Well, we're kinda back on line. The phone guy punched in some numbers in some places and got us on the internet and my laptop. But, it's still not quite right, because the smartphone doesn't pick it up nor my Kindle, even after entering the password for the wi-fi/modem. I am completely flummoxed and totally aggravated! Enough already! I was told by tech support to call the phone manufacturer and after being on the phone with them for awhile and trying a couple things, I was to be transferred to advanced tech support only to get cut off. By then it was late afternoon and I had had enough. I never called them back.
When I wanted to download a book on my Kindle, lo and behold, after entering the password, it didn't work either.
I was fuming.
We are going to change our provider. I am NOT going through this again.
And I'm too untechie to know what to do.
So, I guess this being back on line will come in drips and dribbles. By Easter, it should flow to overflowing!!!! At least, I hope.
Friday, March 28, 2014
Monday, March 24, 2014
RGBP'S FRIDAY FIVE - TRIPS!
For today’s Friday Five, tell about five different trips you have made in your life due to different reasons, modes of travel, or whatever category you choose!
Since I couldn't play Friday - being off-line and all, I'll take a shot at it today!
There have been so many trips, it's a bit hard to narrow them down.
1. 1965 our first trip to Switzerland as a family to visit all our relatives - grandmas, aunts, uncles,
cousins. We were there about 4 weeks and I remember all the visits to relatives, which when you
are young are not all that interesting. We traveled around some, hiked and had fun just living with
my Grandma and step-grandpa. They hung a swing - wood board with heavy rope in the doorway
of their shed for us. The attic was wonderfully huge and empty. I never did make it to the origin
of the canton's river source as I was too scared of the falling, rushing, frothing water and the
wooden walkway that lined the rocky dark canyoned walls. My step-grandfather stayed back
with me. Guess that's where my fear of high bridges over water comes from!!!
2. Summer camping trips all over the US to national parks and historic sites. Yellowstone was
one of my favorite places - chock full of a variety of natural wonders. Yosemite and Sequoia
were also great as were the Smoky Mountains. We would go to the evening ranger programs
and also Sunday morning worships services in the great outdoors. We would hike, and see
the beauty of creation and its wonders all around us and of course, all kinds of flora and fauna.
It was a great way to spend time together as a family and to see so much of America.
3. When I asked LH what he wanted for his 50th birthday and he answered Scotland! So, we
went and had a marvelous time walking all over Edinburgh, the drive to Oban, our time
on Iona and the week in Ayr seeing Culean Castle, Robbie Burns' cottage, Hadrian's Wall.
And of course, Lock Lomond, and Lock Ness with its elusive Nessie! What a wonderful
time we had together, even when the hotel in Oban never received our reservations and
we ended up at another older hotel that was actually in walking distance of the downtown.
It all worked out well.
4. The fast plane trip to Florida when on a fateful Friday night my Dad called in tears saying
my Mom was dying. I booked a flight for the next morning, I called the Stated Clerk of the
church I had just begun serving as an interim and made countless phone calls through the
pulpit supply list til I reached the very last one who was able to cover for me that Sunday.
I got to Florida at 10 am Saturday morning and my sister got in from Chicago just an
hour later. Mom was lucid and still mobile and thrilled to see us both. She died on Friday
and we had the week with her and Dad, taking turns with care giving. It was a hallowed
time of much grace amid the great sadness and sorrow. I was thankful that I could be there,
that we all were there with Mom when she died.
5. Our very long trip to South Africa to visit a long time friend, whose Dad and my Dad
worked together in Africa - Ghana back in the 1940's. She grew up in Africa and I
grew up in the States. Over the many years, both families exchanged Christmas cards.
When I was in high school, she wrote a letter in the summer. I wrote her back and
we have written each other ever since and she made the occasional phone call from her
job. We have since gone to email and Facebook. We had never met and I longed to
meet her. She's such a stitch! And, we survived the 23 hour flight to Jo'burg! And
had the most wonderful adventure to meet her and her husband, to stay with them, to
tour Jo'burg, Pretoria, Cape Town and go on Safari. It was more meaningful because
I knew my Dad had been in Africa - ok - a totally different country, but nevertheless,
we touched the same continent and it was the most amazing experience, especially
worshipping with an indigenous Presbyterian church for two hours and sharing
holy communion with sisters and brothers in the faith who live such a very different
life on a continent a half a world away.
I have been greatly blessed and fortunate to have travelled all over the world and the US for a whole variety of reasons and each place and time has left its imprint on my life.
Since I couldn't play Friday - being off-line and all, I'll take a shot at it today!
There have been so many trips, it's a bit hard to narrow them down.
1. 1965 our first trip to Switzerland as a family to visit all our relatives - grandmas, aunts, uncles,
cousins. We were there about 4 weeks and I remember all the visits to relatives, which when you
are young are not all that interesting. We traveled around some, hiked and had fun just living with
my Grandma and step-grandpa. They hung a swing - wood board with heavy rope in the doorway
of their shed for us. The attic was wonderfully huge and empty. I never did make it to the origin
of the canton's river source as I was too scared of the falling, rushing, frothing water and the
wooden walkway that lined the rocky dark canyoned walls. My step-grandfather stayed back
with me. Guess that's where my fear of high bridges over water comes from!!!
2. Summer camping trips all over the US to national parks and historic sites. Yellowstone was
one of my favorite places - chock full of a variety of natural wonders. Yosemite and Sequoia
were also great as were the Smoky Mountains. We would go to the evening ranger programs
and also Sunday morning worships services in the great outdoors. We would hike, and see
the beauty of creation and its wonders all around us and of course, all kinds of flora and fauna.
It was a great way to spend time together as a family and to see so much of America.
3. When I asked LH what he wanted for his 50th birthday and he answered Scotland! So, we
went and had a marvelous time walking all over Edinburgh, the drive to Oban, our time
on Iona and the week in Ayr seeing Culean Castle, Robbie Burns' cottage, Hadrian's Wall.
And of course, Lock Lomond, and Lock Ness with its elusive Nessie! What a wonderful
time we had together, even when the hotel in Oban never received our reservations and
we ended up at another older hotel that was actually in walking distance of the downtown.
It all worked out well.
4. The fast plane trip to Florida when on a fateful Friday night my Dad called in tears saying
my Mom was dying. I booked a flight for the next morning, I called the Stated Clerk of the
church I had just begun serving as an interim and made countless phone calls through the
pulpit supply list til I reached the very last one who was able to cover for me that Sunday.
I got to Florida at 10 am Saturday morning and my sister got in from Chicago just an
hour later. Mom was lucid and still mobile and thrilled to see us both. She died on Friday
and we had the week with her and Dad, taking turns with care giving. It was a hallowed
time of much grace amid the great sadness and sorrow. I was thankful that I could be there,
that we all were there with Mom when she died.
5. Our very long trip to South Africa to visit a long time friend, whose Dad and my Dad
worked together in Africa - Ghana back in the 1940's. She grew up in Africa and I
grew up in the States. Over the many years, both families exchanged Christmas cards.
When I was in high school, she wrote a letter in the summer. I wrote her back and
we have written each other ever since and she made the occasional phone call from her
job. We have since gone to email and Facebook. We had never met and I longed to
meet her. She's such a stitch! And, we survived the 23 hour flight to Jo'burg! And
had the most wonderful adventure to meet her and her husband, to stay with them, to
tour Jo'burg, Pretoria, Cape Town and go on Safari. It was more meaningful because
I knew my Dad had been in Africa - ok - a totally different country, but nevertheless,
we touched the same continent and it was the most amazing experience, especially
worshipping with an indigenous Presbyterian church for two hours and sharing
holy communion with sisters and brothers in the faith who live such a very different
life on a continent a half a world away.
I have been greatly blessed and fortunate to have travelled all over the world and the US for a whole variety of reasons and each place and time has left its imprint on my life.
Sunday, March 23, 2014
STILL FASTING
I am still fasting from being on-line. On Thursday, the phone person will return and look at the phone jack. One would think when he was out 2 weeks ago, he'd have had the presence of mind that when he got a signal outside but not inside, one would check the wires?
It will be going on three weeks this week and this is the third weekend.
Ok, I'll be honest and admit I do miss checking Facebook, and playing my solitaire game, but I wasn't wasting that much time on it - or at least I think I wasn't.
The most frustrating thing about this imposed Lenten fast, is feeling hamstrung in taking care of some work at home and not being to send and receive emails - especially when serving a church part time. That is simply the absolute worst. No email. During Lent. With extra services. And needing to get a hold of people. Or submit worship service information. Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaghhhhhhhhhhhhh!
Enough. Enough already. I repent. I confess my wasting time on Facebook and Solitaire. Restore the signal within and without our house! Create a new and clean fresh start. Cast us no more away from the signal we need to be connected and on-line. Have mercy on us!!!
Will know more on Thursday, which is the soonest the phone repair person will be out. And of course, it will cost us. Sigh. Simply frustrating.
Will be in touch when I can and when I'm done fuming.
It will be going on three weeks this week and this is the third weekend.
Ok, I'll be honest and admit I do miss checking Facebook, and playing my solitaire game, but I wasn't wasting that much time on it - or at least I think I wasn't.
The most frustrating thing about this imposed Lenten fast, is feeling hamstrung in taking care of some work at home and not being to send and receive emails - especially when serving a church part time. That is simply the absolute worst. No email. During Lent. With extra services. And needing to get a hold of people. Or submit worship service information. Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaghhhhhhhhhhhhh!
Enough. Enough already. I repent. I confess my wasting time on Facebook and Solitaire. Restore the signal within and without our house! Create a new and clean fresh start. Cast us no more away from the signal we need to be connected and on-line. Have mercy on us!!!
Will know more on Thursday, which is the soonest the phone repair person will be out. And of course, it will cost us. Sigh. Simply frustrating.
Will be in touch when I can and when I'm done fuming.
Monday, March 17, 2014
LENTEN FAST
This is not the fast I choose! This fast from being on-line. The new modem arrived and appears to work all right. We just don't get a signal from the internet provider. Even the guy from the telephone company on his own laptop couldn't receive but a very faint signal or none at all. Everything else is in good working order - computer, telephone line, etc.
I hope to hear something on Tuesday.
In the meanwhile, it is severely hampering responding to email and sending email. My newsletter article was a day late in being submitted. I took the laptop to the church on Sunday and sent it in and checked my email.
I am starting to get cranky about all this! I can be patient but it is wearing extremely thin these days.
Perhaps, I have to pray about getting back on -line. I'm sure God has bigger and more important things to deal with, but it certainly couldn't hurt and maybe, I'll be given more patience.
I hope to hear something on Tuesday.
In the meanwhile, it is severely hampering responding to email and sending email. My newsletter article was a day late in being submitted. I took the laptop to the church on Sunday and sent it in and checked my email.
I am starting to get cranky about all this! I can be patient but it is wearing extremely thin these days.
Perhaps, I have to pray about getting back on -line. I'm sure God has bigger and more important things to deal with, but it certainly couldn't hurt and maybe, I'll be given more patience.
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
MYSTERY SOLVED
After a whole long week, the mystery has been solved. Our modem isn't working properly. Thankfully a new one is on its way and with good grace it 'll be here by Friday. If not, it will be 5 days. That would mean nearly two weeks off-line. What a ---. I can't say the colorful words I would like to.
I just hope the new modem comes soon and is in good working order.
In the midst of yet another snowstorm with a midweek Lenten service this evening. I figure I might not get home til 11 pm. Well, as long as I get home safe and sound that's really all that matters.
If I get to the church where the service is and they have cancelled, I'll be madder than a hornet!!!
Being Lutheran, I'm sure they will stoically have the service regardless of the weather!!!
I just hope the new modem comes soon and is in good working order.
In the midst of yet another snowstorm with a midweek Lenten service this evening. I figure I might not get home til 11 pm. Well, as long as I get home safe and sound that's really all that matters.
If I get to the church where the service is and they have cancelled, I'll be madder than a hornet!!!
Being Lutheran, I'm sure they will stoically have the service regardless of the weather!!!
Monday, March 10, 2014
IN EXILE
I have been in exile for days now as we have a problem with our internet at home.
6 days of no internet. at all. Everything we tried and with tech support up to this point has not worked. I think it may be the modem. All else appears to be working. And all of it is way beyond my simple understanding.
I have to catch up on my email at the church.
It appears my voice this Lent is being silenced in this, hopefully, very temporary exile. It certainly is exasperating and frustrating. Perhaps, I am being pointed to working on things that don't depend on the internet. But has impacted some of my leisure activity.
So, if I remain silent for a time - it is about getting on-line. I pray it will be fixed before too long.
6 days of no internet. at all. Everything we tried and with tech support up to this point has not worked. I think it may be the modem. All else appears to be working. And all of it is way beyond my simple understanding.
I have to catch up on my email at the church.
It appears my voice this Lent is being silenced in this, hopefully, very temporary exile. It certainly is exasperating and frustrating. Perhaps, I am being pointed to working on things that don't depend on the internet. But has impacted some of my leisure activity.
So, if I remain silent for a time - it is about getting on-line. I pray it will be fixed before too long.
Thursday, February 27, 2014
READY FOR LENT
More or less.
With the brutal winter we have had, my trusty old van sits in the garage caked and encrusted with salt. It is so frigidly cold that it cannot be washed. My vehicle is not the only one out on the road looking like this - whitewashed non-descript color.
Which has me thinking, that as ready as my van is for a wash, so am I ready for Lent. Over and through the year, we get caked in our sin, encrusted by the hurt or wounds we've endured, lost the luster of our first love - the Lord our God, or been slowly eaten by our anger, frustrations, and disappointments. We've covered ourselves up with rationalizations for doing what we do, for what we have said, for the good we've neglected to do.
And into this season, steps in Lent.
We come before God, we bring ourselves to God, and we rend out hearts, our spirits - cracking the caked on mess of the past year, splintering the crustiness that encases us, and in genuine honesty confess all. With contrite heart and spirit we come, weeping, lamenting, mourning, fasting, and lay it all before the Lord our God, knowing God can be trusted, for God is slow to anger, abounds in steadfast, ever-enduring love, God is gracious and merciful, full of compassion, and refrains from dispensing deserving punishment. We need this time. We need to come wholly before God. We need to repent from all that has kept us far from God. We need to bring our caked, encrusted selves to God and find the healing, the forgiveness, the new life, that comes from none other.
And when we do, we are washed in the cleansing grace that is the Lord. And we are whole and complete. Forgiven, graced, renewed, and looking more like God has envisioned us, as we were created to be.
I am so ready. Ready for Lent. To begin. And to be much more than my wintery self and soul.
With the brutal winter we have had, my trusty old van sits in the garage caked and encrusted with salt. It is so frigidly cold that it cannot be washed. My vehicle is not the only one out on the road looking like this - whitewashed non-descript color.
Which has me thinking, that as ready as my van is for a wash, so am I ready for Lent. Over and through the year, we get caked in our sin, encrusted by the hurt or wounds we've endured, lost the luster of our first love - the Lord our God, or been slowly eaten by our anger, frustrations, and disappointments. We've covered ourselves up with rationalizations for doing what we do, for what we have said, for the good we've neglected to do.
And into this season, steps in Lent.
We come before God, we bring ourselves to God, and we rend out hearts, our spirits - cracking the caked on mess of the past year, splintering the crustiness that encases us, and in genuine honesty confess all. With contrite heart and spirit we come, weeping, lamenting, mourning, fasting, and lay it all before the Lord our God, knowing God can be trusted, for God is slow to anger, abounds in steadfast, ever-enduring love, God is gracious and merciful, full of compassion, and refrains from dispensing deserving punishment. We need this time. We need to come wholly before God. We need to repent from all that has kept us far from God. We need to bring our caked, encrusted selves to God and find the healing, the forgiveness, the new life, that comes from none other.
And when we do, we are washed in the cleansing grace that is the Lord. And we are whole and complete. Forgiven, graced, renewed, and looking more like God has envisioned us, as we were created to be.
I am so ready. Ready for Lent. To begin. And to be much more than my wintery self and soul.
Friday, February 21, 2014
RGBP'S FRIDAY FIVE - FAVORITE THINGS
The invitation comes to us from RGBP:
Just getting back from four days of silence, I am suddenly thrust back into the world. Wrestling with choices and seeing elderly decline in others, I am flummoxed about a Friday Five–so think of a favorite off the top of your head for:
1. food
Does chocolate count as a food? If so, then it's chocolate. Otherwise, I don't know where to
begin! I love spinach and all kinds of food. Hard to have absolute favorites.
2. drink
Believe it or not, plain, ice cold H2O!!! That is my favorite drink of all. If this is regarding
adult beverages - probably wine, or a gin & tonic.
3. animal
Dogs! But I do enjoy and marvel at all manner of animals - moose, giraffes, koala bears, etc.
4. color
That would be sage green. Just love it and it calms me.
5. time of day
Evening when I'm home with LH and my greyt boys!!!!
Bonus: Any favorite you haven’t mentioned above that you want to bring up!
Favorite TV Show - The Big Bang Theory
Thank goodness it's on so often so I can almost see it every day!!! Never fails to amuse me.
Thursday, February 20, 2014
A SNOWY BIRTHDAY
Yes, it was a very snowy birthday this year! More than was forecast.
I had hoped to spend the day out and about. But, when I woke up, all was covered in over 5 inches of snow on top of what we've already had. I was going nowhere.
So, I did what I said I was not going to do on my birthday. I cleaned house. One of my least favorite things to do on my birthday. Oh well, at least by late afternoon, I could enjoy the benefits of my labor.
The day got better after a call from my cousin across the pond. Although, she had some not so good news to report. But called to wish me happy birthday. That was sweet of her.
After I finished cleaning and was preparing to finally get to the bank and post office - for by now LH had blown out the driveway, sidewalks, shoveled the apron after the snowplows came through - the phone rang again! This time my niece calling all the way from Ethiopia!!! Just made my entire day. I haven't talked to her since Thanksgiving although I email her ordinary news from here every week. I can't wait to see her again - hopefully April, after Easter.
I did manage to go to the Post Office, the bank, the gas station. And shortly afterwards, LH took me to dinner.
When we returned there was a slice of triple chocolate cake for each of us. And it was creamy, moist and oh, so delectable!!! There were even candles on the cake.
Hard to believe that I am so middle-aged. Most days I don't feel that old. Other days, I feel 80!
It came awfully quick. I remember my parents at this age. I remember my aunts and uncles at this age. I don't feel as old as they. Perhaps, because I never had children. There is still a youngish child in me. Children age you. In more ways than one. But I don't have that yardstick to measure my age by - how old your children are and are getting. I can only measure by my niece and nephew and somehow it isn't quite the same.
There is still much I'd like to accomplish and yet I know I won't get to it all. I will content myself with doing what I can in this time of life - where it takes me longer to get things done and the energy doesn't always last as long.
In the meanwhile, I'm off to spend my day out and about - delayed from Tuesday. I have a couple coupons for my birthday and will see if I find something to redeem them on. If not, it's just good to out and look around. Eye candy, if you will. And pick up a couple of things for others.
Thanks be to God, I am still here. Thanks be to God, I have had another birthday to celebrate, if only quietly. Thanks be to God, for the adventure of the year before me!
I had hoped to spend the day out and about. But, when I woke up, all was covered in over 5 inches of snow on top of what we've already had. I was going nowhere.
So, I did what I said I was not going to do on my birthday. I cleaned house. One of my least favorite things to do on my birthday. Oh well, at least by late afternoon, I could enjoy the benefits of my labor.
The day got better after a call from my cousin across the pond. Although, she had some not so good news to report. But called to wish me happy birthday. That was sweet of her.
After I finished cleaning and was preparing to finally get to the bank and post office - for by now LH had blown out the driveway, sidewalks, shoveled the apron after the snowplows came through - the phone rang again! This time my niece calling all the way from Ethiopia!!! Just made my entire day. I haven't talked to her since Thanksgiving although I email her ordinary news from here every week. I can't wait to see her again - hopefully April, after Easter.
I did manage to go to the Post Office, the bank, the gas station. And shortly afterwards, LH took me to dinner.
When we returned there was a slice of triple chocolate cake for each of us. And it was creamy, moist and oh, so delectable!!! There were even candles on the cake.
Hard to believe that I am so middle-aged. Most days I don't feel that old. Other days, I feel 80!
It came awfully quick. I remember my parents at this age. I remember my aunts and uncles at this age. I don't feel as old as they. Perhaps, because I never had children. There is still a youngish child in me. Children age you. In more ways than one. But I don't have that yardstick to measure my age by - how old your children are and are getting. I can only measure by my niece and nephew and somehow it isn't quite the same.
There is still much I'd like to accomplish and yet I know I won't get to it all. I will content myself with doing what I can in this time of life - where it takes me longer to get things done and the energy doesn't always last as long.
In the meanwhile, I'm off to spend my day out and about - delayed from Tuesday. I have a couple coupons for my birthday and will see if I find something to redeem them on. If not, it's just good to out and look around. Eye candy, if you will. And pick up a couple of things for others.
Thanks be to God, I am still here. Thanks be to God, I have had another birthday to celebrate, if only quietly. Thanks be to God, for the adventure of the year before me!
Friday, February 07, 2014
RGBP'S FRIDAY FIVE: SPRING IS READY TO BE SPRUNG!
With Spring just 5 weeks away,
1) What do you anticipate with the coming of spring?
Oh, I hate to say it - a very busy Lent/Holy Week/Easter season.
On the fun side - gardening, putting in the herbs and tomatoes, planting red geraniums
on the front porch flower boxes. The crocuses that will bloom and how, one by one,
everything comes to bloom!
2) Is there anything you will miss about winter?
At this juncture with the frigid cold and snow, nothing really!
3) Is there an occasion on the horizon to which you’re looking forward?
A baby shower for my nephew and wife - I'll be a great Auntie!!!
4) Do you have a favorite spring memory?
Swinging from the swing set as high as I could with the cherry tree in full bloom and fresh
clean laundry hanging from the clothesline outsides. Don't know why this image pops up.
Perhaps, the blossoming cherry tree, perhaps warm enough to be outside, perhaps, the
freedom and carefreeness of swinging and only 5 or 6 years old, perhaps, the fun of
seeing the clothes flapping in the breeze with the sun shining. It was a beautiful day.
5) Do you have a favorite spring flower/bloom, and if so, what makes it special to you?
I really like several. Purple crocuses - because they are the first to bloom here adding
a rich purple and orange color.
Daffodils - for the sunshiny yellow.
Hyacinths - for their pink and purple color
Grape hyacinth - for their daintiness and purple hue
Peonies - their thick, gorgeous colorful blooms
1) What do you anticipate with the coming of spring?
Oh, I hate to say it - a very busy Lent/Holy Week/Easter season.
On the fun side - gardening, putting in the herbs and tomatoes, planting red geraniums
on the front porch flower boxes. The crocuses that will bloom and how, one by one,
everything comes to bloom!
2) Is there anything you will miss about winter?
At this juncture with the frigid cold and snow, nothing really!
3) Is there an occasion on the horizon to which you’re looking forward?
A baby shower for my nephew and wife - I'll be a great Auntie!!!
4) Do you have a favorite spring memory?
Swinging from the swing set as high as I could with the cherry tree in full bloom and fresh
clean laundry hanging from the clothesline outsides. Don't know why this image pops up.
Perhaps, the blossoming cherry tree, perhaps warm enough to be outside, perhaps, the
freedom and carefreeness of swinging and only 5 or 6 years old, perhaps, the fun of
seeing the clothes flapping in the breeze with the sun shining. It was a beautiful day.
5) Do you have a favorite spring flower/bloom, and if so, what makes it special to you?
I really like several. Purple crocuses - because they are the first to bloom here adding
a rich purple and orange color.
Daffodils - for the sunshiny yellow.
Hyacinths - for their pink and purple color
Grape hyacinth - for their daintiness and purple hue
Peonies - their thick, gorgeous colorful blooms
Monday, February 03, 2014
The Advent of Lent
Already it is a new month, and just about 6 weeks of winter left - although, we are to get a good snow event tomorrow night and Wednesday morning. Not looking forward to a challenging commute.
Lent is getting close and I still have to plan out a Taize service which the church I am serving is hosting, and come up with a preaching scripture for a different Wednesday evening in Lent when I have to preach at a different church - the topic:
Why We Stand at the Cross.
Yes, very general for 4 different preachers to deal with - the lucky one is the preacher who is to "preach" at the Taize service, in which there is no preaching, just silence.
I haven't a clue really what scripture to ponder and where in the world I will go with this.
I'm thinking it's going to be a really short sermon!!!!!
I need more time to mull, to ponder this and I know I have to submit my scripture as a check that we are not all choosing the same scripture. However, no one can vouchsafe that we may not hit on the same reasons or themes. Ughh, I hate when things are this general and not more specific. Must be the J in me. Maybe its the Presbyterian I am in the midst of Lutherans!
So, this week I'll be mulling and pondering, discerning and contemplating and most of all, praying for insight and direction. May God's Spirit be at work in me, outside of me, and all around this week.
Lent is getting close and I still have to plan out a Taize service which the church I am serving is hosting, and come up with a preaching scripture for a different Wednesday evening in Lent when I have to preach at a different church - the topic:
Why We Stand at the Cross.
Yes, very general for 4 different preachers to deal with - the lucky one is the preacher who is to "preach" at the Taize service, in which there is no preaching, just silence.
I haven't a clue really what scripture to ponder and where in the world I will go with this.
I'm thinking it's going to be a really short sermon!!!!!
I need more time to mull, to ponder this and I know I have to submit my scripture as a check that we are not all choosing the same scripture. However, no one can vouchsafe that we may not hit on the same reasons or themes. Ughh, I hate when things are this general and not more specific. Must be the J in me. Maybe its the Presbyterian I am in the midst of Lutherans!
So, this week I'll be mulling and pondering, discerning and contemplating and most of all, praying for insight and direction. May God's Spirit be at work in me, outside of me, and all around this week.
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Brrrrrrrr
It. is. just. too. cold. Frigidly cold.
On this cold, frost bitten Ohio winter day,
I stayed inside.
Although the sun shone today it was deceptive.
I missed its warmth though I adored its light.
Never in my memory has it been this polar cold.
I am thankful for the sun that spread its light
though not its warmth.
Perhaps, soon, as the days continue to lengthen
and in the few weeks to follow,
the sun will bring its warmth
and thaw us,
melt us,
awaken us to new life.
On this cold, frost bitten Ohio winter day,
I stayed inside.
Although the sun shone today it was deceptive.
I missed its warmth though I adored its light.
Never in my memory has it been this polar cold.
I am thankful for the sun that spread its light
though not its warmth.
Perhaps, soon, as the days continue to lengthen
and in the few weeks to follow,
the sun will bring its warmth
and thaw us,
melt us,
awaken us to new life.
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
MAKING PROGRESS
The retreat is basically done. I worked all day yesterday on the presentation aspect of it. The handouts are completed, and the worship liturgies just need some clip art.
I will pull out my Judy Wink oil lamp which I haven't used in a few years. The wick has dropped down and I will have to hook it up. I have some extra oil. So it is all coming together.
It's like a weight has been lifted off of me and I can work on a couple of baby projects.
My nephew's wife is pregnant and due in June, meaning I will be a great aunt. That sounds really old!!! Even older than grand parent! There will be a baby shower after Easter and so I do need to tackle these projects. Finally, something non-work related to have fun with!!!
It was just 2 degrees this morning when I left and 4 degrees when I arrived at church. I think we were down to -6 degrees last night. It is bitterly, frigidly cold. On the plus side, we don't have much snow at all, about 3/4 inch. Maybe Lake Erie will really freeze over and we won't be getting any lake effect snow.
My van moaned and groaned a bit yesterday evening on our way out to dinner. I know, we picked a cold night to have dinner out! But after it warmed up, Mystic, was fine again. She didn't groan this morning at all. I can't say as I blame her, at her age with her mileage. I groan a bit too, leaving my warm bed these recent mornings.
I have pulled out my turtlenecks and warm sweaters and cardigans. Sure am getting use out of my two new pairs of wool blend pants and my corduroys!!!
I even have a faux fur hat that I probably will wear to walk from the hospital garage, across the street and up the slope to the hospital today. I don't think the patient/parishioner will care about my hat hair. It looks better than a knit hat, especially for graveside services when it is really cold.
I suppose it will now be time to focus on Lent as it appears that I will still be here. From season to season life flows, but for now a bit of breathing space.
I will pull out my Judy Wink oil lamp which I haven't used in a few years. The wick has dropped down and I will have to hook it up. I have some extra oil. So it is all coming together.
It's like a weight has been lifted off of me and I can work on a couple of baby projects.
My nephew's wife is pregnant and due in June, meaning I will be a great aunt. That sounds really old!!! Even older than grand parent! There will be a baby shower after Easter and so I do need to tackle these projects. Finally, something non-work related to have fun with!!!
It was just 2 degrees this morning when I left and 4 degrees when I arrived at church. I think we were down to -6 degrees last night. It is bitterly, frigidly cold. On the plus side, we don't have much snow at all, about 3/4 inch. Maybe Lake Erie will really freeze over and we won't be getting any lake effect snow.
My van moaned and groaned a bit yesterday evening on our way out to dinner. I know, we picked a cold night to have dinner out! But after it warmed up, Mystic, was fine again. She didn't groan this morning at all. I can't say as I blame her, at her age with her mileage. I groan a bit too, leaving my warm bed these recent mornings.
I have pulled out my turtlenecks and warm sweaters and cardigans. Sure am getting use out of my two new pairs of wool blend pants and my corduroys!!!
I even have a faux fur hat that I probably will wear to walk from the hospital garage, across the street and up the slope to the hospital today. I don't think the patient/parishioner will care about my hat hair. It looks better than a knit hat, especially for graveside services when it is really cold.
I suppose it will now be time to focus on Lent as it appears that I will still be here. From season to season life flows, but for now a bit of breathing space.
Monday, January 13, 2014
CHECK IN
Yay! The Sabbath Sachets are done! Some of the handouts for the retreat are done. The retreat itself is still in bits and pieces. I have this weekend and next Tuesday to get it all done.
It's funny about time, as I continue to ponder it, that today, when I had planned to make two visits - one I had scheduled, the other I was just going to go to the nursing home - I still made two visits, but not the same nursing home. Ahh, God had other plans for me to visit today!
The scheduled home visit went longer than planned and I didn't have the time to give to the first nursing home. So, on my way to the first nursing home, I honored time and went to the other nursing home here in town. I had promised the parishioner last week that I would stop in sometime and bring the star gift words so she could choose one. And so, that is where I ended up. And she was feeling a bit discouraged with her progress and on Friday will have s "simple" procedure done, which I had forgotten about. Thankfully, God has a way working things out and I had prayer with her about the procedure on Friday and we had a good talk.
I will get to the other nursing home on Wednesday! That is, if God isn't against it!!!!
It's funny about time, as I continue to ponder it, that today, when I had planned to make two visits - one I had scheduled, the other I was just going to go to the nursing home - I still made two visits, but not the same nursing home. Ahh, God had other plans for me to visit today!
The scheduled home visit went longer than planned and I didn't have the time to give to the first nursing home. So, on my way to the first nursing home, I honored time and went to the other nursing home here in town. I had promised the parishioner last week that I would stop in sometime and bring the star gift words so she could choose one. And so, that is where I ended up. And she was feeling a bit discouraged with her progress and on Friday will have s "simple" procedure done, which I had forgotten about. Thankfully, God has a way working things out and I had prayer with her about the procedure on Friday and we had a good talk.
I will get to the other nursing home on Wednesday! That is, if God isn't against it!!!!
Tuesday, January 07, 2014
NEW YEAR
Ahh, a new year, all fresh, clean, unsullied. Makes you just want to dive right in!!!
Of course, as I wrote the end of the year - my January is really full. Chock full of things to be done and prepared and tended to.
I found it interesting that my star gift word this year is - TIME. Simple. Yet, not so simple.
It is about spending time with God, more time. It is about the stewardship of time. Using time wisely. I am pretty good about time management. I have been less attentive in my prayer and Sabbath time. Obviously, I am hearing a call to that in this word.
Interesting that this is my word for the year as I am working on a retreat on Keeping Sabbath for the church women at the end of the month. Keeping Sabbath is also related to time. Check out Bonnie Thurston's - To Everything a Season.
Interesting that I spent last week/weekend reading a 600+ page novel which I haven't done in a while. A novel that has nothing to do with church or spiritually related things. And I sunk myself into it, and enjoyed it immensely and I had to just keep reading and finish it. Therefore, some things didn't get done that weekend. But they have since gotten done.
Interesting that yesterday was so icy I didn't make it in to church but worked instead from home. No, visits couldn't be made, but I did plan out Epiphany season! And started on the Sabbath Sachets. It was time well-used and well-spent.
So, this year, I will be spending it with Time. Making time, spending time, using time, honoring time, giving time, receiving time, cherishing time and being open to time. Perhaps, being patient with time? I am not the most patient person at times. There will be all manner of lessons with time that await me this year.
Thankfully, part of my check list of things to be done, has been completed. Other items are still in process - the Sabbath sachets still need to be filled and the ends hand-stitched shut.
It will all get done - in its time. Mostly, I believe that I simply am called to honor time in this new year.
Of course, as I wrote the end of the year - my January is really full. Chock full of things to be done and prepared and tended to.
I found it interesting that my star gift word this year is - TIME. Simple. Yet, not so simple.
It is about spending time with God, more time. It is about the stewardship of time. Using time wisely. I am pretty good about time management. I have been less attentive in my prayer and Sabbath time. Obviously, I am hearing a call to that in this word.
Interesting that this is my word for the year as I am working on a retreat on Keeping Sabbath for the church women at the end of the month. Keeping Sabbath is also related to time. Check out Bonnie Thurston's - To Everything a Season.
Interesting that I spent last week/weekend reading a 600+ page novel which I haven't done in a while. A novel that has nothing to do with church or spiritually related things. And I sunk myself into it, and enjoyed it immensely and I had to just keep reading and finish it. Therefore, some things didn't get done that weekend. But they have since gotten done.
Interesting that yesterday was so icy I didn't make it in to church but worked instead from home. No, visits couldn't be made, but I did plan out Epiphany season! And started on the Sabbath Sachets. It was time well-used and well-spent.
So, this year, I will be spending it with Time. Making time, spending time, using time, honoring time, giving time, receiving time, cherishing time and being open to time. Perhaps, being patient with time? I am not the most patient person at times. There will be all manner of lessons with time that await me this year.
Thankfully, part of my check list of things to be done, has been completed. Other items are still in process - the Sabbath sachets still need to be filled and the ends hand-stitched shut.
It will all get done - in its time. Mostly, I believe that I simply am called to honor time in this new year.
Monday, December 30, 2013
END OF THE YEAR
Here it is, Dec. 30th and I am beset with a whole list of things to be done and attended to.
I am working on my annual report.
I need to make some extra star gift words to give out this Sunday as we celebrate Epiphany - a word to guide each person for the year, or to challenge them. They will choose a paper star with a word on it, but without seeing the word and trusting the Holy Spirit has helped them to choose it and will help them to live into it in the new year.
Then, I have to plan out services for Epiphany season and get it to the part-time secretary.
Work on the sermon for Sunday.
Work on the Sabbath Sachets.
Work on putting the retreat together for the end of January.
Package and wrap the baby shower gifts for our choir director for Sunday, Jan. 12 when the church
will hold a brunch and shower following worship.
Go over my Sunday School lesson on Daniel for Sunday, in case, there are enough folks here for
Sunday School.
Think about a newsletter article for February due January 15th.
Work on the Annual Statistical Report for the denomination.
Think about what I might do for the mid-week Lenten services, if I am still here.
January hasn't even begun and for me it is already full and nearly gone! How can this be?!!?
Sigh.
I hope that I may take a breath, pause and honor the new year about to begin.
I am working on my annual report.
I need to make some extra star gift words to give out this Sunday as we celebrate Epiphany - a word to guide each person for the year, or to challenge them. They will choose a paper star with a word on it, but without seeing the word and trusting the Holy Spirit has helped them to choose it and will help them to live into it in the new year.
Then, I have to plan out services for Epiphany season and get it to the part-time secretary.
Work on the sermon for Sunday.
Work on the Sabbath Sachets.
Work on putting the retreat together for the end of January.
Package and wrap the baby shower gifts for our choir director for Sunday, Jan. 12 when the church
will hold a brunch and shower following worship.
Go over my Sunday School lesson on Daniel for Sunday, in case, there are enough folks here for
Sunday School.
Think about a newsletter article for February due January 15th.
Work on the Annual Statistical Report for the denomination.
Think about what I might do for the mid-week Lenten services, if I am still here.
January hasn't even begun and for me it is already full and nearly gone! How can this be?!!?
Sigh.
I hope that I may take a breath, pause and honor the new year about to begin.
Friday, December 27, 2013
AFTER CHRISTMAS GLOW
It was a hectic Christmas Eve Day - getting up early to tend to the greys and get the bread dough made. Rushed it was that morning. Setting the bread dough in the dining room to rise for a couple hours, while I did dishes, did some last minute preparations for the services that evening. Then it was braiding the bread and putting it in the garage to chill for 45 minutes before sticking it in the oven for an hour.
At that point, it was lunch time, and going over my reflections for the services that evening. The bread done, I pulled it out of the oven and savored the wonderful smell of fresh baked bread.
It was time to change, to put my stuff in a bag, and to put on some make-up, which took a few minutes longer than I thought. I rushed out the door, to the gas station to fill up and there was a line inside, guys buying beer and all manner of stuff that could've waited. I was somewhat peeved at the wait, which stemmed from pulling into the gas station, seeing a pump free and just beginning to turn into it when a young whippersnapper pulled in from the opposite direction and I had to park at the pump further away, on a very bitter cold day, while wearing a skirt with hose, and not long pants. Sign. Let it go.
Pumped and paid for the gas and I was on my way. An hour commute, but traffic was not as heavy as I had anticipated.
Passed the turn-off to the church and drove directly to the hospital and pulled into the garage and found a space not too far from the garage exit and braved the cold walk over the hospital.
Made the visit to a parishioner spending the holiday in the hospital with pneumonia. She was more alert, in good spirits, and very talkative. After a breathing treatment, we had communion - hard to be away from family at Christmas, and her church family, and she needed to receive the gift of new born love that day too. Just as we finished communion, the doctor came in and after listening to her chest said it sound much better, but she'd be in for a couple more days. After the doctor left, I had to leave also, watching the time.
I got back into town and drove to Panera since I had a gift card and warmed up to a cup of broccoli cheddar soup and 1/2 a sandwich. Had to eat around 5 pm since everything closes up at 6 pm Christmas Eve.
Got to the church and the parking lot was icy. I threw some ice around but it was just going to melt and refreeze. Checked the phone for messages, turned on lights, put my stuff where it needed to be for the services. Folks started to arrive and more help with putting down ice melt - which we really went through.
The first service went well and ended well. I had about 15 minutes between services to use the rest room and take 10 to just sit down and chill and regroup.
The second service also went well with the choir and the candlelighting. After greeting folks as they left, it was turn off everything and make sure all was locked up. I had to collect my stuff and use the rest room - after all it is an hour commute.
Left at nearly 10:45 pm and thankfully, though dark, there was little traffic. Just had to keep watch for deer. Got home at nearly midnight, where LH had beaten me home by a couple hours from his service. The brie was at room temperature and the champagne chilled. I was ready for a little something before hitting the sack and falling into deep sleep.
Fortunately, our Christmas Day is always quiet with just us two, and the boys. A few phone calls to family, unwrapping gifts, and by afternoon, I was down for the count with a nap.
Made an easy dinner of asparagus and pastry shells filled with turkey and mushrooms on white cream sauce. I just forgot to thaw the turkey stock needed. Thank goodness for microwaves!!!
Sadly, my bread left much to be desired. In my haste, I left out the salt and that makes all the difference between a great tasting bread and something so bland and lifeless. What a disappointment!
I will make another tomorrow - this time with salt!!!
The day after Christmas I cleaned house. LH helped by vacuuming downstairs, with the result that I finished early and made a quick trip to an Alpaca farm to pick up some Christmas gifts for next year. The farm is only open in December and we have to have our packages in the mail early. So, it was best to pick up what I needed now and sock it (pun intended) away until next year. I did manage to pick up some ribbon and bows at the box store for next year.
All in all, it was a good Christmas. I just seemed to feel more tired this year than in years past. Of course, I'm older now than then as well.
Basking in the glow of a blessed Advent and Christmas, of feeling very graced, of the wonderful people who grace my life and being gifted with a love so wondrous that brings life anew, fresh hope, and a peace that comes softly and settles in right within you.
Now it's on to getting ready for the New Year and making more star gift words to hand out on Epiphany Sunday.
I also have to sew some Sabbath Sachets for a women's retreat. Well, and put the retreat together!
It will be a busy January it seems, as well!!!
God will bring me through it.
In the meanwhile, blessings to you as the old year ends - be thankful, give over the bad things, the disappointments, the hurts, and open your heart and spirit to the adventure of a New Year, and all that God longs to fill you with.
At that point, it was lunch time, and going over my reflections for the services that evening. The bread done, I pulled it out of the oven and savored the wonderful smell of fresh baked bread.
It was time to change, to put my stuff in a bag, and to put on some make-up, which took a few minutes longer than I thought. I rushed out the door, to the gas station to fill up and there was a line inside, guys buying beer and all manner of stuff that could've waited. I was somewhat peeved at the wait, which stemmed from pulling into the gas station, seeing a pump free and just beginning to turn into it when a young whippersnapper pulled in from the opposite direction and I had to park at the pump further away, on a very bitter cold day, while wearing a skirt with hose, and not long pants. Sign. Let it go.
Pumped and paid for the gas and I was on my way. An hour commute, but traffic was not as heavy as I had anticipated.
Passed the turn-off to the church and drove directly to the hospital and pulled into the garage and found a space not too far from the garage exit and braved the cold walk over the hospital.
Made the visit to a parishioner spending the holiday in the hospital with pneumonia. She was more alert, in good spirits, and very talkative. After a breathing treatment, we had communion - hard to be away from family at Christmas, and her church family, and she needed to receive the gift of new born love that day too. Just as we finished communion, the doctor came in and after listening to her chest said it sound much better, but she'd be in for a couple more days. After the doctor left, I had to leave also, watching the time.
I got back into town and drove to Panera since I had a gift card and warmed up to a cup of broccoli cheddar soup and 1/2 a sandwich. Had to eat around 5 pm since everything closes up at 6 pm Christmas Eve.
Got to the church and the parking lot was icy. I threw some ice around but it was just going to melt and refreeze. Checked the phone for messages, turned on lights, put my stuff where it needed to be for the services. Folks started to arrive and more help with putting down ice melt - which we really went through.
The first service went well and ended well. I had about 15 minutes between services to use the rest room and take 10 to just sit down and chill and regroup.
The second service also went well with the choir and the candlelighting. After greeting folks as they left, it was turn off everything and make sure all was locked up. I had to collect my stuff and use the rest room - after all it is an hour commute.
Left at nearly 10:45 pm and thankfully, though dark, there was little traffic. Just had to keep watch for deer. Got home at nearly midnight, where LH had beaten me home by a couple hours from his service. The brie was at room temperature and the champagne chilled. I was ready for a little something before hitting the sack and falling into deep sleep.
Fortunately, our Christmas Day is always quiet with just us two, and the boys. A few phone calls to family, unwrapping gifts, and by afternoon, I was down for the count with a nap.
Made an easy dinner of asparagus and pastry shells filled with turkey and mushrooms on white cream sauce. I just forgot to thaw the turkey stock needed. Thank goodness for microwaves!!!
Sadly, my bread left much to be desired. In my haste, I left out the salt and that makes all the difference between a great tasting bread and something so bland and lifeless. What a disappointment!
I will make another tomorrow - this time with salt!!!
The day after Christmas I cleaned house. LH helped by vacuuming downstairs, with the result that I finished early and made a quick trip to an Alpaca farm to pick up some Christmas gifts for next year. The farm is only open in December and we have to have our packages in the mail early. So, it was best to pick up what I needed now and sock it (pun intended) away until next year. I did manage to pick up some ribbon and bows at the box store for next year.
All in all, it was a good Christmas. I just seemed to feel more tired this year than in years past. Of course, I'm older now than then as well.
Basking in the glow of a blessed Advent and Christmas, of feeling very graced, of the wonderful people who grace my life and being gifted with a love so wondrous that brings life anew, fresh hope, and a peace that comes softly and settles in right within you.
Now it's on to getting ready for the New Year and making more star gift words to hand out on Epiphany Sunday.
I also have to sew some Sabbath Sachets for a women's retreat. Well, and put the retreat together!
It will be a busy January it seems, as well!!!
God will bring me through it.
In the meanwhile, blessings to you as the old year ends - be thankful, give over the bad things, the disappointments, the hurts, and open your heart and spirit to the adventure of a New Year, and all that God longs to fill you with.
Friday, December 20, 2013
ADVENT INTO CHRISTMAS
Ahhh...the time is close. I just finished wrapping the last of the gifts. Well, nearly. There's one last gift left to come, on Christmas Eve Day according to LLBean. Seems LH saw the catalogue lying about and took a hankering after some "Wicked Good Slippers" and off I ordered them while dinner was baking! So, it looks like I have one gift to wrap on Christmas morning while LH is showering.
The mantel is decorated with our Nativity set and the stockings are hung, although nothing ever gets put in them.
I got the Boys some special holiday cookies, since the treats they like best are from China and I will not buy them any more, until, unless, I can be assured that they will not adversely affect my Greys.
I still have to write the staff Christmas cards and put them in their gift bags.
This afternoon, I got my TJ's candle evergreen wreath out of the garage where it has been chilling, at times with a little added snow to keep it as fresh as possible. It now graces our kitchen table with a white candle that smells of balsam and snow; wintery and Christmasy.
That was the last of the decorating left to do.
No cookies were baked, nor was a tree bought, put up and decorated. Really don't have the time for it, especially with the mid-week Advent potlucks and services. How did I do it when I was working full-time? But with just the two of us, and with the two dog beds taking up space, and not having to worry about one of the greys thinking, "Hey! An indoor potty!", it just doesn't need to happen.
I have my Christmas Eve services together. I just have to go over my reflections sprinkled throughout the Christmas Story and the singing of hymns - pretty much a version of Lessons and Carols. It is very hard to preach on Christmas Eve. God's story says it all and the music expresses it all. Hard to improve on any of it. Yet, hopefully, my reflections will give folks something to ponder and treasure in their hearts, will impart the hope we need for our lives, inspire peace to come and manger in our souls, and share a love so great, so wondrous that it would creep in beside us.
I still have a bread to bake on Christmas Eve morning and some mushrooms to purchase on Monday for our Christmas Day dinner - pastaetli - pastry shell filled with turkey and mushrooms in a white cream sauce, along with asparagus. Simple. Wonderfully delicious. Elegant.
So, I am more of cinnamon this year and less of panic. I even went so far as to go to the local department store today where I purchased some new Christmas placemats, and Target for New Year's day paper plates and napkins. Thankfully, neither store was stuffed with people, nor were the lines long. I have avoided the shopping mecca of this area all of Advent. Traffic is always a gridlock there.
I did get to Macy's and had to park further away than normal, but it was worth getting a pair of dark grey cords that are simply sumptuously velvety soft and so comfortable and warm and they fit without having to be taken in at the waist. I just had to shorten them a bit.
I do like to see what's happening - hear the Christmas music play, see the decorations, and people looking for gifts. Since I shop during the year, finding things that family members will like, use, need, or simply enjoy, I can leisurely wander around a store stress-free at this time of year.
I have Christmas music for my van and will add a couple CD's to play in the next few days. That way I can hear my favorite versions and not Beyoncé's "All I want for Christmas is You" and "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree", etc. that just get looped around on the radio every hour.
I am ready for Christmas. My heart is open, my spirit has room. All is prepared or is as prepared as it can be. I am ready to celebrate. I am ready for the quiet of a Silent Night and the warm glow of candles as the Prince of Peace comes and imparts his love and grace, mystery and hope.
The mantel is decorated with our Nativity set and the stockings are hung, although nothing ever gets put in them.
I got the Boys some special holiday cookies, since the treats they like best are from China and I will not buy them any more, until, unless, I can be assured that they will not adversely affect my Greys.
I still have to write the staff Christmas cards and put them in their gift bags.
This afternoon, I got my TJ's candle evergreen wreath out of the garage where it has been chilling, at times with a little added snow to keep it as fresh as possible. It now graces our kitchen table with a white candle that smells of balsam and snow; wintery and Christmasy.
That was the last of the decorating left to do.
No cookies were baked, nor was a tree bought, put up and decorated. Really don't have the time for it, especially with the mid-week Advent potlucks and services. How did I do it when I was working full-time? But with just the two of us, and with the two dog beds taking up space, and not having to worry about one of the greys thinking, "Hey! An indoor potty!", it just doesn't need to happen.
I have my Christmas Eve services together. I just have to go over my reflections sprinkled throughout the Christmas Story and the singing of hymns - pretty much a version of Lessons and Carols. It is very hard to preach on Christmas Eve. God's story says it all and the music expresses it all. Hard to improve on any of it. Yet, hopefully, my reflections will give folks something to ponder and treasure in their hearts, will impart the hope we need for our lives, inspire peace to come and manger in our souls, and share a love so great, so wondrous that it would creep in beside us.
I still have a bread to bake on Christmas Eve morning and some mushrooms to purchase on Monday for our Christmas Day dinner - pastaetli - pastry shell filled with turkey and mushrooms in a white cream sauce, along with asparagus. Simple. Wonderfully delicious. Elegant.
So, I am more of cinnamon this year and less of panic. I even went so far as to go to the local department store today where I purchased some new Christmas placemats, and Target for New Year's day paper plates and napkins. Thankfully, neither store was stuffed with people, nor were the lines long. I have avoided the shopping mecca of this area all of Advent. Traffic is always a gridlock there.
I did get to Macy's and had to park further away than normal, but it was worth getting a pair of dark grey cords that are simply sumptuously velvety soft and so comfortable and warm and they fit without having to be taken in at the waist. I just had to shorten them a bit.
I do like to see what's happening - hear the Christmas music play, see the decorations, and people looking for gifts. Since I shop during the year, finding things that family members will like, use, need, or simply enjoy, I can leisurely wander around a store stress-free at this time of year.
I have Christmas music for my van and will add a couple CD's to play in the next few days. That way I can hear my favorite versions and not Beyoncé's "All I want for Christmas is You" and "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree", etc. that just get looped around on the radio every hour.
I am ready for Christmas. My heart is open, my spirit has room. All is prepared or is as prepared as it can be. I am ready to celebrate. I am ready for the quiet of a Silent Night and the warm glow of candles as the Prince of Peace comes and imparts his love and grace, mystery and hope.
Saturday, December 14, 2013
BROKEN
It was an accidental breaking. LH was going to give the dogs their 10 pm cookies, and Jazz, ever skittish over the tiled floor was hampered by the plastic tote alongside the couch, that contained the Nativity set for over the mantel, and ran over to Renoir's bed where Renoir still was. Renoir shot out past my potted plant, his hip hitting the earthenware pot sitting on top a wicker stool and down crashed the pot, breaking off the saucer rim and spilling some dirt on the kitchen floor.
It was a lovely pot, beige and brown, unglazed with a connected infinity design around it. I've had that pot for years. So long, that I can't even remember where I got it. It just blended with the beige neutral palette we have here. It survived the move from the City on the North Coast to here. It simply sat there adding some greenery to our dinette. It housed a palm that I've had for more years than I can remember, part of a philodendron which keeps making leaves, and an avocado plant which I grew from an avocado pit and then planted.
Since I can't water the plants with part of bottom saucer missing, I had to go find a new pot. Well, I knew I would never find such a lovely pot again, not here in this part of the state, and certainly not in December where everything is poinsettias and little Norfolk pines.
On a snowy morning, with the roads good when I left, I made the quick jaunt to Lowe's, which had nothing. A pot but no matching saucer and either a dark brown plastic saucer that was way, way too big, or little terra cotta ones that didn't quite match. So it was on to Home Depot, and thankfully, they had a glazed sage green pot with viney leaves motif baked into the pot. It'll have to do. The color goes with our palette, but it is not near as nice as one I had. The roads on the way home were getting very snow coated and slippery.
I was so angry last night, pulling out the vacuum cleaner hose to vacuum up the dirt. The dogs knew I was spewing volcanic angry heat that they were so careless.
I have to grieve the loss of this pot. It hurts. It's been a part of our lives for a very long time. I have to let it go. It is, after all, just a pot. The plants weren't harmed. The dogs were ok. The porcelain tile undamaged. It is not a huge loss, but a loss, nevertheless. I will never find another one like it.
So, in the midst of a busy Advent - gifts were wrapped and sent, Christmas cards and letters, signed, stamped and mailed, LH's gifts wrapped but not be-ribboned, the Nativity scene set up, but stockings not yet hung, I have to repot the plants.
Since the pot is pretty big and ceramic, I had to dig out a tarp I had to repot on the kitchen floor. Don't think I could carry the pot, full of dirt and plants, up the garage steps. It would be too heavy.
I hope to get to the stockings today, as well as go over my Sunday School lesson and the sermon and service for tomorrow.
I hope my plants survive the transplanting. I will set the pot on the floor and put the wicker stool away, so it won't be jostled or tip over. Beside the pot is too heavy for the wicker stool.
I hope nothing else breaks in this short Advent time - excepting for the in-breaking of God's love, peace, grace, hope and joy into our lives, into the world.
It was a lovely pot, beige and brown, unglazed with a connected infinity design around it. I've had that pot for years. So long, that I can't even remember where I got it. It just blended with the beige neutral palette we have here. It survived the move from the City on the North Coast to here. It simply sat there adding some greenery to our dinette. It housed a palm that I've had for more years than I can remember, part of a philodendron which keeps making leaves, and an avocado plant which I grew from an avocado pit and then planted.
Since I can't water the plants with part of bottom saucer missing, I had to go find a new pot. Well, I knew I would never find such a lovely pot again, not here in this part of the state, and certainly not in December where everything is poinsettias and little Norfolk pines.
On a snowy morning, with the roads good when I left, I made the quick jaunt to Lowe's, which had nothing. A pot but no matching saucer and either a dark brown plastic saucer that was way, way too big, or little terra cotta ones that didn't quite match. So it was on to Home Depot, and thankfully, they had a glazed sage green pot with viney leaves motif baked into the pot. It'll have to do. The color goes with our palette, but it is not near as nice as one I had. The roads on the way home were getting very snow coated and slippery.
I was so angry last night, pulling out the vacuum cleaner hose to vacuum up the dirt. The dogs knew I was spewing volcanic angry heat that they were so careless.
I have to grieve the loss of this pot. It hurts. It's been a part of our lives for a very long time. I have to let it go. It is, after all, just a pot. The plants weren't harmed. The dogs were ok. The porcelain tile undamaged. It is not a huge loss, but a loss, nevertheless. I will never find another one like it.
So, in the midst of a busy Advent - gifts were wrapped and sent, Christmas cards and letters, signed, stamped and mailed, LH's gifts wrapped but not be-ribboned, the Nativity scene set up, but stockings not yet hung, I have to repot the plants.
Since the pot is pretty big and ceramic, I had to dig out a tarp I had to repot on the kitchen floor. Don't think I could carry the pot, full of dirt and plants, up the garage steps. It would be too heavy.
I hope to get to the stockings today, as well as go over my Sunday School lesson and the sermon and service for tomorrow.
I hope my plants survive the transplanting. I will set the pot on the floor and put the wicker stool away, so it won't be jostled or tip over. Beside the pot is too heavy for the wicker stool.
I hope nothing else breaks in this short Advent time - excepting for the in-breaking of God's love, peace, grace, hope and joy into our lives, into the world.
Monday, December 02, 2013
ADVENT BEGINS
It is sad to say that I am beginning Advent already tired. And Advent just began!
Perhaps it was all the preparation for Thanksgiving, the funeral, the arrival of my sister and BIL, and SILS. The busy Friday and slow Saturday morning, but then the laundering of the bedding and towels, and the Thanksgiving tablecloth and putting all of it away, and starting to address Christmas card envelopes and working on the German Christmas letter.
And here came Advent - and I simply wasn't quite there yet. Oh, I had the sermon, service, and the diaper pins wrapped in a cloth diaper all ready. I, myself, wasn't quite ready. But I will be this week.
It will go by too quickly and I hope I will be prepared, ready, and awake the closer Christmas comes. But today, I am just tired.
I light a candle for all those who are weary and bleary-eyed this Advent season.
Perhaps it was all the preparation for Thanksgiving, the funeral, the arrival of my sister and BIL, and SILS. The busy Friday and slow Saturday morning, but then the laundering of the bedding and towels, and the Thanksgiving tablecloth and putting all of it away, and starting to address Christmas card envelopes and working on the German Christmas letter.
And here came Advent - and I simply wasn't quite there yet. Oh, I had the sermon, service, and the diaper pins wrapped in a cloth diaper all ready. I, myself, wasn't quite ready. But I will be this week.
It will go by too quickly and I hope I will be prepared, ready, and awake the closer Christmas comes. But today, I am just tired.
I light a candle for all those who are weary and bleary-eyed this Advent season.
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