Your Sleeping Position Says You Need Peace |
 You are calm and rational person with a good deal of balance in your life. Friends consider you to be kind, caring, and truly loyal. You are easy going and trusting. However, you are too sensible to fall for mind games. Open to the world, you are not afraid to be yourself. If you don't get enough sleep, you are: Able to cope It's hard to sleep next to you because: You're a bed hog |
Monday, January 26, 2009
JUST FOR FUN!
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
WINTER'S REVEALING:
In winter, up north, you cannot hide. The trees stripped bare of their leaves exposing their frame and the snowy white ground that shows every track and mark. That is winter's revealing.
This winter's revealing is displaying our inability to meet our budget and no persons to fill our Deacon positions. I anticipate that our Deacons will disband, our Women's Association may meet for one more year, that I will be asked to serve 3/4 time. We spent all our mission money this year which is a blessed thing, when needs are great and overwhelming. Our budget is pretty bare bones.
There are times I feel overwhelmed and old. I know how to "do" church, lead mostly traditional worship, Taize worship, etc. and know how to "be" church, relationships and small groups. But there are those moments when I feel like this all is so over my head and beyond me. Which I realize ministry usually is!
If they are not willing or able to change or seriously address this, then I suppose I will walk with them to the closing of their doors. Unless, LH, is called somewhere else and we have to move.
They are old, worn-out and tired and the younger ones are trying to hold on to their day jobs. I don't have any answers. I keep praying. I keep serving. I continue to ask for wisdom and guidance and insight. It's all I can do. It really all is in God's hands and I am but God's servant.
That is winter's revealing this year.
In winter, up north, you cannot hide. The trees stripped bare of their leaves exposing their frame and the snowy white ground that shows every track and mark. That is winter's revealing.
This winter's revealing is displaying our inability to meet our budget and no persons to fill our Deacon positions. I anticipate that our Deacons will disband, our Women's Association may meet for one more year, that I will be asked to serve 3/4 time. We spent all our mission money this year which is a blessed thing, when needs are great and overwhelming. Our budget is pretty bare bones.
There are times I feel overwhelmed and old. I know how to "do" church, lead mostly traditional worship, Taize worship, etc. and know how to "be" church, relationships and small groups. But there are those moments when I feel like this all is so over my head and beyond me. Which I realize ministry usually is!
If they are not willing or able to change or seriously address this, then I suppose I will walk with them to the closing of their doors. Unless, LH, is called somewhere else and we have to move.
They are old, worn-out and tired and the younger ones are trying to hold on to their day jobs. I don't have any answers. I keep praying. I keep serving. I continue to ask for wisdom and guidance and insight. It's all I can do. It really all is in God's hands and I am but God's servant.
That is winter's revealing this year.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
ARCTIC CHILL
Brrrrrrrrr...It's colder than cold here. A taste of pure arctic air!
I never made it into the office today. The state highway was totally snowcovered and icy. Not even tracks down to the pavement. This state route (2 lane) is hilly and curvy. There was no way, I was going to be able to negotiate the road. For all of three hours in the office today, it wasn't worth the risk.
I feel so bad about the Old Folks Home worship service last night. It started to snow in the afternoon while I was making a visit to a homebound parishioner. As I left, the main road in the village was not in good shape. I was on my way to next bigger town to make a visit in the nursing home there. I was on the Famous President Highway (4 lanes) and it was awful. Just at the stoplight with another state route where I make a turn, the traffic was all backed up. There was a multi-vehicle accident due to the slippery conditions. I finally got through that with the snowing falling fast and at a good clip when I decided that if I was going to make it home, I had best begin the journey. It took me over an hour to get home and this state route was better than the one I usually take. My tires were on pavement most of the way home. It continued to snow through the evening and I was thankful that I made it home in one piece.
Although, those who know me well, know that I often drive 5 mph over the limit, usually on the interstate. I always obey school zones and when the weather is bad, I will not speed. There have been days when I've driven 35-45 mph in the winter when the road is snow covered depending on how slick it is. I was passed twice yesterday while driving a respectable 40 mph which I felt was safe given the conditions and maintaining assured clear distance.
I have my sermon and prayers finished. I will work on the annual meeting prayers and Lenten breakfast devotion I'll be leading during Lent. Plus, if I am ambitious enough, working on "Are You Smarter than a Session Member?" for our Joy or Holy Humor Sunday, the Sunday after Easter.
So, although, I wasn't in the office it was a productive day. The greys were thrilled that I was home with them and the den floor was littered with 2 sleeping greys!!!! These are the warm comforts in the dead bitter cold of winter!
Brrrrrrrrr...It's colder than cold here. A taste of pure arctic air!
I never made it into the office today. The state highway was totally snowcovered and icy. Not even tracks down to the pavement. This state route (2 lane) is hilly and curvy. There was no way, I was going to be able to negotiate the road. For all of three hours in the office today, it wasn't worth the risk.
I feel so bad about the Old Folks Home worship service last night. It started to snow in the afternoon while I was making a visit to a homebound parishioner. As I left, the main road in the village was not in good shape. I was on my way to next bigger town to make a visit in the nursing home there. I was on the Famous President Highway (4 lanes) and it was awful. Just at the stoplight with another state route where I make a turn, the traffic was all backed up. There was a multi-vehicle accident due to the slippery conditions. I finally got through that with the snowing falling fast and at a good clip when I decided that if I was going to make it home, I had best begin the journey. It took me over an hour to get home and this state route was better than the one I usually take. My tires were on pavement most of the way home. It continued to snow through the evening and I was thankful that I made it home in one piece.
Although, those who know me well, know that I often drive 5 mph over the limit, usually on the interstate. I always obey school zones and when the weather is bad, I will not speed. There have been days when I've driven 35-45 mph in the winter when the road is snow covered depending on how slick it is. I was passed twice yesterday while driving a respectable 40 mph which I felt was safe given the conditions and maintaining assured clear distance.
I have my sermon and prayers finished. I will work on the annual meeting prayers and Lenten breakfast devotion I'll be leading during Lent. Plus, if I am ambitious enough, working on "Are You Smarter than a Session Member?" for our Joy or Holy Humor Sunday, the Sunday after Easter.
So, although, I wasn't in the office it was a productive day. The greys were thrilled that I was home with them and the den floor was littered with 2 sleeping greys!!!! These are the warm comforts in the dead bitter cold of winter!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Don't Cha -
Don't cha just hate it when meetings go on far too long?
Like last night, an hour meeting that lasted two hours. I just know there are lonely people out there who need to extend meetings for the social aspect.
Me? I have enough meetings as it is being a pastor. Why do I want to attend more?
What is it with the Scouts that their people just don't know when enough is enough?
We've given one woman her Native American Name: S-Talks-A-Lot.
What a waste of time when I could have been home an hour earlier and spent time with my greys and LH! (Especially, since it was so squally and cold and not knowing how clean and good the interstate would be.)
Have to go again next month. Yuck. I discern that since it is draining my energy and my interest level is at zero, this is not where God wants me to spend my time and energy. Maybe, I'll stick it out for a time or two and then bid farewell.
Two back to back 12 hour days with no going home in between is enough!
Don't cha just hate it when meetings go on far too long?
Like last night, an hour meeting that lasted two hours. I just know there are lonely people out there who need to extend meetings for the social aspect.
Me? I have enough meetings as it is being a pastor. Why do I want to attend more?
What is it with the Scouts that their people just don't know when enough is enough?
We've given one woman her Native American Name: S-Talks-A-Lot.
What a waste of time when I could have been home an hour earlier and spent time with my greys and LH! (Especially, since it was so squally and cold and not knowing how clean and good the interstate would be.)
Have to go again next month. Yuck. I discern that since it is draining my energy and my interest level is at zero, this is not where God wants me to spend my time and energy. Maybe, I'll stick it out for a time or two and then bid farewell.
Two back to back 12 hour days with no going home in between is enough!
Monday, January 12, 2009
THIEVING RASCAL:
What a better thing to do on a very snowy Saturday, when your sermon's written and all is together for Sunday morning, but the roads are a disaster than to roast a chicken for supper?
The divine aroma filled the kitchen as it cooked. I steamed some frozen asparagus and cooked up some roasted chicken flavor rice and veges or noodles & veges combo. When it was time for supper - the chicken, which had been roasted with 1/2 can beer in the well of the dish, was a beautiful and enticing amber and golden color. I placed it carefully on the cutting board on the counter. LH cut white meat for me and a leg and thigh for him. It was savory and moist and the dinner was fine.
After dinner, LH goes to the sink to wash his hands while I am scraping meat off his chicken bones as tidbits for the boys. The boys were in the kitchen area attraced by the delicious aroma and the sound of plates being scraped.
Flash! Toby (the new greyhound) runs past LH's chair and into the living room with something amber and golden colored hanging from his mouth. The thievin' rascal absconded with the half chicken sitting on the cutting board on the counter. LH ran after him and wrestled the chicken from Toby who hadn't even had a chance to take a bite!!!! Ohh...to have gotten so far with such a enormous, scrumptious morsel in the mouth and not even one bite!
My jaw just dropped in disbelief as I numbly said, "Toby's got the chicken!" It was almost like the scene from 'A Christmas Story' when the Bumpeses bloodhound dogs ravaged the roasted turkey.
We now have two thievin' rascals living with us, and in the home of two preachers yet!!!
(We made sure that Toby didn't break any chicken bones or swallow any - he simply didn't have the chance! And oh, how wonderful that Toby is so good natured that he didn't even growl when LH rescued the roasted chicken and took it from him!)
What a better thing to do on a very snowy Saturday, when your sermon's written and all is together for Sunday morning, but the roads are a disaster than to roast a chicken for supper?
The divine aroma filled the kitchen as it cooked. I steamed some frozen asparagus and cooked up some roasted chicken flavor rice and veges or noodles & veges combo. When it was time for supper - the chicken, which had been roasted with 1/2 can beer in the well of the dish, was a beautiful and enticing amber and golden color. I placed it carefully on the cutting board on the counter. LH cut white meat for me and a leg and thigh for him. It was savory and moist and the dinner was fine.
After dinner, LH goes to the sink to wash his hands while I am scraping meat off his chicken bones as tidbits for the boys. The boys were in the kitchen area attraced by the delicious aroma and the sound of plates being scraped.
Flash! Toby (the new greyhound) runs past LH's chair and into the living room with something amber and golden colored hanging from his mouth. The thievin' rascal absconded with the half chicken sitting on the cutting board on the counter. LH ran after him and wrestled the chicken from Toby who hadn't even had a chance to take a bite!!!! Ohh...to have gotten so far with such a enormous, scrumptious morsel in the mouth and not even one bite!
My jaw just dropped in disbelief as I numbly said, "Toby's got the chicken!" It was almost like the scene from 'A Christmas Story' when the Bumpeses bloodhound dogs ravaged the roasted turkey.
We now have two thievin' rascals living with us, and in the home of two preachers yet!!!
(We made sure that Toby didn't break any chicken bones or swallow any - he simply didn't have the chance! And oh, how wonderful that Toby is so good natured that he didn't even growl when LH rescued the roasted chicken and took it from him!)
Saturday, January 10, 2009
RGBP'S FRIDAY FIVE - LIGHT AND FLUFFY - PANCAKES
Share with us your preferences for Pancakes!
1. Scratch or mix? Buttermilk or plain?
I usually use a Buttermilk mix.
2. Pure and simple or with additions cooked in?
I like 'em pure and simple although I have added Maine caviar: blueberries.
3. For breakfast or for dinner?
Definitely for breakfast! I am not a fan of pancakes for dinner and I take
no delight in Shrove Tuesday pancake suppers. I'd rather have some meat
and veges for dinner (or chicken or fish).
4. Preferred syrup or other topping? How about the best sidedish?
Pure maple syrup - can't abide the fake stuff. Best sidedish - that would
be sausage links!
5. Favorite pancake restaurant?
Since we never go out to eat for breakfast, can't say as I have one.
Have been to the Waffle House while on vacation and it's pretty good.
Bonus: Any tasty recipes out there for pancakes or other special breakfast
dishes? Bring 'em on!
Share with us your preferences for Pancakes!
1. Scratch or mix? Buttermilk or plain?
I usually use a Buttermilk mix.
2. Pure and simple or with additions cooked in?
I like 'em pure and simple although I have added Maine caviar: blueberries.
3. For breakfast or for dinner?
Definitely for breakfast! I am not a fan of pancakes for dinner and I take
no delight in Shrove Tuesday pancake suppers. I'd rather have some meat
and veges for dinner (or chicken or fish).
4. Preferred syrup or other topping? How about the best sidedish?
Pure maple syrup - can't abide the fake stuff. Best sidedish - that would
be sausage links!
5. Favorite pancake restaurant?
Since we never go out to eat for breakfast, can't say as I have one.
Have been to the Waffle House while on vacation and it's pretty good.
Bonus: Any tasty recipes out there for pancakes or other special breakfast
dishes? Bring 'em on!
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
ANNUAL REPORT TIME -
Ughhh...writing the annual report is always a work keeping everything in perspective.
What can I say this year? Our membership is rapidly aging and declining, our attendance is down (due to rapidly aging membership and kids/families involved in sports that have meets & tournaments on weekends and Sundays!) and we have less money to keep doing all we do and support many missions. I will not be meeting Presbytery minimum this year.
In the end, I have mentioned the above, with the exception of my not meeting minimum, but lifted up all the wonderful things and the sharing of gifts that has blessed our life together. And indeed, God has blessed us with only 2 deaths, 3 confirmed into membership and a family who is worshipping with us fairly regularly.
We gave away all our mission money!!! Helped countless school children with back packs and school supplies and items for Christmas, local families with clothing and food, medical mission in Honduras, Bridge of Hope school in Liberia and tuition for 1 1/2 students, and all the Presbytery missions, plus Christmas Joy, One Great Hour of Sharing, and Peacemaking Offerings. We served over 65 kids at Vacation Bible School.
I will be thankful if we come through this year as we did last year - few deaths and making the budget by the skin of our teeth - which hopefully, they will approve my dental insurance.
All in all, I feel very blessed to be here, even though I am frustrated at times. I pray that I continue to serve well, ably, with a loving heart and wisdom. I pray that this church will come to life some more.
So, what started as a chore, writing the annual report, became a blessing for which I give thanks to God and an encouragement to us all, to keep on keeping on for the sake of Christ our Lord and for the good of the realm of God.
Ughhh...writing the annual report is always a work keeping everything in perspective.
What can I say this year? Our membership is rapidly aging and declining, our attendance is down (due to rapidly aging membership and kids/families involved in sports that have meets & tournaments on weekends and Sundays!) and we have less money to keep doing all we do and support many missions. I will not be meeting Presbytery minimum this year.
In the end, I have mentioned the above, with the exception of my not meeting minimum, but lifted up all the wonderful things and the sharing of gifts that has blessed our life together. And indeed, God has blessed us with only 2 deaths, 3 confirmed into membership and a family who is worshipping with us fairly regularly.
We gave away all our mission money!!! Helped countless school children with back packs and school supplies and items for Christmas, local families with clothing and food, medical mission in Honduras, Bridge of Hope school in Liberia and tuition for 1 1/2 students, and all the Presbytery missions, plus Christmas Joy, One Great Hour of Sharing, and Peacemaking Offerings. We served over 65 kids at Vacation Bible School.
I will be thankful if we come through this year as we did last year - few deaths and making the budget by the skin of our teeth - which hopefully, they will approve my dental insurance.
All in all, I feel very blessed to be here, even though I am frustrated at times. I pray that I continue to serve well, ably, with a loving heart and wisdom. I pray that this church will come to life some more.
So, what started as a chore, writing the annual report, became a blessing for which I give thanks to God and an encouragement to us all, to keep on keeping on for the sake of Christ our Lord and for the good of the realm of God.
Monday, January 05, 2009
JUST FOR FUN TO START THE NEW YEAR!!!
Give it a try!
Give it a try!
| bgcolor="#EEEEEE" align=center> |
 You are provocative and challenging. You help people realize who they really are. You live a very balanced life. You always take time for love and art. You are both a powerful and generous person. You always have time to give back. People find you to be incredibly ethical and loyal. |
NEW YEAR - NEW DOG
It's been a bit crazy by us this past week, what with the new greyhound. What a high energy grey this one is. We named him Toby, as we don't like calling our dogs by initials. He's 5 years old, white with fawn patches. Actually, Toby and Jett look pretty good together. Toby has had a couple accidents. He is very curious and pulls clothing out of the laundry room that may be laying on the floor ready to be washed.
He eats like there'll be no tomorrow, wolfs it down fast and goes straight to Jett's dish. That will be a challenge - especially since Jett doesn't always eat his breakfast at 7:30 am and may stroll over at 10 am. Now we have to put his dish up and away. If he doesn't eat breakfast early it will become his lunch.
Toby's run laps in the backyard and has learned to lift his back legs coming in from the patio. Two major ouches hitting his back foot knuckles on the ledge of the sliding glass door. No blood thankfully! He is a counter surfer and sticks his inquistive nose everywhere. This one seems to have no fear just a alot of curiousity.
He has taken to the round dog bed which Jett took over after Ben crossed Rainbow Bridge. Toby is good natured though and very likeable.
We are trying to give Jett the attention he is due, but he is sulking. Not happy with the new intruder. I think Jett still misses Ben.
When Toby and Jett are both at the door wanting to come in, it's pandemonium as both want to be the first through the door. Not good, since they could hurt themselves. Hope this will work itself out.
We are still getting to know each other and getting used to one another. It takes some time. With some greys it takes time for them to come out of their shells. I don't think Toby has a shell to come out of, he's more wysiwyg!!!
Toby is sporting a new collar and has a new leash - royal blue with rainbow interwining celtic chain design. Since he came with a teal harness, I had to find something to kinda match. There is teal in the rainbow chain design.
This is Toby's first day with both of us at work all day. I'm hoping he can handle it. When I came home from church yesterday, he couldn't hardly contain himself with joy and energy, as though I and LH had been gone for weeks. It'll be interesting to see how he is this evening after I've been gone all day.
That's been what's been keeping us busy from the 30th til now into the New Year.
Course, I did spend New Year's Eve making and cooking Island Meatballs and most of New Year's Day in the kitchen baking a ham, cloving it and making the glaze, making scalloped potatoes from scratch, and an apple crisp for dessert. My FIL came for the afternoon and evening and we enjoyed dinner together.
Now, it's back to the pulpit and preparing for Sunday and making visits.
It's been a bit crazy by us this past week, what with the new greyhound. What a high energy grey this one is. We named him Toby, as we don't like calling our dogs by initials. He's 5 years old, white with fawn patches. Actually, Toby and Jett look pretty good together. Toby has had a couple accidents. He is very curious and pulls clothing out of the laundry room that may be laying on the floor ready to be washed.
He eats like there'll be no tomorrow, wolfs it down fast and goes straight to Jett's dish. That will be a challenge - especially since Jett doesn't always eat his breakfast at 7:30 am and may stroll over at 10 am. Now we have to put his dish up and away. If he doesn't eat breakfast early it will become his lunch.
Toby's run laps in the backyard and has learned to lift his back legs coming in from the patio. Two major ouches hitting his back foot knuckles on the ledge of the sliding glass door. No blood thankfully! He is a counter surfer and sticks his inquistive nose everywhere. This one seems to have no fear just a alot of curiousity.
He has taken to the round dog bed which Jett took over after Ben crossed Rainbow Bridge. Toby is good natured though and very likeable.
We are trying to give Jett the attention he is due, but he is sulking. Not happy with the new intruder. I think Jett still misses Ben.
When Toby and Jett are both at the door wanting to come in, it's pandemonium as both want to be the first through the door. Not good, since they could hurt themselves. Hope this will work itself out.
We are still getting to know each other and getting used to one another. It takes some time. With some greys it takes time for them to come out of their shells. I don't think Toby has a shell to come out of, he's more wysiwyg!!!
Toby is sporting a new collar and has a new leash - royal blue with rainbow interwining celtic chain design. Since he came with a teal harness, I had to find something to kinda match. There is teal in the rainbow chain design.
This is Toby's first day with both of us at work all day. I'm hoping he can handle it. When I came home from church yesterday, he couldn't hardly contain himself with joy and energy, as though I and LH had been gone for weeks. It'll be interesting to see how he is this evening after I've been gone all day.
That's been what's been keeping us busy from the 30th til now into the New Year.
Course, I did spend New Year's Eve making and cooking Island Meatballs and most of New Year's Day in the kitchen baking a ham, cloving it and making the glaze, making scalloped potatoes from scratch, and an apple crisp for dessert. My FIL came for the afternoon and evening and we enjoyed dinner together.
Now, it's back to the pulpit and preparing for Sunday and making visits.
Monday, December 29, 2008
CHRISTMAS AND BEYOND...
We celebrated Christmas Eve with my one service then driving to LH's church for his late 10 pm service. We got home and broke out the bubbly and the brie and crackers. Scrumptious.
Christmas Day was a quiet, restful day. The Zopf I made was great for breakfast. We opened gifts from family and friends. Called my sister. Called his Dad and sisters. Took a nap. Grazed on some goodies. Made Turkey and mushroom pastetli for dinner with green peas.
Friday was grocery shopping morning and a trip to the shopping area to pick up some deals on wrapping paper, etc. I even went to Macy's and found a cashmire sweater on sale.
Found a dog toy for the new grey we'll be picking up tomorrow.
Saturday we drove to resort town on the Lake for Christmas with FIL and SILS. Had an enjoyable visit and dinner at Damon's. Great ribs in the middle of winter.
Sunday we slept in!! I cut down the last of the Siberian Iris leaves and the Russian Sage. It got cold and snowy before I could cut them down. I stripped the thyme, oregano and marjoram and put the leaves in their containers. Laundry was completed, a button resewn on my winter jacket, a sock darned and the hem let down on a pair of pants.
Today we drove up to the City on the North Coast and visited Crate and Barrel where I found a couple things on sale for 2009 Christmas gifts!!! I start early and am done by Oct. Had lunch at an Irish pub and made a stop at Trader Joe's for tasty treats. I finally bought the chocolate granache cake for my upcoming 1/2 century mark birthday in Feb. Got the van washed and ready for tomorrow's road trip to Ft.Wayne, IN to pick up our new Greyhound. We are so excited. We pray that Jett will welcome a new bud and that his spirit will pick up. He gets lonesome all by himself.
Treats are packed, the water bottles - for us and the dogs are in the fridge, chillin'. We are ready to go and anxious to meet this new fellow who will share our couch, hearth and hearts.
Pray that we will have a safe journey and return and that Jett will take to a new buddy and friend.
We celebrated Christmas Eve with my one service then driving to LH's church for his late 10 pm service. We got home and broke out the bubbly and the brie and crackers. Scrumptious.
Christmas Day was a quiet, restful day. The Zopf I made was great for breakfast. We opened gifts from family and friends. Called my sister. Called his Dad and sisters. Took a nap. Grazed on some goodies. Made Turkey and mushroom pastetli for dinner with green peas.
Friday was grocery shopping morning and a trip to the shopping area to pick up some deals on wrapping paper, etc. I even went to Macy's and found a cashmire sweater on sale.
Found a dog toy for the new grey we'll be picking up tomorrow.
Saturday we drove to resort town on the Lake for Christmas with FIL and SILS. Had an enjoyable visit and dinner at Damon's. Great ribs in the middle of winter.
Sunday we slept in!! I cut down the last of the Siberian Iris leaves and the Russian Sage. It got cold and snowy before I could cut them down. I stripped the thyme, oregano and marjoram and put the leaves in their containers. Laundry was completed, a button resewn on my winter jacket, a sock darned and the hem let down on a pair of pants.
Today we drove up to the City on the North Coast and visited Crate and Barrel where I found a couple things on sale for 2009 Christmas gifts!!! I start early and am done by Oct. Had lunch at an Irish pub and made a stop at Trader Joe's for tasty treats. I finally bought the chocolate granache cake for my upcoming 1/2 century mark birthday in Feb. Got the van washed and ready for tomorrow's road trip to Ft.Wayne, IN to pick up our new Greyhound. We are so excited. We pray that Jett will welcome a new bud and that his spirit will pick up. He gets lonesome all by himself.
Treats are packed, the water bottles - for us and the dogs are in the fridge, chillin'. We are ready to go and anxious to meet this new fellow who will share our couch, hearth and hearts.
Pray that we will have a safe journey and return and that Jett will take to a new buddy and friend.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
You Are Gold Lights |
 Your holidays are a time of abundance and riches. Even if you don't have a lot during the rest of the year, this is the time that you splurge a little. Your holidays traditions tend to be a bit old fashioned and dignified. You like old holiday movies, properly wrapped presents, and family recipes passed down over the years. |
A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
Let us go in faith
to ponder in our hearts
the mystery of this moment.
And may life be born within you,
Christ Jesus be seen among you
and joy surround you like the angels' song.
Merry Christmas to you all and the peace of the Christ-child be with you and all the world.
Just in case you're wondering, I put the tinsel on the Christmas last night and it was completely done by 8:30 pm on Dec. 23rd. The latest our tree has ever been finished!!! There are a lot less ornaments and tinsel on it this year. Just ran out of time. But it sure looks lovely even in its simple garb.
Let us go in faith
to ponder in our hearts
the mystery of this moment.
And may life be born within you,
Christ Jesus be seen among you
and joy surround you like the angels' song.
Merry Christmas to you all and the peace of the Christ-child be with you and all the world.
Just in case you're wondering, I put the tinsel on the Christmas last night and it was completely done by 8:30 pm on Dec. 23rd. The latest our tree has ever been finished!!! There are a lot less ornaments and tinsel on it this year. Just ran out of time. But it sure looks lovely even in its simple garb.
Monday, December 22, 2008
QUITE AN ADVENT:
So far during Advent:
*I had a cracked wheel replaced with a new wheel
* LH had a ball joint shear off and had that replaced.
*We had to put Ben, our beloved sweet greyhound down.
*LH was taken to the ER by our EMS for uncontrolled nosebleed.
*LH was taken to the ER by me several hours later that same day for another
uncontrolled nosebleed.
*LH went to the ENT Doc for a cauterization - it seems to be working!!!!
*Our neighbor helped me bring the tree in from the garage and set it in the
tree stand. What a help that was.
*LH was not considered further for a new position.
*We received news that USADOG has a new greyhound for us!!! We pray for good
weather on Dec. 30th when we drive to Ft. Wayne, IN to pick him up. A new grey
to start a New Year!!!
* Attended an Advent event at LH's church
* Attended the Women's Assoc. luncheon
* Hospital and nursing home calls
* Children's Christmas program
* Made M & M, chocolate pretzels for above program
* Bought and bagged gifts for 13 staff people at two churches ( most gifts already
bought earlier in the year - just a couple little things to purchase.)
* Vacuumed the floor, mopped the floor, cleaned toilets, did the laundry.
* Made and baked Amish Friendship Bread - passed along the starter.
I am so ready for Christmas Eve and the week vacation to follow!!! It has been a busy, interesting, worrisome, grieving, rejoicing, tiring, prayerful, grace-filled Advent.
So far during Advent:
*I had a cracked wheel replaced with a new wheel
* LH had a ball joint shear off and had that replaced.
*We had to put Ben, our beloved sweet greyhound down.
*LH was taken to the ER by our EMS for uncontrolled nosebleed.
*LH was taken to the ER by me several hours later that same day for another
uncontrolled nosebleed.
*LH went to the ENT Doc for a cauterization - it seems to be working!!!!
*Our neighbor helped me bring the tree in from the garage and set it in the
tree stand. What a help that was.
*LH was not considered further for a new position.
*We received news that USADOG has a new greyhound for us!!! We pray for good
weather on Dec. 30th when we drive to Ft. Wayne, IN to pick him up. A new grey
to start a New Year!!!
* Attended an Advent event at LH's church
* Attended the Women's Assoc. luncheon
* Hospital and nursing home calls
* Children's Christmas program
* Made M & M, chocolate pretzels for above program
* Bought and bagged gifts for 13 staff people at two churches ( most gifts already
bought earlier in the year - just a couple little things to purchase.)
* Vacuumed the floor, mopped the floor, cleaned toilets, did the laundry.
* Made and baked Amish Friendship Bread - passed along the starter.
I am so ready for Christmas Eve and the week vacation to follow!!! It has been a busy, interesting, worrisome, grieving, rejoicing, tiring, prayerful, grace-filled Advent.
RGBP'S FRIDAY FIVE - COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS:
Very simply, tell us 5 things you need to accomplish before Christmas Eve.
1. Finish decorating the tree with ornaments and tinsel.
2. Find Jett's Christmas present - leather toy from LL Bean buried in the basement.
3. Unearth my tried and true Christmas Eve Benediction.
4. Stop at the grocery store and get Brie (for Christmas Eve midnight champagne
toast)and mushrooms for turkey paestetli (turkey and mushrooms in white cream
sauce poured into pastry shells for Christmas Day dinner, plus bread to break for
Christmas Eve Communion.
5. Put fresh sheets on the bed.
BONUS: Bake a Zopf - traditional Swiss braided bread.
I did put together a brief Reflection for Christmas Eve on Saturday. So that
one is done!!!
Very simply, tell us 5 things you need to accomplish before Christmas Eve.
1. Finish decorating the tree with ornaments and tinsel.
2. Find Jett's Christmas present - leather toy from LL Bean buried in the basement.
3. Unearth my tried and true Christmas Eve Benediction.
4. Stop at the grocery store and get Brie (for Christmas Eve midnight champagne
toast)and mushrooms for turkey paestetli (turkey and mushrooms in white cream
sauce poured into pastry shells for Christmas Day dinner, plus bread to break for
Christmas Eve Communion.
5. Put fresh sheets on the bed.
BONUS: Bake a Zopf - traditional Swiss braided bread.
I did put together a brief Reflection for Christmas Eve on Saturday. So that
one is done!!!
Monday, December 15, 2008
RGBP'S FRIDAY FIVE: WINDOWS OF THE SOUL:
1. What color are your beautiful eyes? Did you inherit them or pass them on to
anyone in your family?
Deep, dark brown that melts into the iris. I inherited my Grandma H's eyes.
Sometimes when I look in the mirror, I can see her looking at me. I'm
very glad to have her eyes - they twinkled and were warm with love.
2. What color eyes would you choose if you could change them?
When I was younger, I wanted green eyes.
3. Do you wear glasses or contacts? What kind? Like 'em or hate 'em?
Glasses - tri-focals for the middle-aged fogey!!!!
I updated them this year with a rectangular frame. Love the
frames. Hate the non-glare lenses that seem much fussier than
regular lenses.
4. Ever had or contemplated laser surgery? Happy with the results?
Nope. Waiting 'til it absolutely has to be done. When I'm an old fogey,
should I be blessed to live that long!!!!
5. Do you like to look people in the eye or are you more eye-shy?
I tend to be more eye-shy, but know that in my profession, I attempt to make
eye contact and work on it. Actually, when administering communion, especially
by intinction when folks come up to receive, I look each one in the eye with
a love that is beyond me - with Christ's love. They are the ones who usually
look away as though they can't bear such grace.
BONUS: Share a poem, song or prayer that relates to eyes or seeing.
"Open my eyes that I may see, glimpses of truth Thou hast for me;
Place in my hands the wonderful key, that shall unclasp and set me
free. Silently now I wait for thee. Ready, my God, thy will to see;
Open my eyes, illumine me, Spirit divine! (Clara Scott)
1. What color are your beautiful eyes? Did you inherit them or pass them on to
anyone in your family?
Deep, dark brown that melts into the iris. I inherited my Grandma H's eyes.
Sometimes when I look in the mirror, I can see her looking at me. I'm
very glad to have her eyes - they twinkled and were warm with love.
2. What color eyes would you choose if you could change them?
When I was younger, I wanted green eyes.
3. Do you wear glasses or contacts? What kind? Like 'em or hate 'em?
Glasses - tri-focals for the middle-aged fogey!!!!
I updated them this year with a rectangular frame. Love the
frames. Hate the non-glare lenses that seem much fussier than
regular lenses.
4. Ever had or contemplated laser surgery? Happy with the results?
Nope. Waiting 'til it absolutely has to be done. When I'm an old fogey,
should I be blessed to live that long!!!!
5. Do you like to look people in the eye or are you more eye-shy?
I tend to be more eye-shy, but know that in my profession, I attempt to make
eye contact and work on it. Actually, when administering communion, especially
by intinction when folks come up to receive, I look each one in the eye with
a love that is beyond me - with Christ's love. They are the ones who usually
look away as though they can't bear such grace.
BONUS: Share a poem, song or prayer that relates to eyes or seeing.
"Open my eyes that I may see, glimpses of truth Thou hast for me;
Place in my hands the wonderful key, that shall unclasp and set me
free. Silently now I wait for thee. Ready, my God, thy will to see;
Open my eyes, illumine me, Spirit divine! (Clara Scott)
EIGHT YEARS AGO TODAY -
a shy, gentle, sweet creature came into our lives. He had funny forward ears, an Elvis sneer ( a mouth tick), and a weepy eye that just needed drying at times. He was a black brindle male with a white chest just 2 1/2 years old with nary a racing record. He was even related to our first greyhound. Ben was the sweetest greyhound ever. He wouldn't hurt a fly, never had a bad thought and didn't ever growl. He only barked at the neighbor man when he yelled at his kids. Ben didn't like yelling especially at young children. Ben like children alot. Ben never asked for much, except to be loved and not yelled at. He never demanded anything, not even your affection. He gentled me - a daily reminder to be more gentle.
Whoever had him, must've yelled at Ben a lot and used swear words - Ben knew every swear word and would make himself scarce whenever he heard them. I think it was because he didn't run or train as they wanted. Perhaps his lip tick came from a hard smack or nerve damage - the same with his weepy eye. I don't know. He glommed onto me and it took him a few years to warm up to LH.
It was only after we had his dew claws removed (after he tore one while running in the backyard)that he discover the pure and utter delight of running for the sheer delight and fun of it. Ben loved to run as play!!!! Oh, how he loved to run just because he could!!!!
On Saturday, December 13th, we walked Ben to Rainbow Bridge and in mercy had him put down. The arthritis in his hips had done him in. His sight, hearing and spirit were still strong, but his arthritic hips betrayed him. Ben had a good soul, you could see it in his eyes and heart.
We grieve a great grief, LH and I. I miss him so much.
So does Jett who is grieving too and all too quiet for the rascal he is.
Our Benny and Jett duo has ended. Only Jett remains physically with us, but Ben, Ben will be in our hearts and memories forever. Dear sweet, gentle Ben...
a shy, gentle, sweet creature came into our lives. He had funny forward ears, an Elvis sneer ( a mouth tick), and a weepy eye that just needed drying at times. He was a black brindle male with a white chest just 2 1/2 years old with nary a racing record. He was even related to our first greyhound. Ben was the sweetest greyhound ever. He wouldn't hurt a fly, never had a bad thought and didn't ever growl. He only barked at the neighbor man when he yelled at his kids. Ben didn't like yelling especially at young children. Ben like children alot. Ben never asked for much, except to be loved and not yelled at. He never demanded anything, not even your affection. He gentled me - a daily reminder to be more gentle.
Whoever had him, must've yelled at Ben a lot and used swear words - Ben knew every swear word and would make himself scarce whenever he heard them. I think it was because he didn't run or train as they wanted. Perhaps his lip tick came from a hard smack or nerve damage - the same with his weepy eye. I don't know. He glommed onto me and it took him a few years to warm up to LH.
It was only after we had his dew claws removed (after he tore one while running in the backyard)that he discover the pure and utter delight of running for the sheer delight and fun of it. Ben loved to run as play!!!! Oh, how he loved to run just because he could!!!!
On Saturday, December 13th, we walked Ben to Rainbow Bridge and in mercy had him put down. The arthritis in his hips had done him in. His sight, hearing and spirit were still strong, but his arthritic hips betrayed him. Ben had a good soul, you could see it in his eyes and heart.
We grieve a great grief, LH and I. I miss him so much.
So does Jett who is grieving too and all too quiet for the rascal he is.
Our Benny and Jett duo has ended. Only Jett remains physically with us, but Ben, Ben will be in our hearts and memories forever. Dear sweet, gentle Ben...
Monday, December 08, 2008
Monday, December 01, 2008
TWO CHOICES:
Friday is our 21st anniversary. Friday is LH's church's chili supper.
I don't like chili. Friday is both our days off.
Celebrate our anniversary with a nice dinner or go to church for chili supper.
No brainer for me. Out for a nice dinner it is.
Hope it doesn't anger the church folks. But, that's just as it is. LH has given
more of himself and time and still they aren't satisfied. This is a church known
to be hard on their pastors. LH has begun to feel it and is looking around.
Out to dinner it is!!!!
Friday is our 21st anniversary. Friday is LH's church's chili supper.
I don't like chili. Friday is both our days off.
Celebrate our anniversary with a nice dinner or go to church for chili supper.
No brainer for me. Out for a nice dinner it is.
Hope it doesn't anger the church folks. But, that's just as it is. LH has given
more of himself and time and still they aren't satisfied. This is a church known
to be hard on their pastors. LH has begun to feel it and is looking around.
Out to dinner it is!!!!
POST-THANKSGIVING SIGH
What a week it was! On Monday evening, whilst my LH was getting an adult beverage out of the garage dorm style fridge, he yells that I should take a look at my tire.
Yikes! The wheel was cracked and an edge sticking out.
6 days earlier, I had slid into the curb on my way down our street. I also slid into the curb the very next morning as the street dept. didn't treat the road. I slid into the curb harder the 2nd time as I was going about 20 mph not thinking that they hadn't treated the street by now. I stopped at the stop sign at the bottom of the slope and made my left turn and parked the van. I got out and looked at the passenger front end and tire and didn't see a thing wrong. While I was looking, another person slid into the curb at the point I did. Seeing nothing wrong, I drove 17 miles to the church office. I drove all over the county making visits. I drove 1/2 hour to Football Hall of Fame city to make a visit and back. I drove to the Presbyterian College Town city 20 minutes in the opposite direction. For 5 days, I had been driving on that cracked wheel - highway at 65+ mph and in town, commuting 34 miles each day. I think all the driving on a cracked wheel caused it fissure more and push that piece outward. I am still giving thanks to God, that it didn't collapse while I was driving and cause anyone harm, including me.
So, that meant on Tuesday morning, a quick 2 minute drive to the dealership with service shop. They don't have wheels in stock. They will have to go pick one up somewhere and can't go til after 11 am. They drive me home while it is snowing, snowing, snowing.
I call our stated clerk and let her know I won't be in the office. Work on my sermon and service and get it all done! Yeehaw! My car is finally done very late afternoon. While I work on sermon, the turkey stock is cooking. I picked up the turkey Monday after work, since the weather report for Tuesday didn't sound good at all. That was a good call to make.
I cooked the rice.
Wednesday was a vacation day for me. I slept in til 8 am, what a luxury! Had my breakfast and coffee. Then received a call, that a parishioner had been in an auto accident the night before and was in ICU. I took care of a few things, changed into
more professional duds, and headed out the door. The roads were now clean as could be even with snow on the lawns. The street dept. had salted and plowed!
Drove down to Football Hall of Fame city and made my visit. Since, I was on vacation and in the region's shopping mecca, thought I'd look for a black sweater. Three stores later, not one in my size! Ok, so what's all this about the bad economy? Not one black sweater (to go with a skirt) in my size.
Got home and began the stuffing, the cheeseball and after dinner the Pumpkin Mousse dessert. Fortune smiled on us, as it was cold enough to keep the stuffing
in the garage. Actually, it's been too cold. We've had Dec/Jan weather for most of the month of November. What happened to some 45 degree days?
Thanksgiving Day found me up before 8, fed and let the dogs out, had breakfast and coffee. Washed the turkey, seasoned the turkey, stuffed the turkey. LH then sewed up Turkey Leaky. (Named because it leaked all over the fridge and I had major cleaning and sanitizing work the day before.)
LH basted Turkey Leaky and checked on it all day. I set the table, cleaned bathrooms, put the plate decorations out, rolled the cheeseball in pecans, put out all the serving plates and silverware. Scrubbed potatoes. Cooked and mashed potatoes, microwaved the sweet potatoes, stuck the rolls in the oven all while the turkey rested. After serving, I cleaned up the table, put stuff away, served coffee and dessert. FIL and 2 SILS left while I was decarcassing the turkey, separating human leftovers from dog leftovers. Washed and dried all the crystal, china, silverware, pots, pans,etc. I finally finished at 9 pm too exhausted and sore to put the china away.
Spent Black Friday, doing the usual Fri. grocery shopping. Then worked on my Christmas letter. Then I spent 2 hours working on the German version of the Christmas letter. (yup, I actually write 2 Christmas letters; 1 english and 1 german) The German takes longer as I cannot remember all the vocabulary and have to look up words. The grammar always needs to be checked about a day later when my mind is clear. Even then, the grammatical errors still slip through, but I believe that most of my relatives grasp what I am trying to say.
Sunday was our First Sunday of Advent service which all went very well. LH's church had an Advent Event from 3 pm- 5 pm which we attended. I wrapped several skinny teddy bears - the service project and frost & sprinkled several left-over cookies also destined for the shut-ins. I made a cranberry/popcorn string for the birds as well as a peanut butter slathered pine cone rolled in birdseed. Since it was raining all night long, those items will go out when it is drier.
Worked up my liturgies for the rest of Advent.
I think it's been quite a week with more ahead. Now, if it would just quit snowing and being so darn cold!!!
What a week it was! On Monday evening, whilst my LH was getting an adult beverage out of the garage dorm style fridge, he yells that I should take a look at my tire.
Yikes! The wheel was cracked and an edge sticking out.
6 days earlier, I had slid into the curb on my way down our street. I also slid into the curb the very next morning as the street dept. didn't treat the road. I slid into the curb harder the 2nd time as I was going about 20 mph not thinking that they hadn't treated the street by now. I stopped at the stop sign at the bottom of the slope and made my left turn and parked the van. I got out and looked at the passenger front end and tire and didn't see a thing wrong. While I was looking, another person slid into the curb at the point I did. Seeing nothing wrong, I drove 17 miles to the church office. I drove all over the county making visits. I drove 1/2 hour to Football Hall of Fame city to make a visit and back. I drove to the Presbyterian College Town city 20 minutes in the opposite direction. For 5 days, I had been driving on that cracked wheel - highway at 65+ mph and in town, commuting 34 miles each day. I think all the driving on a cracked wheel caused it fissure more and push that piece outward. I am still giving thanks to God, that it didn't collapse while I was driving and cause anyone harm, including me.
So, that meant on Tuesday morning, a quick 2 minute drive to the dealership with service shop. They don't have wheels in stock. They will have to go pick one up somewhere and can't go til after 11 am. They drive me home while it is snowing, snowing, snowing.
I call our stated clerk and let her know I won't be in the office. Work on my sermon and service and get it all done! Yeehaw! My car is finally done very late afternoon. While I work on sermon, the turkey stock is cooking. I picked up the turkey Monday after work, since the weather report for Tuesday didn't sound good at all. That was a good call to make.
I cooked the rice.
Wednesday was a vacation day for me. I slept in til 8 am, what a luxury! Had my breakfast and coffee. Then received a call, that a parishioner had been in an auto accident the night before and was in ICU. I took care of a few things, changed into
more professional duds, and headed out the door. The roads were now clean as could be even with snow on the lawns. The street dept. had salted and plowed!
Drove down to Football Hall of Fame city and made my visit. Since, I was on vacation and in the region's shopping mecca, thought I'd look for a black sweater. Three stores later, not one in my size! Ok, so what's all this about the bad economy? Not one black sweater (to go with a skirt) in my size.
Got home and began the stuffing, the cheeseball and after dinner the Pumpkin Mousse dessert. Fortune smiled on us, as it was cold enough to keep the stuffing
in the garage. Actually, it's been too cold. We've had Dec/Jan weather for most of the month of November. What happened to some 45 degree days?
Thanksgiving Day found me up before 8, fed and let the dogs out, had breakfast and coffee. Washed the turkey, seasoned the turkey, stuffed the turkey. LH then sewed up Turkey Leaky. (Named because it leaked all over the fridge and I had major cleaning and sanitizing work the day before.)
LH basted Turkey Leaky and checked on it all day. I set the table, cleaned bathrooms, put the plate decorations out, rolled the cheeseball in pecans, put out all the serving plates and silverware. Scrubbed potatoes. Cooked and mashed potatoes, microwaved the sweet potatoes, stuck the rolls in the oven all while the turkey rested. After serving, I cleaned up the table, put stuff away, served coffee and dessert. FIL and 2 SILS left while I was decarcassing the turkey, separating human leftovers from dog leftovers. Washed and dried all the crystal, china, silverware, pots, pans,etc. I finally finished at 9 pm too exhausted and sore to put the china away.
Spent Black Friday, doing the usual Fri. grocery shopping. Then worked on my Christmas letter. Then I spent 2 hours working on the German version of the Christmas letter. (yup, I actually write 2 Christmas letters; 1 english and 1 german) The German takes longer as I cannot remember all the vocabulary and have to look up words. The grammar always needs to be checked about a day later when my mind is clear. Even then, the grammatical errors still slip through, but I believe that most of my relatives grasp what I am trying to say.
Sunday was our First Sunday of Advent service which all went very well. LH's church had an Advent Event from 3 pm- 5 pm which we attended. I wrapped several skinny teddy bears - the service project and frost & sprinkled several left-over cookies also destined for the shut-ins. I made a cranberry/popcorn string for the birds as well as a peanut butter slathered pine cone rolled in birdseed. Since it was raining all night long, those items will go out when it is drier.
Worked up my liturgies for the rest of Advent.
I think it's been quite a week with more ahead. Now, if it would just quit snowing and being so darn cold!!!
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