Our World

Our new pastor

2009-06-28T15:36:00.000-07:00

Some great news...this just in. We now have a new pastor set to begin his service with us in September.

The journey to this came about very slowly. But the process was very well done. We like to think that we had something to do with that. We met individually with each member of the search committee and emphasized the importance of keeping the whole congregation informed along the path of choosing a pastor. We also tried to get the idea acrossed that this pastor needed to be chosen by all the people.

The search committee did an excellent job of vetting our new pastor. They also did an excellent job of involving the congregation. Our new pastor was approved by a 93% vote. He also mentioned in his acceptance note that he felt good about how we went about the job of selecting a pastor.

Our new pastor is a down-to-earth guy...very people oriented. He feels that scripture is important and enjoys study. Another interesting aspect is his use of drama to help make his sermon point.

So we look forward to a good experience at church in the future.

Spring cleaning

2009-03-28T06:23:00.000-07:00

she said

You may have noticed, if you are reading our blog that is, that we haven't been posting much lately. That is due to a lack of internet use at our home computer. So check back each week for a while...we still may be able to post on occassion...as well as "He" has internet use daily Monday - Friday (though "He" doesn't post often.)

We are in the process of moving and whether we have home internet connections in the future is uncertain at this time.

Each previous year we like to pretend that we are moving when we do our spring cleaning. It's a good practice because it forces us to make some decisions about all our "stuff." Now this year is the real thing...not a practice run. So moving is going to take some time...and thankfully we have no dead lines to meet as of yet.

We are also in the process of updating our "money pit" and that will also take time (as well as money!).

So remember us in your prayers...this can also be a stressful time.

Three Score Birthday

2009-03-15T14:01:00.000-07:00

He said:

I turned 60 years old today!!

What an amazing thing.

Actually I celebrated my birthday yesterday with some of my family gathering around me. I enjoyed the time together very much. Family meaning, my better half, two of my siblings and their spouses and my oldest son and his wife and their two children also known as my grandchildren. We celebrated with my favorite German chocolate cake and icing. After visiting and enjoying each others company for several hours we went to the local Dutch type restaurant and their my wife and I were treated to supper. We then had some more visiting back at our house.

I received a number of birthday cards. The one birthday card that I received was full of information that took place the year I was born. For example, the VW car was first sold in the USA in that year with a whopping total of 2 for the whole year! When I was born my life expectancy was 62.9 years! Now by doing a bit of math, 62.9 - 60 = 2.9 years..... Hummmmmmmm... More interesting facts. Gasoline was 17 cents per gallon. Bread was 14 cents a loaf and postage was 3 cents. Ronald Reagan (yes our former President) starred in a movie called "The Girls From Jones Beach" but I can say I am sure I haven't seen it. I should check the library web site to see if it is available.

Another gift I received was an interesting book about farm machinery during the early years of mechanization.

One more gift that is yet to be realized is the one my spouse gave me. Knowing that I like trains she gave me a train trip. It could be one that the area train club gives several times through out the non winter months. These are day trips of usually several counties away with time to visit tourist attractions at the destination. Another option would be a trip to PA to visit family. This would involve traveling to Pittsburg by car to access a train with a decent time schedule and traveling east. If I choose this trip we would like to travel in the fall to see the trees when they are the most colorful.

As I turn 60 years old, I pause to reflect that my Lord has been good to me and the realization of the blessings He has sent my way. Yet also realizing that I don't in any way deserve or have earned the blessings. But understanding that God in his infinite wisdom, some how and for some reason has blessed me and my family. I have been learning about trust too as I get older. I fully understand there is no guarantee of tomorrow and that my life is only sustained by the Lord's will because my life is entirely in His hands.

God bless you.

Only one life

2009-03-08T13:30:00.000-07:00

Two little lines I heard one day,Traveling along life's busy way;
Bringing conviction to my heart, And from my mind would not depart;
Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

Only one life, yes only one, Soon will its fleeting hours be done;
Then, in 'that day' my Lord to meet, And stand before His Judgement seat;
Only one life,'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

Only one life, the still small voice, Gently pleads for a better choice
Bidding me selfish aims to leave, And to God's holy will to cleave;
Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

Only one life, a few brief years, Each with its burdens, hopes, and fears;
Each with its clays I must fulfill, living for self or in His will;
Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

When this bright world would tempt me sore, When Satan would a victory score;
When self would seek to have its way, Then help me Lord with joy to say;
Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

Give me Father, a purpose deep, In joy or sorrow Thy word to keep;
Faithful and true what e'er the strife, Pleasing Thee in my daily life;
Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

Oh let my love with fervor burn, And from the world now let me turn;
Living for Thee, and Thee alone, Bringing Thee pleasure on Thy throne;
Only one life, "twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

Only one life, yes only one, Now let me say,"Thy will be done";
And when at last I'll hear the call, I know I'll say "twas worth it all";
Only one life,'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

Author Unknown

March madness

2009-03-07T15:06:00.000-08:00

She Said:

Last evening, while we were quietly reading, a rumble of thunder disturbed us. This is the first week of March and yet, with temperatures in the 60s and 70s, we are experiencing unusual weather. Along with the thunder came a downpour. So today when we made a tour of our gardens for the the first time this year, the ground was very squishy. A few daffodils are poking up. The forsythia is looking softer, getting ready for bloom. Some iris are greening up. Even at this early stage, before spring is on the calendar, there is evidence of the end of winter.

Of course by next week we will probably be digging ourselves out of a snow storm. But this springlike weather is sure welcome while it's here.

Spring Bible Memory Psalm 100

2009-03-01T13:06:00.001-08:00

WE ARE HIS

She said:

For our spring quarter we will be learning Psalm 100 as Bible memory. We are using the NRSV. Each week I will say the psalm along with the student up to that week's new verse or partial verse. Perhaps this will help them learn the whole psalm by the end of this quarter. Each one that recites receives a lamb sticker and a treat. When the whole psalm is recited on their own by a child, a reward will be given. Or we may just all recite the psalm in a Sunday morning service. Our bible memory recitation takes place between the bells after Sunday school. We have a warning bell and then five minutes later the final bell. To let the children know that I am ready to listen I have a couple of stuffed lambs that make a sound like a lamb baahing. The children enjoy squeezing these while helping to distribute the stickers and treats. Plans are to have a visit from a real lamb before the quarter is over. Part of their reward will be one of the stuffed lambs.

Why I like jigsaw puzzles

2009-02-15T16:53:00.000-08:00

She said:

I really like putting together jigsaw puzzles. But only certain kinds. I really dislike the kind that have very little differences in the pieces. And I dislike the kind that have too much of the same color within the picture. The kind I like best have something on each piece that gives a clue as to where it belongs in the puzzle. That way it is like solving a mini mystery in finding where each piece should go. Now these pieces shouldn't give away there clues too easily. They need to be somewhat of a challenge. Each puzzle seems to have its own pattern of discovery. Sometimes the color is the key and other times the shape is helpful. But when the color and shape work together giving clues of placement, that is the best and most fun. At times pieces just seem to fall into place. And then other times a certain piece must be left to the very end...nothing seems to fit and then suddenly you find it. For a winter past time there is nothing better than to piece a jigsaw puzzle!

Finally some good news

2009-02-07T18:05:00.000-08:00

This snow is almost gone!

She said:

I had some really good news today. Just received a copy of my latest blood testing results. My cholesterol is finally within normal ranges. I have been on a cholesterol lowering drug for three months now and I also have been trying to follow a low fat diet. For the past six weeks I have also tried to eliminate animal fats and sugar from my diet. That has helped to get my triglycerides down to almost normal range. On top of that I have been on a brisk walking program, mostly 4 miles a day. So I think I will continue doing what I am doing because it seems to be working well.

One thing that is puzzling us is that I haven't lost any weight. I could stand to lose about 50 pounds and not miss it! So perhaps I will need to do something else to get those scales to go down. About the only thing left to do is cut my portions more. I try not to take seconds and I try to stop when I feel full. But I think I will need to restrict my portions to see any headway in weight loss. Hubby just can't understand why I am not loosing weight, especially with all my activity.

ACL vs. BCL

2009-02-07T12:00:00.000-08:00

He Said,

It occurred to me the other day that my desk top (BCL) was so cluttered and how much of a battle it was to process all the papers that come through the mail. Papers waiting to be processed include from church. Then there are all the related questions that have to be answered in response to all the papers. Hard copies for taxes are fairly easy to handle by just putting them in the correct paper file. But here is an example of decisions about papers that needs to be made. How long do you keep the church bulletins? One month? 3 months? a year? Where do you store auto repair receipts? How long? If you decide to keep them, then the question becomes where to store them? If you have a good filing system, that does help but files get fat after a while too and then the drawers get full and then what do you do?

(ACL) Being persons that depends daily on a computer, why not put the computer to use. To help win that battle we purchased a scanner. The ultimate answer as to where to store all these papers. Just create an electronic file and scan the paper, save in to the file, shred and then trash the shredded papers and presto you now have everything reduced to bites (x's and o's). These are stored some where down there in bowels of our computer where computer chips lodge and the mysterious mother board performs her mysterious duties.

Now if there is a file that you want to have quick access to, we place a "short cut" on the desk top. (Desk top now meaning a vertical flat surface when you point to your wishes and click) The short cut means you can access that file directly with out opening your documents to find it.) Well the short of this whole thought is that now our "desk top" is full and cluttered which we have been tiring to avoid all along by keeping the desk top (the horizontal flat surface) cleaned up. So what we basically have accomplished is moving the clutter form one "desk top" to another "desk top."

Oh, yes BCL stands for "Before computer lives." Yes desk top actually refers to a flat surface on our computer desk. Now for those of you who can't hardly remember life with out computers there is another acronym. ACL That is "After computer lives." You see desk top has taken on a whole new meaning.

I guess it is time to clean up the desk top, yes both of them!

The Note

2009-02-05T15:38:00.000-08:00

She said (and He agrees):

This is a feel good movie that won't offend. The acting is good. The story is interesting. The best part is the special feature, a conversation with the author of the novel from which this DVD was made, Angela Hunt.

She said:

I thought that the first kissing scene was not authentic. The main character was in a flashback to a very traumatic time when this scene took place. It seemed inappropriate for the character. I wish they had waited to develop this relationship until after some of these problems were resolved. But even with this, the DVD is highly recommended by us both.

Food-Faith-Family-Fellowship (4F)

2009-01-31T16:30:00.000-08:00

Let is snow, let it snow, let it snow!

She said:

Again this year our church is having what is called "Food-Faith-Family-Fellowship" (4F) nights each Wednesday evening. Our frigid snowy weather is wreaking havoc with our plans. Two weeks ago it was very iffy with schools closed and other activities canceled due to the weather. The meeting was still on, but we chose not to go because of the weather. Then this past week we actually canceled the evening due again to snow.

Every Wednesday for six weeks we have a fellowship meal and offer meetings/classes. This year our choices were:

The conscience consumer, learning how to be more aware of our buying and it's effect on the world.

Pick up your pen and write, in depth Bible study using writing as a tool.

Prayer, Praise & Ministry, just like is says; an informal time of prayer, praise, singing and ministry by sharing scripture.

Serving at local mission outreach, involves cutting fabric and busy work to help with overseas mission donations.

Inter-generational Interaction, a time of games and fun, by families or individuals.

I am staying with the Prayer, Praise & Ministry group as it is an extension of the meeting that began as a result from our transparency meetings. This time is precious with intercessory prayer, singing and praising. It reminds me of the old fashioned prayer meetings from my growing up years.

Hubby is not sure where he fits in. He came with me last week to our meeting but doesn't think that's for him. He's still not sure what he wants to do.

Our youths had planned a pinewood derby race for last week. (All other classes/meetings won't meet that night) But since this was canceled due to weather, we probably will try again this week.

International Low Fat Meatless Cabbage Rolls Recipe

2009-01-30T04:35:00.000-08:00

Still yearning for spring!

She said:

Here is a recipe I put together myself that turned out so well that I thought I should share it with you. I call it International Low Fat Meatless Cabbage Rolls.

From Mexico: 1 can fat free or about 2 cups of re-fried beans
(You can make your own fat free re fried beans in a crock pot.)
From China: 1 packet microwavable brown rice
From Ireland: cabbage leaves from one cabbage (about 8-10)
From Spain: 1/2 cup salsa (we use mild)
From Italy: 1 cup spaghetti sauce

Steam cabbage leaves in boiling water for about 3 minutes. When cooled cut out any thick part of the leaves. Cook re-fried beans from the can in microwave on high for 1 1/2 minutes. (If you want to make your own re-fried beans just put 1 cup of dried pinto beans, 1/2 chopped onion and enough water to cover the beans plus one cup in crock pot on low all day until soft. Check and stir occasionally and add more water if necessary. Then add your favorite taco seasoning packet after mashing up the beans.) Cook brown rice according to packet instructions. Combine the brown rice and re-fried beans. Place about 1/2 cup of this mixture in each cabbage leaf and roll it up neatly. Place these in an oven safe dish. Mix the salsa and spaghetti sauce together and pour over the top. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Uncover and continue baking for another 15 minutes.

Enjoy!

What a bargain! & Job all done

2009-01-24T18:22:00.000-08:00

(I set a tea cup beside so you get a feel for the size)

She said:

A while ago (as in possible two summers ago) we picked up a real bargain at a church rummage sale. A drapery store had donated large roles of fabric to the church for their sale. Each role cost only $6. We picked out a nice neutral earth tone. Now I am making curtain/drapes for our home and the office. My sewing machine has a nifty feature that allows machine hemming. This is coming in quite handy for the job. So far I have just two windows done here. The role of fabric looks like we haven't used any yet! Hard telling how many yards are on this role. I have tested the fabric for wash ability and it passed.

What I do is sew awhile and then read awhile, then clean awhile, then cook awhile, and then begin the process all over. Eventually I hope to get this job done, just as I finally finished the quilting on the miniature quilt pictured above. It, along with it's full sized version and another wall hanging, are on their way to PA for the spring fundraiser for the school where our grandchildren attend.

A Can of Peas by Traci DePree

2009-01-16T12:43:00.000-08:00

She said:

Hoorah!! Have found another great Christian writer.

This is a story of a young couple who make the decision to give up a life in the fast lane for the chance to save the family farm.

The story is full of humor and is very heartwarming. I love the writing style of introducing one of the small town characters occasionally before a chapter begins. This is done by giving a background story on the person. What a delight to discover another author that uses their writing talent to inspire us.

Traci Depree is the editor behind many of today's award-winning and best-selling Christian novels. Her work is a joy. She has added two sequels to this premier novel.

What I learned in high school

2009-01-13T17:33:00.000-08:00

Already longing for the first signs of spring!

She said:

First let me say that we have a phenomenon at our house that is probably true in most homes. Occasionally we either have a kitchen container without a lid, or a lid that doesn't fit any of our containers. I am speaking mostly about those containers that we use for leftovers.

Now here is where what I learned in high school comes in.

Since I had a glass container without a lid but I still wanted to use it and store it for a few hours in the refrigerator, I placed another glass container (this one had it's lid) right on top as a substitute lid. It sort of sank a little into the under container.

What I learned in high school in physics class is that things expand when warm and contract when cold. This was important in this case because the glass container that was being used as a substitute lid was still warm. So what I learned in high school finally had a practical use. I knew that if I placed this warm glass container on top of a cold glass contain I would not need to worry about it getting stuck because if anything it would contract as it cooled.

Now the sad thing is that this is the first time I can recall using something that I learned in my high school physics class in a practical way.

A Slice of Pineapple by Mary Louise Uchida

2009-01-09T14:09:00.000-08:00

She said:

This little gem of a book is a great read. It has unique humor and is even "laugh out loud" funny at times.

The book is small enough to fit in your purse, so you could take it along on your next doctor visit. It is very easy reading and you could probably finish most of it while you are waiting. That is, if you don't mind the stares when you guffaw at some of the funny stuff.

The author shares her insight into life's little mysteries. And she shares her life in a very entertaining and inspirational way.

We both highly recommend this one. It would make a very nice gift. This can be purchased from Masthof Bookstore & Press at www.masthof.com for $7.95, a real bargain.

She said: Resolution Discovery

2009-01-06T15:50:00.000-08:00

It is amazing to me the number of times things have come up in the past week that are directly related to my new year's resolution.

Here is just one example: We recently went to one of our favorite restaurants to have a nice pleasant dinner. In the next booth, just behind me, there sat someone who was kicking the booth so hard that it could be heard by hubby. Now this is one of my pet peeves, so my first reaction was less than full of grace and dignity. My thought was to get up and confront the person, or at least ask the waiter for another booth. (That would not have worked because the restaurant was full.) Thankfully my resolution came to mind before any action was taken. So we talked about how to handle this situation with grace and dignity. We also talked about what was with the person doing the kicking. The person happened to get up to use the restroom, so hubby got a look. His impression was that it was just a kid. But when the person came back I noticed that it was a small fully grown woman. For whatever reason the kicking ceased and we could finish our delicious meal in peace.

After this experience, as well as a few others, I have discovered some things about incorporating grace and dignity into one's life. First, kindness and grace go together. In other words, to show grace one must be kind. If you are unkind in any way you cannot show grace. Second, it is very difficult to be angry and have dignity. The first thing to go when you loose your temper is your dignity, if you let it.

There have been other examples where my resolution to have more grace and dignity for the new year has been challenged this week. But the restaurant example is the most obvious one.
And it was an eye-opener to realize in order to have grace and dignity, kindness and controlling anger is a must.

New Year with he said

2009-01-03T14:27:00.000-08:00

He said,

A new year is here. It is hard to believe how fast 2008 went by. Over the last number of years I have been using for my daily readings a Bible designed to be read through in one year. Many times I would skip some of the old Testament passages that were so difficult to follow or shall I dare say boring. Several times I did manage to read the complete Bible.

However, sometime in December I felt the Lord leading me to do something different after I found a book by Tim LaHaye titled "How To Study The Bible For Yourself." After reading parts of the book, I felt this was the way to approach my devotional time with God this year.

One thing that will be new for me is to write something down after each reading. His overall plan is to read some books of the Bible multiple times. Ultimately the complete Bible will be read after 3 years. The book of First John is the one that gets read the most often.

Hopefully he, the author of this blog, can share some insights and thoughts along the way in the future.

New Year with "He said" and "She said"

2009-01-01T16:20:00.000-08:00

To begin this new year we have decided to start specifying who is the author of each blog entry. When she is writing the blog entry will be prefaced with "She said" and when he is writing the blog entry will be prefaced with "He said"

"She said"

For my new year resolution I have decided to try to improve the person that I am. Something came to me the other day. I started thinking about what kind of person I am. There are two attributes to my person that I would like to enhance. I would like to add grace and dignity to my personality. Whenever someone thinks of me, I would like them to think of these two wonderful qualities. Right this minute these are in short supply for me I feel. Sometimes I am not very graceful...in the social sense. And sometimes I don't act very dignified, especially toward my family and friends. So I can see where improvement on these fronts is very much needed.

I think of things that concern me and how easily I obsess about them. This certainly shows no grace or dignity. I need to learn to take life as it comes and make the best of it more. And stop obsessing when things aren't going my way. I need to remember who is really in control.

Sometimes my immaturity shows. I am very competitive and this sometimes is evident, especially when playing games and such. This certainly is not showing grace and dignity. I need to rejoice is someone else when they triumph not only when I win. That is a characteristic of grace. And that shows dignity as well.

Another time when these attributes are in short supply is when I am angry. I find that I often go directly to anger when I am hurt. And when that happens the first casualties are my grace and dignity. What a tragedy! For those are the times when these features are really needed the most.

So this year my resolution is to cultivate grace and dignity. Occasionally I may report back as to how I am doing. I may even report my failings...just to motivate me to improve.

Julia's Hope by Leisha Kelly

2008-12-26T14:51:00.000-08:00

Julia's Hope
A Novel by Leisha Kelly

If we gave out "best books" awards this one would be in the running. The story is very moving and the plot travels along at just the right pace.

This is the story of a family struggling to survive the Great Depression. It is also the story of an old woman's yearning to remain free to choose how her life will be lived. The author does a fantastic job of writing in the first person of the three main characters. The father, the mother, and the older women share their experiences and thoughts throughout this heartwarming novel.

We are so happy to have found another good Christian writer. Plans are to read more of her works. We highly recommend this easy to read book.

Christmas Message 2008

2008-12-24T18:24:00.001-08:00

One of the Christmas ornaments received in our family ornament exchange this year.

This year our extended family celebrated Christmas on the day after Thanksgiving. Now you may think that is rushing things a bit, but this was a blessing in disguise. Because of this early celebration we now have time to set back and really enjoy all of what our country has to offer at Christmas time. We unintentionally are avoiding the rush.

We really enjoy driving around anytime close to Christmas eve and view all the beautiful light displays in our area. Some are pretty gaudy, while others are tastefully done. Those that use a theme in their decoration we find especially interesting. Our small town even has a contest for both residential and business to see who can be the most decorative.

We often load up our Cd player with discs that have Christmas music. Then we set it on continuous play and let it run through the whole batch. We never get tired of listening to these sounds, as some do.

One year our local radio station was playing traditional Christmas hymns in July. We recommend that you try this for yourself sometime. You may find, as we did, that it helps in realizing afresh the real meaning of Christmas. The wonderful words of life that we normally associate with this busy season have a profound affect when heard at a less stressful time of year.

These hymns sung out of season are a reminder that Christmas is:

Not an old man in whiskers.

Not parties and family gatherings.

Not presents under a tree.

Not snow and starry nights.

Not crowded malls and parking lots.

Not ringing bells and red buckets.

Not the holly and the ivy.

Not tinsel and bright lights.

But rather, Christmas is God's answer to a world of sin.

God loves us so much that he sent His only Son, Christ Jesus our Lord.

May you and yours be blessed by this answer always.

Low fat Christmas

2008-12-22T17:30:00.000-08:00

This year we have made some adjustments in our favorite Christmas treats that will save us some fat intake that needs to be reduced.

Our fudge is made with Smart Balance instead of butter. And we also use non-fat evaporated milk instead of the normal evaporated milk. That reduces the fat grams to about 1/3 of the usual amount.

Then we love making Treasure Cookies. This year we replaced the butter with Smart Balance and are using non-fat sweetened condensed milk instead of the regular sweetened condensed milk. Again that reduces the fat content substantially.

Now, if only we could do something about the sugar. We don't feel that any of the sugar substitutes on the market today are any healthier than sugar itself. So we continue to use good old fashioned sugar.

All of our changes still produce the best fudge and cookies around. So these changes will remain.

We will be experimenting with our favorite sugar cookie recipe that calls for almond extract. We will be substituting the 2 cups of butter with smart balance and save at least a third of the fats normally used. If you use the lite version you could probably save half again as much.

Rerouting Project

2008-12-11T15:54:00.000-08:00

Update on our transition time at our church

Our transition focus has taken a decidedly different direction. At our transition meeting in Oct our transition pastor announced unexpectedly that he was removing himself from the leading position and changing to an adviser position since he felt it was time the church take full responsibility for the direction of the church in the future.

As a result our Congregational Leadership Team has decided to form a group of 5 members to explore and investigate how other churches have turned a declining attendance around so that the church would experience growth.

All active participants can nominate up to 5 persons to be on this "Research Team". Then the transitional pastor along with two other members from the CLT will use the submitted names to select the 5 member Research Team.

All of us are to be involved in this scouting out process. We can submit our findings to this research team using any and all resources available.

In June the team will present a report. Then the congregation will begin meeting again to implement needed changes.

After thinking about this idea and proposal, it brings back to the surface older questions such as why do people leave our church and why do persons stay at our church? What does God want us to be doing? Do we feel we are faithfully following His Word now?

It will also be interesting to see how the Lord's timing is concerning this effort and the arrival of a new pastor. If he arrives soon enough then he can help us sort through this process too.

The pastoral search committee is still looking at names but have made no plans at this point to interview any one.

We are on an interesting journey! Please continue to pray for our church!

Thank you.

Peace on Earth

2008-12-10T17:31:00.000-08:00

This quarter our memory work contains passages from the New Testament about peace. Each child that wishes to participate was given a list of the passages and a magnetized dove. They can post their list on their refrigerator.

Each Sunday we will all be learning the same short passage. A volunteer student shakes the dove shaped tambourine whenever the passage is recited. (This dove gets excited whenever peace is mentioned.) Another volunteer hands out a dove sticker for keeping track on the list. A treat is also received for each recitation.
At the end of the quarter a reward will be given for each recitation of all ten passages together.
The congregation was encouraged to join us in our learning.

Plans are to give each child a dove cookie ornament for a small Christmas treat.

Can you tell how much fun this church work is?

Walking fitness

2008-11-26T16:53:00.001-08:00

We are both using these walking DVDs to try and stay in shape during the cold wintry days. One of us goes 4 miles every day and the other is working up to that by doing about 1 mile each day so far. It is a very easy way to get the aerobic exercise that one needs. Surprisingly going through the same program every day is not hard. As a matter of fact, one can "zone out" pretty easily and think about other things as the body exercises. We have not seen much results yet as far as weight loss goes or energy increase. But we will be patient and keep on until we do.

The Good and The Bad

2008-11-10T05:22:00.000-08:00

Note: this post was written originally back in March of this year. To date we still hold to what it is saying.

Our transitional transparency meetings are beginning to have two effects on us as members of our congregation. On the one hand, we are learning much about our fellow members, and this is good. But on the other hand, we are discovering great discrepancies between our beliefs, a very bad thing. Most of the issues we have been looking at are clearly spoken to in the Holy Scriptures, and yet many within our congregation have another view. They site the working of the Holy Spirit as the testimony that what they want is a ligament course of action. If we only strive to come to consensus on the issues we face, we will surely be less than what God had in mind. If all we strive to do is arrive at something we can all agree with, this in no guarantee that God's will is done. We must use another standard than consensus. Our understanding is that we must use the scriptures in testing whenever there is disagreement. Consensus is not what Christ had in mind when he prayed for unity within the brotherhood. Our unity must be under Christ the Lord as head of the church. Scripture is the source of arriving at understanding what that unity should be...not our own experiences. We must use a standard, and we feel that standard must and should be the Holy scriptures. Our understanding of the workings of the Holy Spirit are as a guide in understanding scriptures and as a source of strength in living out what Christ calls us to do. The working of the Holy Spirit was never meant to be a substitute for an understanding of that call. We are to serve Christ through the church body. God has a plan for how we are to go about doing that. The Holy scriptures clearly define that plan. Some within our congregation want to bypass certain scriptures and follow what they feel the Holy Spirit is calling them to do instead. We firmly disagree with this position. We both believe as our confession of faith decrees: "We acknowledge the Scripture as the authoritative source and standard for preaching and teaching about faith and life, for distinguishing truth from error, for discerning between good and evil, and for guiding prayer and worship. Other claims on our understanding of Christian faith and life, such as tradition, culture, experience, reason, and political powers, need to be tested and corrected by the light of Holy Scripture.

We know from Scripture that the Holy Spirit continues to reveal God's will to us (1 Cor. 14:26-33). The Spirit of God is not silent in the present. However, this new revelation will not contradict what we know of Christ's way in Scripture (John 14:26). So we can open ourselves to revelation and prophecy, provided we test them in the community of faith by the norm provided in Christ through the Scriptures."

What about Sunday school follow up

2008-11-09T08:08:00.000-08:00

According to the list of Sunday school classes we have to offer there is no class for persons from 18-20 years old. We suppose since ages are approximate that they would be welcomed into the 20-35 group class, but we are wondering if they would feel comfortable there. Our high school class has only a handful attending, and they are uncommunicative most of the time. Perhaps all those 18-20 years are attending higher learning institutions? But no, we know of at least one that is not. And what is happening when those away at school do make it home on a weekend or during summer? We think we might be on to something here. This could very well be why we are a dying congregation. Could we be loosing our young people because we don't offer support during this time of their lives? We sometimes wonder if we are the only ones concerned about this.

We are now attending our age group Sunday school class. Again it is mostly just discussion, with little actual learning taken place. But it is a good time of fellowship anyway and a good way to keep up with what is going on in others lives.

Ode to old age

2008-11-08T17:21:00.000-08:00

Pray for revival

2008-10-30T15:05:00.000-07:00

Peony from public garden

One blessing from all our transitional work is the formation of a Spiritual Vitality group meeting. It meets every Wednesday evening. This is a time of meditation, prayer, singing and sharing. It follows very closely to what in times past was called "Prayer Meeting". One of us has been attending for the past two weeks. This has been a real blessing. Time is spent in sharing burdens and in prayer. Singing is also a time of inspiration. Often scripture is read and thoughts are expressed. For not being planned, it is amazing how this all fits together and hearts are blessed. We are of the opinion that what our church needs is a time of revival. Perhaps this meeting might lead to just that.

Our transitional pastor has been sharing sermons on "Spiritual Vitality" also.

We are also of the opinion that our congregation needs the power of the Holy Spirit to bring about revival. Please pray with us.

The Heart of Thornton Creek by Bonnie Leon

2008-10-22T15:18:00.001-07:00

It is always a pleasure to discover another good Christian writer. We both truly liked the writing in this first installment of The Queensland Chronicles by Bonnie Leon. It is set in the 1800s and follows the life of Rebecca Williams from her beloved Boston home of wealth and previlege to the arid Australian backcountry. Rebecca is a fiercely independent woman dealing with the constraints of societal expectations. That independence causes many heartaches. But, in the end, Rebecca learns to have faith and love. These lead her to forgiveness for others.

Surprise Ending

2008-10-08T16:00:00.000-07:00

Surprising end to Sunday's Transitional Meeting

Last Sunday evening the T-meeting was held for the month of October. As usual our T- pastor led in a devotion time and then launched into his presentation.

We reviewed the 5 steps of transition that were laid out 18 months ago when our T-pastor first came to our church. He suggested that we were stuck on "where to go from here" and "what will our identity be for the future. " Our T-pastor said that he was not going to force his agenda on us and would drop plans for additional meetings. Also he would now let the leadership of the church take over to find out what the church will decide on how it wants to die. The T-pastor said based on all of his numbers review and other factors the church will die either by attendance declining or by re birthing into something new.

Picking up the ball from the T-pastor must be somewhat of a load for the leadership to experience since his removing himself as a leader in this journey has happened very suddenly. The T-pastor is making himself available for consulting to the church leadership for the rest of this journey

We believe though, with many prayers, we the church can come through this process and find some type of a new identity while maintaining and keeping the gospel central in our services.

Wahington's Lady by Nancy Moser

2008-09-30T16:51:00.000-07:00

Here is another book by Nancy Moser worth reading. It is the story of Martha Washington before her husband became the first president of the United States. It is a history lesson that will interest even those not into studying history. Of course it is fiction, but it is based on many facts. One thing that prevented much personal knowledge of Martha was her act of burning all letters between her and her husband. So it was necessary to surmise much of the personal nature of their relationship. This is a book that will open your eyes to the founding of our great nation in a way that speaks of miracles. It is written again in the first person as Nancy does so well.

There is another novel entitled Mozart's Sister by this same author. It, too, would be worth your while to read.

Just Jane by Nancy Moser

2008-09-19T17:47:00.000-07:00

Whether or not you are a Jane Austen fan, this book is a very interesting chronicle of an author.

It is written in the first person style and also in a similar style of that found in Austen's books.

Most of the story is true with some imaginings by Moser about things that have no written proof.

Jane had a short and fascinating life.

There are some life lessons to be learned with this reading.

Church in the Wildwood by Dooly, Dykes, Griffin & Mayne

2008-09-18T15:45:00.000-07:00

This book, written by four authors, is a fictional account of a little stone church that was first built in 1869. Each story covers a generation of members as they worship through the years until the present.

This is light reading and very interesting.

Vision 2014

2008-09-08T15:03:00.000-07:00

Last night our first fall Transitional Transparency Meeting was held which lasted 2 hours. The first hour was used to review summaries of the morning Sunday School discussions. There were five or six classes that reported. The morning sermon by our transitional pastor was the basis for the discussions. The sermon included a summary of a number of our previous meetings and then he left us with the question: What are we going to do about it? This referred back to one of the core questions of why the church is losing so many members.

The five sessions titled in the next paragraph are an attempt to work at the answer from the transitional pastor's point of view.

The second hour we had to choose to be a part of one of five groups. The five group or vision steps named were: "Healing of Congregational Wounds and Brokenness," "Creating A Pastor-Congregation Partnership," "Finding a Way to Attract and Hold People," "Find a Way to Renew Our Spiritual Vitality" and "Find an Answer to the Incredible Conundrum of Worship and Music Styles." The pastor had also included additional questions and sub thoughts for discussion well beyond the title of the group session.

Since only one of us was participating that evening, the vision step chosen was "Finding a Way to Attract and Hold People." The sub thought included the need for evangelism and that is what was shared from this point of view.

There were many other ideas of how to go about attracting and holding persons such as: building relationships with people outside the church, the need for community outreach activities and getting the churches name out and creating ways for establishing contacts.

A few in the group volunteered to get together again in several weeks to cement some of the ideas and thoughts to bring to the October TTM. The other 4 groups will also be reporting to the larger group.

It will be interesting to hear and see where the church is headed after the next meeting.

Please keep our church in your prayers

What we do from here...

2008-09-06T13:00:00.000-07:00

This next Sunday evening we will be resuming our transitional transparency meetings. One of us is thinking of dropping out because of the perception that these meetings are fruitless.

This Sunday we will need to choose between the following:

1. Healing of Congregational Wounds and Brokenness

2. Creating a Pastor-Congregation Partnership

3. Finding a Way to Attract and Hold People

4. Find a Way to Renew Our Spiritual Vitality

5. Find an Answer to the Incredible Conundrum of Worship and Music Styles.

We are asked to choose which one of these five categories we wish to address. We can only address one of them because all five groups will be meeting at the same time.

Choosing one can be a problem. Will those interested in addressing our congregation's wounds be wounded further when perhaps not much interest by others is shown? Will the tastes and desires of only those present in the worship and music style group perhaps get their way in our services? Some may feel that their greatest concern expressed is missing within these five topics. But we need to go somewhere and this is where our transitional pastor has chosen to go. Apparently these subjects were the top categories picked by our congregation to achieve our vision for the future.

We wonder what God may have in store for our congregation? Will it be what we want?

Quilt set-up committee

2008-09-05T07:49:00.000-07:00

Close up of top.

Baby Magic

One of us is a member of the quilt set-up committee for our ladies sewing. This project is finally completed.

The instructions were found on the internet and the name of the pattern is "Baby Magic". That's one down and two more baby quilt tops to go. These will probably be knotted. Then they are presented to new mothers in our congregation.

Bible Memory

2008-09-03T04:26:00.000-07:00

One of us has been hard at work preparing as the new Bible Memory Coordinator of our congregation. Since this one is the same one that does most of the writing for our blog, there hasn't been an entry lately.

The original idea for the new year of Bible memory for our primary department has been entitled "Keys to the Kingdom." Each child will receive a keyring with 10 verses appropriate to their ages. The verses are laminated so the children can handle them without damage. When all 10 verses are memorized they receive a special reward. They get a small treat for each verse learned, and these are kept in a "Treat Treasure Chest."

If this quarter goes well, we will continue this theme. If not, some other ideas will be implemented. One problem has been the lack of involvement for the adolescent boys in our Bible Memory program. A solution may be to peak their interest with a friendly competition against the girl's class of the same age range. The class that has all students complete the memorization will win another special reward of their own choosing (within limits).

It will be an interesting year!

Two books by Carrie Bender

2008-08-25T08:29:00.001-07:00

Johanna's Journal #1

This story is set in Johnstown, PA just before and during the devastation that came as a result of the breaking of the dam holding back Lake Conemaugh. Although the facts about the Johnstown flood are true, this story is fiction. Johanna and her sister have been taught God's hand is in everything. Johanna's Journal isn't only about the Johnstown flood, it's about a young woman's hopes and dreams.

Willowcreek Valley Farm 2

Annie and Steven Petersheim live on their farm in a young Amish settlement in Tennessee. Annie's friend loans them several books, one about Mennonites migrating from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, to Upper Canada (now Ontario) two hundred years ago. This story is shared by the young Amish couple as they read together the trials and hardships of this journey. The epic story captures their interest and it will capture yours as well.

Carrie Bender is the pen name of a woman from the Amish Church who has authored numerous books, mostly about Amish life. These two selections are the exception. Readers say her writings are "like a breath of fresh air," promoting "loyalty, caring and love of family and neighbors." They share "a comforting sense of peace and purpose" and help us savor the close relationship between people and the rest of God's creation.

Two books by Lori Wick

2008-08-23T06:01:00.001-07:00

Sophie comes from Czechoslovakia and finds a job working for a widower with two children. Though highly educated, (she speaks four other languages) she finds fulfillment in caring for this hurting family. This book sheds some insight into how God can work in the midst of sorrow. This is a contemporary story of God's tender mercies and loving intervention in the life of one family.

Tucker Mills, Massachusetts, 1839

Bound as an indentured servant, Reese finds comfort in her faith and her friends. Can Reese see beyond her place as a servant to accept God's larger plan for her future--and her heart?

You just can't go wrong when you pick up one of Lori's books to read. She is a very prolific author. Many of her works are set in olden times but she also has some stories that are contemporary as well. Every one is a gem. So if you like good Christian fiction, find a cozy spot and get into one of her stories. You will be blessed for it.

Annie by Mary Christner Bortrager

2008-08-20T16:42:00.000-07:00

This book completes the Ellie's People series of ten popular volumes by Mary Christner Brontrager.

Mary grew up Amish and has drawn from her memories in creating these tales of Amish life.

This story is about how an Amish family opens their hearts and home to a deserted child.

Practical Peace or Shalom 101

2008-08-19T03:22:00.000-07:00

Hibiscus not from our gardens

If you asked the average man on the street if he would like peace on earth you probably would never hear the answer as "no." And yet our world is anything but peaceful in many places. How is this possible? Perhaps the reason lies in the fact that many people do not have an understanding of what it takes to have peace in the world.

Love your neighbor as yourself. This is one of the hardest things to do in our modern world. Our neighbor definition encompasses the entire globe due to communication technology. But just treating our next door neighbor as we do ourselves is hard enough. You often hear of neighborhood disputes that seem rather petty to most of us. When was the last time you gave sacrificially to your next door neighbor...that is by giving without expecting anything in return? This is an excellent step toward a peaceful world.

Forgive as you have been forgiven. This statement presupposes that you have made the step of asking forgiveness of God and that you have accepted His Son's death as your atonement for your sins. Even those who claim Christ as their leader by calling themselves Christians often do not reflect Him in their daily lives by refusing to forgive. Jesus gave us the ultimate example of forgiveness when he said as he was dying on the cross, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." When was the last time you offered forgiveness? This is the best step toward peace.

Take care of widows and orphans. We have a number of widows in our congregation but any orphans are unknown to us. Why is it so important to take care of these? Because they are the most defenseless members of our society. Our hearts can be softened toward peace if we live our lives being sensitive to the needs around us. We are not just talking financially here. When was the last time you spent some time with a lonely person? Doing this is an act of peace.

The peace that passes understanding. So probably the mythical man on the street who yearns for peace on earth just doesn't understand that it's presence here on this earth is more in his own control than he suspects. Following a few simple steps, once he knows the Savior, is all it takes to have this Peace on Earth.

Dianthus

2008-08-11T13:30:00.000-07:00

Bright Eye Dianthus

Royal Crown Devon

2008-08-08T00:55:00.001-07:00

Royal Crown Devon c. 1880-1895

Above is an example of the treasures we like to find when we go "garage saling", as we like to call it. One of us has a particularly astute ability to find these treasures. It must be in the blood, because a sister processes this very same ability.

This latest treasure comes from England and was produced between the 1880s through the mid 1890s. It is in remarkably good condition, considering that it is well over 100 years old.

Would you believe that it was purchased for only one dollar? That's why we call this hobby "Treasure Hunting."

White Chocolate Moments by Lori Wick

2008-08-07T02:46:00.001-07:00

A Contemporary Story of Reconciliation,
Family, and True Love

This book follows the fictional life of a daughter of wealth. Author Lori Wick uses her literary talent to weave a tale that gives an example of "a camel going through the eye of the needle." Through tragedy and loss the story makes clear the need of a Savior no matter what circumstances are faced. Wealth does not eliminate that need.

Arcineh Bryant lives with her grandfather after a devastating loss. But as the years pass, something comes between them. Feeling hurt and betrayed, Arcineh leaves to build a life for herself, without the privilege of wealth.

Meantime, her grandfather experiences a change in his life. This change is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

As the Lord finally brings these two souls back together the grandfather carefully shares his experience with Arcineh. The conclusion to this story will lift your spirit and feed your soul.

Lori Wick is one of those authors that you can count on to be a good read. This is one of many stories she has authored. We highly recommend her books for light reading that brings inspiration, humor, and goodness to your mind.

Scallops of creeping Phlox

2008-08-06T12:17:00.000-07:00

Scallops of creeping Phlox on top of wall

The weather has been warm, windy and dry of late. So we need to keep weeding and watering. We have also put some of are flower gardens back into grass. Our health is demanding that we curtail some of our lovely gardens. So each year we will shrink the gardens until just the front contains flowers so close together that weeding won't hardly be necessary. The lower terrace on this retaining wall is almost like that now.

Rose of Sharon

2008-08-03T03:04:00.001-07:00

Rose of Sharon

For the past several years we have been having trouble with Japanese Beetles attacking our Rose of Sharon bushes/trees. But this year we noticed that the worst of the damage is being done to this white variety. The purple flowered plants don't have near the activity from these veracious pests. And this year we have noticed that both varieties don't have this problem as bad as other years. We have been just going around and knocking off the bugs into a solution of sudsy water. Other years they have been so bad that we needed to put up beetle traps. But so far that has not been necessary this year.

Lillies

2008-08-02T02:11:00.000-07:00

Petite Grapette

Lillies

2008-07-31T03:50:00.000-07:00

Orchid Fancy

Lilies

2008-07-29T08:22:00.001-07:00

Burgandy & Gold

Lillies

2008-07-28T02:49:00.000-07:00

Peace

Sunday School

2008-07-28T01:54:00.000-07:00

Sweet Diminutive

You may recall that we have taken the summer off from our transitional transparency meetings. In that spirit we have decided to visit other churches in our area and we are really enjoying the experience. Every other Sunday or so we continue to attend our own church. When we do, we make it a point to visit a different Sunday school class.

For the past several years we had not been attending Sunday school. We were dissatisfied with the way these classes were functioning. Mostly they were a time of fellowship and discussion, with not much in the way of learning taking place. In other words, it was a time of everyone giving their own opinion and not much in the way of really studying God's word. So we thought it might be the time to go around and visit each of the adult classes that our church has to offer to see if anything has changed.

First we visited, what for the lack of a better term, is considered to be our Senior Citizen class. The Sunday we visited a substitute teacher was in charge. The material being used was from a uniform lesson. We were warmly welcomed to the class and we were asked to come back. The discussion centered on the lesson somewhat. The title of the lesson was "Trustworthy leadership." Much affirmation was given to our current leaders, although one person asked the question about why so many are leaving our congregation. There was no discussion about that question. Usually the same people spoke and we felt we didn't learn much in this class.

Our next visit took us to a small class consisting of older couples, some about our age and some were leaders within our congregation. The title for our lesson was "Teaching that transforms" and it also was from the same uniform lesson series. This class was taught on a rotating basis and for that Sunday a women was in charge. She did a good job of walking us through the lesson and leading our discussion. Again, we were warmly welcomed. We noted that due to the size of the room this class had a limit to the number able to attend. And again, mostly the same people shared during the discussion. This class reminded us as to why we stopped attending Sunday school in the first place. Much discussion, not much learning.

Now this past Sunday was a unique experience and an "eye-opener" of sorts. Our post-high class has been asking for volunteers to share with there class. So we had decided that we would be willing to do that. We also requested an opportunity to ask our own questions of the group. All this was arranged by one of their own, the person in charge of this class. For us to prepare, this person sent a list of questions that we could answer, either one, any or all. When we arrived at the class there was only one other person present. Even though we waited no one else showed up. Not even the person who had made the arrangement. We went ahead as best we could and had a nice time of getting to know the lone young person there. We shared our experience as requested and the person seemed grateful for our being there.

This experience has shed some light on what is going wrong with our congregation. We currently have a program of financial aid for college students who attend our affiliated institutions. According to the records we have distributed funds to 11 qualified candidates. Besides this number, there would be others of this age group who are not attending school or not attending qualified institutions. Where are all these people? Are they just not attending Sunday school? And, if not, why? Over the next few weeks we will investigate this matter and report to you. This is a real mystery for us and we want to get to the bottom of it.

Lillies

2008-07-27T17:14:00.000-07:00

Large Sunny yellow

Lilies

2008-07-26T02:36:00.000-07:00

Happy Double Orange

Lilies

2008-07-24T05:24:00.000-07:00

Elegant Orange

Lilies

2008-07-23T02:06:00.000-07:00

Oro'gold

The Celebration Hymnal

2008-07-22T04:07:00.000-07:00

The Celebration Hymnal

Songs and Hymns for Worship

This is simply the best hymnal. It has a wonderful mix of the old and contemporary, hymns and gospel songs. We came across it when we visited our local community church. What a treasure!

We purchased the looseleaf addition and had it spiral bound at Staples. The actual hymnal can be obtained from Amazon in a myriad of colors.

What we like the most about the hymnal is that each hymn has a Bible verse right under the title. All the suggested readings are from Scripture. Our edition uses the KJV but they also offer another edition that uses three more contemporary translations, NASB, NIV and NKJV.

It was published by Word/Integrity in 1997. If your church is thinking about new hymnals be sure to check out this one!

Whisper of Love by Jewel Miller

2008-07-21T15:49:00.000-07:00

Whisper of Love by Jewel Miller

Jewel was inspired to write this book by her grandmother, an avid and skilled storyteller. It is set at the beginning of the 20th century on the plains of Kansas and the arid land of New Mexico. The heroine, Mattie, finds life full of work and love as she grows up and moves away from her loving Amish family. Eventually her dreams of a home of her own are realized.

This book is reminiscent of the Little House series, only it is set among the Amish. Jewel is a gifted writer. This book may be hard for you to find, but the search will be well worth the effort. It was published by Herald Press in 1991.

Diathus

2008-07-19T13:13:00.000-07:00

Diathus

Stonecrop ground cover

2008-07-18T05:06:00.000-07:00

Stonecrop ground cover

Spirea

2008-07-17T12:58:00.000-07:00

Spirea

Visit to local community church

2008-07-15T15:09:00.000-07:00

Scottish Bluebells

Last Sunday we visited a local community church that is known for it's traditional worship style. We were not disappointed. All the songs selections were familiar to us and very inspirational.

The preaching was not the best we have heard, but also not the worst. It was biblically based and the style was easy listening. But we must say that the pastor had some nervous habits that were distracting at times. He often rubbed his hands together and waved them around and gestured almost to the distraction of what he was trying to say.

The song leader and the pastor made comments of a personal nature (sort of inside jokes) that made us feel like outsiders at times.

The facilities were wonderful and very comfortable. Though we did have trouble locating the main entrance and ended up coming in the door at the front of the sanctuary. Fortunately we weren't the only ones entering that way.

The congregation was neither overly friendly nor cold. We thought perhaps they were accustomed to visitors so we weren't an oddity. All in all it was a pleasant experience and we may visit again soon.

We are encouraged by the depths of worship we are encountering in our area. Makes our hearts soar to know that our Lord is praised in many ways around here. We recommend that you also take the time to visit around where you live and see what God is doing in your midst.

The Freedom and Power of Forgiveness by John MacArthur

2008-07-15T14:58:00.001-07:00

The Freedom and Power of Forgiveness by John MacArthur

One of the most profound statements made in this book is that forgiving is one of the most God like things we can do. We are commanded to forgive. Why? Mostly for our own sakes. Where there is forgiveness, there is a heart that God has touched--and a life that God can bless.

John is the pastor teacher at Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California. He is a prolific writer and thoroughly grounded in the Scriptures. His writing style is very readable. His ability to communicate is very powerful.

Pair of Daylilies

2008-07-12T14:35:00.000-07:00

This lovely pair reminds me of the Peace Rose. The light pink outer petals gradually turn to a bright yellow inside. Daylilies are one of our favorite flowers. They are very easy to grow and come in numerous shapes, colors and sizes. We will feature some that we have growing in our gardens for the next few days.

Yucca

2008-07-11T18:02:00.000-07:00

The yucca flowers don't last very long, only about two weeks if the weather cooperates. They always remind me of a bride adorned for a wedding. The plant itself looks like cacti and is not pleasant to work around. Sometimes weeds get a foot hold but it doesn't seem to mind being disturbed when you work out the weeds. It multiplies readily, so be sure to put it where it has plenty of room. Ours is migrating down a steep ditch and filling in very nicely. Our variety has the shorter stalks and stays upright in the wind. If you plant the taller type you may need to do some staking.

Ground cover Sedum

2008-07-10T18:04:00.000-07:00

Kamschatka Stonecrop

This prolific plant makes a lovely overflowing fountain on our block wall at the end of our drive. There is a structural problem at that place so this plant is a beautiful camouflage. The bright yellow flowers are cheery in the spring and the foliage is an interesting contrast during the rest of the growing season.

Firefly Fireworks

2008-07-09T02:38:00.000-07:00

Thrift and Coralbells

We seldom venture out after dark. Last week we were coming home late, about at dusk. All around the roadway, and even above the pavement, we saw little specks of light dancing through the air.

Fireflies. A sure sign of summer. Nature's fireworks.

These little showmen appear each sultry evening to delight the eye. The grandchildren run around trying to capture as many as they can. We remember as youngsters doing the same thing.

Sometime ago we read that these little bugs were being used in experiments. The scientist were studying them as a use for something, can't remember what. Haven't heard whether they discovered anything or not.

Frankly, we already know their use. Watching the grandchildren as they collect these wonders gives us old folks the fountain of youth.

2008-07-09T02:37:00.001-07:00

Weigela

2008-07-05T05:04:00.000-07:00

We have two types of Weigela and they are both very easy to grow. Both have verigated leaves, one with light pink flowers and the other with dark pink. Each of these shrubs have their own flowering time. We haven't attempted to propagate either yet, but we are thinking about it. As soon as we can find some space we will make an attempt.

Bouquet of Peonies

2008-07-05T04:52:00.000-07:00

Bouquet of Peonies

Bolly Weddle by Lewis B. Miller

2008-07-04T16:07:00.000-07:00

(Front and back covers)

You just might have some trouble finding a copy of this book. It was published by Pequea Publishers in 2003. We both enjoyed reading this adventure story. And we both had trouble with the vernacular written throughout the story. But once we got the knack for that it became a book that could not be put down.

Lost Sons by Judy Clemens

2008-07-03T06:16:00.001-07:00

This story follows the fictional life of Stan Windemere, a retired police detective. For two long months he and his wife, Rose, have been waiting to hear word about their son, a naval officer recently MIA while serving in Russia. Their marriage is strained as this couple tries to cope with the tragedy.

The stress also makes Stan unable to continue with his detective job on the force, so to keep busy, he takes a job as a security guard with the Mennonite Central Committee office in Goshen, Indiana. While there he learns about the real life disappearance of MCC worker Clayton Kratz in the fall of 1920 in that same area of Russia where his son is currently MIA. Stan becomes obsessed with trying to discover what has happened to Kratz. This creates tension with his wife because of her dislike of Mennonites. Rose sees the Mennonites as the enemy. Their son had been involved with a Mennonite girl before his disappearance. This girl turned down his proposal due to her belief that war is wrong. A war protest by Goshen College students also fuels Rose's feelings of betrayal.

In Clemens novel Rose sends a letter to the editor of the local newspaper in response to her outrage about the war protesters. The professor of peace studies at Goshen College arranges a meeting with her and the result is this joint letter: “We decided to work together to share our passions. To see how together we can make peace in the world. For if we can't make peace here at home, how can we expect our children—here or abroad—to do it. (We) understand more deeply now that we want the same things: peace in the world, a safe place for our children, and a sense of security.”

The author intertwines this fictional story of Stan's son with the true account of the disappearance of Clayton Kratz. Someone unfamiliar with the work of MCC would be able to learn much from this book. As a Goshen College graduate, Clemens uses her familiarity with the area to create a very believable story.

The dramatic ending to this mystery will surprise you.

Star Flower

2008-07-02T13:04:00.000-07:00

These late spring bulb flowers we inherited from the previous owners of our property. The bulbs appear similar to crocus and they are easily spread by digging up and separating after the foliage dies. Just remember where you plant them because they don't last long.

Coreopsis

2008-07-01T04:11:00.000-07:00

Coreopsis

Visiting Other Churches

2008-06-30T04:38:00.000-07:00

Columbine

As mentioned earlier, we are taking the summer off in our transitional work as a congregation. So we have decided to get a feel of where the broader church is headed today by visiting other congregations in our area.

Our first experience was with a congregation from a more conservative conference within our denomination. At least, that was our thought before we visited. But we discovered that at least as far as their worship service is concerned, they are no more conservative than our own congregation. Perhaps even less so. The style of music was much more contemporary than what our congregation offers, mostly praise songs with a band. It was a much smaller church so the preaching, by comparison, left much to be desired. The style of dress was perhaps even more modern and relaxed than our church. They are struggling within that conference with many of the issues facing our broader denomination today, just like our conference.

Our next visit took us to a church that has recently left this same, so called "conservative", conference. One of their reasons for their leaving was the divorce issue. The women in this congregation appear more conservative and no musical instruments were used in the service. We really enjoyed the singing here. There is something about the simple use of the human voice in praising our Maker that is refreshing. We had no problem with knowing the hymns that were used, even those sung spontaneously during the offering and at the end of the service. Our only concern with this group was the obvious double standard in outward appearance. The men could be anyone you would meet on the street today...but the women wore long hair (always put up into bun style), coverings and dressed modestly. There seems to be one standard for the women and another for the men. Some men had long hair and pretty contemporary clothing. This congregation is presently strugling with the use of musical instruments in their worship service. Several people recently have left this congregation over the instrument issue. The preaching was very biblical and well done. (As a matter of fact, the pastor giving the sermon was at one time pastor of the church we had visited previously.) We noted that this congregation was larger with many families and the facilities were very comfortable.

Our next visit will be to a non-denominational church that uses a traditional service. At least, that is what has be reported to us...and remains to be seen.

Collision Theory Revisited

2008-06-29T03:34:00.000-07:00

Sunrise

It has been some time since reporting a collision theory incident. You may recall that this occurs when the walker encounters two vehicles heading in opposite directions while on a seldom traveled country road on a thirty minute walk.

Since walks are being enjoyed at the crack of dawn (usually around 6 a.m.) this phenomenal occurrence has been very seldom. One incident, about a week ago, was not reported. Today, with only a total of four vehicles passing by, the collision theory again came into play.

So, as long as walks are in the early morning, the theory seems to be almost dormant. Walks are interspersed recently among the frequent rains we have been having of late.

God's creation is truly beautiful in the early morning dawn and we recommend you also enjoy the relative quiet and tranquility of a stroll enjoying the Lord's gift of nature.

Lamium Maculatum ei. Dead Nettle

2008-06-28T12:04:00.000-07:00

This variety is called 'Beacon Silver' and bears pink flowers. The verigated leaves of these plants add a nice contrast to the flower borders.

'White Nancy' has very silvery leaves, along with white flowers that appear in spring. These plants need partial shade and with evenly moist soil they are easy to grow and very prolific

Heaven by Randy Alcorn

2008-06-27T16:33:00.001-07:00

In the most comprehensive and definitive book on Heaven to date, Randy invites you to picture Heaven the way Scripture describes it--a bright, vibrant, and physical New Earth, free from sin, suffering, and death, and brimming with Christ's presence, wondrous natural beauty and the richness of human culture as God intended it.

Amish Grace by Kraybill, Nolt, and Zercher

2008-06-24T03:16:00.000-07:00

This book, written by three college professors, is a study on forgiveness as revealed in the Nichol Mines Pennsylvania tragedy. The authors go beyond the simple facts and explore the cultural aspects of the Amish, explaining their ability to "transcend" this tragedy with forgiveness.

Dainty Bleeding Heart

2008-06-23T08:30:00.000-07:00

This delicate plant is surprisingly easy to grow. It's just very important to leave enough room because it has manners. It won't try to grow where the space is limited. We do have one more variety that is called Double Bleeding Heart. For some reason my store of photos doesn't include a photo of the double. Looks like it's time for more picture taking.

Wild Geranium wonderer

2008-06-22T16:34:00.000-07:00

The color on these Wild Geraniums didn't come out very true. They appear much more pink. It is easy to grow and very prolific, often producing volunteers in other parts of the garden.

Pineapple Quilt and Miniature

2008-06-21T16:06:00.000-07:00

The above quilt top is finally all quilted and waiting for the sawtooth border finish. A miniature duplicate doll quilt/wall hanging is also in the process of being completed. May enter these in the fair competition if they are done in time. And that's a BIG if!

Lovely White Lupine

2008-06-20T04:25:00.000-07:00

We purchased this plant a couple of years ago at a garage sale, of all places. It has taken a few years of coaxing, but we have finally been rewarded with some lovely blooms.

Eternal Life

2008-06-19T07:23:00.000-07:00

This light pink peony is also called "The Century Plant" because it can last more than 100 years.

We often like to listen to radio preachers. They tend to preach from the Scriptures and they also tend to bring out something from the Scriptures which we have not encountered before...or something that has been revealed before but not quite in the same way.

Last week a radio preacher made this comment: We all have an eternal life. Where that eternal life is spent, either with or without God, is up to our acceptance or rejection of His Son. Evangelism is basically making this truth evident to those around us.

Now we have both grown up in the church, and you would think that this idea would not be new to us. And perhaps this concept is not exactly new, but it was a way of thinking about evangelism that we had not thought of before. Every person we come in contact with has an eternity. God would like to be in that person's life now and for eternity. We need to let them know this in such a way that they will see how much God loves and cares for them. Then perhaps they will want this also. It's as simple as that.

Simple, but somehow not easy. Talking about eternal life doesn't come up in casual conversation. Most people rarely even think in terms of eternity. That includes Christians. When you see how some Christians live (and that includes ourselves at times) you would think that this life is all there is. So much of our time is spent concerned with this life. How can we share that there is an eternity when we are so wrapped up with things here?

But the main point of the radio preacher was that until a person realizes that they have an eternity to spend either with or without God, they will never see the need to believe in Jesus. This is the concept that was a revelation...and an inspiration to us to draw others to Christ.

Phlox or Dame's Rocket ?

2008-06-18T05:36:00.000-07:00

Now here is what happens sometimes in our garden. A few years ago we planted some seeds. These are the flowers that keep appearing year after year since then. They are about 5 feet tall and only bloom in late spring. They are very prolific and easy to transplant. Some have told me they are phlox (the non-creeping variety) but we had also planted some Dame's Rocket, so we are not sure. Whatever they are they have a very showy display each year and we are thankful that they decided to make their home with us.

I Will Plant You a Lilac Tree by Laura Hillman

2008-06-17T08:03:00.001-07:00

Five years after Hitler came to power, Laura was separated from her town and family. The events Laura witnessed in the camps kept her from writing for many years, but she finally set out to write her memoir, facing for the first time the circumstances that led to her survival.

This book is important to read. We must remember that not too many years ago our world was in the throws of a world war and many Jews were exterminated during that time. We must remember, so these events do not repeat themselves.

Thanks to survivors like Laura, we can have a glimpse into the horror she experienced. The rest of her family did not make it through. But thanks to a man called Schindler a few destined for the gas chambers were safe until the end of the holocaust. Laura was one of the few.

This book is mostly about her experiences before getting on Schindler's list. It is written in the first person and shares many of her feelings. Her love and concern for her family often puts her in danger.

This is not a book to read for entertainment. It needs to be read as a reminder of what humankind is capable of, both the good and the bad. It is very well written and yet not easy to read because of the subject. So be warned that you will probably cringe and want to put it aside at times. Try not to do that.

Beyond the book Laura finds her future husband (another survivor on Schindler's list) and makes a life for herself.

Blue Flag Beauty

2008-06-14T04:41:00.000-07:00

Forgot to add this little early iris last time. They appear first thing in the spring with the crocus. Only about 5" high but easy to grow. Don't blink or you may miss their blooms so early in spring. Very prolific!

Beautiful Blue Iris and More

2008-06-13T13:02:00.000-07:00

Iris is very easy to grow. Once in a while you need to thin and remove some pretty ugly pests. We just soak the corms in water with soap and mouthwash added. Those creepy crawlies end up rising to the surface and this method of pest control is very successful. Then they easily transplant and you get more and more beautiful blooms of various colors, shapes and sizes.

Johnny Jump Ups

2008-06-12T04:18:00.000-07:00

Johnny-Jump-Ups (Viola) are happy little flowers that stay all spring and most of the summer into fall. They are self seeders, but they tend to wander. It's good to trim them back if they get too leggy. And they have a very sweet smell.

Forsythia

2008-06-11T04:00:00.000-07:00

Forsythia don't last long when the weather turns warmer.
They are the welcome first sign of spring and very easy to grow.

Two votes and vision

2008-06-09T03:30:00.000-07:00

Beautiful double Azalea in a rose pink

Last night was our final TT meeting until fall. Our congregation is taking a summer break from our transitional work. In that spirit, we have decided to take the summer to visit other churches in our area, both within our denomination and others. We want to know whether others are also struggling with the issues that we have been facing as a congregation.

Before beginning the work, each TT meeting begins with our transitional pastor giving a meditation and lighting a lamp. The lamp signifies God's presence with us as we work.

The first part of our meeting was the taking of votes. The voting eligibility amendment and the use of women in leadership were the two issues that were voted on this time. We decided as a congregation, with the recommendation of our leadership, to dramatically expand the eligibilty of voting to allow all active participants to vote in elections and restrict membership voting to only active members and active associate members. We also decided to allow only men to be considered in the lead pastor role with the most qualified candidate (male or female) to be considered for the second position yet to be determined. This position has been put on hold because of our decline in attendance. We may decide we need a youth or associate pastor in the future.

The first vote needed to pass by at least 75%. It did pass with more than 79% of those voting, who were current active members. The second vote only needed a simple majority for selecting which candidates can be considered by the Pastoral Search Committee. The full congregation will be voting for/against that candidate when the time comes.

The rest of the time was spent discussing our vision for the future. This was done in small groups. Each individual previously filled in a questionnaire listing our preferred vision in priority fashion.

Meantime our congregation is still "bleeding" with at least two couples leaving within the past several months. We are wondering about the merit of our transition process, since it appears that everything of consequence is still just coming down to a congregational vote.

Lovely Luminous Lilac

2008-06-09T03:27:00.000-07:00

As mentioned before our lilacs this year were just beautiful.

Rhododendron

2008-06-06T17:55:00.000-07:00

We just moved our Rhododendron bush last spring. It appeared that something was always eating off the buds before they had a chance to flower. So we moved it a little closer to the house and put up some deer repellents and now this year we were rewarded with a full bush of beautiful blooms. So now this plant has found its home.

Does anyone know what is causing the tears in the leaves that show in the above photo?

The Days of Laura Ingalls Wilder by T. L. Tedrow

2008-06-03T03:12:00.000-07:00

Home to the Prairie

When Pa comes to visit the farm in Missouri, he and Laura have so much fun reminiscing about the old days that they decide to set out in search of their old homestead, and on the way they relive many of the special memories of their past.

Also in this book from the series, the Youngun family along with other youngsters from Mansfield meet the Monroe Street Tigers and other kids from the St. Louis Monroe Street Parish in a football game beyond imagination. This is for ages 9-12 and there are at least eight books in this series.

Lovely Lush White Azalea

2008-05-30T16:17:00.000-07:00

Lovely Lush White Azalea

Fragrant Iris

2008-05-29T12:29:00.000-07:00

This iris doesn't look like much but the perfume is excellent. Many of our iris don't have much smell but this one is just lovely. The blooms themselves don't have aesthetic value as some of the others do. But this one surely makes up for that in it's fragrance and hardiness.

The Truth War by John MacArthur

2008-05-28T13:40:00.000-07:00

Fighting for Certainty in an Age of Deception

This book by John MacArthur is a must read for anyone who is concerned about where the church is headed today.

Here is what he addresses:

The pitfalls of postmodern thinking
Why the Emerging Church Movement is inherently flawed
Past skirmishes in the Truth War and their effect on the Church
The importance of truth and certainty in a postmodern society
How to identify and address the errors and false teachings smuggled into
the churches

Right now, truth is under attack, and much is at stake. Perhaps no one in America is more passionate than John MacArthur about exposing those who are mounting this attack--especially those bringing the assault right into the church.

Though it does get bogged down in the middle with some heavy history, for the most part this is an easy read for the layman. We highly recommend it.

Don't Stop Laughing Now! by many authors

2008-05-15T12:53:00.000-07:00

This book is laugh out loud funny! And to top that off it is very inspirational and thoughtful. The stories are very short, but don't read this before bed. You will wake up the house with your laughter! It is good clean fun with a lot of wisdom. Enjoy!

Today was another "collision theory day." The incident involved two pickups going next to the walker, while a van came from the other direction traveling over the hill and around a bend. These three vehicles were among only half a dozen vehicles on the road during a 35 minute walk. The good news is that the pickups slowed way down and the walker was alert.

Unity agreement & future

2008-05-12T12:02:00.000-07:00

Our last TT meeting was again agenda filled. First we took another look at a proposed unity agreement on the role of woman in leadership and the responses to that agreement. Then, we tried to decide how we should process our disagreement that remains. It looks like we will be voting.

Next on the agenda was looking at what God is saying about our future. But now the real challenge--laying out the path to get us from here to there. Much time on both of these issues was spent in small group discussions. Previously each group had chosen their own leaders, but this time our leaders were chosen ahead of time (to save time.)

One thing we are discovering about all these interactions is how little we think alike. Each one seems to see things in very different ways but still certain themes seem to be emerging if we want to grow as a church. Four things emerged from our discussion about the future:

1. We need dynamic leadership

2. We must be willing to change

3. We want to be welcoming

4. We should pray

That last theme is a hard one at times. Especially when things are not going the way one feels they should. We are trying to keep optimistic and hopeful. It is very difficult to see God working even in the midst of our disagreements.

Giving thanks in everything

2008-05-08T13:34:00.000-07:00

This creeping Phlox is one of our favorites. There are mounds all over our gardens. It all came from a six inch pot from a sister. Very prolific!

A visit to the doctor about a hearing problem has prompted some medical intervention for high blood pressure. Now we are looking at some minor heart dysfunction.

This is a good example of being thankful for everything.

If there had been no hearing problem then these much more serious problems would not have been detected and treated. We are thankful that this was discovered and we are thankful for the problem with hearing.

That's why we should give thanks for everything.

Need to report two cases of the "collision theory" today, one being a near accident. The walker was day-dreaming and could have caused a problem. Keep in mind that these were almost the only vehicles on the road during a thirty minute walk!