97%, (Sleep 💤 09:21 PM - 08:30 AM, Total 11h 10m, Deep 08h 20m, Light 02h 50m, Awake 00h 00m), 1.3 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight 262.6 lb., 1288 Steps
VERSE of the DAY: Romans 8:38-39 For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. - NRSVUE
COMMENT: God loves you! Nothing can change that. Nothing at all!
2025 May 20 Tuesday in Leander and Liberty Hill
PROOF OF LIFE PHOTO
☕COFFEE KLATCH: Donna, Dianna, Michelle, Joan, Grace, Dixie, Val, Muriel, Jo, Ella, Sandy, Donna, Ricky, and I were at coffee today. I left early to go to Liberty Hill.
🐓MEN'S EMMAUS: This morning, I had the pleasure of attending the bimonthly Emmaus breakfast meeting at El Mariachi restaurant in Liberty Hill with my friends Mike and Manny. As we enjoyed our delicious breakfast, we heard some exciting news about our church. It was announced that we have hired a new youth pastor, a young man in his twenties who is moving from Colorado to attend seminary in Austin. Everyone at the meeting seemed thrilled about this addition to our church staff, and we cannot wait for him to start in the Fall. It is always wonderful to see our church community growing and welcoming new members, especially someone who is passionate about guiding and mentoring young people in their faith journey. We are eagerly anticipating the energy and fresh perspective that this new youth pastor will bring and we look forward to supporting him as he begins his new role at our church. the Fall.
🗓️AGENDA:
✅Love your spouse❤️
✅9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
✅10:30 a Men's Emmaus🐓
✅1:30 p Food Pantry +55 🛍️
✅5:00 p 5 Crowns👑
✅5:00 p Mexican Train🚂
WED May 21 tomorrow
Love your spouse❤️
9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
10:00 a Canasta at OTHG ❤️♣️♠️♦️
12:00 p Making Room for Jesus✝️
1:00 p Town Hall meeting 🌇
🌡️WEATHER: Today's weather brought hot temperatures with a high of 89 degrees and mostly sunny skies. It felt less humid due to northwest winds blowing at 5 to 10 mph. The night brought cooler temperatures with a low of 66 degrees and mostly clear skies in the evening before becoming partly cloudy. Northeast winds were around 5 mph, adding a slight chill to the air. Overall, it was a pleasant day with warm temperatures and moderate winds, making it perfect for outdoor activities. As the night progressed, the temperature dropped, and the calm winds provided a comfortable atmosphere for sleeping. Overall, it was a beautiful day and night with comfortable temperatures and light winds in both the northwest and northeast directions.
🛍️Food Pantry +55: Today was a day of abundance as we received a generous donation of food from the Brighter Days Food Pantry. As we unpacked the supplies, we were overwhelmed by the variety and quantity of items. We knew that there was no way the two of us could consume it all. Without hesitation, we began sorting and boxing some of the food to take to our in-house food pantry. It was important to us to pay it forward and share our blessings with those in need. This act of giving is at the core of our values, for as we have freely received from others, it is our duty to freely give to those who may be struggling. The feeling of helping others and being a part of a community that supports each other is what makes us grateful for organizations like Brighter Days Food Pantry. We hope that our small contribution will make a difference in someone's life and inspire them to do the same for others. As we reflect on this experience, we are reminded that there is always enough to share and that giving truly is its own reward.give.
📰May 20th News: Russia/Ukraine: President Trump announced ceasefire negotiations between Russia and Ukraine will commence. This decision was reached following a call between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. • Sesame Street: the children's show "Sesame Street" has signed a streaming deal with Netflix, just months after being dropped by Discovery. The show's new episodes will now be available on both PBS and Netflix on the same day. • Monkey Kidnappers: In Panama, researchers have captured footage of capuchin monkeys kidnapping infant howler monkeys on the island of Jicarón. • Aid to Gaza: After three months of blockade on food, medicine, and other supplies in Gaza, five aid trucks have finally entered from Israel due to international pressure. • New Bill: President Donald Trump has signed a bill that criminalizes revenge and explicit deep fake images, including those created by AI technology.
👑 FIVE CROWNS was played by five people this evening; Tom, Jo, Fran, Lucille, and Cindy. Lucille won and Jo was the biggest loser
🏥HEALTH: BP 115/79, 💓Pulse 87, Oxygen🫁96%, (Sleep 💤 01:30 AM - 09:10 AM, Total 07h 40m, Deep 03h 50m, Light 03h 50m, Awake 00h 00m), 2.1 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight 262.4 lb., 1524 Steps
📖VERSE of the day: Romans 15:5-6 May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. - NRSVUE
🤓COMMENT: In Romans 15:5-6, the apostle Paul stresses the significance of unity and mutual encouragement among believers. He urges them to have a shared mindset and purpose, following the example of Christ who humbly served others. This unity and encouragement among believers is crucial in glorifying God together with one voice. It is through this unity that the body of Christ can effectively spread the message of the gospel and reflect God's love to the world. By being united in purpose and mindset, believers can support and uplift one another, strengthening their faith and building a strong community. This passage reminds us that we are not called to walk this journey of faith alone, but rather, we are called to be united with our fellow believers in Christ. As we strive for unity and mutual encouragement, we can bring glory to God and show the world the power of love and unity within the body of Christ. Let us remember to follow Christ's example and strive for unity among believers, so that we may honor God with one voice and spread His message of love and salvation to all.
©2025 Thomas E Williams
2025 May 19 Monday in Leander
PROOF OF LIFE PHOTO
☕COFFEE KLATSCH: Jo, Avis, Michelle, Joan, Grace, Suzie, Val, Dianna, Ella, Donna, Sandy, Muriel Ricky, Donna, Fran, and I were at coffee this morning. Topics of discussion: weather, dogs, disparity between number of women and men at the apartments, and the poem/country song I wrote at the table yesterday after watching Suzie make and serve coffee. I had said she was long and lean the coffee Queen. Then I said that sounds like a Country Western song. Then I started writing. A few edits, some spellcheck, a little rearranging, and there it was. Here it is
Marlene The Coffee Queen
(In a sing song cadence much like “A Boy Named Sue”)
Verse 1
Well, the sun breaks through that café door,
And there she is, like the day before.
With a twinkle in her eye and a warm hello,
Pourin’ up coffee nice and slow.
Chorus
Marlene, the tall-and-lean coffee queen,
Got the sweetest smile I’ve ever seen.
She’s quick with a joke, strong with a brew,
Turns a bad day right into new.
Verse 2
She’s got that Southern charm, that easy sway,
Flips her ponytail, lights up my day.
She can pour a cup, serve it just right,
And keep me coming back every night.
Chorus
Marlene, the tall-and-lean coffee queen,
Got the cutest grin I’ve ever seen.
She’s got that spark, got that glow,
Keeps my heart as warm as joe.
Verse 3
Maybe one day I’ll sit her down,
Tell her she’s the best thing in this town.
But for now, I’ll take my cup,
Keep watchin’ that girl fill it up.
Chorus
Oh, Marlene, you’re the coffee queen,
The sweetest sight I’ve ever seen.
With every sip, my heart knows true—
Nothin’ wakes me up quite like you.
©2025 Thomas E Williams
🗓️AGENDA:
✅Love your spouse❤️
✅INR Check (Home)🩸
✅9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
❌ CANCELLED10:30 a Water aerobics🏊♀️
❌5:00 p Mexican Train🚂
✅5:00 p Canasta❤️♦️♣️♠️
TUE May 20 tomorrow
9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
Love your spouse❤️
10:30 a Men's Emmaus🐓
1:30 p Food Pantry +55 🛍️
5:00 p Five Crowns 👑
5:00 p Mexican Train 🚂
🏊♀️WATER AEROBICS: Ella and I had our swimsuits and towels ready. However, the weather wasn't conducive with thunderstorms in the area. Plus, we found out later, the gal who was going to instruct us took a new job today and will not be leading the class. I believe that the result is no water aerobics. When the weather (and water) are good I plan to spend some time in the pool walking and swimming laps.
🌡️WEATHER: Day 89° Mostly cloudy in the morning then becoming partly cloudy. A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Highs in the mid 90s. South winds 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph. Chance of rain 20 percent. Highest heat index readings up to 105.
Night 73° Partly cloudy. A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms in the evening. Lows in the lower 70s. South winds 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph.
👑👑👑👑👑5 CROWNS: Ella and I played cards and she beat me badly.
📰MAY 19th NEWS: Biden cancer: The ex-president, Joe Biden, received a diagnosis of prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones. • Brooklyn bridge: A Mexican naval vessel collided with the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City on Saturday, resulting in the deaths of two sailors and injuries to 19 others, two of whom are in critical condition. Fortunately, no one on the bridge was hurt and an initial inquiry showed that the bridge did not sustain any major structural harm. • New Pope: Pope Leo XIV led his inaugural Mass. In his first sermon, the pontiff urged the church and its almost 1.4 billion followers to come together in harmony and embrace inclusivity. •
🃏CANASTA: There were only five of us to play cards tonight; Ann, Jane, Jo, Ella, and me. I came in last. Obviously this was not my day to play cards. I had fun anyway
🏥HEALTH: BP 109/69, 💓Pulse 65, Oxygen🫁96%, (Sleep 💤 11:00 PM - 08:00 AM, Total 10h 00m, 100%, Deep 05h 06m, Light 04h 54m, Awake 00h 00m), 0.0 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight 262.6 lb., 792 Steps, INR 2.2
📖VERSE of the day: James 3:17-18 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. - NRSVUE
🤓COMMENT: The book of James, specifically 3:17-18, delves into the concept of true wisdom and its source. According to James, wisdom is not something that can be solely attained through worldly knowledge or experience, but is a gift from God. This divine wisdom is marked by its purity, peacefulness, gentleness, and merciful nature. Those who possess it are also willing to listen and display a willingness to understand others. The book of James emphasizes that true wisdom is not just about possessing knowledge, but rather about how one applies that wisdom in their actions. Those who are wise in this way will sow seeds of peace, and as a result, reap a harvest of righteousness. This passage reminds us that true wisdom comes from a place of humility and understanding, and it is only through God's guidance that we can truly gain this type of wisdom. It is a reminder to seek wisdom not only for ourselves but also for the betterment of those around us.
©2025 Thomas E Williams
2025 May 18 Sunday in Leander
AGENDA:
✅Love your spouse
❌8:00 a Coffee Bar at Church
❌9:00 a Sunday school
✅10:00 a Worship
MON May 19 (Tomorrow)
Love your spouse
INR Check (Home)
9:00 a Coffee at the Hills
5:00 p Canasta
5:00 p Mexican Train
WEATHER: Day 91° Hazy this morning. Mostly cloudy. Highs in the mid 90s. South winds 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 30 mph.
Night 74° Partly cloudy in the evening then becoming cloudy. Lows in the mid 70s. South winds 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph.
CHURCH: Online only today because I was sick all night and didn't get to sleep until nearly five. However we did watch it live on Facebook. Those that were there in person were treated to hotdogs.
HEALTH: Pulse 66 bpm, Blood Pressure 119/69, O² 96%, Sleep (04:40 A.M. to 19:10A.M., Total 05h 30m, Deep 03h 40m, Light 01h 50m, Awake 00h 00m), Weight 262.8 lbs, Steps 1338,
I slept nearly all day.
VERSE of the day: Romans 10:14
But how are they to call on one in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in one of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone to proclaim him? - NRSVUE
COMMENT: In essence, Romans 10:14 underscores the crucial role of preaching in the spread of the gospel and the essential connection between hearing, believing, and calling upon the name of the Lord for salvation. It emphasizes that God uses people to proclaim His message and that faith is a response to that message, not a natural or innate state.
©2025 Thomas E Williams
2025 May 17 Saturday in Leander
UPDATED UPDATE: I apologize for leaving you yesterday with a post and a subsequent post about 2” hail and 70 mph winds. We did receive hail and high winds last night though not quite as dire as the warnings suggested.
Suddenly, the hail came, scattered at first, then relentless. Some were the size of marbles, others as large as golf balls, slamming into pavement and bouncing violently off windows. Ice met earth with a fury, covering the ground in a chaotic white layer.
Moments later, the winds surged, tearing through the trees with reckless force — gusts reaching near 40 mph, bending branches and rattling windows. The storm did not whisper its arrival; it roared.
And then, the skies churned. The atmosphere bristled with electric energy as lightning carved jagged paths through the darkness, illuminating the chaos for brief, blinding moments.
Into the night, even after radar indicated it was past us, the storm seemed relentless. A battle of wind, rain, and raw power, stretching from evening until around ten o'clock — nature’s fury unleashed in full force.
PROOF OF LIFE PHOTOS
Yeah, we're weird like that.
☕COFFEE KLATSCH: Ricky, Donna, Dianna, Muriel, Suzie, Val, Ella, and I were there for coffee this morning.
🗓️AGENDA:
✅Beket W's birthday
✅Love your spouse
✅9:00 a Coffee at the Hills
✅7:00 p BRISKET & RIBS $30
SUN May 18 (Tomorrow)
Love your spouse
8:00 a Coffee Bar at Church
9:00 a Sunday school
10:00 a Worship
🍽️LUNCH: I browned some coated chicken bits, cooked some rice, and made a sauce with peach preserves, diced peaches, soy sauce, and parsley flakes. Then I combined them for lunch. Yummy!
🌡️WEATHER: The morning arrived wrapped in thick clouds, muffling the warmth of the rising sun. A soft gray canopy stretched across the sky, casting a muted glow over the landscape. But as the day progressed, the clouds began to loosen their grip, drifting apart like curtains being drawn to reveal the brilliance behind them. The sun emerged, its golden rays intensifying the heat until the air simmered with an unmistakable summer blaze.
By afternoon, the temperature climbed into the upper 90s, the heat index stretching to a sweltering 105. The southern winds whispered through the trees, offering only fleeting relief. In the distance, the horizon flickered with uncertainty—a slight chance of showers, perhaps even a rebellious thunderstorm waiting to make its move. A mere 20 percent chance, yet the air carried that restless energy, teasing the possibility of rain.
As dusk settled, the heat loosened its grip, the temperature dipping into the comfortable mid-70s. The sky remained mostly cloudy, the stars peeking through in scattered patches. A southeast wind carried the night forward, gentle but persistent, occasionally stirring leaves and brushing against rooftops. The air carried a quiet promise—another faint possibility of a storm, though fleeting.
📰MAY 17TH NEWS: Transit strike: The New Jersey Transit strike began yesterday when train operators, who are part of a union, went on strike due to unsuccessful discussions with state leaders about a revised salary and benefits plan. This strike impacted approximately 350,000 people who use the service for their daily commute. • Israel/Gaza: The fight between Israel and Gaza has led to a lot of destruction and injuries. Israel says they hit 150 enemy targets, but Gaza claims many more people were hurt. • Yesterday's Weather: There were reports of hail up to 3 inches in some areas, including Leander.
🥩SUPPER was beef ribs, brisket, red beans and rice, yucca, cabbage salad, and flan. Joan organized the meal prepared by one of our maintenance workers. It cost fifteen dollars apiece. It was very good.
🏥HEALTH: BP 110/72, PULSE 66 BPM, O² 99%, Sleep not available, 1051 Steps
📖VERSE OF THE DAY: John 16:13
When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. - NRSVUE
🤓COMMENT: The Spirit guides the believers to always speak and write the truth. They will gradually learn more about the truth and be fully equipped with all they need to share it with others. The Spirit only teaches what is true and is in perfect harmony with God's Word. For example, imagine the Spirit as a wise teacher guiding the apostles step by step, making sure they always stay on the right path and learn all they need to know.
2025 16 Friday in Leander
🧬 DAILY PROOF OF LIFE:
By the way, that isn't something hanging off of my right ear. It is a light on the wall behind me.
☕COFFEE KLATSCH: Today was Sandy’s birthday so we had twice as many folks at coffee. I may miss some but here goes: Michelle, Joan, Grace, Suzie, Val, Dianna, Ella, Maria, Anna, Maureen, Andrea, Tippy, Mona, Donna, Donna, Ricky, Sandy, Fran, Avis Eva, Linda, myself, and one or two people that I don't know their names. There were several cakes, cupcakes and cookies enough for all. I wasn't going to take anything. However, when I was offered a slice of Boston cream pie … well…
🗓️AGENDA:
✅Love your spouse❤️
✅9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
✅6:00 p Happy Hour🎉
SAT May 17 tomorrow
Beket W's birthday🎂
9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
7:00 p Brisket & Ribs $30🥩
📰MAY 16th NEWS: Birthday: Sandy Allen's 77th • Subdivision: Leander has approved a zoning change that could allow for a possible subdivision, sparking community outcry. • Ukraine/Russia: Representatives from Ukraine and Russia came together in Turkey on Friday for the initial face-to-face negotiations since Russia's incursion in February 2022, which ignited a war that has been ongoing for over three years. The discussions were reported to have lasted approximately two hours, according to the Turkish Foreign Ministry. • SpaceX: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) decided to allow SpaceX's Starbase site in Boca Chica, Texas to increase their launches and landing to a maximum of 25 per year for both the Starship and Super Heavy rockets.
🍽️LUNCH: I made chicken, green beans, kimchi from a jar, and rice in a creamy chicken gravy. There were sliced peaches for dessert.
🌡️WEATHER: Morning rose beneath a sky wrapped in soft, shifting grays—clouds drifting like slow-moving storytellers, whispering secrets to the wind. The warmth crept in, a quiet ember growing stronger with each passing hour until it reached 86°. Soon, the sun peeked through, stretching golden fingers across the land, and the dance of light and shadow began.
The afternoon hummed with restless energy, the air thick with possibility. A hush fell before the storm—had the rain come? Has the thunder rolled? Only a slight chance, but the wind picked up, stirring the air with eager gusts, as if daring the heavens to open.
The sky darkened, an unsettling shade of deep gray, as the air thickened with tension. By late afternoon, the first rumbles rolled through the atmosphere, low and ominous, a distant warning of what was to come. Warnings popped up on our cellphones, “Severe Thunderstorm Watch from 5:00 PM until Midnight CDT. Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 3.5 inches in diameter likely Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible A tornado or two possible.”
As day gave way to night we kept an eye on the weather radar and saw the storms were to the north around Gatesville and Llano to our west. We heaved a sigh of relief and said a prayer for those in the storm's path.
At bedtime the sky blushed into twilight, clouds lingering in a surprisingly gentle repose. The temperature may have softened, cooling into the mid-70s after we retired for the day. However it was still in the lower 90s as our heads hit the pillow.
LAUNDRY: Today was a busy day for Ella as she took on the task of washing multiple loads of laundry. As she folded and sorted through the piles of clothes, she gave me a pair of jeans, T-shirts, underwear, and socks belonging to me. However, Ella had even more laundry to tackle as she takes extra care in maintaining our clothes. I have a habit of wearing the same pair of jeans for a week, unless there is an unforeseen incident. Despite this, Ella diligently washed and folded all our laundry, ensuring that they were clean and ready to be worn again. I am grateful for her hard work and dedication to keeping our clothes clean and fresh. It's a mundane task but an essential one, and Ella never hesitates in taking it on with a smile on her face. I am fortunate to have someone like her who takes care of the little things that make our lives easier. Ella's attention to detail and efficiency in doing laundry is truly admirable, and I couldn't imagine getting through laundry days without her help. She truly is a lifesaver when it comes to keeping our clothes clean.
🛍️GROCERIES: Today was the day to restock paper products. Paper towels, facial tissues, toilet paper, and unmentionables comprised the bulk of our delivery. Bread, butter, pancake mix, bacon and sausage for our breakfasts. Cheese sticks, string cheese, cheese puffs, and soft drinks there for our snacking pleasure. Over the counter meds and a cake mix completed the order.
🎉HAPPY HOUR: The two large chicken breasts leftover from lunch were diced and added to the rice and gravy also leftover. Does it count as a leftover if it was planned excess to be used for this evening's potluck?
🏥HEALTH: BP 119/75, 💓Pulse 72, Oxygen🫁97%, (Sleep 💤 10:10 PM - 08:00 AM, Total 09h 50m, 100%, Deep 07h 10m, Light 02h 40m, Awake 00h 00m), 1.4 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight 265.7 lb., 2262 Steps. I walked slightly over a mile without ever leaning the building.
📖VERSE of the Day: Proverbs 3:1-2. "My child, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commandments. For long life and many years, and peace, will be added to you."
🤓COMMENTARY: This passage from Proverbs is a strong reminder of the importance of adhering to God's commandments. It urges individuals to not disregard the teachings and wisdom found in the scriptures. By emphasizing obedience, it highlights the direct connection between following God's will and experiencing blessings such as longevity, prosperity, and inner peace. This suggests that a life lived in obedience to God's commandments not only results in material success but also brings inner contentment and well-being. It serves as a promise and motivation for those who choose to follow God's guidance, assuring them of a fulfilling and rewarding life. This verse not only stresses the significance of obedience but also portrays it as a path towards a blessed and satisfied existence. Therefore, it encourages readers to prioritize following God's commandments in their daily lives for a fulfilling and peaceful existence..
2025 15 Thursday in Leander, Liberty Hill, and Cedar Park
🩺DOCTOR: I arrived early enough to pee in a cup. Unfortunately I had gone to the bathroom just before leaving home so there was a small sample for them to test. I thought I was just coming to hear the results of the blood test I took a few days back. The doctor was running behind because a surgery had taken longer than expected. We were attended to by his physician's assistant. The results of my blood test showed a slight increase in the PSA level. This was expected and is progressing along the curve at the proper rate. My next check-in will be three months out. It will be preceded by another blood draw.
By the way, I'm not sure why we both have such strange expressions on our faces in the photo below.
🏥HEALTH: BP 119/73, 💓Pulse 68, Oxygen🫁97%, (Sleep 💤 09:10 PM - 08:50 AM, Total 11h 40m, 100%, Deep 07h 15m, Light 04h 25m, Awake 00h 00m), 0.9 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight 265.7 lb., 1132 Steps
📖VERSE of the day:
Ephesians 4:29 NRSVUE
Let no evil talk come out of your mouths but only what is good for building up, as there is need, so that your words may give grace to those who hear.
🤓COMMENTARY:
Ephesians 4:29 emphasizes the importance of using our words wisely as believers. It calls us to avoid unwholesome speech and instead, encourages us to speak words that are beneficial for building others up. This verse reminds us that our words have the power to either tear down or uplift those around us. As Christians, it is our responsibility to use our speech constructively and with grace, always considering the needs of others. By doing so, we not only bring positivity and encouragement into people's lives, but we also impart grace onto them. This verse serves as a reminder that our words have an impact on those around us and we should strive to use them in a way that reflects the love and grace of God.
2025 May 14 Wednesday in Leander and Liberty Hill
2025 May 13 Tuesday in Leander
COFFEE KLATSCH: Today was a busy day at the coffee table as Donna, Diana, Joan, Grace, Suzie, Maria, Val, Sandy, Fran, Jo, and I gathered together. However, Ella decided to stay in bed and missed out on all the fun. Dianna brought a beautifully decorated cookie to share with everyone, but no one wanted to be the one to "stab Mom in the heart" by cutting it into serving portions. Instead, we all opted to admire the cookie's design and enjoy it as one whole piece. It was a lovely moment of camaraderie and consideration for each other's feelings. Despite Ella's absence, it was a warm and joyful gathering that reminded us of the power of friendship and the importance of small acts of kindness. As we chatted and laughed, the coffee table became a place of comfort and connection. It was a perfect start to our day.
AGENDA:
✅Kara D's birthday
✅9:00 a Coffee at the Hills
❌5:00 p 5 Crowns
✅5:00 p Mexican Train
WED May 14 tomorrow
9:00 a Coffee at the Hills
10:00 a Canasta at OTHG
LUNCH: For our noon meal I prepared salmon, baked potato, and acorn squash.
CARDS: Ella and I played Five Crowns at home this afternoon. However I did not go to the five o'clock game in the community room. I've been sneezing and snotting all day which is not conducive to playing games with others.
DOMINOES: While I stayed home this evening Ella went to the community room and played Mexican Train and tried playing Skip-Bo but since none of the players really knew the game it didn't turn out well.
WEATHER: The morning awakens with a soft veil of clouds drifting lazily across the sky, offering a brief reprieve before the full force of the day’s heat sets in. As the sun climbs higher, its white hot rays burn away the lingering clouds, leaving behind a vast, blue expanse. The temperature steadily rises, pushing past the century mark, wrapping Leander Texas in an unforgiving embrace of heat.
The south winds arrive like a messenger of relief, carrying with them a slight reprieve from the relentless sun. Their steady, persistent breath keeps the air moving, making the heat slightly more bearable.
As dusk settles, the horizon glows with hues of amber and violet, cooling the day’s intensity. The air grows gentler, dropping into the low 70s, though the night remains comfortably warm. A scattering of clouds drifts back in, hovering above the quiet landscape. The winds shift, growing calmer but occasionally stirring the trees with sudden gusts, reminding everyone that the day’s energy hasn’t fully dissipated.
Though the heat may be relentless, the evening offers a chance to recover—an invitation to slow down, stay hydrated, and find solace in the gentle rhythm of an early summer breeze.
MAY 13th NEWS: Tariffs; US will reduce its tariff on Chinese goods from 145% to 30%, while China will lower its tariff on American imports from 125% to 10%. | Presidential visit; Donald Trump is visiting Saudi Arabia, the initial destination on his tour of the Middle East. | Medication; President Donald Trump has issued an executive order to pharmaceutical companies to reduce the prices of their drugs to match those in other affluent nations. Failure to comply within one month could result in significant restrictions on their profits. | Heat Advisory in effect heat index values up to 109° expected. | Israel/Hamas; Hamas freed a captive who was believed to be the sole surviving US hostage in Gaza. This coincides with Hamas' efforts to negotiate a ceasefire agreement with Israel. |
🏥HEALTH: BP 109/70, 💓Pulse 66, Oxygen🫁99%, (Sleep 💤 12:10 AM - 07:40 AM, Total 07h 30m, 70%, Deep 03h 45m, Light 03h 45m, Awake 00h 00m), 1.1 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight 267.0 lb., 1132 Steps
VERSE OF THE DAY: Psalm 100 A psalm.
1 Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.
2 Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.
3 Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his, we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.
5 For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
COMMENTARY: Psalm 100, also known as "A Psalm of Thanksgiving," is a powerful call to recognize and celebrate God's rule and benevolence. This psalm invites people of all nations to join in joyful praise and thanksgiving to the Lord, acknowledging His ownership of the world and His unwavering love for His people. It reminds us to serve God with gladness, knowing that He is our protector and provider. Through its words, Psalm 100 encourages us to humbly offer our gratitude and praise to God, recognizing His unfailing faithfulness and sovereignty over all things. This psalm serves as a reminder to always joyfully acknowledge and honor God's presence in our lives, no matter the circumstances we may be facing. It is a beautiful expression of thanksgiving and a call to continually give thanks to the Lord for His goodness and love.
2025 May 12 Monday in Leander
COFFEE KLATSCH: This morning, a group of us including Sandy, Fran, Linda, Avis, Joan, Grace, Michelle, Val, Ricky, Donna, Dianna, Jo, Maria and myself gathered for our dailly coffee meeting. As we sipped on our warm beverages, the main topic of discussion revolved around keys. We shared stories about lost keys and the frustration of trying to retrace our steps to find them. Some of us also discovered unknown keys on our keychains and had a good laugh trying to figure out what they were for. The conversation took a comical turn when Ella mentioned my being locked out of our running car with one key in the ignition and the spare key in my billfold which was locked in the car. We also told of how both of our keys were locked in the trunk of the car. It was a lighthearted and entertaining morning as we bonded over our common experiences with keys and how they seem to have a mind of their own. Despite the occasional mishaps with our keys, we all left feeling grateful for the company and laughter shared over a simple cup of coffee..
AGENDA:
✅Love you spouse❤️
❌INR Check (Home)🩸
✅9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
✅5:00 p Canasta♣️♠️♦️❤️
✅5:00 p Mexican Train🚂
TUE May 13 tomorrow
Kara D's birthday🎂
9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
5:00 p 5 Crowns👑
5:00 p Mexican Train🚂
WEATHER: The day arrives bathed in golden sunlight, casting long shadows as the warmth settles over the land. A gentle northwest breeze, barely noticeable at f toive miles per hour, drifts through, carrying with it the scent of blooming flowers and freshly cut grass. The heat in the upper eighties lingers just enough to remind everyone that summer is knocking at the door, but not enough to feel unbearable.
As night fell, the sky became a vast, open canvas sprinkled with shimmering stars. The air cooled to the lower 60°s, embracing the world in a refreshing stillness. A soft southeast wind of 5 to 10 miles per hour whispered through the trees, eventually shifting south after midnight, ensuring a calm and peaceful end to the day.
GAMES: There were only four of us for canasta this evening. The domino players had three.
🏥HEALTH: BP 110/78, 💓Pulse 57, Oxygen🫁95%, (Sleep 💤 09:13 PM - 07:21 AM, Total 08h 10m, 70%, Deep 06h 04m, Light 04h 06m, Awake 00h 00m), 1.9 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight 264.4 lb., 792 Steps
VERSE OF THE DAY: Ephesians 2:10 NRSVUE
[10] For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we may walk in them.
COMMENTARY: Ephesians 2:10 highlights the concept that as believers in Christ, we are God's handiwork. We are uniquely created by Him, like a beautiful work of art, with a specific purpose and plan in mind. Through our spiritual transformation and renewal through Jesus Christ, we are equipped and empowered to carry out good works that have been prepared for us by God Himself. These good works are not just any random actions, but they are specifically chosen paths that align with God's will for our lives. As we walk in these prearranged paths, we are living the good life that God has planned for us. This verse is a reminder that we are not just aimlessly wandering through life, but we have a divine purpose and calling to fulfill. It encourages us to trust in God's perfect plan for our lives and to walk confidently in the good works He has prepared for us.
2025 May 11 MOTHER'S DAY in Leander and Liberty Hill
COFFEE BAR: Cross Tracks Church has created a warm and inviting atmosphere with their café style coffee area located just inside the main doors. As soon as you enter, you are greeted with the delightful aroma of freshly brewed coffee and a display of delicious pastries and fresh fruit. But what sets this café apart is their special offering on the second Sunday of each month – breakfast burritos and tacos. Today being the second Sunday, the church was bustling with members and visitors, all eager to try out these tasty treats. This coffee area serves as a perfect gathering spot for people to socialize and catch up before Sunday school or before and after the worship service. It not only provides a place for refreshments but also fosters a sense of community among churchgoers. With its cozy ambiance and delectable offerings, the café at Cross Tracks Church truly adds to the overall welcoming and warm experience of attending Sunday service.
SUNDAY SCHOOL: This was the official beginning of our study of Adam Hamilton's book “
WORSHIP: Today's worship service was a special one, as it was held in the sanctuary rather than the usual chapel. The reason for this change in location was the impressive display of around one hundred and seventy quilts being blessed. These beautiful quilts were the handiwork of talented women from our church's Linus group, who generously donated their time and skills to create these works of art. These quilts are then given to hospitals and first responders to help comfort and calm children in times of crisis. The sheer number of quilts this year was too much for the chapel to accommodate, showcasing the dedication and hard work of our church community in reaching out to those in need. It was heartwarming to see the fruits of their labor on display during our worship service, a testament to the love and compassion that embodies our church family.
AGENDA:
✅Mother's Day🌹
✅8:00 a Coffee Bar at Church☕
✅9:00 a Sunday school📖
✅10:00 a Worship💒
MON May 12 tomorrow
INR Check (Home)🩸
9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
5:00 p Canasta❤️♦️♠️♣️
5:00 p Mexican Train🚂
MOTHER'S DAY: Tom's mother was one of nine children born to his grandparents. She had two boys and two girls of her own. At the time of her death she was survived by a daughter, two sons, 18 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren, and a great-great-grandchild. Since her death in 1994 the fruit of her family tree has grown beyond my ability to keep track of.
Ella's mother was one of five children born to her grandparents. She had three children, all girls.
WEATHER: Day 82° Partly cloudy in the morning then clearing. Highs in the lower 80s. North winds 10 to 15 mph.
Night 57° Clear. Lows in the mid 50s. North winds 5 to 10 mph becoming northwest after midnight.
🏥HEALTH: BP 119/70, 💓Pulse 64, Oxygen🫁97%, (Sleep 💤 10:13 PM - 06:13 AM, Total 05h 36m, 70%, REM 00h 40m, Deep 03h 27m, Light 03h 45m, Awake 00h 07m), 1.6 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight 264.4 lb., 2103 Steps
VERSE OF THE DAY: Ephesians 4:32
Be kind and loving to each other. Forgive each other the same as God forgave you through Christ. - ERV
COMMENTARY: In this section, Paul provides three clear and direct instructions for believers. The first is to demonstrate kindness, particularly towards their fellow believers within the congregation. Secondly, Paul highlights the significance of showing compassion and having a tender heart, using the Greek word eusplanchnoi to convey this message. He emphasizes the importance of having a sympathetic attitude rather than a harsh one. Lastly, Paul commands readers to forgive one another and reminds them of the forgiveness they have received from Christ. This aspect of Christianity, the act of forgiving and being forgiven, is a key characteristic of the faith that is often highlighted in Scripture, such as in the Lord's Prayer and in Jesus' ultimate sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins. Paul's words serve as a reminder for believers to embody these qualities and to extend forgiveness and kindness to others as Christ has done for them.
2025 May 10 Saturday in Leander
AGENDA:
Love your spouse❤️
9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
1:00 p Second Hand Saturday👐
SUN May 11 (Tomorrow)
Love your spouse
Mother's Day
8:00 a Coffee Bar at Church
9:00 a Sunday school
10:00 a Worship
LAUNDRY DAY: My bride chose to do our laundry today. Other than a couple of shirts on hangers this is my week's worth of laundry. Had I known she was going to do laundry today I would have given her my jeans to wash. As it was she threw the dark clothes into the washing machine while I was in the community room making coffee. I am very grateful that she keeps us in clean clothes even when her back is causing her a lot of pain.
WEATHER: It was 61° when the morning sun rose over Leander casting a golden glow over rooftops and tree branches. It was one of those perfect spring days reaching 78°—warm but not scorching, with a crisp breeze riding on northern winds. As the hours passed, fluffy clouds meandered in, softening the bright sky. A Lightning Alert bulletin appeared on my phone warning of nearby lightning today from twelve twenty-nine until twelve fifty-nine. A quick check of the weather radar showed the activity about fifteen to twenty miles to our northwest and moving away. I chose to not be alarmed. By mid afternoon, a restless energy lingered in the air, as if the heavens were contemplating a brief shower. A twenty percent chance, they whispered—not a promise, but a possibility. Another Lightning Alert was issued for two thirty until two thirty-three. The closest strike was closer this time at slightly over three miles away. That chance of rain happened - but not much and not for long. It soon hurried along heading westward.
Evening arrived with a cooler touch. The sky shifted from soft pinks to deeper blues. The once scattered clouds gathered in a quiet assembly, settling over the town like a loosely woven quilt. The north wind calmed, and the temperature dipped into the upper 50s, leaving the night with just enough chill to warrant a light jacket for those venturing outside.
🏥HEALTH: BP 109/68, 💓Pulse 68, Oxygen🫁99%, (Sleep 💤 11:37 PM - 06:55 AM, Total 05h 36m, 70%, REM 00h 18m, Deep 01h 17m, Light 04h 01m, Awake 01h 42m), 2.7 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight 264.4 lb., 2103 Steps
VERSE OF THE DAY: Matthew 18:15 “If your brother or sister in God’s family does something wrong, go and tell them what they did wrong. Do this when you are alone with them. If they listen to you, then you have helped them to be your brother or sister again.” - ERV
COMMENTARY: Matthew 18:15 emphasizes the importance of addressing conflicts with grace and discretion within the Christian community. Jesus instructs believers to approach a fellow member privately when they have done something wrong, rather than exposing the issue publicly or harboring resentment. This approach fosters reconciliation and preserves unity, allowing the person to acknowledge their mistake without embarrassment or defensiveness.
The passage highlights the value of direct, honest communication in relationships. By addressing concerns one-on-one, the goal is restoration rather than condemnation. If the person listens and responds positively, the relationship is strengthened, reaffirming the bond of brotherhood or sisterhood in faith.
This principle can be, and should be, applied beyond the church as well—whether in friendships, family, or workplace interactions. Handling disagreements with wisdom and kindness can lead to healing and deeper understanding rather than division.
2025 May 09 Friday in LEANDER
COFFEE KLATSCH: Dianna, Michelle, Joan, Andrea, Suzie, Val, Ricky, Donna, ?, ?.
AGENDA:
✅Love your spouse❤️
✅9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
❌11:00 a Mother's Day teaparty🫖
✅11:30 a LUMC 50+ Luncheon🍝
✅6:00 p Happy Hour🎉
SAT May 10 tomorrow
Love your spouse❤️
9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
1:00 p Second Hand Saturday👐
50+: We did not go to the tea party at the apartments because the Fifty Plus luncheon at the Leander UMC started at eleven-thirty. We had chicken spaghetti, a mixed squash medley, and a cherry cake bar. After carefully inspecting the spaghetti and the squash for onions I ate and enjoyed them more than I thought I would. I also made sure that Ella knew where to find an epipen incase I was wrong about the meal not containing onions. The speaker was from the local planning board. He gave an optimistic forecast for Leander’s continued economic growth.
WEATHER: Day 79° Mostly sunny in the morning then becoming partly cloudy. Highs in the lower 80s. North winds 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph.
Night 59° Mostly clear. Lows in the upper 50s. North winds 5 to 10 mph.
HAPPY HOUR: Tonight was different from most Friday night get-togethers. Tonight we were entertained by a couple of former residents who came and sang for us and then hosted karaoke for a couple of songs. I sang Ramblin’ Rose.
🏥HEALTH: BP 109/76, 💓Pulse 65, Oxygen🫁99%, (Sleep 💤 12:30 AM - 08:39 AM, Total 07h 37m, 95%, REM 01h 03m, Deep 02h 40m, Light 03h 54m, Awake 00h 32m), 1.3 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight 264.4 lb., 2103 Steps
VERSE OF THE DAY: Romans 8:1-2 So now anyone who is in Christ Jesus is not judged guilty.That is because in Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit that brings life made you free. It made you free from the law that brings sin and death. - ERV
2025 may 08 Thursday in Leander and Liberty Hill
COFFEE KLATSCH: Today at coffee were Dianna, Michelle, Joan, Grace, Suzie, Val, Muriel, Donna, Ricky, Sandy, Ella and myself.
OTHG: There were forty-something of us at Over The Hill Gang for sloppy joes today. Our elders from the Mormon Church were not there today. That means that some of our members had to step in and do dishes after lunch.
AGENDA:
✅Love your spouse❤️
✅9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
✅11:00 a Over The Hill👵👴
✅2:30 p HCCM🛍️
✅6:00 p Bingo🅱️🔟
FRI May 9 Tomorrow
Love your spouse❤️
9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
11:00 a Mother's Day tea party🫖
11:30 a 50+ Luncheon🍝
6:00 p Happy Hour🎉
HCCM: Hill Country Community Ministries food pantry had our monthly food order ready for pick up this afternoon. We received a load of bread and a dozen eggs which we needed. I had hoped for some milk but none was available. There was plenty of frozen meat and fresh-ish vegetables. I'm always glad to get the produce since most of our vegetables come from cans.
SUPPER: Among the frozen meats was a package of raw chicken wings in hot sauce. Ella can't handle anything spicy so I knew the wings would be all mine. This is the night when she hosts bingo at the apartments. I took advantage of her absence to cook the wings. I chopped some fresh carrots and celery which I added to the Instapot with some rice and frozen peas. I pressure cooked the mixture with some chicken stock. Once it was cooked I stirred in honey, melted butter, and Worcestershire sauce. The sweet and tangy rice paired nicely with the hot wings.
AS PER USUAL: Ella and I donated some items to the in-house food pantry. We are glad to be able to share our bounty with others.
BINGO: About ten residents arrived to play bingo while Ella called the games and numbers with the aid of an app on her phone.
WEATHER: Day 82° Partly cloudy. A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs in the mid 80s. North winds 5 to 10 mph with gusts up to 20 mph. Chance of rain 20 percent.
Night 61° Mostly cloudy. Lows in the lower 60s. North winds 5 to 10 mph.
🏥HEALTH: BP 115/76, 💓Pulse 66, Oxygen🫁98%, (Sleep 💤 11:53 PM - 07:32 AM, Total 07h 07m, 88%, REM 0h 50m, Deep 01h 57m, Light 04h 20m, Awake 00h 32m), 1.6 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight 264.2 lb., 2103 Steps
VERSE OF THE DAY: Colossians 4:5-6 “Be wise in the way you act with those who are not believers. Use your time in the best way you can.When you talk, you should always be kind and wise. Then you will be able to answer everyone in the way you should.” - ERV
COMMENTARY: Believers are encouraged to be thoughtful and discerning in their interactions with those outside the faith. This not only helps to build meaningful connections with others, but it also highlights the value of making the most of every opportunity to share their beliefs and values. It is important for believers to approach these interactions with kindness, wisdom, and grace, as these qualities can help to create a positive and respectful dialogue. The imagery of being “seasoned with salt” further emphasizes the importance of engaging conversations that are full of insight and understanding. By being thoughtful and discerning, believers can respond to others effectively and with empathy, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding and appreciation for each other's perspectives. It also serves as a reminder to always represent one's faith in a positive and uplifting manner, reflecting the love and grace of God in all interactions with those outside the faith. Overall, being thoughtful and discerning in interactions with others allows believers to build strong relationships and effectively share their beliefs in a respectful and meaningful way.
2025 May 07 Wednesday in Leander and Liberty Hill
COFFEE KLATSCH: We didn't make it to coffee today. We were busy setting up our new watches. Our Mother's Day and Father's Day gifts to ourselves.
CANASTA AT OTHG: At today's weekly canasta gathering at the OTHG, there was a noticeable absence as Sandy did not join the group. Despite this, the games went on with an even number of players, resulting in partners being formed. This dynamic often leads to faster-paced games, as two players come together to add their points and strategize together. There is a sense of camaraderie and teamwork that comes with playing in pairs, making it an enjoyable experience for everyone involved. While Sandy's absence was felt, the remaining players were able to adapt and still have a fun and competitive game of canasta at the OTHG..
WEDNESDAY AT HOME: Today, Ella and I had a quiet evening at home and decided to play some games to pass the time. We played a couple of rounds of Five Crowns, our favorite card game, and then switched to canasta for a change of pace. Wednesdays are usually busy for us, filled with events like our Refuel supper and Bible study at Cross Tracks Church. However, due to the current situation, these activities have been put on hold until the fall. The Hump Day potluck at our apartment complex has also been cancelled due to lack of interest. As we sat there playing games, my wife and I realized that we might need to come up with something to do midweek on Wednesdays. We will need to brainstorm some ideas. So now we turn to you, dear reader, for suggestions on how to make our Wednesdays more eventful and enjoyable. Do you have any ideas for us?
AGENDA:
✅Love your spouse❤️
❌9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
✅10:00 a Canasta❤️♠️♦️♣️
THU May 8 tomorrow
Love your spouse
9:00 a Coffee at the Hills
11:00 a Over The Hill Gang
2:30 p HCCM
6:00 p Bingo (Hills Great Room)
WEATHER: Day 83° Mostly cloudy in the morning then becoming partly cloudy. Some isolated showers and thunderstorms. Highs in the mid 80s. Northeast winds around 5 mph. Chance of rain 20 percent.
Night 60° Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 60s. Northeast winds around 5 mph.
🏥HEALTH: BP 109/70, 💓Pulse 63, Oxygen🫁99%, (Sleep 💤 12:26 AM - 08:48 AM, Total 08h 10m, 100%, REM 0h 31m, Deep 03h 31m, Light 04h 08m, Awake 00h 12m), 2.6 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight 265.2 lb., 1583 Steps
VERSE OF THE DAY: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Always be full of joy.Never stop praying.Whatever happens, always be thankful. This is how God wants you to live in Christ Jesus. - ERV
COMMENTARY: In this passage, we are reminded to always be joyful, pray constantly, and give thanks in all circumstances. Example: When faced with a difficult situation, instead of getting upset, try to find joy in the love of God. Pray for guidance and strength to overcome challenges, and remember to give thanks for the blessings in your life, even during tough times. This mindset can help bring peace and positivity in every situation.
2025 May 06 Tuesday in Leander and Cedar Park
DOCTOR: For some reason beyond my understanding or control I had to drive into Round Rock for a blood draw today. My urologist's office is less than five miles from home. However, today I had to drive twelve miles to their other office in another city. All that driving in the storm for a blood draw. I have to regularly check my PSA* level. *Prostate-Specific Antigen is a protein produced by the prostate gland, and a blood test measuring PSA levels is commonly used to help screen for prostate cancer.
COFFEE KLATSCH: The group was all gathered by the time I arrived home from the doctor. Ella, Muriel, Suzie, Val, Ricky, Donna, Dianna, Donna, Sandi, Fran, and Jo were already in deep conversations about the weather by the time I arrived
AGENDA:
✅Rob & Linnea's Anniversary
✅Love your spouse❤️
✅ INR 🩸
✅8:50 a PSA blood draw 🩸
✅9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
❌10:30 a Men's Emmaus group 🐓
✅5:00 p 5 Crowns👑
✅5:00 p Mexican Train🚂
WED May 7 (Tomorrow)
Love your spouse❤️
9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
10:00 a Canasta❤️♠️♦️♣️
WEATHER: Good morning lightning, thunderstorm and driving rain! A wonderful day to go for a drive. 😵💫🤪⛈️
And now … this
Day: 80° Patchy fog early this morning. Lightning with showers and thunderstorms likely early this morning then partly cloudy with a chance of more rainshowers and thunderstorms this afternoon. Some thunderstorms may be severe. Not as cool with highs in the mid 80s. Southeast winds 10 to 15 mph becoming southwest 5 to 10 mph this afternoon. Chance of rain 90%
Night: 61° Mostly clear in the evening then becoming mostly cloudy. Lows in the lower 60s. Northeast winds around 5 mph.
PARTICIPATION 2.15” today.
CARDS: There were only six of us to play Five Crowns this evening: Lucille, Fran, Jane, Ann, no, and myself.
DOMINOES: Ella, Sandy, and Barbara played Mexican Train this evening
🏥HEALTH: BP 134/79, 💓Pulse 61, Oxygen🫁97%, (Sleep 💤 11:31 PM - 07:46 AM, Total 08h 09m, 100%, REM n/a, Deep n/a, Light n/a, Awake n/a), 1.3 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight 265.4 lb., 1883 Steps INR 2.8
VERSE OF THE DAY: Psalms 42:11 AMP “Why are you in despair, O my soul? Why have you become restless and disquieted within me? Hope in God and wait expectantly for Him, for I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God.”
COMMENTARY: In Psalms 42:11 AMP, the author expresses a common struggle that many of us face: feeling overwhelmed and restless within our own souls. The psalmist questions why their soul is in despair, and why they are feeling so disquieted. However, in the midst of this struggle, they offer a solution- to place their hope in God and wait expectantly for Him. This shows a deep understanding that our soul's unrest can only be calmed by placing our trust and hope in God. The psalmist knows that even though their current situation may be difficult and overwhelming, they can still praise God because He is the ultimate source of help and strength for their soul. This verse serves as a reminder to turn to God in times of distress, to have faith and trust in Him, and to know that He is the one who can bring peace to our restless souls. It is a powerful reminder that no matter what we may be facing, God is always with us, and His love and strength can sustain us through any trial or struggle.
2025 May 05 Monday in Leander
COFFEE KLATSCH: Sandy, Maria, Jo, Joan, Dianna, Donna, Michelle, Linda, Fran, Donna, Grace Suzie, Val, Ella, Ricky, Chuck, Max, DeeDee, and I were all at coffee today but not all at the same time. We talked about hearing voices through the vents in our bathrooms. We also talked (loudly) about not wearing our hearing aids. Then we ate tacos.
BREAKFAST: The apartment managers treated us to breakfast tacos in honor of Cinco de Mayo today.
AGENDA.
Kyna T's birthday🎂
Love your spouse❤️
INR Check (Home)🩸
09:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
10:00 a Grab and go breakfast🌮
5:00 p Canasta♦️♠️♣️❤️
5:00 p Mexican Train🚂
TUE 06 tomorrow
Love your spouse❤️
Rob & Linnea's Anniversary's
8:50 a PSA blood draw
9:00 a Coffee at the Hills
10:30 a Men's Emmaus
5:00 p 5 Crowns
5:00 p Mexican Train
It's only 243 days until Christmas. Anyone looking for a Santa for Christmas in July?
CARDS: Barbara, a new tenant, joined us for canasta this evening.
WEATHER: Day 72° Mostly cloudy with a chance of thunderstorms. A chance of showers in the morning then showers likely in the afternoon. More humid with highs in the mid 70s. East winds 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.
We had around an inch of rain between 10:30 a.m. & 2:30 p.m.
Night 65° A chance of thunderstorms. Showers. Near steady temperature in the upper 60s. Southeast winds around 10 mph with gusts up to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90 percent.
We had around another half an inch of rain through the rest of the day and during the night.
🏥HEALTH: BP 130/76, 💓Pulse 77, Oxygen🫁97%, (Sleep 💤 11:21 PM - 08:54 AM, Total 09h 14m, 100%, REM n/a, Deep n/a, Light n/a, Awake n/a), 2.6 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight n/a lb., 1883 Steps
VERSE OF THE DAY: Philippians 4:6-7 “Don’t worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need, always giving thanks for what you have.And because you belong to Christ Jesus, God’s peace will stand guard over all your thoughts and feelings. His peace can do this far better than our human minds.” - ERV
COMMENTARY: The passage of Philippians 4:6-7 is a powerful and encouraging message for believers, written by Paul while he was imprisoned. In this passage, Paul urges his readers to replace their anxiety with prayer and gratitude, reminding them to bring their worries before God. He assures them that God's peace will guard their hearts and minds in ways beyond human understanding. This peace is not dependent on circumstances but rather on a deep relationship with Christ. Instead of being consumed by fear or uncertainty, believers are invited to lean into prayer and maintain a spirit of thanksgiving. This passage serves as a reminder that true peace comes from God's unchanging love and care, not the absence of trouble. By surrendering our worries to Him, we can experience a divine calm that protects our thoughts and emotions, giving us the strength and confidence to face life's challenges with faith.
2025 may 04 Sunday in Leander and Liberty Hill
SUNDAY SCHOOL. We began our new study of “The Message of Jesus” a book by Adam Hamilton. The following is from the books jacket. “A fresh encounter with the words of Jesus. More than three billion people claim to follow Jesus. But aside from a few verses, how many actually know what he taught? In fact, much of what people think Jesus taught, he never said.
In this six-week study, pastor and best-selling author Adam Hamilton explores six of the most important themes in Jesus's teachings, why they matter, and how they speak to us today. The book explores Jesus's preaching on the kingdom of God, the Sermon on the Mount, the parables, the I Am sayings in John, and more. Jesus's message is not only life-changing, but world changing.
In accessible prose. Adam Hamilton presents to readers what makes Jesus so amazing: his words of hope, love, and transformation. Those who have heard these words already will find in Hamilton a guide to new insights. Those who come to Jesus for the first time will be blown away. When pondered and applied. Jesus's message .changes those who hear it and the world!
-THOMAS JAY OORD, author of Open and Relational Theology
WORSHIP: The worship service today began with the familiar phrase, "May the fourth be with you!" which was met with enthusiastic response of, “And also with you!” from the congregation. Our pastor, a self-avowed Star Wars nerd, had incorporated this annual Star Wars Day celebration into the service, making it a fun and unique experience for everyone. The unofficial holiday, observed on May 4th each year, is a clever play on the well-known phrase "May the Force be with you." As the sermon progressed, it was clear that even the communion celebration was not spared from Star Wars references. It was refreshing to see such a creative and appropriate way to tie in Jesus' use of wordplay and puns in his speeches with this beloved pop culture phenomenon. The service was a perfect blend of faith and fun, reminding us that worship can be both meaningful and enjoyable
AGENDA.
Love your spouse❤️
8:00 a Coffee Bar at Church☕
9:00 a Sunday school📖
10:00 a Worship💒
MON May 5 (Tomorrow)
Kyna T's birthday🎂
Love your spouse❤️
INR Check (Home)🩸
09:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
10:00 a Grab and go breakfast🌮
5:00 p Canasta♦️♠️♣️❤️
5:00 p Mexican Train🚂
WEATHER: Day 78° Mostly clear. Highs in the lower 80s. East winds 5 to 10 mph.
Night 60° Partly cloudy. Lows in the upper 50s. East winds 5 to 10 mph.
LUPPER: I was feeling unwell with an unsettled stomach today. So we skipped lunch. I should also mention that we had no breakfast because we overslept. About three-thirty I began to feel the desire for food. Ella suggested chipped beef gravy on biscuits. She chopped the beef while I made (instant) mashed potatoes. While she set the table and opened a can of diced peaches and pears I preheated the toaster oven and began the gravy. While those were hearing I opened a can of corn. I drained the corn, added butter and pepper, and put it in the microwave. A quick stir if the gravy and I started the biscuits baking. The gravy was done and the corn was hot so I played them in some bowls. As soon as the biscuits were done we sat down to eat. That's when I discovered that I hadn't taken my breakfast pills (no breakfast, remember?). I took the pills and will take the supper pills with my bedtime pills today.
CLEANUP: After enjoying one and only meal, it was time for cleanup. I took on the task of clearing the table and loading the dishwasher. Meanwhile, my loving bride, Ella, diligently gathered and bagged up the trash from all six of our trash cans in preparation for tonight's trash pickup service. With the dishwasher started, I turned my attention to wiping down the glass cooktop of our electric range, leaving it sparkling clean. With these tasks completed, we were done with our minimal amount of work for the day on our Sabbath. Taking time for rest and relaxation is important, and keeping the workload light allows us to fully appreciate and enjoy our day of rest. It's a reminder to slow down and focus on what truly matters – spending quality time with loved ones and taking care of ourselves. The simple act of cleaning up after our meal may seem like a small task, but it is a meaningful act of self-care that helps us maintain a peaceful home environment. As we sit back and relax after a day of minimal labor, we are grateful for the opportunity to recharge and rejuvenate on our Sabbath.
🏥HEALTH: BP n/a, 💓Pulse 85, Oxygen🫁98%, (Sleep 💤 10:24 PM - 07:33 AM, Total 08h 53m, 100%, REM 01h 04m, Deep 03h 38m, Light 04h 11m, Awake 00h 16m), 0.1 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight 266.6 lb., 2283 Steps
VERSE OF THE DAY: 2 Chronicles 7:14
“and if my people who are called by my name become humble and pray, and look for me, and turn away from their evil ways, then I will hear them from heaven. I will forgive their sin and heal their land.” - ERV
COMMENTARY: These words spoken by God in 2 Chronicles 7:14, showcases the loving and forgiving nature of our creator. It also emphasizes the importance of humility and repentance in seeking God's mercy and grace. When we as God's people come humbly before Him and acknowledge our wrongdoings, He promises to forgive us and restore our relationship with Him. He also promises to heal our land, which could refer to not just physical land but also our communities, nations, and the world at large. This passage serves as a reminder of the power of prayer and the importance of continuously seeking God's presence in our lives. It shows that when we turn towards God with a contrite heart, He is always ready to hear us, forgive us, and bring healing to our lives.
©2025 Thomas E Williams
2025 May 03 Saturday in Leander
COFFEE KLATSCH: The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air as May, Mark, Donna, Ricky, Ella, Andrea, Michelle, Joan, Suzie, Dianna, and I gathered around the table for our daily coffee klatsch. We sipped on our coffee and indulged in the delicious donut holes Julie R. had provided. Laughter and chatter filled the room as we caught up on each other's lives and shared stories. It was a much-needed break from our busy schedules and a chance to relax and connect with friends. As we enjoyed the treats and company, we couldn't help but feel grateful for Julie's generosity and for the opportunity to come together and enjoy each other's company. This coffee klatsch was not just about the coffee and donuts, but about the sense of community and support that we found in each other's company. We left with full hearts, looking forward to our next gathering.
CUP: My loving bride came across this cup and her first thought was of me. It was a simple object, yet it held so much meaning for us. And as I held it in my hands, I couldn't help but think of all the times I have been too eager to help those around me, even if they weren't ready to receive my help.
My intentions were always pure, but sometimes my actions may have come across as aggressive. My bride has always been there to remind me that not everyone is ready to accept change and improvement in their lives, and that it's important to respect their boundaries. This cup serves as a reminder of our love and understanding, and how we balance each other out in the best way possible. It represents the growth and development of our relationship, and the lessons we have learned together. I am grateful to have such a loving and supportive partner who always knows how to bring out the best in me. At least that's how I’m going to interpret the intention of this gift.😁
AGENDA:
❎Love your spouse❤️
♣️9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
SUN May 4 tomorrow
Love your spouse❤️
8:00 a Coffee Bar at Church☕
9:00 a Sunday school📖
10:00 a Worship💒
LUNCH: Today I browned a pound of ground beef and cooked a half package of spaghetti noodles. I had a jar of marinara sauce that was given to me. I decided to use that for my sauce. I was disappointed. It was very thin and I did not care for the flavor. I don't know if if it was because of the truffles or just the basic flavor of the marinara sauce that I didn't like. Later I added a small can of tomato sauce which helped improve the taste. I hate to waste food by throwing it away but I'm at a loss as to how to save it. Any ideas? Comment.
WEATHER: On this particular day, the weather is expected to be quite pleasant with partly cloudy skies in the morning, gradually transitioning to mostly sunny conditions. The humidity levels are expected to decrease, providing relief from the typically warm and muggy weather. High temperatures are predicted to reach the upper 70s, making it a comfortable day to be outdoors. However, there will be some moderate winds coming from the northeast at 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph. As the night falls, the skies are expected to clear up, creating a beautiful starry night. The overall temperatures will drop significantly, with lows in the lower 50s. The northeast winds will continue at a slower pace of 5 to 10 mph, creating a cool and calm atmosphere for a good night's sleep. Overall, this day promises to be a perfect balance of sunshine and mild winds, making it an ideal day for outdoor activities. Kinda makes we wish we were camping out.
CARDS: Today, my bride and I decided to spend some quality time together by playing a few rounds of cards. We started off with canasta, a classic and strategic game that we both love. Despite being quite competitive, we enjoyed each other's company and the intense back-and-forth gameplay. We also challenged each other with a few rounds of five crowns, a newer game that we recently discovered. It was a bit more fast-paced and unpredictable, but we still had a blast playing it. In the end, I can't quite remember all of the outcomes of our games, but what truly mattered was that we both had a great time regardless of who won or lost. It's moments like these that remind us of the importance of simply having fun and enjoying each other's company.
🏥HEALTH: BP 142/82, 💓Pulse 96, Oxygen🫁98%, (Sleep 💤 11:21 PM - 08:00 AM, Total 08h 38m, 100%, REM 00h 56m, Deep 03h 04m, Light 04h 38m, Awake 00h 01m), 0.0 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight 266.6 lb., 2283 Steps
VERSE OF THE DAY: Romans 12:12 Rejoice in your hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. - RSV
COMMENTARY: I don't think this verse needs a commentary. It's pretty straight forward, Be happy because of the hope you have in God. Be patient when you have troubles. Pray all the time. Yep! That's it.
2025 May 02 Friday in Leander
COFFEE KLATCH: Val, Suzie, Joan, Michelle, Avis, Muriel, Andria, Ella, Donna, Ricky, Donna, Dianna, and I were at coffee this morning. There were plenty of treats: cupcakes and multiple cookie choices.
AGENDA:
Love your spouse❤️
9:00 a Coffee Klatch ☕
10:00 a Health check🩺
6:00 p Happy Hour🎉
SAT May 3 tomorrow
Love your spouse ❤️
9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
Month of May Happenings
Tom's Heart Attack 16 years ago
Kyna T’s 69th
Rob & Linnea's 36th Anniversary
Kara D’s 68th
Beket W’s 17th
Ella’s dentures 1 year anniversary
LUNCH: For our noon meal, I decided to make a classic southern-fried chicken. I coated the chicken in a flavorful blend of flour and spices, then dipped it into an egg mixture, recoated it with the flour and spices, and then fried it to a crispy golden brown. To accompany the chicken, I made some green beans. As a side dish, I cooked up some fluffy white rice to soak up all the delicious juices from the chicken. To balance out the meal, I also served some applesauce with cinnamon, which provided a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken and beans. And what southern meal would be complete without some warm, homemade bread? I whipped up a batch of beer bread, which turned out perfectly crusty on the outside and soft on the inside. All together, the combination of fried chicken, green beans, rice, applesauce, and beer bread made for a satisfying and comforting lunch that reminded me of Mom-made home-cooked meals.
WEATHER: 83° A slight chance of showers in the morning then showers with a chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon. Some thunderstorms may be severe. Locally heavy rainfall possible in the afternoon. Highs in the mid 80s. South winds 5 to 10 mph with gusts up to 20 mph. Chance of rain 80 percent.
About twelve-thirty there were some distant rumbles and a passing sprinkle.
Night 66° Cloudy. Showers and thunderstorms are likely mainly in the evening. Some thunderstorms may be severe. Lows in the lower 60s. North winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.
HAPPY HOUR: Tonight’s gathering was unusually subdued, a quiet contrast to the usual lively energy this crowd brings. It seemed as though the week had taken its toll on some of the attendees, making them opt for a quiet evening rather than their usual rowdy antics. The group was surprisingly small. This was quite unusual for a crowd that is known for being lively and boisterous. Whatever the reason may be, it was clear that tonight's gathering was a departure from the norm. As conversations were held in hushed tones and laughter was scarce, it was evident that this was not the usual crowd that gathers together. It was a night of quiet reflection, a stark contrast to the usual unrestrained energy that characterizes this group.
🏥HEALTH: BP 134/79, 💓Pulse 79, Oxygen🫁97%, (Sleep 💤 11:07 PM - 08:08 AM, Total 06h 53m, 186%, REM 01h 33m, Deep 01h 29m, Light 03h 51m, Awake 02h 08m), 4.8 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight 265.4 lb.
VERSE OF THE DAY: 1 John 5:13-15 13 I write this to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life. 14 And this is the confidence which we have in him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. 15 And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have obtained the requests made of him.
Commentary: In 1 John 5:13-15, the apostle John is writing to believers in the name of the Son of God to reassure them of their eternal life. He wants them to have full confidence in their faith and in their relationship with God. John explains that when we ask for anything according to God's will, he hears us and will answer our prayers. This gives believers the assurance that their prayers are not in vain and that they have a direct line of communication with God. When we know that God hears us and answers our prayers, it strengthens our faith and trust in Him. This passage reminds us that as believers, we have access to God's power and can boldly approach Him with our requests, knowing that He will hear us and respond according to His will. It also emphasizes the importance of aligning our prayers with God's will, rather than just asking for our own desires. Through this passage, John encourages believers to have faith and confidence in God and to continue seeking His will in all aspects of their lives.
2025 May 01 Thursday in Leander and Liberty Hill
COFFEE KLATSCH: Donna, Ricky, Michelle, Joan, Grace, Suzie, Val, Dianna, Ella, Maria, Sandy, Andrea, and I were at coffee this morning. Under discussion was the upcoming barbeque. Also the fact that the pool is open again. All freshly cleaned and standardized with all pumps working for the first time in the patio six months.
OTHG: There were forty-five members present for pizza, salads, and desserts today. The usual games of bingo, 42, and Five Crowns were played. Our new shirts also arrived today. I was a little disappointed that they are exactly the same as the previous shirts. I was hoping for a new slogan. Previously with each new shirt order a new slogan was used. “Hill? What Hill? I don't remember any Hill.” “Once you reach the top of the hill you pick up speed!” “Forget the hill. Keep the gang.”
AGENDA:
✅Love your spouse❤️
✅9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
✅11:00 a Over The Hill Gang👴👵
✅6:00 p Bingo 🅱️🔟
FRI May 2 tomorrow
Love your spouse❤️
9:00 a Coffee at the Hills☕
6:00 p Happy Hour🎉
BINGO: My good wife deserted me this evening while she hosted bingo. When she returned she had nothing to report about bingo other than, “It was good.”
WEATHER: About ten o'clock last night the lightning started popping off all around us. It was quite a show with thunder and driving rain.
TODAY'S weather: 87°/69° Partly cloudy. A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. South winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 20 percent. Night Partly cloudy with a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms in the evening then mostly cloudy after midnight.South winds 5 to 10 mph.
🏥HEALTH: BP 129/81, 💓Pulse 75, Oxygen🫁97%, (Sleep 💤 10:33 PM - 07:21 AM, Total 08h 41m, 100%, REM 00h 23m, Deep 02h 27m, Light 05h 51m, Awake 00h 07m), 1.4 times per hour Quit breathing, Weight 265.0 lb.
VERSE OF THE DAY: Hebrews 12:9-1
9Moreover, we had human parents to discipline us, and we respected them. Should we not be even more willing to be subject to the Father of spirits and live? 10 For they disciplined us for a short time as seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share his holiness. 11 Now, discipline always seems painful rather than pleasant at the time, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
COMMENTARY: As humans, we are born into a world that requires us to learn and follow rules in order to function in society. Moreover, we are blessed to have parents who are there to discipline and guide us as we grow. We respect our parents because we know that their discipline is for our own good. However, as Christians, we are called to be even more willing to submit to the discipline of our Heavenly Father. Our earthly parents may have only disciplined us for a short time and in ways that they thought were best, but God disciplines us for our ultimate good- so that we may share in His holiness. It is important to remember that discipline may be painful in the moment, but it results in producing the peaceful fruit of righteousness in our lives. Through God's discipline, we are trained and shaped into the people He wants us to be, ultimately leading us to a life of holiness and righteousness. As difficult as it may be at times, we should embrace God's discipline knowing that it is for our ultimate good and growth as His children.
