Sunday Reflections

104 Comments

1. Big no on the monkey lights. However, maybe a compromise may be to change the colouring of them so they don’t stand out as much, although I don’t think that will work, haha.

2. I’m the glad the move went well for you! Yes, I would vote to remove the monkey lights ASAP. The picture of your granddaughter reading with her cat is heartwarming. It’s good that you and Mr. B feel you are where you need to be, and that you were able to make this move to be closer to your daughter. Wishing you well.

3. I would leave the monkey lights for a while. They are different and interesting and would be fun with holiday lights strung among them.
   “Too Old” hahaha so negative and ridiculous. It’s your life. Go for it.
   Enjoy all the possibilities of a new home.

4. I love the monkeys! But then, my decorating style is definitely a bit quirky and eclectic. I just wish I had a place for something similar in my house!

5. Thanks Rita…I don’t think a color change would help me like the monkeys. Crazy lights!

6. Thank you so much!

7. Ok..I might like them with Christmas lights! Christmas lights make anything better!

8. If you did, I would be happy to share! But, I confess I am thinking better of them as I read comments this morning…thank Linde.

9. I’m just not sure about the monkey lights. I’m glad to hear Tux is settled and I love the picture of your granddaughter in her new home. In the eighth grade our class had a Voice Choir and we memorized that portion of Corinthians. I still love it very much. This is the first day I’ve been able to get to your blog via my phone. We have been without power for 10 days with Helene. Our house is on damaged about our property is heavily damaged. The power company has informed us it will be a long while before they can get to us. We did not have flooding. But it was almost a week before I could tell my family I was alive. Please pray for all of us here in North Carolina. There are so many who are so much worse off than we are. I put my face in the Lord. And thank you for being here because now I can at least read your positive thoughts

10. Oh my, Kathie, I am so sorry to hear that you are going through this. The stories have been gut-wrenching. Please email me if there is anything we can do to help. Glad you finally have power. I posted numbers in the Wednesday post of places to make donations that I trust.
    I have been praying for North Carolina and will continue to pray…also let me know of specific prayer requests for you.
    I know this has to be very difficult. Keep us up to date on progress or needs. Thank you for sharing.

11. Is there another place you could hang those monkey lights ? The garage, a basement? We have a spot under our deck that is hard scaped. We use it for sitting, having a cold drink, etc. We even bundle up in the winter once in a while and enjoy it with our fairy lights. We have some odd items there as conversation pieces. I was thinking of hanging my MIL’s chandelier there. That is where those monkeys would go if I inherited them.
    Love the pictures of Tux and your granddaughter. They make the transition smoother, and you are never too old! I would LIKE to think this was our final move10 years ago since we have moved a dozen times, but I am always open to a new adventure.

12. Thank you for calling this a new adventure, Deborah…it really is…and I personally believe that new adventures help to keep us in a young state of mind. As I was reading your comment, you made me think that if I take them down, I might pack them away because I bet a grandchild would want to decorate a college apartment with them someday. Or…maybe in the laundry room area. I think you have caused me to pause with just tossing them if I remove them.

13. We moved from our house of 38 years when we were in our sixties — yes, it was a difficult adjustment but now that we are settled into our new home we know we made the right choice. Ignore people who cite age as a reason to not do something. Making changes is what keeps us vital, engaged and thinking young. You will be fine — it just takes time. And as a postscript, the monkeys should go into storage so you can make your new space your own!

14. I agree with you, Gretchen! It will keep us vital, engaged and thinking young…thank you!

15. I say leave the monkeys until……until you find perfect replacements OR until you decide they might be perfect. Seems like there is enough to keep you busy unpacking that you could let your hubby enjoy them until…..

16. Although I love monkeys, I would want to take them down.
    Happy to hear that ya’ll are feeling conformation of this being the right move for you. I was a little concerned of you having to leave family and friends behind.

17. Mr. B will appreciate your support Sharon!

18. Hi Lisa, we came to where the family need was greater. My daughter had no support system but my son’s do. It is hard when family is in two places. But we are talking often. A new grandbaby is on the way this month so we will definitely be back there soon! Thanks for caring!

19. Possibly the monkeys could be relocated over Mr. B’s workbench. You always need good light when at your workbench!!

    So happy you have arrived at your new destination – Change is Good. (Even for monkeys.)

    A great quote…………………Nothing endures but change.” ― Heraclitus

20. I am with you Pam, the monies need to go!

21. Pam, my first thought on the monkeys is “Ewww, no.” However, they are unique and interesting. They do fit your adjective of FUN. How about leaving them up for a few weeks and see what your reaction is when you walk in this room first thing in the morning or any time. You and your husband are champions to handle this move so prayerfully and sweetly. You’re going to love the new town!

22. I would keep them for awhile until I find something else spectacular.
    That way everyone can enjoy them so it wouldn’t be boring. I love gold so for now at least it’s elevating

23. Noooooo monkeys! Creepy! There are so many beautiful pendant lights out there. I saw a photo yesterday with three lights all with different basket like globes. I say sell the monkeys on FB Marketplace and get something that reflects your new house style.

    Glad you are moved and hope in a few days the new place is HOME.

24. The monkey lights are fabulous and have personality! Keep!

25. The monkeys do not look like your style! Many times you have said you like warm; warm they are not. Sell them and put up something with a cozy vibe. A person saying that you are too old is accepting the agism that is prevalent in society today, leading to a dismissive attitude toward older people. Fight that!!

26. The monkey lights just don’t seem to be something for the Pam style that you are trying to create in your new home, very jarring to the eye in a warm welcoming home. Perhaps spray paint black and hang in hubby’s office. Love that shot of your beautiful granddaughter with her cat. Happy to hear Tux is adapting. It takes time for all of you.

27. Monkey lights are a big NO for me.

28. Thanks for the idea, Janet. I will float it by him and see what he thinks!

29. Thanks Deborah…

30. I agree…I think we are going to love this new place. I am already loving certain aspects of it and except for the people, I do not miss the big city. Thanks Marcia

31. Thanks Debra…I do not know if I am going for spectacular as much as meeting my warm and cozy French Country design which I have loved for years. But, I am looking for something that speaks my design love and that is affordable. The move has been pretty pricey.

32. Thank you…I think so far the votes are half and half.

33. Alot of people agree with you, Katherine.

34. YES…to fighting that mentality. I am in!

35. It does take time…and I agree, that these monkeys are not Pam-style.

36. Thanks Kim!

37. First, Kathie, I add my prayers for you and the folks in your entire area. I cannot imagine the overwhelming feelings of trying to make quick decisions and plans, let alone the physical exertion needed to clean your home and property. You will remain in my thoughts. I vote no monkey lights in their current setting. They seem to dominate the space and my attention would always go to them. Not a comfortable feeling. I am betting you are a bit busy to remove them now, so take some time to plan a replacement. Saving them sounds like a good idea if you have the storage room. As you said, a college grandkid might enjoy the quirkiness some day. Thank you for posting 1 Corinthians 13 in its entirety. I needed it. God is with us.

38. The monkeys have to go. Maybe your husband could put them in the garage or over his work area, but not in the main house Enjoy your new home

39. All of this is very exciting. I was thinking paint the monkeys an off white so that they are more sculptural. I did that with a light fixture I disliked, and it worked out really well.

40. Glad that your move went smoothly. Open only the boxes your need for now, then rest, then face the rest another time. In regards to the lights, I don’t think monkeys hang around in Texas. If you have to look at them everyday especially several times a day I’d say take them down. If they are in a room only used with family and during parties I’d say leave them up. Big question, do they bring you JOY?

41. I love those verses from Corinthians so much I had them read at our wedding 46 years ago :). As for your move, too old to have another adventure? No way! That’s actually a little sad, to think that way. My son, daughter in law, and grandbaby are moving to less than a couple of hours away, instead of 3+ hours, and I’m delighted. We go to see them (and help out) often, and I think as long as the family is within driving distance, you will get there pretty frequently. You just have to commit to the time and make it happen. As for the moneys, I’m very, very, very much on team remove please, I hope it happens yesterday.

42. I say no to the monkey lights, if only because they are so specific to the previous residents. Replace them with something equally fun, but that says “this is our house!”

43. No on the monkeys. They do not inspire!

44. I like the monkeys, but i also call my interior decor style, “early American garage sale”…….

45. Since the old Midlife group where I “met” you you’ve always helped me feel like we were sitting on a comfy couch as you unpack stories and experiences. You still do!

    We moved south 2 years ago where we don’t know anyone and I find it’s very hard to make new friends. It’s very difficult at 65, not like taking our son to the bus stop! It’s an adventure, as you said, but it feels kinda lonely right now. (Except for my wonderful husband and son )

    I hope you are happy and healthy always. You are a joyful gem
    Cathy

46. I think what you are doing for your daughter and her family is wonderful! I think the fact you are able to rent her old house and your house back in San Antonio to your son and his family is a great plan! We had moved to Nashville in 2015 and bought a new home there,as my husband’s company transferred him there. 5 years later,he lost his job and he found a job back in Central Illinois,where
    we had previously lived. My daughter and her husband are renting our house in Nashville for now,until my husband retires in a few years and then we may move back to Nashville,depending on where my daughter and her family are.

47. First, monkeys must go! Glad you have boxes done, I always feel the worst part of moving is packing and unpacking. Glad you’re enjoying your new home.

48. I’m glad the move went well and that you’re gradually settling in. I would definitely replace the monkey lights, but take your time to decide what you’d like to put in their place. You have a lot going on right now, so don’t be in a rush. You want to end up with something that you really love and that Mr B is happy with too. I do like the idea of relocating the lights, or maybe just one of them, to a less conspicuous spot.

49. Thank you, Lou. Yes, God is with us!

50. Thank you, Barbara. I will not “monkey around” with this decision!

51. Great question! They might make me smile momentarily…but DO NOT bring me joy. What brings me joy is creating a home atmosphere like I had in San Antonio and that my children and grandchildren enjoyed.

52. LOL! Me too…but it may be a few days! I love that verse at weddings, but it is even more powerful in our lives right now where we are in this new place. It has been very inspiring to return to the study of these words. Thanks Linda.

53. Thanks Sharon…yes, these are very specific to a former owner before my daughter owned this house.

54. I agree…I know for sure they do not inspire me.

55. LOL…well, there were times in the past that I called my style early American Goodwill!

56. You are also a joyful gem, Cathy! I pray that both of us can find new dear friends. Thank you for letting me know you are in a similar story to mine. I hope that loneliness washes away soon.

57. I love how this helps your family as well, Denise. It is a blessing for me to see grandchildren in a house I loved and where their dad grew up part of his time at home. Family helping family. I am sorry to here of your husband’s job loss, but it sounds as though things are working out for you.

58. I am so sorry if I implied all boxes are done…they are not! But we must get them done…still looking for a few things we need to find.

59. Thanks Elaine! I am looking around to think of were that might be!

60. Thanks Pam for keeping us updated about your move, despite how much you have to do. I am praying that everything continues to go well for you and Mr. B. , as well as for those in NC—will add special prayers for Kathie. I also think the monkey lights should be exchanged for something that is more your style. Perhaps Mr. B. would enjoy one in his office space, but also in some outside space in the backyard.

61. First off, so glad to know that Kathie is okay, but so very sorry for the devastation in her region and specifically to her property. I will remember her in my prayers.
    Next up, thank-you Pam for sharing the pic of your granddaughter and her cat on the stairs ‘back home.’ Yes, these views into their new life in your former home will bring you great comfort and joy.
    Kudos to your moving team! 👏 I know ours has been wonderful locally, and they are kind to help even with small jobs like heavy furniture moving within our house as needed.
    Finally, on the lights: as it happens, just yesterday I was walking past a shop in our quaint little downtown, and noticed a most unusual set of lights. They were old trumpets, strung vertically over cafè tables and outfitted with the warm hued retro light bulbs, large scale. It was as if the trumpets were blowing out big bubbles of sound/light. The bartop inside was made with a glass over-laying two square grand pianos. CharMING!!! Anyway, maybe your daughter or son-in-law want the monkeys in their new place? If not, I like everyone’s ideas about letting Mr. B repurpose them for one of his spaces.

62. I say the monkeys need to find a new home. They would look better on a patio or in the garage I think.
    I’m so happy that your move is going so well. Time your time and enjoy the adventure.

63. Thanks Elisa. I will speak to him about options after today. I think he is changing his mind and looking to see something different in that space.

64. Actually, the trumpets sound really cool. If these were trumpets, they might be staying around! She took everything to her home that they wanted in the new home…meaning, she does not want these monkeys!
    Thanks Connie…I am so thankful for this amazing community of ladies who will pray for Kathie and North Carolina.

65. We left AZ after 60 years. Leaving the home of our dreams, siblings, circle of good friends for a selfish move to Northern California to be near only child and only grandchildren. (One of the better decisions of my life.) The move prompted a range of opinions from “don’t chase after your children” to “moving will be invigorating and kept you alert”. We now live in Southern California with paradise like weather not to mention being a direct part of my daughter and grandchildren’s lives. Shear joy. The monkeys really speak to my sense of whimsy but not as a decor item. Having said that……if I had a laundry room they would live there and bring a smile with each viewing.

66. I think the monkeys have to go. Something else that you choose would be more your style and help make it feel like home. Mary Lou

67. The adventure gets more enjoyable every day, Beth. I am really looking forward to getting the house together so that I can go have some fun!

68. I agree, Mary Lou…today has helped me to be bold and say goodbye to the monkeys!

69. Thanks for all of the encouragement, Suzi!. I am giving consideration to re-purposing the monkeys to somewhere else.

70. I would not want to keep the monkey lights, but what matters is what you and your husband want. Could you come up with a solution that moves them to a less conspicuous place, or a place where you would not see them very often? For example, a room in the house use more often by your husband. This was your daughter‘s house, correct? Perhaps she would like to have them in her new home?

71. No! on the monkeys!
    If Mr B likes them, put them in his office.

72. I admire your positive attitude through all of this move. Way to go! We have made moves to helps with family needs. Always a blessing to us and to others. I hope I don’t offend Mr. B. but I say ditch the money lights. Of course those lights are always good for a smile. Can you think of a way to repurpose them somewhere else in the house when you need a smile?

73. I am your age and we have some things in common. We sold a house we built and lived in for 25 years to our oldest daughter and downsized in the same town. She put her own touch on it, and it makes us happy to see our grandkids growing up there and we like that the house stayed in the family. We bought a second home in another state where our other kids and grandkids live and did our big move in August and survived it just fine. Like you, I’ve said all along it’s a new adventure. We will go back and forth. As for the monkeys, I vote replace them. You have said you like a French Country vibe and you deserve to decorate your new home to your liking.

74. She already rejected them. I am considering a re-location or keeping them for future college kids!

75. He doesn’t like them that much!

76. Box up those monkey lights and give to Goodwill. Someone will like the whimsy and buy them. My youngest stepson and wife escaped North Carolina just ahead of the hurricane. They had been house sitting while deciding to relocate to the area. We were grateful to get a text that they got their RV out and they are safe up in Virginia. This is the worst tragedy since Katrina in my lifetime. My heart breaks for all of the lives lost and homes destroyed. I fear that with climate change, this will happen again and more often.
    I love the trees in your front yard and the brick lined winding path is very welcoming. You will make this lovely house your home in no time. I confess that we still have boxes in the crawl space under our house that came from our much larger house 9 years ago. My husband has a very hard time letting go of things. We no longer camp, ski or bike outside so many things could go. We are in a different place in our lives now.

77. That is currently under consideration after today’s discussion.

78. Thanks for the encouragement with your own story. We are blessed to be here.

79. Those monkeys remind me too much of the flying monkeys in the Wizard of Oz: too creepy and scary to encounter in the dark of night. Please banish them from the existence!

80. Your vote has been heard and we both laughed!

81. Find the monkeys a new gig! I don’t know you well, but somehow, I don’t think they are as classy as you are. Just my opinion.

82. You have two fun holidays coming up that you could decorate the monkeys for—-Halloween costumes (simple ones) and Christmas theme. And extending that they could even hold Valentine hearts or hearts and flowers. That would be good fun for the grandkids—they could even give you ideas and “inspiration” (well, input, anyway, not necessarily inspired )

83. I would vote no to the monkey lights. They are a conversation piece but not something I could live with for very long. I love the picture of your granddaughter reading. It thrills me to see any young person reading especially a real book.
    I am glad that you listened to God’s nudging you to make this change. No matter where you are, He will always be by your side, & He obviously doesn’t think you’re too old.

84. That’s a sweet thing to say! Thank you MaryK!

85. Thanks for the ideas, Carol!

86. My favorite gifts for my grandchildren are books. I pray they all will love to hold a book in their hands.

87. Those monkeys need to find a good home – somewhere else! Yes, they’re interesting, but not in a comfortable way. Seeing them up there all of the time would be very disconcerting to me. Is there a place in the house where your husband could enjoy them (like an office) but you would not have see them constantly? In any case, I’m with you – no monkeyshines!

88. We just had a talk about re-locating them in the house. He said no…I believe he now agrees that the monkeys need a new home!

89. Thumbs down on the monkey lights. Mr. B can move them to his shop/garage if he really likes ’em!

90. He Has agreed today that the monkey lights should go!

91. Thank you for asking everyone’s opinion on the monkey lights. At first I was thinking the garage or a laundry room would be OK for the monkeys, but I do laundry in our garage and would not want them there. I say donate when you can. It does not need to be a priority. As others have said, Halloween is coming.
    Glad your move is going well. Prayers for all who are suffering in the wake of Helene. Bless you for your helping hands with your grandchildren and family. My mother and my in-laws helped me out when I had 4 children and worked. It was such a comfort and such a blessing.

92. The monkeys would not exist in my house! Quirky? Yes? Do I want to see them everyday? No!

93. Love the monkeys!!

94. Thanks Mary…our daughter has wanted us here for a long time. I am glad it finally worked out.

95. Believe me, I completely understand!

96. Thanks for voting, Ruth!

97. Hahaha re the monkeys.They certainly are different but I would have to remove them. I am so pleased that you and Mr B are happy with your move and that little Tux is settling in too. I also loved hearing about the great customer service you received from your movers. Great customer service always needs to be applauded.

98. Yes it does need to be applauded…thanks for saying that. Sadly we don’t find good customer service in many places…so I love it when it happens!

99. The monkeys certainly are a unique look and bring a laugh. I think I’d design a pole light using the monkeys. Then only bring it out for the holidays! You could put decorations—hats, scarves, etc — on the monkeys for the first holiday at your new house, then invite family to bring decorations for the next holiday or celebration. I think it would be the start of a new tradition in your new neighborhood. Maybe put it on the porch for neighbors to enjoy! Just have fun with it and invite family to come up with design ideas for the stand. Maybe a Texas star on the top and monkeys hanging on the side bars—rough wood and wrought iron.

100. I’m afraid those monkeys would give me nightmares!

101. No, no, the monkeys must Go! I don’t like them, think they’re weird and would certainly freak me out in the middle of the night. Strong opinion but you asked!

102. Monkeys = YES! Unique, quirky and so much fun. These would make me smile every single day.

103. No to monkeys .. maybe outside on a patio

104. No to the monkeys! Do the grandkids like them? If you create a bunk bed room for the grands they could go in there, along with the Minnie’s you love.

Comments are closed.