BLESSED & STRESSED

 I can't remember when I have been so busy from Lent until now. Lately, it's been hospital visits and funerals.
  Indeed, one day three weeks ago, I drove to the hospital on the North Coast only to be told that the
patient wasn't there. Huh? I just talked his daughter. Oh, they said, it's at their new satellite building
across the city. Couldn't remember how to get there (it's been 15 years). Receptionist put me on a house phone and some department. I asked the young man on the phone how to get to their satellite
building, and he said he wasn't sure and that they were rather busy at the moment and did I have a smartphone? I responded that he wasn't being very helpful at all and hung up. I obviously was not going to get anywhere with him. Since I drove to the hospital (50 mins) first thing in the morning, I
had to get rid of my morning coffee and used the rest room. On the way, back I passed the Volunteer Office and there were a couple staff in there, so I stopped in asked how to get the other hospital. They told me and it involved a 1/2 + drive to the other side of the city on a main road with lights all along the way.
  So, I walked back to the garage and drove to the main road and pulled over in the Italian section of town to call the daughter. Couldn't find the slip of paper with her number on it. Called home, hubby answered, asked him if I left the paper on the counter. Nope, wasn't there. Realizing I was going to be later than I said, I wanted to call the daughter. I hung up and looked again through my purse and looked down to see the orange slip of paper between the driver's seat and the console. Great. Called the daughter. Started back on my way and got there, made the visit as they were going over his discharge papers. Walked with them down to the Lobby and waiting with him, while daughter got her car to pick her dad up curbside.
  Drove back to the church, had lunch. Drove to a different hospital to visit someone else, and all the while feeling a stronger crick in my neck.
As the day wore on, it get worse.
   It's been really bad. I babied it for two weeks and then went to the doctor and got the nurse practitioner. Tried muscle relaxer and anti-inflammatory meds. Used my microwaved rice bag.
Back again last Friday, tingling down the arm, pain across shoulder, stronger anti-inflammatory
meds.  She asked what had been going on and I went through the litany of just long, stressful days and lots of driving. Last week she asked if there was less stress - I replied, I just got notice of jury duty right before I go on vacation! Then a cell phone rang - I have 2 cell phones; mine and the one church. Their ring tones are different but somewhat similar, I felt which pocket vibrated and said it
was the church phone, and I would let it get to voice mail. She shook her head!
   It still isn't a whole lot better and may have to go in tomorrow. I'm thinking massage therapy
might be the way to go. I think a nerve is pinched somewhere. It interferes with my sleep and
normal movement.
    It has just been back to back to back stuff between the two churches.
    I want to be able to enjoy my vacation and relax.
   I want to get a good night's rest being able to sleep on both my sides.
   I want not to hurt any more.

RGBP'S FRIDAY FIVE: HITHER AND YON

Share with us:
1) a favorite city, and what makes it so.
       One of my favorite cities is Lucerne, Switzerland. It is nestled on the Vierwaeldstaedersee between mountains. It is picturesque with the lake and mountains, buildings, swans and the long
wooden bridge.

2) a favorite getaway spot, far from the maddening crowd (far being a relative term).
        My sister's lake house on Lake Michigan. It's right on the water, there's a bit of beach,
        a small state park just two houses down and it is quiet, healing, wonderful place to be to
        refresh my spirit.

3) a great local eatery that you stumbled upon while passing through from one place to another.
       One our way up to above lake house, up in Kenosha, WI, along the highway there is a place
       I spied one year as we were ready for lunch - Sparti's. It is a Greek restaurant and they have
       the best Gyros around. We stop there every time we make our way to the lake house.

4) a landscape that inspires or nourishes you.
        That would be on a beach or shoreline of a lake or the ocean. I love the water and it soothes
         me, fascinates me and is ever changing in color or activity. Water speaks to my spirit.

5) a place you long to visit.
        I would love to go back to Greece sometime. But also, to go to Alaska and do a cruise/land
        tour but on a smaller scale than the really big vessels. One day....

RGBP'S FRIDAY FIVE: FAVORITE PLACES

So for today’s Friday Five, tell us about five of your favorite places.

1. My corner on the couch when I have time to relax and catch an episode of the Big Bang Theory.

2. Lake Michigan Lake House up in WI when I visit my sister and family. It's wonderful to walk
    the beach and be by the water.

3. Switzerland - when we go to visit my side of the family. Always good to back in the town
                          where Dad grew up and where my Grandma lived. Spent a lot time there and
                          over the years there's been some changes but it's still a second home.

4. Chicago - where I was born and grew up. My sister still lives there and I love to visit her.
                     Just hate the traffic!

5. My bed where I drop off exhausted and tired every night! It's been very hectic for me since
    Holy Week - baptisms, confirmation classes, meetings, sick folks in the hospital, cleaning
    house every other week, prepping for Sunday services & sermons, bringing in a new member.
    So, my bed and pillow where I can rest and sleep for another day.

6. Extra - my garden, where I've been playing in the dirt; planting herbs, pulling weeds, putting
                in flower seed and fretting over things growing or not growing! There's always weeds
                to be pulled! Next up will be putting in the wee tomato plants.

HOLY WEEK

Yes, it's Holy Week once again and no matter how I prepare for it and with 6 weeks of Lent, it still, all of a sudden, is here!
   This weekend, I snuck the "Alleulia" out of the box in front of the altar, and colored it in with multi-colored crayons. I snuck it back in Sunday morning all rolled up and tied with it's purple grosgrain ribbon and bow. As though it hadn't been touched! I knew I had to do it this weekend,
because with everything going on this week and all the things to get ready and remember, I might have forgotten, and it would have been a disappointing "Alleluia" without the transformation of
color!!!
   As if there isn't enough going on, I have a funeral service on Wednesday for the M church. Actually, it was a relief and release for this faithful saint who has been unresponsive in the nursing
home for the whole time I've visited her since last July - although much longer than that. My visitation list is dwindling quickly and I may soon be out of position!!! So, there is now preparation for that service - mostly the sermon.
   I remembered to take down the altar display in the social hall - we did symbols of the cross - yet forgot to bring the canvas bag to put everything in. Yikes, it's starting already!!! At least, the altar is ready to be decorated for Easter - if they have a coffee hour. And I will have to remember to bring the bag on Maundy Thursday and take everything home.
   I still have to get a dozen eggs to color on Friday. Bread will be baked on Saturday and thanks be to God, no Sunday School class for 2 weeks!!!
   It's only Monday, and I feel tired. God grant us all strength and endurance to face and do all that lies before us in this most Holy and yet hectic week.

RGBP'S FIRDAY FIVE:WATCHA READING?

This Friday Five comes a little late, but it’s a pretty universal one.
What are you reading these days? Any genre, give us novels, magazines, websites, newsletters….
you need not limit it to five if you don’t want to!!!!!

    Although with it being Holy Week or just about and all the preparations, my reading time has been cut. I hope to have more time after Easter!

1. Small Victories by Anne Lamott

2. Faith and You  Vol. 2 by Terry Pluto

3. The Reader's Digest

4. The Joyful Noiseletter

5. The newspaper: ABJ and our free local paper

6. The Lutheran & Presbyterians Today - I read both!

RGBP'S FRIDAY FIVE: SPRING!

For today’s Friday Five, write about five signs of spring that you look for each year and most especially this year.

1. The arrival of the red-wing blackbirds, that's the very first sign of spring in this part of the
    country. Robins can be here all year round. (We first heard them March 10th)

2. Rolled up tulip leaves and daffodil leaves poking up from the ground.

3. The first crocuses blooming! (and they are right now)

4. First person washing their car in the driveway! (Some guy down the street)

5. Grilling something for dinner outside. (That was Irish Bangers a week ago) Now
    it got too cold again to grill. Maybe later this week of next week as long as its not
    Maundy Thurs., or Good Friday.

LENTEN GRACES

Still trying to be more grounded this Lent, but alas, more keeps cropping up. My star word for the year is "Peace". I could use some right about now!
  While putting Maundy Thurs. bulletin together, the church always reads Psalm 22 while the altar is stripped. Well and because we had a little passive-aggressive tiff last year, the old bulletin folder was removed from the new computer and hasn't reappeared. I did find last year's hard copy of the bulletin and shared the sad news that the bulletin preparing folks would have retype the entire Psalm with every other verse bolded.
   Then as I was going through some flash drives with sermons, liturgies, newsletter articles, etc. on them, I stumble upon a flash drive with Psalm 22 on it and every other verse bolded! Glory be!
I almost said the "A" word, but, of course, we buried it for Lent. But rejoice did cross my lips that God provided this wonderful thing that I had no idea was on that flash drive!!! What a grace!
  We had a visitor in church on Sunday, and a card will be sent to her.
  I have finished Holy Week liturgies and services. Just have to write the sermons.
  I have wisely decided to take Thursday off from the M church to work on aforementioned sermons.
  The sun is shining and the temps are warmer.
   Daffodil, hyacinth, crocus and tulips leaves are popping up from the ground.
   There are two praying manthis egg sacks on my potentilla bush and looks like they survived the snow and cold, hopefully.
   The redwing blackbird has been in our birch tree.
   And I am going on a hunt to find gold foil stars to give to everyone this Sunday to go along with Ann Weem's poem, "Stars of Righteousness", which is worked into my sermon.
  For all these Lenten graces, I give thanks to God.
  May you notice and give thanks to the graces in your Lenten days!

IF IT'S MARCH, IT MUST BE LENT

  Going at full tilt and ever tired! The mid-week Lenten potlucks and services are going quite well. The food has been quite good and a variety. Each week I've presented a symbol of sacrifice and Good Friday service is all done. Still working on Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday and I have an Easter sermon. Still have to work on Joy Sunday the Sunday following Easter.
   LH stayed home from the Old Folks' Home on Tuesday as his vehicle was in the repair shop - rack and pinion was leaking which he had replaced last summer. Thankfully it cost nothing as it was under warranty! That means he only worked two days this week and had the luxury of getting his Holy Week services together, plus do grocery shopping and his laundry.
   Me. my clothes hamper is calling out to be laundered, I haven't time to go grocery shopping and simply don't have time to sit, and think and reflect in order to write my sermons. (not a good thing, mind you.) Sigh. I'll be taking next Thursday off to work on those very sermons. I will lose a day's pay. But it needs to be.
   This Friday, I have to clean house, put gas in my van tank, and do some laundry. Sat. am I have a meeting with Visitation Lay people. Our visitation list has shrunk a bit and now we have more folks
interested and gifted in doing visitation. Go figure! I'm glad, of course. But there have been a couple days when visits didn't work out or the person didn't want to be seen and I had a short day.
I also have to prepare for Sunday on Saturday. And glue gun some thorns to the wood twig crown for
Wed. service. Over the years the thorns have fallen off and need to be reattached.
   Sunday, hopefully will be a regular Sunday. No confirmation class this week That will be the following week.
   In the midst of this Lenten busyness, the thaw has arrived (thanks be to God!) and LH noted he
heard the trill of the red-winged blackbird on March 10th. I heard it this morning. So, that is a sure harbinger of spring.
   I just would like to slow things down a bit, catch my breath, and be more grounded. I will work on that but believe it will only happen after Easter!
   In the meanwhile, I will appreciate blue skies and sunshine and warmer temps for the gift and grace they are.
  

A COLD START TO LENT

    It has been extremely cold here in the last couple of weeks. Ash Wednesday was truly cold but folks still came for worship although fewer in number. It was a good service with ashes and holy communion.
    Earlier that day, I had a call from a woman who has not been in church for over 2 1/2 years. She
called once asking for the past pastor who had left to take another call. In the busyness of being a
new interim, with so much going on, I had no more contact with her. She called Wednesday asking
if we were having an Ash Wed. service and if so, what time. Our service was at 7 pm. She mentioned that she had to attend an initial meeting with her son ( I believe it is a drug rehab group) and she
might be a bit late, but she really, really felt the need to be back in church. I assured her that she
would be welcome whenever she arrived and if she arrived after the imposition of ashes, I would
see her following worship and impose ashes on her. She seemed good with that.
   In the end, she didn't arrive until the very end of the service. So, we went upstairs, talked a bit,
she took a bulletin from the service, we went up to the altar rail, came before God, and I did the
imposition of ashes, and assurance of pardon.
    I pray and hope that she will come back, especially on a Sunday morning. God's Spirit seems
to be at work in heart and soul and she is seeking what she knows is missing. I pray for her.
   By the time I collected my things in the office, put on my boots, and used the rest room(always wise before an hour commute), it was nearly 9:00 pm and I knew I would be home past 10 pm.
I ran into snow around Akron and then it really was snowing by the time I reached my exit and even the main road was snow covered. I guess I got home around 10:20 pm, Eirene, my van, and
I, all in one piece. It was close to 11 pm when I got my slice of birthday cheesecake with a candle
in it, after 2 calls from family. The temps had dropped down and I had hoped that the other
church would be closed on Thursday. If the schools are closed, the church is closed.
   When I checked the school closings at 6 pm, it was not listed. I was so tired when I got home.
And I had dishes to do (coffee pot and my salad container), knew I would need to make my
lunch yet for Thursday, and then time for bed. Well, my husband checked the school closings
and thank you, God, that town's school was closed!!! I could sleep in a bit for the first time
in over a week! My birthday wish had been granted - to have a "snow day". I was ever so
thankful. Especially after a very long Saturday with a memorial service, and a very cold Sunday morning.
   It was a good Thursday off. I actually had time to pull stuff together for my taxes which I need for this coming Friday. I was able to wash our sheets! Read! And simply relax!!! What a gift and a
grace.
    It was so terribly, horribly cold that I couldn't go grocery shopping til Friday afternoon! Even then it was like 5 degrees.
   Now, in the midst of mid-week Lenten services every Wed. evening, I have yet another funeral
service, probably on Monday or maybe Tues. I'm still waiting to hear. If it's Monday, the high is projected to be 9 degrees. That'll be brutal in the cemetery.
   Well, I'm off to prepare for Sunday - go over my Sunday School lesson, sermon and liturgy.
   I already started the funeral sermon, just need to add all the personal information.
   Confirmation class at 5;30 pm tomorrow and a very long Sunday ahead.
   'Tis the season - the Lenten Marathon.
    I hope not to get lost in the busyness of this season and have time to reflect some, but it is already
starting at full speed.
   In just a week it will be March and maybe this Siberian Arctic cold will be finally over. One
can hope.
   

RGBP'S FRIDAY FIVE:THEY SAY IT'S YOUR BIRTHDAY!

1) Are you a cake or pie person? What type do you savor on your big day?
      Definitely cake! Especially a chocolate cake. Our local grocer has a triple chocolate that is
      so divinely good!

2) Growing up, did you have a favorite “birthday meal?” How about now?
      Probably was spaghetti. We could pick a favorite meal and Mom would make it.
      Now, I'm happy with dinner reservations!!!!! (No cooking, no clean-up)

3) What birthday traditions or rituals from younger days have followed you into adulthood?
       Putting a candle in a cake or cupcake, making a wish and blowing it out. Receiving
       birthday cards. Other than that, it's a pretty quiet day. This year my birthday is on Ash
       Wednesday - kind of killjoy. I suppose we will have dinner out on Friday. But I will still
       have a piece of chocolate cake with a candle on it when I get home after worship!
           Now, I like to go shopping around my birthday time like to Macy's. (It used to be
       Coldwater Creek but sadly, they no longer exist!). Or I may order something on line
       I've had my eye on as a special treat.
  
4) What’s the most memorable gift or celebration you ever received for your birthday?
        When I turned 50, my sister and niece and I went on a cruise to the Caribbean. It was
         a chilly February even there. We couldn't go in the ocean, but we had blast on board
         and walking through Nassau and spending time girl time together. That was THE best
         present ever and one I hold close in heart. I love my sister! (and my niece!)

5) How do you like to celebrate others on their day?
        Usually a card and a phone call since we live far apart. My sister, niece and nephew
         always get a present. With LH, he gets a dinner out, a card, cake and candles. He's
       just to hard to buy for.

RGBP'S FRIDAY FIVE: BESIDES

Here’s a Friday Five for your amusement and our edification. If you play, please be sure to paste the URL of your blog post in the comments. Or, you can just play right here in the comments. Onward:

1. Besides cookies, muffins, and ice cream, what’s something chocolate chips are good in?

           Definitely brownies! Fudgey brownies with Ghiradelli 65%  or is it 85%Cacao Chips!
           Mmmmm....must make some!
     

1. Besides official holidays and your birthday, what’s the best day of the year?

            A snow day! Time to sleep in and catch up on some stuff. A lazy cozy day!

1. Besides toilet paper and pantry items, what’s something in your house you make sure never to run out of?

           That would be Cottage Cheese, my breakfast go-to nearly every morning.

1. Besides relatives, teachers, and coaches, who gave you the most memorable advice growing up?

           Probably the Bible - loving God, loving others, especially Proverbs with its pithy wisdom,
           being honest, and the Psalms.

1. Besides junk mail, subscriptions, greeting cards, and stuff you ordered online, what’s something great that came in the mail recently?

             That's a hard one. Mostly it was stuff I ordered on-line. But maybe the new JJill catalog
             which I don't count as junk mail. I could say The Lutheran or Presbyterians Today and
             Reader's Digest, but those are subscriptions.
  I don't know what happened with the numbering system, but they all turned out as #1.

RGBP'S FRIDAY FIVE: WHINING IN THE WINTER WONDERLAND

1. Winter: What do you think about it in general? Do you love it? Hate it? Or say, “meh – it’s just another season!”
     Generally, I do like some winter, as long as it is not an arctic freeze and there isn't feet of snow from December until March. I love the way the snow falls softly muting everything and coating grasses, bushes and trees, or the way on a really cold sunny morning, the snow glitters in the sunlight.

2. Footwear: Show us or tell us about your favorite winter shoes/boots.
       Pretty basic really, some over the ankle short nylon boots (KMart specialers!) that accommodate
 my bunions!!! Otherwise, I just wear my old, Timberland thick soled and treaded mules with warm
socks. I'd love another pair, but just haven't found any that don't hurt and are thick soled enough.

3. Discuss: Pedicures in winter – necessity or silly?
     I don't bother. Nobody sees them buried in socks and shoes and boots. Gives my toenails a chance
to breathe all winter long. Although a pedi would feel really good at any time of year!

4. Toasty toes: Whether you knit your own or buy them, tell us what socks keep your feet toasty warm!
      Mostly I wear cashmere blend socks to wear with my corduroy and wool pants. They really do
keep my feet warmer. Just wish they made more in ivory and beige and not just black and grey.
I have a pair of beige alpaca blend socks that are truly warm and soft but they don't stay up very
well. I save those for extremely bitter days when I have to go grocery shopping.

5. Driving me crazy: What do you wish the drivers around you would do to make travel during the winter months a little less nutty?
     Slow down! Maintain a safe distance! Just because you drive an SUV doesn't make any safer
to go 70 + miles an hour when the interstate is snow covered! I hate it when drivers are too close behind me, because if I have to stop due to the person ahead of me, they'll be hitting my back end.
I always allow more distance between me and the car ahead in winter if there's snow on the road.

BONUS: What’s the weather like out there? Share a picture so we can shiver or be jealous!
    Today it's around 35 F - so not too cold but it's a grey day. We have more grey days in winter
than just about anywhere.

RGBP'S RANDOM FRIDAY FIVE:NEW

1. If you have one, what is your new resolution?
    To be more gentile. More gentile with LH, when things get very busy and I'm harried.

2. Many folks choose a new word for a year’s beginning, as Marci’s congregation does with StarWords. Some let their word choose them, like Christine at Abbey of the Arts. Do you have a
word for the year?
   I, too, have been giving out gift Star Words for years. On the 2nd Sunday of Christmas or Epiphany
   Sunday, the congregation is invited to pick out a yellow star with a word on it for the New Year.
   We trust the Holy Spirit is at work in the reaching into the box and drawing out a star word.
   Mine this year is "Peace." Funny, I named my new van "Eirene" and I am still making peace
   with her as I miss my old van. I will be seeking peace this year and being open to opportunities
   to offer peace as well as praying for peace (especially in the world) in the coming year.

3. What is your new favorite exclamation/phrase at times of joy or frustration?
      Lately, it's been fiddlesticks! Don't know why, I just started using it. Seems to help
     when I get frustrated.

4. Do you have a new favorite food, or an old one you are newly enjoying?
      I'm enjoying fresh avocadoes in my salads.

5. Finally, in general: what is your new favorite thing?
      Scrolling through Pinterest and seeing some of the clever ideas people have.
      I have a bunch of pins and someday need to try some. I have tried a couple
      recipes which were really good.

NEW YEAR - STILL TIRED!

The new year begins and after a restive and quiet Christmas day, it has been anything but restive.
   I did indeed have New Year's Eve Day as a vacation day. I went to the grocery store for some fresh veges and items needed. I partially cleaned house - vacuumed downstairs, mopped, cleaned two bathrooms. I made meatballs, I made a vege dip. I washed broccoli and cauliflower. I made dinner. At 11 pm, I cooked the made meatballs and washed champagne flutes. LH and I had a New Year's champagne toast with warmed panettone and island sweet and sour meatballs. I went to bed at 1 am.
   New Year's Day, we welcomed my SIL's. For breakfast, LH and I had Eggs Benedict and of course, I made the Hollandaise and made breakfast. Then it was onto cooking green beans for the casserole, preparing fresh veges, and setting the table.
   We enjoyed the time with my SIL's and had a gift exchange. The ham turned out fine and we had a good dinner. There was cheesecake for dessert - I should have pulled it out sooner and left it out longer. Next year!
   Since my SIL's have a long ride home, they left around 6 pm.
   I washed the dishes, dried and put them away. I finished deboning the ham. I grated over a pound of cheese for Fondue (on Friday evening), I baked a batch of brownies for dessert. I did those dishes.
I went over my funeral sermon and service for Friday.
   Yes, I had a funeral on Friday. I left at 9:30 am and got home at 3 pm. That was without lunch (which I confess I went through the drive-thru for a value sandwich). The committal was a 40 minute drive each way.
    When I got home, I re-sanitized two bathrooms and put up fresh bathroom towels. I set the table for Fondue - with fondue plates, forks, etc. I pulled out bread bowl and dessert serving plate and plates. I sat down for a half hour.
   My niece and her beau arrived with his dog - a little boston terrier and a girl dog. Our greys were, of course, intrigued by her. They seemed to get on ok. I served some vegies and dip, prosciutto and olives and cut bread & garlic for fondue.
    Made the fondue which was simply delicious and we ate the whole pot along with every last clove of garlic in it!!!! (at least 12 cloves).
    For dessert there were brownies and we played two games of Scrabble. I was soundly beat both times much to my chagrin. We played against an expert (niece's beau) and all I had were R's, I's and N's with two blank tiles. Nothing of much value and little to make with such tiles.
   Breakfast on Saturday was pancakes and coffee and conversation with fresh cantaloupe.
   After my niece, her beau and dog left, it was clean up time. And a quick trip to grocery store and gas station. I went over Sunday's reader's theatre, prayers, etc.
   I took a nap!
   I received a call about another funeral - this Wednesday. Sigh.
   On this first Sunday of the New Year, I was just tired. Maybe, I'm feeling my age and simply can't do and do anymore as much as I used to. Will have to ponder that one.
   My star gift word for the year is "Peace". Hmmmm....I could use some. And I suppose a call and challenge from God is in that word as well. Will see how I can come to live out that word in the new year. So far, it hasn't started out all that peaceful.
   Did I mention that Lent is 6 weeks away? I'm already stressing over that! What to do this year!!!!
   Peace. Peace for now. Peace for this moment.

POT LUCK SEASON

I'm just about potlucked out!!!!!
 The whole month has been one potluck after another. Let's see - there was a UMW pot luck lunch to which staff was invited the first Thurs. of December and a circle meeting the second Thurs of December - to which I brought a cheeseball and crackers since it was 9:30 am in the morning and to provide something that wasn't sweet.
  There have been the weekly Wed. Advent potlucks and program at the L church - I made a green bean, ham and spaetzli casserole, Cheddar Broc Soup w/whole grain bread, and a brown & wild rice salad with broc, carrots, feta cheese, almonds with lite champagne dressing.
   There was the second Tues of the month staff potluck lunch at the M church - again I made broc cheddar soup and whole grain bread from Panera's. And it was a ginormous loaf of bread that they were able to freeze and pull out again that Thursday morning for their Advent Soup Supper and worship - they just have one during Advent.
   This Saturday will be the M church staff pot luck Christmas party! This time I will bring a Spinach Au Gratin and tonight I am making truffles to take with as well - Oreo truffles. They are easy but messy.
   I think at this point there has been too many potlucks and preparations to make something the night before to bring in beside all the other stuff I have to do at home. There are still some presents to wrap and many that need ribbons and bows. I still have to write the staff's Christmas cards and put their gift bags together - an handcrafted wood ornament, Lindor truffles and Panera gift cards.
For the senior pastor at M church there is a handcrafted wood ornament and a desk calendar with pictures of space from the Hubble telescope and inspirational quotes. I have one for myself every year.
  Tomorrow is housecleaning. I still have the sermon for the Sunday after Christmas to work on & getting all the little tea candles together for Christmas Eve and my Christmas stole to pull out. Then there is still some grocery shopping for Christmas Day to do. Sigh.
   It has been near non-stop since Thanksgiving. I am so ready. For a vacation.
   I am taking New Year's Eve Day as a vacation day!!!! And will have 3 days off over Christmas.
I will savor them. Immensely.
    Until then, I have miles to go before I sleep...
 

RGBP'S FRIDAY FIVE - TINSEL TOE EDITION

Time to take a break, put your tinsel toes on, and play a round of Friday Five for a breath or two.

1. What song are you grooving to these days?
       "Lilliburlero" on Christmas Day in the Morning CD.
        Mannheim Steamroller's Christmas music

2. If YOU were a room in your home, what would it be, and why?
       My bedroom. I think I'm just so busy and so tired, that I just want to sleep!

3.  What ever happened to LipSmackers?  Does anyone remember that lip balm from the 70’s?  Do you have a recommendation for a really awesome lip balm?
      Nivea with lip shimmer - kinda shimmery. Also, Lip Dew or is it Dew Kiss by Avon - that's my
      go to lip balm.

4.  Tell us about a tiny  (or HUGE) grace moment from this week.
       That the day care center is still wanting to relocate to L church. It makes me think that when
       God isn't finished with something or isn't satisfied, God keeps bringing the call back. (Think
       Jonah, or even Moses with his excuses!!!) So, hope is still a small ember in my heart and I
       keep praying that God will open minds and soften hearts.

5.  If you could just have any treat/snack in the world right now, what it would be and with whom would you share it? (assuming you are in a sharing kind of mood.
      That would be some Swiss chocolate, of which we are in a dearth. Hmmm...must be time to
       think about a trip to fill our suitcases!!!! And of course, sharing some with LH. Perhaps, a
       cup of real hot cocoa with mini marshmallows in front of the fireplace with LH would be
       a most wonderful treat!

DISAPPOINTMENT

I am still reeling somewhat that L church voted not to enter into relationship with the day care center.
There was much to be done in a very short time frame - before the end of the year. But I believe, deep in my heart, that God placed before them an opportunity from which they backed away.
   I feel really bad for the day care center that is still scrambling to find space, and may have to close down and let employees go right after Christmas.
   This congregation had another opportunity to give space to an NA group which got squashed almost immediately.
   Every time, I point out that having a presence in the community is important, and that growing churches have buildings that are in near constant use. And who knows, what creative possibilities God is presenting them with. All on deaf ears. There is a resistance and perhaps even fear for their
future. They will not survive long term into the future. One neighboring church will closing the end of December.
   We do resist God. We make excuses. We rationalize. We put extra roadblocks in the way. We are proud. We are set in our ways.
    I have had very few positions, situations come along my way, that I haven't viewed as an opportunity God is presenting and I best give it all my prayerful consideration and attention, even when I feel unqualified for it, or ill-equipped.(which is most of the time.)
    I do believe that a more motivated congregation would have flown with it.
   Maybe the embers have grown old and cold. I still keep fanning the flames whenever God presents an opportunity. Perhaps, they want to die. But don't seem quite there yet.
    I keep thinking of that joke, where in a great flood, a person was on there roof praying desparately to God as the water rose. A rowboat comes by and tells the person to get in. The person replies, "God will save me!"
   Then a motorboat comes by and tells the person to hop in. The person replies, "God will save me!"
   Along comes a helicopter, and a rope ladder is thrown down. The person waves them on, saying "God will save me."
    The person drowns and is at the Pearly Gates. He sees St. Peter and asks, "What happened? God was supposed to save me!"
    St. Peter looks at him and goes, "Well, God sent two boats and helicopter!"
 So there we are, two boats.
 Wonder when the helicopter will come by!!!!!!

RGBP'S FRIDAY FIVE: THANKSGIVING AHEAD!

The Cure
Lying around all day
with some strange new deep blue
weekend funk, I’m not really asleep
when my sister calls
to say she’s just hung up
from talking with Aunt Bertha
who is 89 and ill but managing
to take care of Uncle Frank
who is completely bed ridden.
Aunt Bert says
it’s snowing there in Arkansas,
on Catfish Lane, and she hasn’t been
able to walk out to their mailbox.
She’s been suffering
from a bad case of the mulleygrubs.
The cure for the mulleygrubs,
she tells my sister,
is to get up and bake a cake.
If that doesn’t do it, put on a red dress.–Ginger Andrews (from Hurricane Sisters)

So this Friday before Thanksgiving, think about Aunt Bert and how she’ll celebrate Thanksgiving! And how about YOU?

 
1. What is your cure for the “mulleygrubs”?

      My cure is putting on some upbeat tunes that get me moving with the music!

2. Where will you be for Thanksgiving?

       Right here at home! Course, I have some decluttering, dusting and last minute cleaning

       to do.

3. What foods will be served? Which are traditional for your family?

      Turkey! I've been waiting all year for a taste of roasted turkey! Then there's homemade

      stuffing(rice, bread, stock, mushrooms, Italian sausage, white wine, spices, etc), homemade

      mashed potatoes, prepared sweet potatoes, whole cranberry sauce, gravy, the green

      bean casserole my SILs make and bring and pumpkin mousse dessert on a graham cracker

     crust. There will be a cheese ball and crackers and Knorr vege dip with fresh veges for

     appetizer.

4. What do you wish could be deleted (or added) to your traditional Thanksgiving day?

       I would love help with doing all the dishes!! Since my sister and BIL were here last
       year, I must be content with them not being here this year.
      I am adding the vege dip and fresh veges which got added last year and hit the spot
      with getting more greens!

5. In this season of Thanksgiving, what are you grateful for?

        I am grateful to be serving where I am. I am grateful that God has provided an

        opportunity for L church to possibly have a day care center and bring life to the

        church and provide a service a community. I pray it will work out. We have 6

        weeks to approve, make changes, and move all kinds of furniture to different places

        to accommodate this, but I believe it is a win-win for both the church and the center

        which was given just two months notice to leave (the old folks home wanted their

         space back for adult day care after a 12 year relationship). So, I am thankful and

         hopeful.

BONUS: Describe Aunt Bert’s Thanksgiving.

SPECIAL DAY

Today is the 30th anniversary of my ordination!
I can't believe it has been 30 years. I really don't feel that old and yet, there are days.
I wish that I was a bit more settled in my ministry - I believed that 30 years ago. However, God, had other plans for me and made me to wander through these years and through my ministry. I do not know what the future holds or where I will be serving, but I do know this; God will lead and guide me, I have but to trust God.
  It has been a long and varied journey, full of ups and downs, twists and turns, some expected and some unexpected but through it all I have been held in God's hands and care, even when I thought I was on the very edges of existence, I have never been beyond the reach of God's gracious care.\
  It will be a quiet day and cold - more like January than November.
   I don't remember all that much of that Sunday so many years ago, except that my home church which had been torched by an arsonist (for housing a minority low-income day care center) was not the place of my ordination. It was at a neighboring Presbyterian Church and the pastor who had been our church's pastor for 38 years was there, as well as the interim pastor who became our pastor.
My folks were there and my sister along with her husband and their baby girl, my niece, now in med school. My sister gifted me with a red silk stole with embroidered flames on it that I still wear. My parents gifted me with a black pulpit robe. I wore a green suit and an opal ring my parents gave me for Seminary graduation.
   A month later, we all headed to Switzerland to celebrate my Grandma's 85th birthday and then upon my return, I moved to OH and my folks moved to Florida. I have been here ever since. Only my sister stayed in IL.
  I remember being very self-conscious, feeling unworthy, yet knowing there was this call from God. I had completed all my education, passed the Standard Ordination Exams all in one try.
  There are times I still question and struggle with my call, but largely God and I have been at peace with one another and it is only by God's power that I have served for these 30 years in God's service. I pray that there are a few more years left to serve and to bring Christ and God's kingdom a littler nearer to whoever God places before me. I pray God's Spirit will help me to be effective. I pray to continue to be a faithful servant of my Lord and Savior.

'TIS THE SEASON

for crazy business - Advent Sunday services, mid-week Advent services, a confirmation class on the Exodus and wilderness wandering whose curriculum I had to write complete with handouts, prayer stations, and reflective questions for the family to discuss at home. Then there was the newsletter article due. I am behind in my monthly reports. There was council and my visitation report for the other church.
  Did I mention I still have more Iris leaves to cut down, Christmas gifts to wrap and send, a Christmas letter in English and German to write and cards to address.
  Plus the dining room table has been a catch all and must be decluttered and emptied before Thanksgiving. Dare I even say that it still has the Christmas table cloth on it?!!? I am embarrassed about that. Fortunately, there's so much stuff on the table you hardly notice it!!!
  One day last month, I was driving home on my long commute and was behind a small SUV with the strangest bumper sticker - I (heart) Crackwhores! How awful is that? Not even funny, but sad. The driver was in his 20's wearing a hoodie. It was disturbing to say the least.
   Fortunately, a couple days later while en route between visits I saw a van with several sayings on it: "Today is full of possibilities", Live the dream of your life", etc. very uplifting, redeeming, and positive which more than cancelled out the horrid bumper sticker on that SUV.
  Christ redeems our days and our lives with his grace, love and forgiveness. He is the One who brings hope where there is none, refreshes and renews us with his strength and love.
   In the midst of all this crazy business, I look to my Lord for calm and peace amid these stormy days, for strength and endurance, for the power to do all I need, for grace to work under pressure, and for his endless love in which I am held ever and always.

SUCH A MONTH AS THIS!

  It has been crazy busy. I've had two funerals, a wedding, two baptisms, one memorial service attended and calling hours for another attended, in the space of really only three weeks. I am supposed to be writing my curriculum for Confirmation on Exodus, complete with handouts, a table tent with reflective questions, my presentation, questions for small group discussion and closing devotions. I am so far behind.
   I worked on the wedding service and found out, only a month before the wedding that the couple had a good friend they wanted to do the vows, rings, etc. OK, thanks for letting me know. I contact the fellow and ask if he wants to do the message since he's doing rings, vows, etc. I email him, the entire service all laid out and ask in that email a couple times - does he want to do the message, let me know.  He says, he'll just share a couple words before the vows..I spend time and work on the message.
   Rehearsal evening arrives, I get the rehearsal up and going and run everybody through everything.
  Stay for dinner at the church and offer grace.
  Now, mind you this is the granddaughter of a matriarch and granddaughter grew up in the church.
  On Friday ( my normal day off), I leave around 1 pm for the 3:30 pm wedding. Brides and gals are here when I arrive - Grandma has key to church.
   Groom and guys arrive.
    I check in on everyone. I turn on lights, unlock front doors, turn on sound system. Speak with musician, speak with photographer.
   Grab a snack and some water.
    1/2 hour before the service, the other pastor (who knows what denomination, his full time job is a school superintendent) casually asks how long my message is - I figure the usual 4-5 minutes. Then he says, he was working on his "few words" which has now evolved into 5-7 minutes. Ungraciously, I admit (afterall, I did pre-marital counseling with the couple and spent hours on that, putting the service together, and writing my message, plus directing the rehearsal) I responded, with a touch of anger, "Had I known, that would've saved me a lot of work." I walked out the room to deal with some other things in readying the church.
  Three times I had asked him if he wanted to do the message. No, just, "I'll say a couple words".
What an - , I'm sorry, clergy aren't supposed to use those words.
   Oh and the service went smoothly, I didn't give my message - what bridal couple needs two messages - did everything with a smile for the couple's special day.
   I neither got asked to be in a formal picture nor was I invited to the reception.
   Actually, I was just glad to go home even if I was fuming all the way home. That idiot of a pastor never offered an apology or anything. And I am just supposed to take it. Well, I'm tired of it and don't plan on doing any more weddings here or if so, no other pastor. They are a royal pain.
   Perhaps, if I hadn't had two funerals in the midst of all this, I may have had more patience.
 On a lighter note, our dishwasher kinda bit the dust - oh, the repairman, fixed the dial, but couldn't promise how long it would last - a week, a month, a year. We got a wonderful new stainless steel Bosch - so quiet we hardly know its on and really cleans those dishes!
  Our new hot water heater will be coming this week. We thought we'd head it off at the pass, since it's lasted longer than it was supposed to and two neighbors already replaced theirs. I will not be without hot water this winter!
   So, there it is. It's also why I get cranky when I don't have a day off for two weeks!!!
   And now it's on to planning Advent and beyond and praying for sanity and to get through these next weeks that will pass by all too quickly.
   Oh, and I just have to make a Diet of Worms cake for this Sunday's coffee hour. Ever a glutton for punishment. God help me!!!!

MONDAY MEET N GREET

OK, it's really Tuesday. I had a very full Monday and simply didn't have time. Interesting, that my star word for the year was "Time". I went from having extra time to little to no time at all. This week I won't even get a day off. Ministry is like that at times.
   For the Meet N Greet:
 Generally we live in NE OH not far from the Rubber City. Although I am Presbyterian, I am serving two different denominations in two different capacities: an interim at an ELCA church, and associate pastor of visitation at a Methodist church. I am married to a Lutheran pastor, hence, I call him, LH.
We were neither blessed or grace with children, but are guardians of two greyhounds.
  For fun, I garden a wee bit - small herb garden and only 8 tomatoes this summer due to the coolish summer and our one greyhound snatching green and yellow tomatoes off the vine and eating them - ripping of branches which made for scrawny vines. I play a type of Solataire on the computer and read when I can and not too tired. Oh, and watch Big Bang Theory a lot!
   The last book I read, was A Nearly Perfect Copy, and I can't remember the author. I really wanted to like the characters, but had a hard time with it. I really wanted them to be better people in the end. It didn't really happen. Although, it was an interesting read.
   I happened upon RevGals in June of '05 or '06 and lurked for awhile until the desire to leave a comment compelled to begin this blog. I have enjoyed the stories, experiences and support shown through RG. There is a diversity and yet it is supportive. It's been a meaningful journey, meeting clergy or church related women and their challenges and joys. Our calling is not easy, but here we can share, groan, laugh, and be in prayer with and for another. Thanks to all of you. Blessings be upon you and your ministry.

NEW MEMBER OF THE FAMILY

On Saturday morning, well by then, it was nearly lunchtime, I brought home the newest member of our family - Charis - my new van. After 8 years and 141,000 miles, I traded in Mystic, for a downgraded but new van.
  It was hard to let go of Mystic. We drove a lot of miles together through glaring sun, downpours of rain, and snow and ice. She was responsive and dependable. A sturdy, hard working old gal. And I felt bad letting her go. I miss her.
  But there were all the miles, new tires needed and one by one things that would begin to go and cost too much.
  These past few days, I have been trying to bond to this new van. It is not easy. I am nervous every time I drive her. She isn't as responsive. There are fewer creature comforts with her, but a bit more room for the greys. The middle seats are Stow n Go, which makes it easy not to have to drag seats or bench down into the basement for the life of the vehicle and then haul it back upstairs when it comes time to trade her in.
   I am not use to her nor she with me. I hope we can settle in together. I begrudge her downgraded status. Maybe she begrudges me. But she sat on that lot for a time plastered in stickers because she didn't have all the bells and whistles everyone was looking for. She had the basics I was looking for.
   We're already putting on miles together. But it is an uneasy relationship. Some things have changed in 8 years and that too, takes some getting used to. I wonder how many miles and how long it will take before we settle in together and respond together as one. We're stuck with each other for next several years and the sooner we get use to each other the better.
  Oh, but in my heart, I really, really miss Mystic. This new one, she drives like a truck and not as smooth in transitions.
   How does one get so connected with a vehicle when it is just a "thing"? Mystic was comfortable, like a well-worn shoe or slipper; comfortable, conformed fit, moving as one without even having to
think about it.
   Now I am constantly thinking about it, complaining over the thickness of the steering wheel, and having to press on the accelerator more from a full stop. Things I don't know I can get use to.
   I suppose as with any relationship, it takes time to get know one another better, to squabble a little, to appreciate each other. It's only been 4 days. I need to give it time.
   I hope that she will serve me as well and faithfully as Mystic. I'll take care of her as I did Mystic.
Although, I named her Charis, grace, I'm thinking it should be, peace. That we need to make peace with each other. We'll see.
   In the meanwhile, I will work on my patience and not dwell on what I miss, but on what I have.

I'M STILL ALIVE AND KICKING

at least for the most part. Working these two positions has left me in a perpetual state of lack of time and being tired.
  Perhaps, I feel it more this week with a full week - including church council, spending my Friday off going to the Vet with the one greyhound for shots, stopping to pick up a bag spinach at the store, getting the greyhound out of the van and in the house, cleaning house, making my spinach salad for
lunch, cleaning house, changing from cleaning clothes to better casual clothes, calling my cousin who was indisposed and using that 1/2 hour to run to get my hair cut. When I got home 30 mins. later, I called my cousin and had a good talk. But my Swiss is getting worse. Have to stop and think of the word or it doesn't come and I use the English one!!! Did some laundry and started dinner. Cleaned up from dinner and packed the box for my sister's birthday so I could take it to the post office the next morning.
  On Saturday, I got up early, fed and let the dogs out (aye, 'twas me who let the dogs out!!!),
had breakfast and went to the post office. On the way there, the engine light came on because the gascap light was on the day before. So, at the post office, I opened the gas lid, unscrewed the cap and screwed it back on, as I drove toward either the car repair place or home, I kept checking to see if the
light would come back on. Nope. It did the trick. So, I drove, to the shopping area and found a couple pieces and a b-day card for LH. I got home in time to make my lunch only the phone rang and it was the council president in tears, her grandma had taken a turn for the worse (who I saw on Wed. and had communion in the hospital with her) and of course, I changed my clothes, ate a few raspberries, packed a water bottle, stopped at a fast food place for an unhealthy lunch, and drove 75 mph all the way (one hour plus) to the hospital. The whole family (minus the matriarch's one daughter who lives out of state) were there. She had the pallor of death and totally changed from Wed. Had prayer with the family, went back in and read scripture and had prayer with matriarch. Rest of family eventually headed downstairs while daughter and I stayed with matriarch. It had been about an hour and I was
thinking I could leave, when there was that gurgle, and I stayed and she peacefully passed away.
The family was texted and up they came and we had prayer all together.
   I managed to leave at 3:45 pm and get home by 5 pm even stopping to get yet another $20.00 of gas, twice in one day!!!
   It was a grace and blessing that I made it there in time and stayed as long as I did. I am thankful to God.
  But after making dinner and doing dishes, I had to still prepare for today, go over things, and my Sunday School lesson (again). I had to make a salad for today, pack up folders for the confirmation students, and my change of clothes and shoes for confirmation.
   And here it is Sunday, I have preached, taught, worked on the wedding service(in Oct.) and ate my healthy salad for lunch. I should work on the wedding sermon. I will get a short nap in before heading out to confirmation at 4:45 pm and when I get home tonight - make another salad for tomorrow, clean out the coffee pot and maybe talk to my sister and put my feet up.
   Tomorrow I meet with the family to plan the funeral service.
   On Tues, I'm at M church all day. On Wednesday I am here because I do have work up a sermon for the service. On Thurs. is the service (so no M church) and Friday, if I am so blessed, I will have the day off (which will be spent looking for a new van.).
   I suppose its no wonder I am tired and have no time.
  But I am alive and still kickin' - thanks be to God!

RGBP'S FRIDAY FIVE: MUST SEE!

An unexpected road trip last weekend made me aware that there are places along the route traveled where, had there been time, I would love to have stopped to visit and explore. That (missed) opportunity, coupled with a recent article in our local newspaper about things to see and do locally inspired today’s Friday Five.
If someone told you they were coming to your city/state/country for the first time, what five things would you recommend that they be sure to see or do?

  1. The Rock 'N Roll Hall of Fame Museum
  2. Cedar Point
  3. Put in Bay - is it South Bass or Middle Bass Island in Lake Erie, I forget!
  4. Amish Country - and Lehman's Hardware store in Kidron, OH
  5. Cleveland Museum of Art
  6. The West Side Market - for produce and meats of kinds (even goat heads) and pastry
       heaven.
  7. The Football Hall of Fame - if one is into football
  8. The First Ladies Museum - for those not into football
  9. The Dietrich Medical History Museum on the Case Western Reserve Campus
10. Lakeview Cemetary - Garfield Memorial and the chapel which has Tiffany Windows

There is more - Cuyahoga Valley National Park
                          bike the Tow Path from Cleveland to Akron for cyclists
                          Coschocton's old village (well there used to be more there)
                          Smucker's Company Store - but you can find the items less expensively
                                                                        at your grocery store, most likely
                         

BACK FROM VACATION

Back from vacation and already back in the swing!
With Rally Day fast approaching it's the plan ahead for worship, get Sunday School material together, get confirmation material together, and prep for all!
  With the M church it's all visits, visits, visits! Have three visits this afternoon. Had one this morning.
  Ahhh, fall is in the air!!!!
  The good thing even though our vacation was late, was that I got to see in the flesh, and hold, my great niece. Ok, she cried every time I held her except for once. But she is such cutie.
Enjoyed seeing my nephew and his wife as well. Plus, my niece who came up on Sunday for a quick overnighter bearing the gifts of the produce from her garden some of which we will enjoy tonight!
Seeing my sister and BIL is always good.
  So, it was a busy time with family and a couple days all to ourselves. Unfortunately the weather didn't cooperate and we had some rain and two and half days of fog. That's life on the beach or at least what beach there was. With the high lake levels, there isn't much beach to walk without getting wet feet or needing a machete to cut through all the grasses and beach vegetation. So, I settled for some short walks on the beach.
  By the time we came home, the monarch chrysalis was half gone and the butterfly we fostered had made that magical transformation from caterpillar, to chrysalis to butterfly. We missed the butterfly part. Perhaps next year. This is the first year we had a chrysalis on the milkweed so maybe we'll have another next year and be around it to see it get transparent even if we don't witness the emerging butterfly.
   We have fostered bluebirds and now, a monarch butterfly!
  Although, we never became parents, we have fostered some amazing creatures!
  So, onward to make my visits.

LIFE

  A little Sturm und Drang at the L church I'm serving. Hopefully, the tempest is over as people have talked with and to one another, misunderstandings cleared up.
   Why do we think the worst of one another?
   Course, one person is not easy to get along with, but is also a necessary part of this community of faith. We heal and move forward.
   Then there's the M church. 4 visits last Thursday, two were somewhat emotional. And I went home drained to my very core. I ran from one to another and barely had time for lunch. Not good. I wolfed it down in 15 minutes. Also, not good.
   I am working on my sermon following vacation. It just has to get done this week. And the laundry for vacation. I am all over the place this week. And one week away isn't really long enough. Sigh.
But it's better than no time away at all.
   Now it's off to a Confirmation meeting with the L churches in the area and a visit later on.
I'm tired already!!!!
 

STUPID THING #2

I'm beginning to wonder if I really should count and track of all the stupid things I end up doing.
Maybe this is one of them, too!
  Actually, it was Saturday night and I was plugging my cell phone in for an overnight charge. This is my own phone. I had already charged the church cell phone that evening after the wedding.
So I grab the cord plug it into the phone and grab the socket end and plug it into the wall socket and off to bed I went.
   After getting up early on Sunday morning, feeding the dogs, letting them out and brewing the coffee for breakfast, I checked my smart phone only to see no little green light on it. In fact there was no light at all! How odd, I thought. I unplugged the socket plug from the socket and checked the phone, it was down to 13% and hadn't charged all night at all. Even odder. I took the plug out of the smart phone and realized, I used the charging cord from the church phone into my cell, and used the charging cord from my cell to plug into the socket. Duh!!! No wonder my phone hadn't been charged.
I charged it while I was at church and put the church cord away in the tote bag I use for that church!!!
(Both phones can use the same cord, coincidently!) 
   Well, now that was sheer stupidity! Next time, I will wait to see if the red light goes on after plugging in the phone! Maybe I will only use one cord to charge both phones! (That seems the safer and more reasonable option!)
   I can only wonder what next week will bring! I hope that's all for this week!

RGBP'S FRIDAY FIVE: WHAT'S IN A NAME?

Lately I’ve been a bit obsessed with tracking some genealogical mysteries in my family. I’m reaching back through generations into the past, but I’m also moving from the past toward the present in an effort to locate cousins descended from the same ancestor. Naming patterns prove to be useful clues in these endeavors, and in turn, lead me to today’s Friday Five theme.
Share with us:

1. Is there a story behind your name?

            Don't really know. My last name is a bit like Smith or Johnson in a certain part of
            Switzerland. My mom wanted first names that would work in both the US and
            Switzerland.

1. If you have children, how did you choose his/her/their name(s)? If you don’t have children,

          how about a pet?
          We named our Beagle after an Old Testament figure - Baruch  Ben B- our last name.
           It was all alliteration. Our first greyhound we named Earl after Earl Grey Tea. Our
           second grey came with the name Benjamin - so we called him Benny. The third
           grey had the name Jetta Nickel and we weren't going to call him Nickel. So we called
           him Jett - therefore, we had Benny and the Jet!!!! The next grey had a weird name and
           because he is a bit of a goofball with an irrepressible spirit - we named him Jazz. Our
           most recent grey was a tough one. He had an awful racing name - not much one could
           do anything with, and he didn't react to his nickname. We tossed around many a name
           with no reaction whatsoever. I really looked at him and it crossed my mind that if
           Renoir would have painted a greyhound, this one would be it. I said, "Renoir" and
           he came over to me. He picked his own name as if he knew that was his real name.
          He's got brindle patches with mostly soft, diffused white - ergo - Renoir!

1. I named the stand mixer in my kitchen Ethel, and a friend of mine names her plants. Do you ever name household items, and what inspires the names behind them?

          I haven't named any appliances or plants really. I do name my vehicles. Mystic is my
          current van.

1. Do you daydream about what you might name a boat, a novel, a business, or something else that begs for a title?

           I always thought I'd name a boat - Wind Dancer.

1. If you were to write under a pseudonym, what might that be, and is there a story behind that name?

           Not really. I figure if I ever wrote anything worth publishing, it would be under my
           real name - for posterity's sake since we have no kids.
  Just realized the 5 things have come out as 1. Oh well! Been busy and have a wedding today.
It's just have to do.

 

MORE COMPLICATED

is what my life is now. Working two part-time positions leaves very little free time. My poor old van is really getting a workout and I fear for how much longer, she'll last. Time for an oil change yet again. Plus new tires are on the horizon.
  Now I not only have my cell phone to check, but the M church gave me a church cell phone. Great, now I get to carry two phones in my purse as if it wasn't heavy enough with all the things I normally carry. Two phones to check for messages, and also another church email address.
  I am using my pocket calendar - shudder if you will thinking how old school - much more now to keep track of everything.
  The weeks will be full, my Friday off - either cleaning house or running errands and a wedding next weekend. Thankfully, the rehearsal is on Thursday evening -so I get my Friday off, but have to be in for the Sat. wedding.
   I still have to find something to use for Adult Sunday School that doesn't cost an arm and an leg,
and order kids' curriculum for the two boys who come.
   I will also have to find something for Confirmation this fall - don't yet know which Bible Story I'm teaching - but I don't have any old resources to draw from.
   I don't even want to think about Advent - if I'm still at L church.
   Maybe, I just some vacation. I am ready. LH is ready. Three more weeks to wait. Can't wait to go and just relax and read. Even though we can barely afford it and board the dogs for a week. It gets so expensive. But our lodging is free and that's a big plus and getting to see my sister, BIL, niece and hopefully, nephew, wife and new baby will be great! Just three more weeks...
 

A STUPID THING

Ever just do something stupid?
I spent yesterday getting my glasses adjusted, stopped at two stores and a grocery store. Got home, fed and let the dogs out, made myself lunch and then rushed out to the other two grocery stores.
God home, put items away and checked the answering machine where there was a message from the council president. Opps! I should've checked the machine at lunch, but was distracted by the dogs and getting stuff for dinner.
  I looked up the number in my paper-clipped together directory. I saw the council sheet with President and dialed the number. Got the answering machine and left a message about possibly meeting before music and worship committee this evening. I said I was home the rest of the afternoon and evening. I never received a call.
  Still hadn't heard anything this morning before I left for church.
  I arrived at church and decided to call her. I looked up the number and realized I called the past council president and not the current one. I left a message with our current council president. She called back 10 minutes later and I apologized profusely and explained the error on my part, and having left a message with the wrong person.  \
   What a stupid mistake! Next time, I am going to pull the paper clip off and read the names and not just title on sheet and remember that the pink sheet is current council contact sheet and not the white one.
  Now we'll have to have a meeting next week.
  Sometimes we just do stupid things and pray that God and others are forgiving.
 

FRUSTRATED

   It's been a bit frustrating that the church I'm serving has not met its expenses but one month so far this year. I know that many churches have the same problem but usually Easter month is one where income surpasses expenses. Not for us.
   Now contracts will need to be renewed for the organist, choir director and custodian. I'm sure the organist will want a raise although the church is not a position to offer one. He will probably move on to another church. It's not like there's an over abundance of organists these days. I will hate to see him go.
   It is such a struggle and I feel so helpless.
   Then it came to light that a long time member claimed she gave to the church all last year and didn't receive a giving statement. She claimed her giving on her taxes. The financial secretary related that she didn't get a statement because she didn't give anything and she has all the envelopes that were given in offering last year to prove it. They didn't even prepare a box of envelopes for her last year since she didn't give. Then she get asking about the envelopes and they gave her box.
   She is not the only one who doesn't give. There are at least 2 others that I know about who don't give.
  How can the church meet their expenses (which are really pared down to bare bones) when folks are not giving or aren't invested enough to give. Perhaps in a larger that is not such an issue, but in a small church, every dollar counts. Folks have been generous in extra giving - ie: yogurt parfait sales to fund the school district's special needs children's outings, or Lenten food drive, or Souper Bowl.
  I know it's not all up to me, but it wears on me. And I pray about it. And I don't have the answers.
So, I will keep praying and praying for an answer.
   Then yet another family has transferred. This time because they like the more traditional service better. The other family who I've never met transferred to a church closer to their home since the mom is elderly.
    We have had one couple worship with us regularly and attend the Wednesday morning Bible Study regularly. They have been a blessing. They haven't formerly joined since they are still members of another church further away of the same denomination.
    It is a struggle. And so I keep struggling with them. And I try to remain hopeful. And I keep encouraging. And I know that ultimately, it is all in God's hands.

GOOFY DAY

  It was just one of those goofy kind of days. A little of this and a little of that all mixed up. I got up fed and let the dogs out, made my breakfast, read the paper, got on the computer to do a couple of things and to finesse the sermon for the memorial service on Wednesday. Made a phone call and left a message.
  Filled out the bank deposit slips. Drove to the Post Office to drop off a box for my nephew's birthday and a couple little outfits for the new baby girl. Went to the bank. Went to the store to pick up plastic wrap that I noticed that morning was down nearly to the paper roll. Stopped to fill up the gas tank and made it home in time to yup, feed the greys lunch and let them out and make my salad for lunch.
  After which, I looked through the mail that I had picked up as I arrived home. I got back onto the computer for no more than 15 minutes, when the phone rang. My eye glasses were already in after less than a week!!! I didn't expect them til after the 4th of July. So, since I didn't have any major plans, except laundering underwear, I drove 20 minutes to the shopping area and got fitted in my new eyeglasses - both pairs!!! I like them both so much, I don't know which to wear. One is heavier and the other very light weight. I am wearing the lighter ones today. It's been two years since my last exam and I noticed that I was using the mid-range for long distance, the close-up for mid-range and reading. Obviously a sign to me that I needed to get this done.
   Since I was in civilization, I stopped at a store and found a shirt. When I came out of the store it was raining and I drove home where nary a drop had fallen.
   I let the greys out, cleaned my glasses and checked them out.
   LH arrived home and I had a bit more of computer time. Then it was feeding the greys their dinner - lamb & rice with extra rice leftover from Chinese food dinner the night before. I made salads to go along with our chicken and heated up left over stuffing from Thanksgiving Day that had been frozen. The very last of that.
   After dinner, was doing dishes - all that doesn't  go into the dishwasher, so there wasn't much.
Gave the greys their Milkbones for dessert and when I let them out, I picked some cilantro to make pico de gallo which adds a little something extra to my lunch time salads. Made the pico.
   Took the dill down that I had hung up to dry and began stripping the dill - and there was a lot - into an antique Ball jar for which I had to buy new silicone rings and filled nearly the whole jar. There is more dill in the garden. Last year was my Sage year with an overabundance. This year, it seems to a Dill year.
   I also made my salad and wrap for lunch today.
   I played some fruit ninja on my phone.
   I  took the 2 bags of last fall and this springs yard waste and one garbage drum out to the end of the driveway for pick up - it all had to weigh less than 30 pounds.
   I watched some Big Bang and the news. By the time the weather forecast rolled around I was ready for bed.
   I never did get around to laundering my undies. I will do that Thursday.
  But it was a disjointed day full of this, that and the other. I will miss that when I begin another part time position as pastor of visitation in 2 weeks. Things will be drastically different and so I am thankful and glad to have had this "goofy day" and the freedom to go and get my new glasses. I doubt that I will have any more such goofy days. They will be structured and busy. But, it will help in paying for my new glasses.
  

FOOLED

 All spring long, I waited for signs of life from my butterfly bush. The woody canes were as dead as dead can be. Usually, a sprout or two emerge from the cut-down canes, but not this year. The winter here was brutal and as cold as up in Canada, almost. I mourned for my dead butterfly bush that bloomed so vigorously, lovely lavender blooms that attracted butterflies of various kinds, the hummingbirds, hummingbird moths, and bees.
  I bought that bush up in Wisconsin when the one I bought here didn't make through the first winter. It was on sale and it made the drive home where I promptly planted it in my front flower bed. I have it about 4 years and it has thrived and gotten bigger each year.
  But this spring, there were no signs of life and I mourned.
  About three-four weeks ago, I went to the local garden center to look for a new one. All they had were these humungous bushes at $25.00 a pop and so big that I couldn't dig a hole big enough for it.
We have nothing but rocks under a few inches of topsoil. I even have to be careful where I put my tomato stakes because they invariably hit a rock and aren't in deep enough. I have had to plant perennials in certain spots because I couldn't dig a hole large or deep enough to plant it where I wanted it.
   This huge bush simply wasn't going to work and I was not going to spend that much. So, I headed over to another garden center and lo and behold, they had smaller ones, which were still pricier than I wanted, but would be workable.
   When I got home, I donned my gardening gloves, got my spade and was ready to dig up that dead, lifeless bush. Only when I was ready to dig did I notice some sprouts on the backside of the bush coming up from ground. A mere 4 inches high and I was ecstatic. The butterfly bush that looked so dead and seemed so dead was alive! And it was sprouting! Oh, ye of little faith! A resurrection of sorts - that which looks and seems so dead was actually and truly alive with new life! I was but one of the disciples mourning the loss of one so dear only to discover that it lives, again.
   With the rain, the warming sun and a few more weeks there are about 7 sprouts that are growing at fast clip, inches every day. I rejoice, give thanks and wonder again and anew at the resurrections that happen all about me and remind me of the greatest resurrection of all - Jesus Christ.
   Butterflies, hummingbirds and various insects that come every year will find nourishment and the lovely lavender blooms will once again delight the eye and the soul.
   I was fooled. And God laughed and smiled and brought forth a most glorious and wonderful surprise - new life. I was fooled but in the best way possible!! There is life, life anew that springs forth even when we cannot perceive it. Glory be to God!
   I planted the new butterfly bush at the side of the garage and hope it will grow. Had I known that the old butterfly bush really lived, I'd have bought a peony bush for the side of the garage. Well, perhaps another spring.
   In the meanwhile, I chuckle at how I was fooled! And look forward to the flowering of the butterfly bush.

BUSY IN A GOOD WAY

 So, I survived the loooong Sunday last week with the Confirmation service at 7 pm that evening.
After worship, there was a quick committee meeting, followed by my lunch salad.
  Since Confirmation was that evening, and the Worship committee person didn't have a red carnation there Sunday morning, I ran to three stores looking for red carnations. I had no idea they were so hard to find. There were red roses aplenty, but a simple red carnation - rare. I managed to find a bunch of carnations at Walmart - red, pink and greenish white. They were small, so I knew I had to put three together (Holy Trinity!). I also purchased florist tape and corsage pins. Then it was back to the grocery store to buy a stem of baby's breath and fern frond.
   When I got back to the church, with my trusty Swiss Army Knife that has scissors and really sharp blade, amongst other hand devices, I cut down the 3 red carnations and with the baby's breath, fern frond, and white gauze ribbon, I fashioned and created a corsage. It turned out rather well.
   I also took a nap knowing the evening would be full and long.
   I grabbed a bite for dinner and headed over to the large church where the service was to be - this was a conference confirmation service with nearly 10 churches involved and 25 Confirmands. The interim bishop and conference dean led the service. My Confirmand was a bit late in showing up, but he got there, into his white robe and I pinned the corsage on him.
   It was a full blown Lutheran service with sung responses, a wonderful message by the Bishop, and each confirmand was individually prayed over by their pastor.
   Then followed communion which took a while.
   The large church choir sang and had high school musicians with their trumpets. The recessional hymn was "A Mighty Fortress" that the organ blasted out with the trumpets going and the whole
sanctuary singing - it was majestic and marvelous.
   Afterwards there was a cake and coffee reception and pictures taken with your pastor and bishop.
   Following the obligatory pictures, I made my farewell, and got home at 10 pm. Had my lunch dishes and coffee pot to wash and prepared my salad for Monday.
   I was hoping to leave earlier on Monday for the long day on Sunday, but with a parishioner having knee surgery this week, I had to see her on Monday. She was talkative, which is fine by me, but the visit ran longer than I had anticipated which put me home 15 minutes earlier than usual. Sigh.
Perhaps, this week, I can leave earlier one day!
   Then, I had an interview at another church yesterday evening after meeting with the Pastor last Thursday morning. It is a part-time position as Pastor of Visitation - something I do fairly well. It is also for a denomination I have never worked in before. I have worked with Pastors in whatever
community I was serving and worked with those denominational pastors but this will be new. The head pastor seems a decent sort and not all A-personality. It is a very large church in a well-heeled suburb. (Coincidently, I served the UCC church across the street from them as interim 20
years ago - ohhh, that sounds like a real long time ago!!!!!) The pastor contacted the Synod office who gave him my name and a couple others. The pastor seems really interested and ready to go.
That same afternoon, I received a call from their Staff Parish relations committee regarding a time for an interview.
   Now, I dread interviews. I do not interview real well. For an introvert, interviews are exceptionally hard and nerve-wracking. I really couldn't say it was a shining moment. A couple of the men wore their poker faces, sort of. So, I have no idea what to think.
   I was given a work application form to fill out and fax them, odd, as I had given the Head Pastor my dossier.
   I filled it in and faxed it this morning.
   When I was done running errands and came home for a late lunch, there was a message for me regarding how to go online for a background check. Gracious, I only had to do one of those for another Presbytery. How sad it is, that Pastors have to submit to background checks - not only for criminal records but also credit history records. Where is the integrity we live and in which we serve?
    So, now it's a wait and see what happens. The pastor did give me a hymnal to take home and peruse the liturgies for funerals and weddings, since I am not familiar with them. They are still using the older hymnal which surprised me for how progressive they are. I will be doing some funerals and hopefully, not too many weddings.
   The dogs are due at the Vet for their heartworm check.
   And so has gone the days, the weeks....
   And in the middle of it, I've become a great-aunt (even though that sounds really, really old and I'm not that old) of a little baby girl born to my nephew and his wife a week ago!!! I sure hope to see her yet this summer.
   It's been a good busy. Thanks be to God.

RGBP'S FRIDAY THE 13TH FIVE!

1.  Are you superstitious about anything?  Like, lucky socks for competition, special necklace for preaching, etc.?
     Not particularly. I do avoid black cats though.

2.  I’m going on vacation on Tuesday.  I have never been so ready for vacation.  What are you
looking forward to?
    Time away and apart, visiting my sister, BIL and niece, hopefully, my nephew, his wife and their new baby girl! Not sure yet when we will get away.

3.  There is a lot going on in sports right now–World Cup, Basketball finals, and much more.   If your life were a sport, what would it be, and why?
     A scramble of some sort!!! Just had an interview for another part-time position, having to fax
 info and work on the background screening, plus all the stuff at the church I'm serving.

4.  Hey!  Remember orange push-up ice cream treats?  What happened to them?  What is one of your favorite summer treats?  Ice cream sandwich, popsicles, frozen grapes, fruit pizza, DQ Dilly Bar, etc.?
    I do enjoy a big juicy slice of watermelon and really good peaches. But, I really like
Chocolate Moose Tracks ice cream!

5.  So there is this thing called “Listserve” that picks one random person per day to write an email to like a million people world-wide.  It’s pretty cool. Some people make music suggestions, offer sage advice, or plug their latest interest/project.  If you could write a note to a million people around the world, what would you say?
    Be kind to one another. Work for peace. Love well and deeply. Be respectful. Walk the earth
softly.

FRIDAY FIVE: TRASH, TREASURE OR TEA

With church rummage sales happening all around, here are some thoughts:

1. TREASURE: What is the best thing you’ve ever found at a rummage sale? Was it a bargain or just something you’ve longed for but couldn’t afford?
    Probably a couple books when I was a child. They were just 10-25 cents a book. I was in seventh
    heaven!!!!
    Found an old blue ball jar but still haven't been able to pry the top off the disintegrated rubber ring.
    Any ideas anyone?

2. TRASH: What is an item you couldn’t WAIT to donate to a sale like this, and then were surprised that someone not only bought it, they were so excited to have?
    Hate to admit it but a couple horrendous rusty angel face ornaments that a church member had
    given either LH or I for Christmas. Finally, a couple churches later and in a town an hour away
    I was able to give it for the rummage sale. Also, a very oversize clear glass vase that I had
    absolutely no use for also got donated. It felt wonderful to get rid of these things.

3. BUDGET: How disciplined are you at these kinds of events? Can you stick to a budget, or do you empty your wallet?
     Since we have enough stuff already and the church I'm currently serving has a very trashy
     rummage sale, I have only found an item or two and pay a bit more than the asking price, like
     a dollar for something that is 25 or 50 cents. I did find a Hoffbrauhaus Munich beer mug stamped
     Western Germany that I picked up for a Christmas present.

4. TAKE IT AWAY: What’s something you’d gladly donate right this minute if I would just come pick it up?
     Probably our Queen Anne style coffee table still down in the unfinished basement. Not really
     my style, but LH's.

5. TEA: Do you have a favorite tea? Or a special teapot? Tell us more!
      Rooibos - a red African tea. Although it is much harder to find at the grocery store anymore.
      I do have a blue teapot, but usually it's just easier to heat the water in the microwave and
      brew a cuppa in a mug.
      I also liked a Celestial Seasonings tea which they no longer make - red hibiscus with a touch
      of cinnamon, I believe. Too bad, it was light and really nice.

ANOTHER MARATHON

  Today begins the denominational marathon! This evening, Synod Assembly begins with the most notable charge of electing a new bishop. Last year, the current bishop was overwhelming elected and when she went to the national gathering, was promptly elected presiding bishop of the ELCA. She was beloved here for the most part and we were saddened to lose her but knew she was being called to serve the larger church.
   So, this weekend will be spent at the Synod Assembly - Thursday evening, Friday and Friday evening, and Saturday morning.
   That leaves me with Saturday afternoon to prepare for Sunday (my sermon is already done!) and to make something to bring to the church's last potluck brunch following worship this Sunday.
   After my Sunday afternoon nap, I will be packing for a quick jaunt (ok, 3 hour drive) to Michigan for a Presbytery meeting/retreat. I leave early Monday morning and will return suppertime on Wednesday.
   Since I cannot be in the church office on Monday and Wednesday, I will go in on Thursday.
   It is unfortunate the two gatherings are back to back as it were. Sigh. And I still have to work on the sermon for May 25th.
   I trust that God is in the mix and on the side of the Lutherans and Presbyterians who are gathering to do the worshipful work of the church. I trust that God will grant me good rest and will help in this whirlwind of activity.
   So, let the marathon begin and God grant me the grace of endurance!

BACK IN TOWN

Actually, I got back in last Monday night around 9:50 pm and got home from the airport at 11:10 pm.
It was a busy week, unpacking, doing laundry, going in to church on Wednesday, writing the sermon on Thursday, grocery shopping on Friday and mending, going over my Sunday School lesson on Sat and getting everything together for Joy Sunday.
  Met my sister and niece in Denver at the airport that last Thursday in April. They were to arrive before me but were nearly an hour late. Good to see my niece who has spent the past several months in Ethiopia. Good to see my sister, too. I do miss her and wish we didn't live so far apart.
  It was 9:10 pm by the time we got to the restaurant outside of Denver for a very late dinner. It was good though. Then it was a nearly 2 hour drive west to get to my nephew's. We were exhausted after a quick hello, and dropping off my niece. My sister and I stayed at the local B & B - yah, they left the front door open and the room key on the kitchen counter!!!
  Friday was a simply gorgeous day - blue skies, sunshine and about 70 degrees. We went for a long walk drinking in the mountains, valley, river that runs through it, hearing marmots. It was so nice we could even eat lunch outside!!!
  Things got considerably cooler with each passing day and by Saturday evening there was a winter storm warning and it snowed! Enough to brush off the car windows!
   The baby shower for my nephew's wife was a lovely affair with many of her friends present. There was curried cashew chicken salad on croissants, a tossed green salad, fresh fruit, and apple salad. For dessert, there was chocolate chip cheesecake from Eli's in Chicago, and a lemon thyme dessert made by my npehew's wife - layered lemon wafer cookies with whipping cream, lemon zest or juice and thyme. Instead of a game, the hostess had lots of white onesies, burp cloths and socks and we tie dyed them. Pretty cool.
   On Sunday afternoon, we walked around the ghost town of Vail! With ski season closed and summer hiking/fishing season not yet arrived, most of the stores and restaurants were closed. And we were nearly the only people walking around in the cold and flurries!!!!
   On Monday morning we, my sister, niece and I, left with the intent to stop along the way to Denver at a small town to look around. After a filling breakfast at the small town greasy spoon, we headed out towards Denver and got stuck for nearly an hour on Vail Pass Summit due an accident. Probably driving too fast in snowy conditions.
   We did finally get to Frisco - but many shops were closed there too. We did find a few that were open. We picked up wraps to take on the plane since we weren't yet hungry for lunch.
   I came home with assorted souvenirs - a glow in the dark miniature Jesus, an Easter egg wreath, a piece of Raclette cheese, a corded neck shirt with aspen leaves on it and a couple books from the book store, plus a couple Christmas gifts for family.
     The morning that we left - I had on a heavy long sleeved t-shirt, topped with a cashmere sweater, smartwool socks, a leather jacket, and wool scarf. By the time we got to Denver, I ditched the jacket. On the plane, which was warm, I ditched the sweater. When I landed in Cleveland, it was 60 plus
degrees. Felt like a heat wave!!!
   Now it's back to getting ready for Pentecost and what lies beyond.
  Just this past Friday, when I went to the local grocery store, they had geraniums already. It's been so cool this April, I didn't think they'd have them til next week. So, I got my six red geraniums to put in the porch railing flower containers. I figured I'd plant them Thursday afternoon when I had time.
   On Sat, afternoon when I was out on the porch, Hummer, the male hummingbird stopped by. Well, I went inside, made up a batch of nectar, planted those geraniums and stuck the little feeder in my planter box so the poor wee thing would have some nourishment since little is blooming at the moment. Just hope I won't have to take the geraniums inside if it gets cold at night!!!
   Next up, planting my herbs which are on the kitchen counter and have been outside and brought in.
I already planted my oregano in a ceramic pot I found. No more oregano taking over the whole garden. I learned my lesson.
   So, it will be a busy month with I hope some warmer weather. I'm still thawing out from our winter and now the trip to CO.
   Hope all of you are recovering from Holy Week and Easter.