JULY JOYS!

I love how this photo of my garden POPs with color and sparkle.

It's JULY!
Celebration month!
POP, Fizzle, clang, bang . .  .
Independence is worth celebrating.

Freedom is never free.
Perhaps we can remember all the privileges we have as citizens of this wonderful United States of America.

Let's celebrate our freedom.
Let's celebrate the gift of life!

#3893-3895:: A new month, a new day.  Prepping for a wonderful change in the Sunday worship service.  Hubby and I are seeing daylight after a pretty dark time last week.  Hugs all around!

#3896-3898:: click, clack, press, print . . . goes the computer keys as I reconstruct movements of the Sunday Liturgy.  Rite I was requested . . . after a fifteen year lapse.  Love it! Step back, wait, let others do the work as many offer to take over the admin role at church that was vacated.  We'll see what happens. Patience, humility and a little humor is in order here.

#3899-3901:: Sun shines in blue skies dappled with little white puffs that seem to hang like cotton balls strung on a line.  Birds chat incessantly as I sit quietly on my precious back porch.  I could live in this little spot if weather permitted.

#3902-3904:: Rain drops on windows, sloshy streets, muddy parks but fireworks are still slated.  Independence Day reigns!
Our infamous July 4th celebrations go on as this United States of America continues to be FREE.  God Bless America! In God We Trust!  No matter how this country's decisions go against God's will for us, God reigns.  God will never leave those who believe in Him. Praise God!

#3905-3907:: Sunday, Sunday . . . this is the day . . . when we all focus on worship, where we all

attend church . . . at least those who are not on vacation.  Sparse crowd but others worship elsewhere.
Sermon is on change.  Jesus 'changed' His vocation from carpenter to . . . focus on his divine vocation . . . touching lives with eternal hope and healing so lives would change . . . repent, return to God.  Nazarenes could not understand this 'Jesus' they once knew.  Do we understand?

#3908-3910:: Clang, buzz, chop goes the tree trimmer.  Hmmmmmm, chop, chop goes the lawn mower.  Whir, whiz, swoosh goes the neighbor's air conditioner.  Ah, summer days.  I seek silence but need to wait for the rain to come so that I can find 'quiet' on my porch.  Dig in the garden and find so many weeds! I think of the noises in my brain that refuse to calm down and the weeds of my life that need to let go of so many responsibilities.  These interruptive 'sounds' s trigger productive, life changing thoughts.  It's all good!

#3911-3913::Time out! Time to grab the sudsy water and catch Japanese beetles.  They are early this year and are devouring my beautiful rose bushes.  So not fair!  But I am just as tricky as these little bugs.  I place the cup under the rose and flip it - flip, flip, plunk go these pesky fiends.  Roses continue to bloom regardless of the appetite of these critters.  It's like my life.  I may be eaten by pesky challenges but I persevere as I seek the best way to live one day at a time.

#3914-3915:: Catch up, clear clutter, seek one document gone missing.  Computers are great but nothing beats time away from it.  A few more minutes and I'm into reading and writing with real paper in my hands and a real pen.  Then back to the garden to catch pesky bugs

that take away from nutrients for the bees.  I'm all for saving the bees.

#3916-3918:: Clip, clip, snip, snip . . . feels so good to get my hair cut.  There is something special about having someone else take care of me once in awhile.  Love it.  Ready for meetings tonight.  Maybe it will even not rain? HUGE storm passed through as we made decisions in a cozy, cool space.

#3919-3921:: Cards and notes and prayers - so sweet.  I tell a few that my brother died and I receive so many heart-felt wishes.  Thanks, world, for remaining so connected! Makes my heart go pitty-pat as I continue to grieve.

#3922-3924:: Crisp, dry, bright, cool, breezy . . . can't ask for a better day to be in the garden.  A morning meeting and words for tomorrow are squeezed within a perfectly wonderful day.   I so love summer.  God's hand is everywhere as I smell roses, collect Japanese Beetles, linger in the sunshine and simply enjoy the day.

#3925-3927:: Early up, easy drive to church.  New service format was well liked.  Summer means simple so this is good.  A pastoral visit was filled with laughter.  Better health makes for a light spirit.
Dry, breezy evening greets us after a very long day.  Enjoyed the garden as I fed the rose bushes.

#3928-3930:: Thick, muggy air greets me in the garden.  Refreshing.  Plop, pick scoop, dump . . . used up lettuce plants we used for salads. YUM! We start again with a new batch in a week or two.  Organize, pack, prep for our trip to be with family.

#3931-3933:: Dark up, as Amish would say.  Sun rises as we board the plane. An easy day of planes and automobiles to find destination one.

#3934-3936:: Oooooh and Ahhhhh as we see brother's new home and enjoy a few sights where they live.  The indian pueblo is fascinating.  Moist days invite us into shades of green rather than the usual shades of brown. Brother and wife were the hosts with the most as we were pampered each day.

We enjoyed walking inside this "condo complex" that
 native indians created centuries ago.  Amazing architecture.

#3937-3939:: Miles to go before we sleep (Frost) as we meander down I-25 and detour to Taos via every tiny village of 2-3 homes.  Scenic beauty beyond our eastern scope.  FUN!

#3940-3942:: Santa Fe is a sweet place filled with adobe everywhere.  Holy Faith.  St. Francis church is the focal point of the town.  Primitive beauty draws the soul to God in this holy spot filled with silent tourists who honor God's presence in this space.

#3943-3945:: A sweet time visiting with

A fuzzy picture of the center of Santa Fe (Holy Faith)
The patron saint of Santa Fe is Saint Francis, of course.
The Cathedral of St. Francis is a beautiful retreat that
 hubby and I enjoyed each day we were in the city.

my deceased brother's dear friends.  Listened, affirmed, listened some more.  Amazing variety of photographers with depth and vast world travels.  Exhausted but filled full with memories of my eldest brother.

#3946-3948:: Sunday is a day for the Lord but our tour guide, my other bother, wanted to get on the road.  Five hours later we were dining at the Bee Restaurant at the Broadmoar Hotel.  A delight.  The museum of old carriages and race cars was fascinating.  Back to brother's house to repack, regroup, and enjoy their digs.

#3949-3951:: A few adventures before brother drove us to Denver to see the newest addition to the family.  Seeing my nephew and his wife was an added blessing.  Ellie was born a month early in June.  She is actually, growth-wise, about 2 weeks old.  Holding her reminded us of God's incredible ingenuity in creating life.  Thank you God!

My newest great niece is now a joy to hold.
My proud brother is finally a grandpa!

#3952-3954:: 4am wake-up but right near the airport.  Full day of flying that was easy and peaceful.  Early home.  Groceries, mail, unpacking, oh my!  And then . .  .  hundreds of Japanese beetles have eaten our rose bushes.  My handy-dandy container of water and suds and a flick of the branches and voila . . .  about 300 in the container. Another hundred got away.  Feel good!

#3955-3957:: Early up, as we have been doing for days.  This time we are adjusting to the difference in time.  More chores, more Japanese beetles to flick into my container.  Not many left.  Loads of mail (both snail and computer).  And this blog.  Oh My!  So behind.  Made wonderful memories.

Miraculous staircase to the choir loft of this
tiny church was built with no rails.
It has only wooden nails and the wood,
studied by the finest scientists,
 cannot be named. God's hand was
 in this majestic creation.

#3958-3960:: Early up to have blood tests.  Wellness is our focus.  Fond memories of family float through my head as my soul soars with JOY in the beauty of God's creation.  The Garden calls my name.  I'm in another world today.

#3961-3963:: I ponder King David's life.  He has so much but he wanted more.
"What's yours is mine and what's mine is mine" seems to be the word of the day for David.  This selfish action continues to this day.
Some selfish souls seem to be the thorn in the side of those who are willing to give if the need is there.
We met so many on our trip who wanted to give their insights and encouragement just for the sake of being kind and generous.
So refreshing.  Hubby and I are blessed.

#3964-3966:: A day to regroup, garden, study and catch up.  Feeling sloggy and tired.  It's a good thing.  Have not felt so relaxed in months.  NICE.

Station of the Cross at the Santa Fe Basilica
of Saint Francis of Assisi

#3967-3969:: I called my 100 year old dad and was surprised to here he could not see.  Conjunctivitis = Pink Eye!.  Poor guy still has a sense of humor but was not his usual positive guy.  I wonder how I would be in that situation, especially if I had a substitute helper who had no idea what to do.  He is in good hands with meds but still can't see.  I pray for quick healing for him.

#3970-3972:: It is great to be back with the congregation.  Bible study conversation included God's provision, "Soul Food."  Beautiful day to visit a dear couple, now separated due to ill health. One is in a nursing home and the other is in hospital. I wonder about my own life journey.  Am I prepared to simply have Jesus at my side and no one else? I need to practice God's provision, daily soul food, so that I am satisfied in all circumstances.

#3973-3975::  Early up, as the Amish say.  MD and I review all the tests.  My heart is sad.  All my hard work to naturally bring change to my body provides only loss of weight (always welcome).

A story of the saints greets us in a side chapel.
Ceiling painted in bright, traditional designs.
Of course, I did not take a picture of the
most amazing ceiling ever!

 Breathe deep, focus on the moment, keep moving forward with eyes on the Lord.

#3976-3978:: My head swirls with 'awake' at 2am.  Enjoy some bible study for one hour then sleep until morning.  Fog envelopes the house and gardens.  We're in a cool, wet cloud!  Perfect moment to clean the garden.  Nearly four hours later and three bags filled, feel SO GOOD!  After a shower it's time to get some 'real' work done.  Nothing beats spending time in the garden. L O V E   I T !!!!

#3979-3981::  Shop till we drop!  Cupboards were bare after three weeks so we filled them up with fresh produce from our neighborhood farm.  YUM!  Healthy salad, time in the garden, several hours of study - God is good!

Farm fresh produce.  Always a good thing.

#3982-3984:: Reflecting on chat with my brother.  Dad is on the 'edge' of this world but may decide to hang around for a little while?  'Just-in-case' decisions must be made.  First my oldest brother dies and now dad may be next, or not.  None of us know when it's our time to leave this world.  I praise God that I know, for sure, without a doubt, that I will be singing with the angels when I die . . . perhaps in the back row but I'll be there!  I know the Lord will never leave me nor forsake me and that's a good feeling.

#3985-3987:: TGIF?  Thank the Good Lord it is Friday?  It just happens to be the end of July.  I'm sad to leave my most favorite month.  Garden gleams, God's word is in my heart, Good stuff to come.

JUNE JUBULATIONS!

It seems like forever before June arrived and then, suddenly, out of nowhere, it is HERE!

Our lovely little church in the summer.

How did that happen?
June: early sunrises, warm days, bursting blooms, gentle rains, all GOOD!
I look forward to slower days, more time to linger on my little porch and breathing space.
So far it looks like this will have to wait a little longer but I am not complaining.

#3807-3809:: Soaking rain last night makes for a happy garden.  Gray skies, cool and humid, is not all bad.  Catch up on loads of scripture reading which fills my soul.  Now to prep for tomorrow so that others can do their work.  Nice, easy pace.

Duck, duck, gray duck . . . just one more duck!

#3810-3812:: Cool sprinkles turn to a steady stream of wet as I watch our local fire department rescue some baby ducks that fell through a grate.  These brave men persevere to the tenth duck who is not too willing to exit the storm drain as it sits between the two exits.  I reward myself with wonderful pictures and a nice cup of tea as I warm myself after an hour in the rain.  Save a duck. Get news of a new great grand niece!  What a day!

Ellie Sierra is a month early!  She looks like she is ready to
see the world just a few hours later.  New Life!
So important at a time my sibling is loosing life.

#3813-3815:: If I knew better I'd think I was in Seattle.  Cold, clammy, rain drops remain in the clouds for now.  Great 'duck' memories as I drive to meetings that are fruitful and enjoyable.  I call it a day at 5pm only to remember that I have another important meeting.  This is a fun one that engages another side of me and lets me enjoy a few fluffy moments.

#3816-3818:: Water bottle, top pops, water spills, entire contents of book bag soaked, listen to phone - sizzle, sizzle, sizzle.  Towels soak water, air-dry date book, all else is good.  Early to store, new phone, next to meeting, lots to discuss, hours later . . . home, sweet, home.

#3819-3821:: Words spill out faster than I can type.  I am excited about the message.  "N" stands for

Hubby and I wear our button
pins as often as possible.

Nazarine.  Jesus was a Nazarine.  The arabic letter for "N" is painted on homes of Christians in Syria and Iraq.  They have a choice to denounce Jesus as Lord, pay a tax to ISIS that will make them destitute or be killed.  Do we Christians dare to wear the arabic letter for "N"?

#3822-3824::  Early up.  People already mill around the neighborhood for the annual garage sale.  I think a quick walk to see friends and treasures ends up taking five hours!  Nice to catch up with everyone's lives.  Laundry, prepare for tomorrow, slow down, breathe, early to bed.

#3825-3827:: Hubby is sick again so I travel alone this early morning.  Not

If you read the letters on the far left, you will see the arabic letter "N"
To make sure the world knows, a red circle with "N" inside is an
ugly distraction on a lovely wall of a home.

quite alone as the lines of cars amaze me.  Where is everyone going at 0-dark-hundred (but really nice and light out) on a Sunday morning?  Vacation!  I make good time and arrive early to chat with a faithful one.  The luxury we have to worship as we please without the threat of death.

#3828-3830:: Yesterday we all opened our eyes to the threat to Christians in Syria and Iraq.  Hubby searches for the button pins we can give to church members.  Just as sympathizers wore the Jewish star during WWII, we all can war the pin with the arabic letter 'nun' = Nazarene = Christian.  They are becoming popular but wait until we wear them.  Are we ready to tell our own story of what Christ Jesus means to us in our daily life?

Allium pops out in crazy places.
The pop of color against green is a sweet delight.

#3831-3833:: Tap, tap, tap go the keys on my computer.  Two days of writing requirements, task lists, process instructions.  Time to flip, flap, flop, fold, fill, file13 reams of paper that can be recycled - into a park bench perhaps?  (oops, that's recycled plastic)  With all the e-files I can accommodate on my computer, how on earth have I accumulated so much paper?  I  B. R. E. A. T. H. E in new life with wondrous S. P. A. C. E in my office!

#3834-3836:: A cool breezy day with a noon picnic meeting.  Nice.  BBQ and home grown salad makings.  Off to a hospital visit and then a special time of celebration with hubby as we walk through majestic gardens.  lingering at the Italian fountains and wandering through a place I

The little 'front' garden is a JOY to my heart.

would love to sip tea (if it were served) and feasting the eyes on wild rose arches.  Bliss to the senses.

#3837-3839:: Twenty-six years, oh my!  Our wedding anniversary!  A friend's birthday lunch.  A very long evening meeting.  Glad hubby and I celebrated yesterday.  Home so late that we barely breathed deep before midnight.  A measured day allowed us to embrace time to reflect upon all our blessings.

#3840-3842:: Great day to stay inside but love my little porch.  Decided to enjoy the hot, humid day as beads of moisture enveloped me. It's Summer!  Revise, re-work, reflect, as I finish up edits from a collaboration of thoughts.  Chores blend in nicely throughout the day as I get my 'ducks in a row.'

#3843-3845::  Type, re-type, re-think, pray, re-think again.  Words seem a jumble.  A tiny mustard

Formal gardens show off arches of wild roses.
I love wandering these acres of garden rooms.

seed looks like it cannot possibly grow into a huge bush.  God's creativity has the entire DNA of the mustard bush in that itty bitty seed.  A seed planted in good soil and nurtured can grow strong and healthy and bloom!  A tiny baby, when fed and nurtured and given the Spirit of God, can bloom and bear fruit that touches the world.

#3846-3847:: The little one is baptized today.  She is filled with the Holy Spirit that has been called into the water of baptism and is anointed with the oil of Chrism and 'sealed as Christ's own forever."
This is a sacrament in our church . . .  a very holy event.  This child has all she needs within her.  Now it is our responsibility to nurture her soul and

I love the whimsy of these 'green' designs.

love her as Christ loved the church.  'Jesus knows us, this we love."

#3848-3850:: Scribble, scribble, ponder, pray as I reflect upon my daily scripture readings.  Humid, hot, breezy enough to enjoy pulling a few weeds.  Sweet hubby takes an old nest down from our porch rafter and helps clean it nice and new.  A massage I've needed for weeks greets me at the end of the day.  A well paced day makes for a sweet spirit.

#3851-3853:: I linger in 1 Samuel as the life of Hannah engulfs me.  Pleading to God to be able to bear a child . . . and God gives her Samuel . . . who, when he is weaned is 'loaned' to God . . .  for the rest of his life.  He grows up with the temple priest, Eli but does not even know God nor is he aware of God's word when God calls him.  He hears God's voice but Eli never taught him the depth of is own salvation history.  How do we tell the precious ones we nurture about faith in God and the wonders of

The wound of loss tears at my soul.
Only God can heal the space that
is being torn away by my sibling's death.

being filled with the Holy Spirit through baptism?  God can woo those to Himself without us but what joy we bring to our relationship with God when our love for Him spills over into another's life.

#3852-3853:: A tough meeting actually went well.  A pastoral care visit was sweet and smooth. The incredible amount of driving took us through amazing farms and open landscapes and into sweet towns and beauty everywhere and sun and good weather.  But, tears flow as I listen to news about my brother on the phone.  He's fought hard, lived a great life and now ebbs out of this world into the hands of God.  I breathe deep and keep wiping the tears that are inevitable when 'liminal' becomes 'end.'   But he is only beginning a new and wonderful journey . . . any day now.  How does joy pierce through the aching heart?  God only knows . . .  and He does know.

#3854-3856:: We hurt today - brother and sisters.  Part of us, part of the family I have known for decades is slipping away

We all could love and hug him just a few months ago
at dad's 100th birthday.... we felt his bones and wondered.

from us.  The messages are more frequent . . .  not much time left.  We've all talked to him, made our peace.  But my soul and spirit are hurting.  My own vulnerability is brought to mind.  I am not young.  Do I grieve all life that ebbs away from this earth.  Yet, I also rejoice that my soul is everlastingly with the Lord.  I have resurrected life!  Goodness and mercy abide with me as I cling to the Vine - my Lord.  So I go slow, take extra moments to reflect, take extra care of my body and soul, and know that these are precious moments as we continue in vigil as my brother sinks more deeply into God's presence.

This picture was part of an email I received.
He makes me laugh!
Here ye, Hear ye!!!!!
His riot of color makes a statement
. . .  as he hollers a statement!

#3857-3859:: We wait 'vigil' as brother slips in and out of this world.  Off all meds and no dialysis actually made him alert today.  He was able to hear the words I wrote as I reflected on the book of photos he published a few years ago.  From his bed at home he looks out upon a beautiful, shimmering, summery day.  Nice.

#3860-3862:: Damp and moody skies press shafts of wind through my little porch.  Ohhhhh, the smells of farmer adding 'nutrients' to the land.  Pungent, earthy, farm smells.  I'm actually getting use to it.  I read, mark, learn and inwardly digest e-commentaries written by one I've met.  I am affirmed in my study as I learn a few new things.  My dying brother is still hanging in there.  A good day.

#3862-3865:: The Battle belongs to the Lord.  It's a resounding verse in the story of David and Goliath in 1 Samuel.  We are called to pray and through that prayer God will give us provision and protection against the enemy, even if it is simply a wise affirmation.  David won the battle only because he called upon his Father in heaven to lead, guide, and be at David's side.  As FATHERS celebrate this special day, I pray they know that, through prayer, the battles of life that impede provision and protection of their families are in God's hands.

Herbs at night. I'm surprised I got the shot.
A lively corner of our little screened-in porch.

#3866-3868:: Read, mark, learn . . . commentaries for Exodus.  Great perspective. Study day on back porch is lovely.  Warm but breezy.  Chirp, chirp, flit, fly, hop, stop go the birds and bunnies in the back yard.  Garden is gorgeous and gets a wonderful drink every few days from rainy evenings. Love it.

#3869-3871:: HOT! but I so love this weather as I linger on the porch until it is time to attend a meeting.  Summer is a delight to my soul!  Ahhhhh, the days may shorten but I linger longer each day into the night as porch lights sparkle on my little porch-garden.

#3872-3874::  Life goes on.  Brother lingers on this side of the heavens.  Tornado-like storm last night brings cool air and little damage here.  Reams of papers to insure our little abode are finally signed and sent.  Notes written, packages wrapped, details for Saturday's wedding finalized.  Now a moment to decompress and linger a little in my favorite spot: the porch!  Hooray!

#3875-3877::  Happy Birthday to dear sister. I

The garden always revives my soul.

pray she had a joy-filled day.  I prayed he would wait one more day but my brother passed into the Lord's arms this evening.  Words come slowly as I write of God's perfect healing while knowing so many have died just because they are Christian.  Perfect healing is simply knowing deep in my soul that being one with God through his Son will keep my soul 'alive in him' for eternity.  It seems hard when death and evil linger so closely with dear souls whose bodies are no longer with us on this earth.  REJOICE in the Lord, always.  Again I say rejoice!  God's Son died so that all who believe in the Lord, Jesus Christ might never feel the sting of death.

#3876-3878:: I feel numb, groggy, in a cloud of peace as I grieve.  Joy comes deep from the heart as I hurt.  He is at peace.  I now move on to rehearse for a wedding: marriage - union between a man and a woman who love each other and have invited the Lord, thy God, into the midst of this union.  The bride became a citizen today so they are one hour late for rehearsal.  We accomplish little but we celebrate!!!  Crazy, fun, swirls of excitement.

This seems odd but we have so many cows in our area.
Cows forever need to be milked, no matter what happens.
It's like life.  Time ticks by, life does not stop.
We live life until we are called to be with our Father.

#3879-3881:: Morning wedding.  All is ready.  Bride gets to church just in time to change and join her love in marriage.  Papa is lost!  Hold the wedding.  Find Papa, who is from another state and has no map and few directions.  Ahhhhh, someone drives to Papa (with flower girl and ring bearer) and guides them to the church.  Beautiful music pleases the waiting crowd that fills the church.  A grand celebration with two strands coming together.  The third strand, God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit, binds them together as they twist together on this new life-journey.  CELEBRATE!!! Even the drenching rain cannot stop the JOY we all feel.

#3882-3884:: Early awake for a full day of celebrating Christ Jesus.  Jesus heals to bring us back into the presence of the Father.  It's that 'connection' with God that is so difficult when we have doubt or unforgiveness.  Healing of the soul, daily, is the we continue to connect with the Lord.  A day filled with challenges and a pastoral visit to a church member who is in the hospital.  Prayers, praise, peace.
Good end to a very wild day.

This is my drawing from an old print.
It shows the vulnerability of a woman's heart.
My heart keeps ticking but it is on overload
right now.  As you can see, there is much
LIFE going on in this heart.

#3885-3887:: A bit of a break before we return to church to prepare our message for the kids at The Point, a fabulous place for at-risk kids to have dinner, play, learn and feel the embrace of the Lord.  Our church had too much food but all really enjoyed the nutritious meal.  We even had help from a neighbor church who steps in with tremendous help serving the meal.  We had so much fun with the kids as they listed they ways Jesus loves us and the ways we, then, can love one another. John 13:34.

#3888-3890:: Administrative details are rolling around in front of me as I regroup from the marathon last four days.  A few glitches need to be worked out but we are looking at some future changes at church - all good.  God is leading us.  Oh JOY!  I totally lean on the Lord this week. Thank you, God!

#3891-3892::  The last day of JUNE!  Lingering days have sped by too fast to capture.  Each moment is a celebration of life.  More rain than we can manage.  No need to water the flowers bursting forth.  Beautiful!
A great end to a challenging month.

MAY EUCHARISTEOS

Tis the month of May-ing.

Bromeliads bloom abundantly in these tropical environs.

I remember that line from Camelot but know it is been around for centuries.
I don't really know what it means but I think of the May pole and frolicking in green grass and the freedom of wearing fewer layers of clothing.

May Eucharisteos takes me back to the main reason the blog began.
Thousands of us, all over the world, promised ourselves that we would think of three THANK YOU phrases each day.

Eucharisteo = THANKS
So I begin this month of May-ing with fresh eucharisteos.
And what a wonderful beginning of the month!

Lots of lily pads in a quiet pond. Can you see the flying bug?

We are blessed to take our vacation in a sunny, warm place near water.

#3717- 3719:: Grackles are not my favorite bird but I watch mom and little one grazing in the grass.  Little one wants mom to feed it but mom keeps flying away.  Hmmmm, learning how to be self sufficient might be a lesson we all need to teach our little ones?
 I meet with friends on the far end of the 'age' spectrum.  We each realize we are actually at the point where we need to be a little less self reliant.  It's hard to adjust to 'aging' when we feel so young in spirit.  Oh my . . . sigh.
#3720-3722:: Open, close, pull, push . . . unpack one box after another as we fill our southern abode

BLUE! Water trickles up and over the bulb to provide a tranquil setting.

with 'home.'  Packed up since last August, our dishes and extra utensils are now liberated to be used as they should.  What a mess we make as we get organized?

#3723-3725:: This is the day the Lord has made.  We definitely will rejoice and be glad!  We visit a beautiful church and walk the Stations of the Cross.  Heart tugs, soul searching, a sense of knowing we are right where we should be on this Sunday.  The sermon was engaging and fed our souls.

#3726-3728:: Tummy trouble is finally getting better.  Food seems palatable but I still fear eating beyond the basics.  Energy is slowly returning but I wish I could do more.  People to see, family to cherish, so much to enjoy but the body says 'wait.'

I love the wild grass holding the sand in place.
A picture perfect day with cool breeze and clear sky.

#3729-3731:: I was finally able  to repair the little brick path that helps us step from abode to grass.  I love to lay bricks but this little endeavor used up all my energy today.  After a bit of rest, hubby and I enjoyed a jaunt to the hardware store . . .  again.  It's those small, practical needs that we are finally obtaining.  A walk on the beach was refreshing.  Oh JOY!

#3732-3734:: Wednesday!  We have only a few more days to enjoy warmth and sun and balmy days. Lunch, munch, chat, listen as I spend time with various friends throughout the day.  Although tired, it is a nice feeling to be able to take time with those I have not seen in years.  We linger at the beach as the sun sinks below the horizon and casts green light across the sky - the green flash!

This was suppose to be a little path to the grass with
plantings on either side.  Plantings did not happen
so I added bricks and made a patio (below)

#3735-3737:: Another luncheon with two friends.  Hubby and I run errands together and then enjoy dining at home.  Emails and work-related responses are as minimal as possible as I try to remain true to 'vacation.'

#3738-3740::  Early up, complete a few chores, make a smoothie and off to see my friends at prayer group.  So refreshing to dig deep into our souls as we reflect upon the week and share tears over loved ones who have died or are in the process of dying.  It's hitting us all in some way. Dinner with dear friends - Sushi Tai.

The little patio is finally finished.
Now Flax can be planted on both sides.

#3741-3743:: A great adventure to the Botanical Gardens with hubby!  A whole new addition made for a wondrous day.  Bali, old Florida, Italy and a children's garden we did not want to leave.  JOY!

#3744-3746:: A marvelous mother's day that I have forever called "Mothering" day simply because all women tend to 'mother' in some way or another.  Children are a product of God's grace in action but raising them is far more challenging than any CEO job on the planet. Sun and warmth and all good weather!

#3747-3749:: Put, plop, pull, push, as we put our vacation into a tidy little box until next year.  We completed tasks, enjoyed loads of friends and ventured into God's beauty in several places.  NICE!

A wonderful idea for the kids' worn out leaky boots!

#3750-3752:: Final check, focus on details and the long journey home.  A very long day but it is good to be home.  Chill winds and moody skies greet us as along with dear friends who joined us for dinner at a restaurant in a 150 year old bank.  [I am re-reading this blog and I missed a day.  What happened to Wednesday?  Who knows.  It is such a blur if I look back too far.  Each day is a new page of joy and discovery. . . . may missed Wednesdays be part of this blog-journey]

Everyone needs an old pump in their garden,
and it works!

#3753-3755:: Alleluia He is Risen!  This is Ascension Day!  If Jesus Christ did not ascend into heaven, we would never have received the Holy Spirit.  God's Son is with the Father.  We now have the Holy Spirit to lead and guide our every thought and action.  We have power through the Holy Spirit be all the Lord, thy God designed us to be.  GO, TELL, BAPTIZE . . . REPEAT!

#3756-3758:: Cleaned out the shed to give away loads of 'stuff' I have saved for the garden "just in case" . . . ahhhhhh, feels so good.  Dig deep as dandelions try to nestle near roots of my favorite plants.  It's good to be home but good weather makes for much cleaning up and organizing.  By decluttering my surroundings, I declutter my soul.  I am now ready to dig into more scripture study.

#3759-3761:: God is good, life is good, we are good.  The sun rose early but burning away the clouds took a bit of time.  We so need rain but I am enjoying the sparkle of the sun on bright green Hosta.  Today we share our garden gear and plants as we give and take at the local parking lot.  Words spill from my soul as I reflect on the Ascension of the Lord, Jesus Christ for tomorrow.  Brave disciples wait patiently as the Lord ascended into the heavens right before their eyes.  I wonder if they wondered, "How long, Lord, until the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, comes?"

Cracks on basin emulate the sun
leaking through foliage.
Was this planned?

#3762-3764:: Early day, early sun, easy drive to church.  Warm air, open windows, summer is here!  As we reflect on the disciples' time of waiting as they are filled with expectation, we ask ourselves, do we wait for God's answer to prayer with joyous expectation or an anxious heart?  Assurance that all is well after we have been gone for a couple weeks as we visit another in a nursing-care facility.

#3765-3767:: Warm morning sitting on the back porch for the first time becomes breezy.  With the breeze comes that 'smell'  - all too familiar - that makes one want to go inside.  The farmers are busy fertilizing with 'natural' ingredients!  Word spill into my soul as I study God's Word.

#3768-3770:: Hazy and cool after a night of much needed rain.  Perfect for planting those annuals I keep meaning to purchase.  Scriptures from Ezekiel and Hebrews bring profound observations of God's vision for us, given to us, if we quiet ourselves and listen with an open heart.

A sense of beauty pops up as lilies pad show their blooms.

#3771-3773::  Hot, cool, hot, cool . . . skittish weather makes for weird days.  I wonder if our attitudes are the same . . . hot temper . . . cooling off with a hug and assurance that all will be ok?
  In one day I begin wearing many layers but peel them off to as few layers as possible as the day wears on.  Do we hide under thick layers of disdain only to be drawn into the warmth of another's love?
It's the love of Jesus like that?  Before I sit down to meditate on God's Word daily, I may be 'dressed' in layers of frustration or worry or my mind might be too full of 'woulda, coulda, shoulda.'

One tree, many roots,
 exposed, vulnerable, open to the elements.
Meant to grow in soggy pools, swamps or low waters

As I 'rest' in promises of love and eternal salvation and God never leaving me nor forsaking me, I lighten my load and feel as if I am dancing in my thin summer dress.

#3774-3776:: Phone chat, emails, hard decisions.  Hurt heart, breathe deep, pray, wait, move forward
ever so slowly.  Gray sky, cold day, seek three joyous words: Green grass, beautiful garden, great hubby.  God is faithful to lift my spirit when I seek His embrace.

#3777-3779:: Gray, cold, hollow, battered, imploding, silent, cave-like.  Words come into my heart that are not filled with 'eucharisteo' so I comb the Psalms for encouragement from God.  Everlasting, always with me, His righteousness given to me as I continually seek Him  Comfort, solace, tranquility . . . the soul seems to revive a bit.  All in a day, week, year, life . . . good and bad, up and down, in and out, mood swings . . . breathe in  . . . breath out . . .  breathe deep.  Embrace the present for that is all we have for the moment.  Drink in God's whispers.  Act, not by feelings but by faith.  Know that the Lord is God and He will make my paths straight.

#3780-3782::  Flags fly with hopes of warmer

weather.  Freshly mowed grass, annuals planted in tight rows, some are washing cars.  It's Memorial Day weekend - first begun as a day off on May 5 to decorate graves of fallen heroes.  Then it was moved to May 31.  Now it is the 4th Monday of May - which is the 24th.  All for a day off?  Small town parades tell the story with bikes and trikes and children carrying flags and bagpipers and the town fire engine etc.  Red, White and Blue everywhere.  Love it!  We pray for the fallen, breathe deep, shed a tear for one we know who died doing his duty.  I'm glad we take a time-out for our heroes.

#3783-3785:: Pentecost!  Wear red!  The Holy Spirit fell on 3,000 Hebrew people who were on their

way to the temple to give their "Pentecost grain offering" a centuries old tradition.  God knew the best time to send the power from on High to those who believe in the Father through the Son.  " Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in us the fire of your love.  Send forth your Spirit and we shall be created and you shall renew the face of the earth."  The prayer is longer but these verses are taken from the Psalms.  The power of God in those who believe in God's Son, enables us to use 'explosive power' as God wills so that the message gets out to all - that God is alive and well and with us and we are God's for eternity.

#3786-3788::  Let's go fishing!  Free fishing today so families are down at the lake.  The red-headed twins caught a huge bunch again this year.  These girls are amazing and fun to see each summer when they visit their grandmother.  Flags flying at half mast, memories of war heroes, stories from WWII and Vietnam much lest Iraq and Afghanistan.  A sad sigh as we recall so many wars in our lifetime.
Gorgeous weather makes for a bit of a sunburn but it's always nice to have a little color on the face.

#3789-3791:: Sitting on the back porch studying is what summer is all about!  Lettuce, parsley and basil growing in pots - YUM! Freshly mowed grass smells so good.  Baby birds squeaking for food.

#3792-3794:  Early up for a meeting that goes well.  Off to a long awaited pastoral care visit that turns into a lovely family conversation about the church family and how well we are doing.  Satisfied hearts, prayers, lingering, hugs and off we go to explore some towns further east.  Rain did not descend upon us until just before we were due to attend a dinner meeting.  Evening prayer to give rest to the soul, good food, great discussion, satisfied soul.

#3795-3797:: Up way too early as much needed rain soaks the garden.  Mind racing with great ideas that excite open hearts to draw near to God through His son.  ALPHA course may be a new beginning for Fall.

#3798-3800:: Words from yesterday melt into oblivion as I begin again.  Trinity.  God: Father, Son, Holy Spirit - how to talk about our Triune God with refreshing perspective.  Clean, prep, paint the fireplace glass insert after a winter of constant use as paint-skin flakes off into tiny bits of dust.

#3801-3803:: Fresh veggies from our neighbor farmer - so good!  Peonies burst with blooms as swift wind sends petals, like snow, across the yard.  Organize, pack, prepare for a long tomorrow. A wonderful chat with my brother's wife makes my sad heart feel a bit better as he struggles with his health.

#3804-3806:: A gorgeous morning greeted by fresh air and an easy drive to church.  Trinity Sunday with Healing service a beautiful combination.  Just as St. Patrick brought the 'healing' message of our triune God to pagans in Ireland with the explanation of the Nicene Creed, we, also, can share the fullness of God in Christ the same way.  Home visit was a delight as I listened to stories and we sang old hymns together.  Leaving at 6:30am and arriving home at 5:00pm makes for a long but fulfilling day.

APRIL ALLELUIAS!

It's already April after a harsh, cold winter.

The only way we know it is spring, between light snow storms, is the tiny green sprouts I see in the garden.
We continue to walk the painful road to the Cross this week.
Moody skies,
cold wind gusts,
a perfect setting for contemplative prayer in my little corner that looks out upon the meadow swarming with red winged black birds, bluebirds, robins, bunnies and so much more.

#3627-3629:: No Fooling! It's a gorgeous day outside even if it is still a bit nippy.  As I meditate on Jesus' journey to the Cross and the story in Exodus of the slaughter of the passover lamb, I am in awe of God's plan for us. God made it so easy for us to receive salvation.  I look forward to spending time in thanksgiving as we walk with Jesus to the Cross on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday.

Altar of Siena Cathedral 14th Century.
Washing of feet and last supper - Maundy Thursday

#3630-3632:: Maundy Thursday: A gorgeous day with sunny skies and rising temperatures.
A 'liturgical' moment began this day over 2000 years ago as Jesus celebrated Passover with His disciples.
'Drink this cup, all of you, in remembrance of me."
This first introduction of the New Covenant would not be realized until Christ would be slaughtered the next day, like the lamb of the passover, and shed His blood to cover our sins, just as the blood of the lamb 'covered' the Israelites when the Angel of Death 'passed over' their homes.

#3633-3635:: Knowing the story helps me know that walking with Christ to the Cross is not the end.  Thanksgivings? We cannot celebrate resurrected life of Christ Jesus without walking with Him to the Cross.

#3636-3638:: Silence, emptiness, waiting . . . What happens now? Where is Jesus in the pageant of death to life? The vigil begins, remembering the salvation history of the Jewish people helps us cement our relationship with Christ Jesus.

A Norwegian Stave Church
built to reach the sky.
Pillars 'petrified' to be as strong as cement columns.
A unique place of worship that takes the eye to heaven.

#3639-3641:: ALLELUIA! Christ is Risen! The Lord is Risen Indeed! Throughout the Sunday celebration of resurrected life, we say Alleluia.  Fasting from this glorious word of JOY has been hard.  Now we can spend nearly a year saying this word.

#3642-3644:: A sleepy morning, a time to catch up on my reflections and linger a little longer with meditations and have a second breakfast before I make a visit to the skilled nursing unit where one from church has been moved.  I am so thankful for health and the ability to embrace life!

#3645-3647:: The stone is rolled away!  The doorway is open.  Come on in!  Come on into the resurrected life.  Come and see.  Seeing is believing.  Believe in the resurrected life of God's Son, Jesus Christ.  See, believe, follow.  WOW - so much to think about today, a day I am off to a very challenging meeting.  I just need to remember that I live in the 'resurrected' space that God gave me through His Son.  Alleluia!

#3648-3650:: Soggy, sad looking, chilly day but filled with laughter, chat, sharing, amazing stories of surviving the 'canyons of life' with God's help.  I gain new perspective when I hear someone else's story.  An evening meeting with another group opens my creative side as I learn about an artist's life.

#3651-3653:: B R E A T H E through the piles of papers, schedule of phone calls, required meetings.
My mountain top experience on Sunday filled with Alleluias is now balanced with a field of tasks that are time sensitive.
This is when I love to look out at the endless rows of brown, tan, gray dirt waiting for warm enough weather to plant and grow crops.  Endless rain prepares the soil outside and the soil of my heart to absorb all the nutrients available.  The Word of God is like cool spring water to my soul.

#3654-3656:: Words, ideas, creativity as I prepare for my Women of Worth Ministries class on Sunday.  See my blog: womenofworthmin.org        Joy is teaching women ways to grow in Christ. Dark, rainy, cold day is filled with my light hearted spirit.

#3657-3659:: Early up to write words of God's precious present presented to us by His presence in Jesus Christ.  Words are complex but so is understanding the Resurrection of the Word made flesh.  We trust words like "present" and "present-ness" of God so why do we have difficulty believing in the Resurrection of the Lord, Jesus Christ?  Later in the day I had a wonderful hospital visit to lift the spirit of one who is healing too slowly for his satisfaction.

#3660-3662::  28 degrees after a 70 degree day?  We are up so early that we forget that it takes time for this cold earth to heat up.  A glorious afternoon after a blessed Sunday service.  I even took some time to work in the garden and see the tiny green spurts of tulips peaking through dark soil.  I don't even mind the scrapes and thorn bites from trimming the rose bushes.  Spring is just around the corner!

#3663-3665:: A perfect day to sleep and get over my cold and sore throat.  Just a few hours of work and maybe there will be time . . . after laundry.  So happy that the garden helpers put down mulch today . . . the day after I finished trimming and feeding the rose bushes.  Now let the hovering rain clouds let loose!  Hooray!

#3666-3668::  Swollen nose, raspy voice, puffy face BUT I feel so much better!  Papers, plans for Ascension day, meeting notes in preparation for tonight - all good.  Wispy clouds wipe through blue skies for another gorgeous day.  Ten more degrees and I will want to play outside.  I have become less brave with the chill winds over the past year but this too shall pass. Summer WILL come! Hooray!

#3669-3671:: B R E A T H E   I can breathe!  Feels so good to breath without hacking away and blowing my nose incessantly.  Forsythia is BLOOMING!  Everything POPPED in a day!  Love it!

Gray skies don't seems so drab with pops of yellow piercing the brown/green fields.

#3672-3674:: S L O W I go as I plan for various parts of tonights meeting.  Meds are working well as I venture outside after laying low for a few days.  Home quite late and not feeling too bad.
#3675-3677:: OOPS! Forgot to send the article for the quarterly church newsletter.  A day of writing as I move from church events to 'Heart Whispers' that give me words for Sunday.

#3678-3680:: WOW! An amazing summer day!  I thought I dressed lightly and I was still too warm.  Joined dear friends for 'tea' and a lovely day in a sweet town.  I couldn't help but trip a bush and putter in the garden.  A second look at words from my heart-whispers and day is done.

#3681-3683:: A lovely early morning sunrise pierces the darkness as hot pink on the horizon.  A cool

morning becomes colder as we leave church in the afternoon.  Late in the day I wear several layers as I finish a garden project.  What a difference a day makes!

#3684-3686:: R A I N!  Gushing rain.  Wind.  A real storm.  Praise God it was at night so that daytime was clear.  So many details to work on today that six hours later I am finally able to write these notes.  Preparations are almost complete for our Ascension Day celebration next month.  Hooray!

#3687-3689:: The sweet smell of newly mowed grass lingers awhile after the first cutting of this summer.  Did I say Summer? I know we have a long way to go but it LOOKS like summer.  The temps are still low but I'll wear layers underneath my summer jacket and pretend.  I love hope!  Hope dangles before me daily as I pray for those lazy days on the porch.  We're getting there!

#3690-3692:: Early up to drive through country fields for a morning meeting.  Lots of details taken care of makes me feel a bit lighter.  Pouring rain as we drive home then visit one who is working hard to better his health.

Another meeting into the night makes for a long but very productive day.

#3693-3695:: Crunch, pinch, wonder, discuss . . . should we dare look at a new car after over eleven years with this little wonder that is clanking and grinding and coughing a bit more than we'd like?  We can look, can't we.  A great adventure on a gray day that looks like the sky is about to cry. I'm ready, Let's Go!  I hear the words, "wait, I'm not ready" in the background.

 Let's wait another day.

#3696-3698:: Time tick-tocks away giving me more room to complete the long list of tasks before me.  Windy, cold . . .where is spring? . . . clear skies! for a day outside to look, touch, test-drive hubby's new desire.  He has done ample research.  We're both ready.  Perhaps this is our "GO" day?

#3699-3701::  Saturday is always a 'rest' day but today is very busy.  Words on paper for the second time, preparation for a meeting tomorrow and a visit with PEO sisters to map out a year of meetings and programs.  Thinking that far ahead makes me dizzy but it's nice to plan ahead.

#3702-3704:: Healing prayer, a look at Psalm 23, a gathering after church, a meeting, a pastoral visit - home very late in the day.  Another blessing-filled Sunday.  We praise God we are able to do what is given to us each week.

#3705-3707:: Stop, go, rest, run, off to a great race as we pack a kazillion chores into two days.  Brain-freeze, relax, repeat.  Ahhhh, so nice to have someone else wash my hair! Ready to go for

another six weeks. B R E A T H E . . . feel so much better after cleaning my office!

#3708-3710:: Plop, pile, pack, putter . . . repeat.  Half the clothes I picked go back into the closet.  One of these days I will take even less!  Hubby's clothes fit in a smaller suitcase - good for him!
Check list for last minute items gets longer . . .  who is getting the milk?

#3711-3713:: Off we go into the wild blue yonder.  So ready for a much needed vacation.  Dear friends pick us up and drop us off which makes life easy.  A great ride even with changing planes.  Arrived in great weather.  I can't believe I don't have to put on six layers to go outside!

#3714-3716:: The last day of the month seems unreal.  Time flies too fast to capture.  We wrap our hearts around each moment in the sun and warmth as we unpack boxes that have been stored since last August.  More work on the little abode but so satisfying.  Farewell MONTH . . .  for another year.
May the month of May-ing be as delightful as Spring should be!