FAITHFUL FEBRUARY

It's February already!

The loving needle work steals my heart.

WOW
Time flies when we are digging out from under snow.
Alas, the temperatures rise slowly each day.
Today  I listen to the drip, drip of melting snow.
All is well on this quiet beginning of the LOVE month.
It's also the beginning of a very early LENT.

2-1:: Life is a patchwork of blessings.
My most favorite pillow I've had for years sits on our favorite chair to remind me of little JOYs that appear daily.
 Each patch holds a surprise to meditate upon and enjoy.
Sew the patches together and shape them into a heart and oh what a lovely piece my eyes behold.  Life's patches, when sown together, create a beautiful story.

The coffee grinder really works.
Great coffee bean flakes make yummy coffee.

2-2:: Sweets for the sweet.
We visited our local chocolate factory, a very small enterprise, to glean the best chocolate ever for dad's 101st birthday.  They make chocolate 'tools.'
Dad use to love fixing things when he had time in his later years.  He'd spend hours in the little barn behind the lake place crafting wood or gluing antique china that was broken.  I have some of those pieces.
After decades running a company he felt quite satisfied puttering around late in life.
Now he enjoys loads of pampering, good food and his daily reading of the Wall Street Journal.
He always has a bit of candy by his side but remains as slender as a trim 80 year old.
So glad we could provide a little extra something for his daily routine.

2-3:: Fog creeps in on little cat's feet . . . Carl Sandburg?  Silent. Sight line limited.  We're in a cocoon.  Nice.
I want to snuggle in the midst of this white fluff that surrounds us but a meeting beckons.
 I'm amazed so many were able to drive through the muck-like evening mass of non-visibility.
 We are an amazingly faithful group.
I'll be taking over the job of President in March while my PEO sister undergoes neck surgery.
What's one more thing on my plate? Selah.

Pops of red peak from under snow drifts.
It melted but today we got more snow.
I think its winter!

2-4:: I linger to long in wonder this morning.  So nice before a long day.  Hubby and I enjoy a good breakfast before we are off to visit a homebound couple, run a few errands and arrive at church just in time to complete some administrative tasks before a couple of meetings.  Balmy day, cloudy but not foggy.  I feel so BLESSED to have comfortable temperatures for February.  Thank you, God.

2-5:: Flakes float in bouncing air, light, large, waving in front of my window.  I love it when I can sit inside with the fire burning bright.  Today is an 'inside' day even though it's not that cold out and the sun peaks through to clear the sky.  I just need to get some work done.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO: Dad, David and Denise . . . all the same day!  More February birthdays in the family coming up.

Snow is ART.  BEAUTIFUL!

2-6:: Pink streaked dawn greets me as temperatures rise and ice melts above the window . . . drip, drip, drip.
What a wonderful way to begin the day.  Exercise, good breakfast with hubby and lingering awhile together make for a bright beginning.
Reflection, pondering, meditation, research, lingering over words of Luke.
 Transfiguration, the climax of another liturgical season, explodes stories into my heart.  Moses, Elijah, Jesus.
God had a plan before the beginning.
We are walking that plan today.
God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit . . . in the hearts of faith-filled Christians . . . leads us in POWER to do great and mighty things if only we can BE STILL and KNOW the power God has given us to go out as God calls, in whatever capacity we are drawn, to share God's story to all so that all might know the power of God that can work miracles in and through every single person who believes.

GLORIOUS SUNDAY MORNINGS!

2-7:: A round ball of fire peaks above the horizon just as we enter the last leg of our trip to church.
 Soon we will wear double-sun glasses as we stare straight into the sun for most of our trip.
At least we have sun!
Today we celebrate the epiphany of epiphanies as we embrace the divinity of Christ Jesus on the mountain with Peter, James and John.  Glory to glory!!
The voice of of the Father thunders through the cloud of the Holy Spirit as Jesus shimmers in glimmering white, "Behold, My Chosen One, listen to Him!"
That would get anyone's attention!  A glorious day of celebration as sun melts last piles of snow.
We have just been with the 'immortality' of oneness with God and on Wednesday we will be reminded of our mortality as we receive ashes on our foreheads.

I saw this on the internet and had to look for a minute.
Who would place the sign, "WATER" above the
wine without knowing Jesus' first miracle at the
wedding in Cana when He turned the water into the best wine?

2-8:: Time speeds by too fast to write.  So, I miss a few days.  Each day is filled with daily delights.
 I begin to dig into old church records as I come down from yesterday's mountain top experience.    I'm treated to a bliss-filled massage to tame my tight shoulders and knead my aching muscles.
 Seems that winter is here and the cold air makes me tight.  That's OK.  More snow is on the way.
God is good.  Life is good.  WE are good!

2-9:: We awake to see clear streets as white fluff sticks to the ground.
Berries hold up to an inch of the white stuff as flakes land, one on top of the other.
So beautiful.
 It's Shrove Tuesday.  A day to eat my annual faschnacht.
 But the morning coffee at the community center is cancelled even though the streets are clear.
 Our pancake supper at church is cancelled due to the fear of ice tonight.

Snow finally melts in the winter sun.
More snow fills the tree two days later.
Let it SNOW as long a the streets remain clear.

 Oh well.
 We take advantage of this beautiful day to catch up on work and prepare for tomorrow.
Love it!

2-10:: Ash Wednesday.  We are but dust and to dust we shall return.
The noon service has many more than expected.
We brave soles repent of our sins, humble ourselves to the fact that we are mere mortals, look death in the eye and feel good that we can wear the 'sign of the cross' today.
Do we show off our 'repentance' to others like the pharisees?
I'd rather think of my willingness to wear ashes all day as a sign that I am PROUD TO BE A CHRISTIAN and will stand up to this fact if it means facing death.

WE are the light of Christ.
I thought my RED lamp
shade would perk up
the soul a bit.

Christians all over the world are being targeted and killed for our faith.
I must be ready to do so knowing that I will simply pass into another phase of God's presence with me through His Son, Jesus Christ.
I am eternally His and He is mine.  AMEN!

2-11:: I just chug along as words and numbers and data flash before me.
Notes and presentation pages and reports and agendas swim through my head as I try to organize for tonight's meetings.
 Pastoral Care, Growth and Vestry are moving along at a good pace.
 It's my desire to keep them encouraged and moving in the right direction.
 It is indeed like herding cats.
But that's just fine.
 Cats are warm and fuzzy and mind their business most of the time.
These cats are learning to reach out beyond their own little ministry and think BIG!

2-12::  S T R E S S test.  Yup!  That's what I'll be doing today.  I am super healthy but the little ticker is going . . . blip - t- blip and sharp pain in the chest has been striking more than once.  My fabulous doctor is just making sure it's not the s-t-r-e-s-s I'm actually experiencing that is the culprit.  I can't wait until deadlines are met, mounds of records are complete and I'm off exploring my back yard this summer.  HORRAY!

2-13::  Happy Birthday to my nephew Andrew and to Jesse, the wife of my other nephew, Greg.  It's a very special day to be born on the 13.  I like to think that God gives double blessings on this day that

These are Scandinavian hearts.
Some are woven with pockets so candy can fit inside.

pagans believe is, shall we say, better to be eliminated?  As I prepare words for tomorrow, winds whistle through the window next to me.  They are so strong that my friend called to say she was blown nearly off the road.  A good day to stay inside and prepare for tomorrow.  Ahhhh tomorrow.  It's the day we remind ourselves to love one another.  This should be so daily but, alas, we spend money on cards and candy and flowers and whatever else we don't need simply to say, 'I LOVE YOU.'  We should say, I LOVE YOU daily to the ones we love.  May the love in our hearts be given away to those who pass by as we travel our way.

2-14:: St. Valentine died on this day in the mid 200s.  After he'd prayed over jailer's daughter and her sight was restored, he was brave enough to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with Claudius II, the one who put him in jail for not only being a Christian but for sharing the Gospel with others.  Needless to say, Bishop Valentine was sentenced to

Icon of St. Valentine 

death if he did not renounce Christianity.  His last note was to the jailer's daughter and signed, "Your Valentine."  That's where the tradition began to send notes of love and encouragement to family and friends.  St. Valentine chose to press on with the Gospel even though his life was at stake.  He knew that life eternally with God was far more valuable than a few more years of life without God on this earth.  May we all be open to God's love through the love of a friend or stranger.  Valentine blessings!

2-15:: Light flakes of frozen rain drift by the window.  Soon the sightline is white as a small blizzard scatters flakes thinly on top of crusty ridges of white.  Soft, wispy, lovely.  It will freeze and then the roads will ice up and then tomorrow morning we will slip and slide to work.  Another day in winter.
I love challenges.  This is a nice one.

2-16:: Rain slaps ice chunks as they slip off the roof.  Clunk, clunk against the gutters as they slip slide away.  Hmmmm, may have some patching to do in the spring.  The near zero temperatures of the weekend give way to degrees soaring up past 50 degrees!!  Buckets of wet slog onto snow, melting glacier-like reams of crusted ice on fields.  What an adventure when I don't have to walk in it.

We have a picture of a man's heart and a
woman's heart above our bed.  I made this
sketch from the woman's heart for one of
the classes I taught. Its a fabulous study
of a woman's heart.

I'll have to go out later today but I have my rain boots and a nice umbrella.  FUN!

2:17:: Another visit to the MD.  More anomalies.  On to another doctor.  Does it ever end?  I am so blessed to have had such great health knowing what I know now. Being born a premie with no incubator has its consequences.  However, I have taken very good care of myself over the decades.  My body thanks me for it.
With loads of TLC, stepping back from work and returning to more time for meditation and VOILA, all is well!

2-18:: Sun shines, blue skies taunt me to go outside. Whistling wind keeps me inside.  I'm a pansy when it comes to winter.  I have time to work on church records, prepare for the bishop's visit in March and B R E A T H E.  Five hours later I change pace and read a book for a few minutes. Nice.  I'm just chipping away until all the little details get done.

2-19::  A fabulous morning with a dear friend.
We talked for hours.
Sharing ideas for ministry made my soul soar.
It's been more than six months - far too long between meetings.  We both know it.  We both know we need to be more intentional to carve out

National Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
Washington D.C.

soul-time but we also know that our lives are very full with many wonderful soul-experiences.
We both measure our days and begin each day with our soul-time with God.
Time gets away from us but when we do find 'chat' time, we are both refreshed.
We return to our hubbies filled with satisfaction.

2-20:: Justice Antonin Scalia, a rare gift to the nation, was celebrated at his funeral at the Catholic Cathedral in Washington, D.C. today.
His son, Paul, was the celebrant and gave a brilliant homily that focused on God's Son, Jesus Christ.
Even the most perfect person is sinful.
 It's Christ's promise of resurrected life to all who truly believe in Him who see the hope beyond this earthly existence.
Antonin Scalia, known as an 'originalist', knew the intent of those who created the Constitution of the United States and did not let emotion or political 'bent' get in the way of his Supreme Court decisions.

Mosaic of Jesus seems
overwhelming but is perfect
for the magnitude of this
Cathedral

Antonin Scalia is the last of the great scholars, I fear.
 He is the last who would think not of his own ego, his own personal feelings, but thought as a Christian, convinced that God is in charge of this world, not us.
I grieve with those who truly understood the foundation from whence he came.  May Antonin truly rest in peace in the presence of the heavenly saints.

2-21:: Third Sunday of Lent.
 Today's Gospel in Luke shows us the 'holy boldness' of Jesus as he heals and continues to show God's chosen people that their reconnection in their RELATIONSHIP with God is His sole purpose for his ministry.
He will go to the Cross too soon.
But the story of Abram in Genesis 12 is key.
God makes COVENANT with Abram because of Abram's faith-filled relationship with God.
That Covenant remains today, along with other covenants God made.  The NEW COVENANT, Jesus Christ means we no longer have to 'sacrifice' to have uninterrupted relationship with God.
God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to be slaughtered, as a Lamb is slaughtered for sacrifice, so that all who "confess with their mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in their heart the God raised Him from the dead shall be saved."  From COVENANT to COVENANT, we are His.  With a contract, if one person breaks the bargain, the contract is null and void.  Not with covenant.  Covenant cannot be broken if we brake covenant with God because God never breaks His side of the covenant with us.  Covenant stands eternally as God is eternal.

Robins hop around outside as snow glaciers melt slowly.
A wonderful sign of HOPE that this season of gray
and snow will be over soon.  At least the temps are
not too bad.  Susan Branch is my totally favorite blogger,
writer, artist. Go to her blog susanbranch.com and see all the
neat things she does.  Her new book will be out in a month!

2:22:: Monday, Monday, this is the day . . .  The words sing in my hear from decades ago.  Early up to be treated to hair-time.
 I glow, feel refreshed, like a new woman.  Just in time to get to the heart specialist for an evaluation.
One more test, two more doctor's appointments.  And I'm not even retired yet!  Do I feel old or what?
My daily workouts and very healthy eating habits make me FEEL really good each day.  These anomalies in my body are hard to detect.  Nuclear stress test is next.
OK.  Whatever.  I have work to do.
I need all my ducks in a row very soon so I keep chipping away at my lists and admin. work for the one who is going to take my place at church.  Only a few more weeks but busy weeks they are.

2-23:: Ahhhhhhh, I get a massage today.
Boy, do I feel pampered.  Love it.
 Red robins, red robins . . .  I see them scampering about.  They sure are hearty.

Mama robin loves to build a nest right in the middle my my HUGE rose bush.
I get to peak in when she is seeking food and watch the cuties.
When I see her building her nest, I'll know it's safe for me to go out and play in the garden.

2-24:: God is so good.
 I assumed I'd have to go to the office for a personal meeting but the person was expecting a telephone conversation in the middle of her work day.  Perfect!
Blustery, rainy days are not my favorite, especially when they are COLD.
So, I sat by the window overlooking muddy farmland interspersed with stripes of green and patches of white that have not yet melted.  I LOVE soggy winter days when I can stay inside.

2-25:: Rain, Snow, Rain after a night of torrential winds.  February is crazy!
I plan to finish up small reports and get ahead of the game but I end up filling out endless bits of information for the Bishop's visit.
Church records, annual reports, updating books . . .   What is it about slogging through the paperwork that most never see?
It's like building a strong foundation for a structure.
No one sees the costly underpinnings that guarantee long standing vitality.
It's these basic tasks that make a difference in the long run.  I'll feel good when I finish my tenure in a few more weeks.
 I hope it makes a difference for the one who takes my place.
 I learned very young, from my dad, that it is important to hand over work or a borrowed item in better shape that when I received it.

A lovely reminder of this Valentine month.

My determination to make a job or situation a little bit better for the next person is heartwarming.
I don't like slogging through the tasks but I sure feel good when the tasks are completed satisfactorily.

2-26:: Sunny skies are good for the disposition.  A light-hearted spirit draws me out of my cocoon.
  I have more energy even though the wind chill brings the temps below freezing.
Ahhhh, the hope of spring being a bit closer each day makes my heart soar.
Definitely a nice last week of this Valentine month.
As I listen to those who want to chat about their challenges - all very difficult - I sense their hope as they focus on the 'light' of Christ leading them through dark times.
Light definitely makes a difference just as trust in God's eternal presence in my life invites a lighter spirit within me.

2-27:: Gosh golly time flies.  My mind wanders back to the days that Moses was rescued by

Pharaoh's daughter and raised in royalty.
 His nursemaid/nanny was his mother.
 Moses learned all things Egyptian while being filled with understanding of his Hebrew birthright - a covenant relationship with the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
 Although Moses fled his opulent life after he killed an Egyptian, God used all he had been given to rescue the hebrew people, decades later, who had been enslave in Egypt.
 God uses all of what has been given to us in mind, body and spirit, for His purpose if we hear Him and are brave to say, "Here I am, Lord," when He calls to us.

2-28:: The body is limp and dizzy but, with the Lord's help, I rise to the task of feeding others' souls.

This is how the beautiful days begin.  

 The dimly lit morning eventually produces a ball of fire in our eyes as we drive to church - for 45 minutes - right, smack in our eyes.
Not so good for the limp body but God is so good.
 I have enough strength to bring JOY to the congregation and invite them to embrace God's words of purpose for all of us.
As I lay hands on others in prayer, others, in turn, lay hands on me.
Energy fills me so that I can continue the day affirming others and preparing for the meal our church will serve to at-risk kids tomorrow at The POINT.

2-29:: Sleep heals all fatiguing bodies to a

This is my sister's artistic creation.  She's a gifted botanical
artist but cleverly adds these touches around her home.
A perfect end to this LEAP YEAR Valentine month.

point.  I sit quietly this morning and ponder this LEAP DAY!
 Such an odd day, celebrated every four years.  Tonight we may mention this to the kids after we serve supper to them.
We will also help them retain an 'Attitude of Gratitude' by showing them how they can say one good thing about the place that feeds their bodies and souls, The POINT.
They will also find good things about family, school and friends.
 I also am honored to read to them after we feed them.
Volunteers do this three times a week so they hear words, understand stories and eventually become better readers.
 Each of us has a purpose for a lifetime and/or a day.
I praise God my 'purpose' is being fulfilled in such a variety of ways that each day is a delightful surprise.

JANUARY JOYS!

OH JOY!

Winterberry bushes, mature and brilliantly RED!  Love 'em.

IT'S JANUARY!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
HAPPY NEW RESOLUTIONS!

LET'S START OVER . . .
FRESH . . .
NEW . . .

We have had such a balmy winter we forget what might be ahead of us.

Yet, I'd rather simply think of today.
Bright red winterberries hold strong on bushes.
Days are warm enough to sit in our old rocking chairs on the porch.

I linger a little longer inside than I should.  A nice, brisk walk around our community is the perfect medicine for a lingering cold.

TODAY IS A NEW BEGINNING, A NEW YEAR, ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY TO CELEBRATE LIFE AND MAKE THE BEST OF ALL THE BLESSINGS GIVEN TO US.

Pretty shelves, cleared of clutter and CLEAN!

1.01::  Happy New Year!  I'm trying on my new age.  I received it yesterday.
 It's not too uncomfortable this year but next year is another matter.
 I move into the next decade.
Well, here goes.
 I dive into this year with as much enthusiasm as I can muster . . .  slow and easy.
The next few months are filled with heavy-duty work and then . . .  watch out . . . I'll be flying into new opportunities that fill my soul with God's goodness.

1.02:: Just like most new beginnings I seem to entering this new year with a deep desire to get organized.  When I was growing up, my parents would announce to us young children that, "We are having a whirl-away."
 A whirl-away was much like it says.
We all worked together as fast as we could to clean up messes, change sheets and make the house look spic and span before we went out to play on a Saturday morning.
I never liked these short stints of work when I was young but they sure are

I organize jars and clean counters and make the kitchen pretty.

energizing when hubby and I work together to clean up jumbled areas of the house.
What a wonderful feeling we had after organizing a cupboard of old videos and getting rid of most.
 A little dusting and cleaning and we felt like the house was spic and span.  Ahhhhh, NICE!
A good beginning for the new year.

1.03:: Epiphany!
 It's a little used word these days.  Now we say, 'aha' or WOW!  When we think of the story of the wise men on their journey to discover the messiah, the king of kings and the lord of lords we may see many epiphanies.
 After all, these Persians who lived in the area of Babylon knew the story of the 'coming messiah' for generations after the exiled Hebrews lived in Babylon.
Many believed in the God of the Hebrew people.
 Years of reading the stars, in order to navigate travel, enabled all people in those days to know if the sky was 'reading' differently from once season to the another.  What an 'epiphany' to see the star and

planet alignment presented as a bright, moving star.  What an 'epiphany' to know deep down in their souls that it was time to follow that star.
 What an epiphany to meet Herod and later, in a dream, know that male children in the area of Bethlehem would be killed because of Herod's fear of a 'usurping' king, the messiah.
And then, after a long journey, the wise men could say 'WOW' when they met the holy family.
WOW when they felt and knew in their souls that the 'Presence of God', the Divine, the Messiah, was truly in their midst.
And what a WOW when the wise men returned home via back routes and told the story of their discovery of the King of kings, the Lord of lords, the Messiah!  WOW! Epiphany!

1.04:: Up early to take hubby to eye surgery.
The double vision he has suffered with for years will all be fixed?  Hope so.  He sure slept a long time after the surgery.
 Perhaps the general anesthesia gave the body the signal to relax and not worry.
"Don't worry, be happy" was the saying I heard years ago when I traveled to the south pacific.
 Hubby was in that mode . . .  all day.
Sleep and rest is the perfect medicine for healing.
 He thinks tomorrow will be 'back to normal.'  We'll see.
 I enjoy a relaxing afternoon as I care for my treasure.  Nice!

Paper whites: A treasure for the senses

1.05:: Hubby still horizontal most of the day.
 I play 'nurse' as best I can as we put drops in the eyes and as I fix foods for a turbulent tummy.
 Nausea is common after such a procedure.
Who knew!
 In the mean time I get a call that a grandson died suddenly and the family is gathering at church.
 Of course I will be there to orchestrate a quiet farewell to give closure to the family.
" Too young", my souls says.
His life was far too short.  Grief rips the soul when one dies far before he should.       Sigh.

1.06:: This is the real day to celebrate Epiphany.
Long after others have packed away their ornaments and fake wreaths, lights and Nativity scenes, ours still linger on.
It makes a statement.
People wonder if we left town.
Alas, I explain our wonderful tradition of extending this celebration of Christ's birth for as long as possible.
 The tough part is going out into the chill air [finally we have winter at 19 degrees].  Dismantling

This primitive print is one of my favorites.
The 'night' scene reminds me of the long, dark nights
that continue into long gray days . . .  but no snow!

our outdoor nativity scene.
Hmmm, perhaps we'll keep it up until neighbors notch up their polite wonder?
 We'll see.
 Hubby is still recovering from eye surgery so guess who is going to pack up our displays for another year!
 I'm glad we celebrate little EPIPHANIES every day of the year as we count our many daily blessings.
EPIPHANY!  WOW!
 God is good, life is good, we are good.

1.07:: A great day to stay home, stay in my PJs and linger over annual reports and data that needs addressing.
Gray, damp, chilly, a perfect day to sip tea and sit by the fire.  Yet, alas, I must attend a meeting, dress the part and breathe deep to find energy I don't have today.  Yet, I am so grateful that I

Blue on blue . . . treasures collected around the world
decades ago.

have all my faculties, reasonably good health, all my limbs, a great hubby and a GREAT LIFE!
 It's amazing who 'gray' can turn into hot pink as we linger together and share and learn from each other.
Thank you, Lord, for the stimulus I encountered when I left my comfortable little cave.

1.08:: Hubby is looking good AND feeling good.  The doctor affirms that his eye is healing well and that, in 4-6 weeks, all will be back to normal.  Hubby already sees so much better even though he invites me to continue to be his chauffeur.  Fine by me.  I am more than glad to drive until he feels he can drive safely.  It was nice to get out during the day even though I felt like I lived in the middle of Alaska with these dark days . . .  minus the freezing temps.  We are so blessed that we don't have to shovel snow and don't fear sliding on black ice.

Ahhhh, winter goodies.  YUM!

1.09:: Unexpected death hits the soul hard.  The young man died far too early and left extended family reeling.  His grandmother is part of our church and most of the family grew up in this church before they moved away.  They all returned today, to mourn and find closure as best they can.  A lovely family time as they lingered long after the memorial service.  We were given a chance to chat with those who came from far away to say good-bye.  The minute we return home we prepare for the next day.  I feel like a revolving door but I also feel honored to give Matthew a send-off into Christ's arms.

1.10:: Remember moments that become turning points in our lives.  We looked at Luke's version of

A favorite from Ann Voskamp.  A reminder for me
to take a 'time-out' from work throughout the day.

the baptism of Jesus and the introduction of Jesus' ministry by the Father, "This is my beloved son..."
and the Holy Spirit descending 'like a dove' onto Jesus.  All present saw and heard and were in awe.  This moment was profound.  Word spread.  The messiah is real and is present.  The Holy Spirit is available to any and all who, by faith, accept Jesus as messiah, as savior, as the One God sent to redeem us in our sin.  Amen!

1.11:: Tummy tumbles lay me low.
Don't know why . . . right in the middle of my daily, simple exercise regimen.
I drink cranberry tea, a bottle of water to flood my system.
 Nadda, nothing.
 Best medicine that works all the time - lie horizontal, for hours.  Might as well sleep.  Worked like a charm but got nothing done at all.
Hmmmm, sometimes my body gives out for good reason.
 I've been pushing myself really hard to finish up year-end reports, take care of hubby and . . . I forgot about ME!
 I give in, loll around all day, go to bed early.
 Best medicine ever.
Thank you, Lord, for reminding me that I am a mere mortal who must slow down and B R E A T H E!

Love this.  Some clever person from Minnesota
prepared this old man for a perfect shot.
Need I say more?

1.12:: I feel GREAT!
 Ready to hit the computer full speed ahead.
 I make great headway.
A bright day with very low temps turns into a huge wind storm later with OUR FIRST SNOW!
 It's more like white ice chunks but at least it covers the grass.
Nice to look at but I'm perfectly comfortable remaining inside.
Hubby gets the morning newspaper, the mail and runs endless errands.
I stay cozy-warm and delight in my sense of productivity.

1.13:: DONE!
Another report finished, a directory update complete, research almost done.
 It's a beautiful, sunny, COLD and WINDY day.

Are we in Florida yet?

 I'm BRAVE!
 I join hubby for grocery shopping.
We laugh and enjoy some silly time.
You'd think we were young-in-love  but we're old-in-love . . . Nice.

1.14:: Another sunny day!  Out we go to visit elderly couple who are brave enough to know they need to move into assisted living.
Good for them!
Too often we wait until health issues bog us down and keep us from the the required, "walk in by yourself," required by most facilities.
There are others we visit who waited too long. They found a good solution: in-home care for eight hours a day.
 Both solutions are do-able.
We are blessed to live in an era where we have many options for care as we become unable to attend

That will be us some day.

to simple household chores or care for ourselves.
Hubby and I feel we are still too young but we know we must at least talk about options in case of a health crises.
That's a good thing.
The more we talk about our life situations, the easier it is to make necessary changes.
The best part is, when we belong to a caring community, such as a church, we know there is support and encouragement if we let others know our challenges.
 God: Father, Son, Holy Spirit, is community.
 It's within the community of God that we learn to become open and share our life with others.
 God is good, Life is good, We are good.

1.15:: I looked forward to spending a couple hours outside cleaning up more of the garden on this balmy day but an emergency call needed response.  Off to the hospital we went to minister to a lovely couple.
It's like a revolving door for them.
One is in the hospital monthly with one thing or another and the other, the caregiver, is hampered by his own health issues.
Hubby and I take note and praise God, as we do daily, for our good health.
We are reminded to continue our exercise, keep eating healthful foods and enjoy each

Time ticks too fast some days.
I love this hebrew clock
that tells time backwards!

moment with the good energy we have at the moment.

Aging is so hard but it's even harder if we have not learned to love our bodies and care for ourselves.
 I'm the first one to push too hard, work on one too many tasks before taking a time-out, or not make a date to have FUN.
We decided to enjoy a meal at our favorite cafe.  FUN!

1.16:: S L O W start.  My year-end report was overlooked in a published booklet.
 It took me by surprise that this was not noticed.
I communicated the error and then stepped back.
I needed time to reflect on what is a 'big' thing and what is not
at all important.  My health is a BIG thing.
Missed reports can be salvaged.
Hubby and I share a wonderful brunch together that is SO HEALTHY . . .  all home made.
 I rest in the Lord and pause to reflect on powerful words on paper for tomorrow.
May the Lord place these words in my heart so that my renewed joy is like the new wine that Jesus changed from water at the wedding in Cana.

Our church is small so every space is used many ways.
Downstairs is offices, parish hall and kitchen.
Extra meetings happen in this beautiful space.

1.17:: Whirl, swirl, praise, joy, worship, meet, eat, meet again.
That's how Sundays always go but this Sunday was filled to the brim with one event after another.
The 8am service begins slow, quiet, no music, old Rite I liturgy which is beautiful.
 Bible study with focus on the Gospel of Luke begins almost before the first service ends.
 I join the eager studiers for part of the time, take care of some administrative tasks and then run upstairs for our festive Rite II liturgy which is well attended.
Today we have our annual meeting right after the service so I slide some words about the progress of the church into the words I share at each service.
That way the meeting after worship, before our brunch, is shorter.
A couple speeches, some information, recognition of incredible work by volunteers and we are done.  Fabulous, healthy food greets us downstairs.
Another meeting  - almost everyone but me goes upstairs to decide the next steps in hiring the rector who will replace me.
 I am thrilled at the progress, the enthusiasm, the JOY and laughter, as a large group shares in the process.
I scoot out the door after some chat with one who lingers but before the 'upstairs' meeting is over.
 A good feeling shimmers in my heart.

1.18:: I wish I could hide under my covers.

Just one day of snow so far.  All is melted now.
The wind screams through leafless trees.

  I am amazed that it is about 15 degrees with wind chill.
 There is always wind!
An appointment for early!
 In winter!
 How crazy could I be!
Home by noon, I decide this is a REAL day off.
I'll just look at emails, hundreds that I need to review again.
Four hours later, I have enjoyed some fun blogs sent to me.
It's like I took a day off, sort of.
I exercised, breathed deeply, enjoyed the fire and ate healthy food!
A wonderful day off in a cozy house with hubby close by, spilling information into my ears as he explores new vistas on his computer.
A wonderful day was had by all.

My study nook in the kitchen.
So convenient when cooking.
Lap top goes with me all over the house.

1.19:: Blistering wind, chilly day, stay inside . . . all day.
GOOD FOR ME!
Winter is not my strong suit.
Dive into my list of tasks, getting shorter by the week.
I see light at the end of the tunnel regarding administrative work that plods along nicely.
I can't wait until an administrator is hired and then becomes adept at some of these chores.
All are easy, take just a few minutes, but add to the work day.
God is so good.
Winter is the PERFECT time to complete these tasks that will make the future easier.
COZY, comfy, calm, collected . . . words of the day.

1.20:: I remember Walter Cronkite saying at the beginning of his show about characters in history, "It was a day, like all days, filled with the events that have illuminated our time."  I often repeat that comment when hubby asks how my day was.  Reams of paperwork lies on the floor, more data needs to be retrieved from nowhere, simple tasks seem to take more time than anticipated.  It seems I have done absolutely nothing.  Yet, it is a normal day that begins with prayer and exercise and a good breakfast and sometimes even a blog note, when I remember.  Not too bad if I do say so.  If all days are like this, I can't complain.  No emergencies, no traumas, no catastrophes.  NICE!

1.21:: I went out into the cold last night.  Real cold.  It's really January.  We were all in a trap-la-la

Nothing like a fire to warm cold bones.

fog thinking the fall weather would last through January?  Go figure.  We've been hit between the eyes with COLD!  I'm already counting the days until I can be warm but it is way too far away.  At least last night's gathering with my PEO sisters was a delight as we initiated another dear soul.  We laugh, chat endlessly, indulge in a treat or two and then we share ways we're making money to send to special funds set up to send women back to school or back to school for Doctorates.  NEAT-O

1.22:: Early up to give more blood.  Does it ever end?
 I think I've handed over a gallon this year.
But it's all good.
 The MDs are investigating my entire body to make sure all is returning to a better balance.
 Medicine is so amazing.
 I can live much longer simply by editing my diet a bit.  Watch my protein, eat small meals several times a day, stay off carbonated anything etc. etc.  It all sounds good for staying healthy no

Mary Englebrite is my hero.  She reminds me
every morning that I am Queen of everything
and dear hubby is Prince of Quite a lot!

matter what the shape of my body.
Now to get rid of the stress of deadlines and connecting the dots and finishing business that others have not taken care of over the years.  It's all good.
 We ate breakfast at Panera Bread for the first time and realized that I do a pretty good job for W A Y    L E S S  money.  I love our home-made breakfasts.

1.22:: Speaking of home made breakfast, we have the same thing every day.
 I get up much earlier than hubby and begin my day with prayer and exercise.
Then I enjoy a beautiful meal on a tray in my favorite spot (varies with season) while I read the Wall Street Journal.  We FINALLY subscribed to this paper after dad encouraged us for about 25 years!
Interesting articles in every category imaginable floods my mind as I enjoy my small dish of yogurt, my 14 almonds and a pot of delicious red raspberry tea.
I make fabulous oatmeal later in the morning for the two of us.  Blueberries are in the bottom of the bowl when I add the steamed oats.
A little cinnamon on top and a splash of milk and, voila, a breakfast fit for a queen and my handsome prince.
1.23:: Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

From our front window, a drift too high.

The blizzard of 2016 is in full blast.
Hubby digs through waist-high drifts to clear a vent pipe that is clogged with snow.
An amazingly BRIGHT day with wind gusts too high for me to venture out.
 I enjoy taking pictures from inside, thank you.
More on this tomorrow, after the slow-moving front ebbs away from our little abode.

1.24:: Sun shines bright as it reflects off of six foot snow drifts.
Plowed street makes a mountain of snow across driveways.
Only those cleared by a huge plow are open.
Sidewalks, filled to the brim with wet snow, will have to wait for the sun to work down to concrete.  The five foot drift in front of the front door will remain.
Hubby worked a couple hours to  dig out a four foot path from the garage door to the driveway.
I slogged through waist-high snow to clear vent pipes for the fourth time.

That's our basement window - blanketed with snow!
The two little plaid puffs you see are tips of a hand-made
ladder we use to hang wet clothes in the summer.
We used it daily in Florida and all summer up here.

It will be interesting to see if any of us can get to work tomorrow, Monday.
A great adventure!

1.25:: Up early, drive slow, looking over mountains of snow on the side of the road as we drive on salted streets.
 More blood, X-rays, questions with no answers.
The body limps along in hopes they find an answer.
God is good, Life is good, WE are good.  Sun shines, clear skies, fresh air.  Love it!
Second worst snow in this area EVER!
30 inches! I think we'll see white for weeks until it melts.

1.26:: Quiet, cozy as I listen to the drip drip of rain early in the morning.  It's up to 43 now.  Nice for melting the snow but a challenge as run-off turns to ice tonight.  It's still a challenge to get about but I'm glad I have no meetings tonight.

1.27:: HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY BROTHER!
 We've gotten to the age that a simple email will do

My heart is sad as I watch limbs pinned to the ground.
This Leland Cypress LOVES its home and has
become HUGE.  So glad we planted it in a happy place.

just fine.
We had a very long conversation the other day.  Our long chats are the greatest gift we give to each other.
Our conversations wrap around so many topics that we could go on forever.
He is so wise and chooses to find solutions to big challenges . . . ie. the U.S. Tax Code!
 If only our elected officials could ask the PUBLIC . .. the regular people out in plain old anyplace.
 I bet we'd find thousands of viable options that are plausible.  Joe Public has some smarts out there.
In the mean time, we are enjoying a bit of a melt.  The five foot peaks are slowly sinking into the ground as the sun presses in on snow.  NICE!

1.28:: Our fireplace got cleaned today!  Every seven years we see the need for a check-up.  It's gas.

My little bench, now chilly stone, is my favorite place
to sit on hot summer days.

The electric switch was rusting.
 Yellow flames now rise high as sweet heat fills a chilly space.
 I am not fond of cold so the fire place is a soothing balm to these old bones.
 I refuse to turn the heat up too high so would rather wear several layers, thank you.
 Sun skips across white and frees tree pine limbs glued down by ice.
Our neighbor farmer is able to get to the wood pile, a long ride from his house.
 His tractor shovel scoops up the cut pieces and slowly winds through a snowy road back to the house. Love it!

1.29:: I dig deep into my soul to place words on paper regarding 1 Corinthians 13.  Love is patient and kind . . .  Love is.  Love is an action.  Actions speak louder than words.  The act of love is selfless, giving, generous when the action defies feelings.  How does one get beyond feelings and act generously toward one who cannot say "thank you" for the kind action?  Digging deep in acts of love is like shoveling snow.  It's hard, heavy, work that takes endurance and patience.  I just keep

shoveling.

1.30:: Bright skies, hope for melting snow.  Happy faces walk about the narrowly plowed street.  Poor snow removal has many heads turning.  Praise God the melting snow enables us to at least see another walking in the street as we drive by.  Sidewalks are finally being shoveled, one stroke at a time.  Snow shoveling is truly an act of kindness.  I wonder as I write about Jesus in Nazareth.  If it snowed there, would he be the first to dig someone out from under the drifts?  He and his disciples would make light work of a heavy task.  Jesus did, however, shovel words into the hearts of hungry souls.

1.31:: Early up, easy drive to church.  Words said brought smiles and grins.  The early-birds linger and chat before going out into the now-warming morning.  Another group digs through scripture

downstairs as others rehearse music for the next service.  A new group, like a totally different church, arrives, listens and lingers over loads of food.  Meetings, reflection, words of encouragement.  It seems like 'another day at the office.'  Yet, the Lord, Jesus Christ is in our midst.  Makes a difference.
An end to an amazing month.
May the days continue to bring more light.
May the skies remain cloudless.
May the temperatures rise slowly until Spring.
May the Lord direct our paths into another month

DECEMBER DELIGHTS

DECEMBER: A new month.

It's several days after my 'upload' challenge.  For some reason the
silly upload now works.  I made this ginger house a few years
ago - when I had oodles of time.  This year I simply remember
those quiet days when I was not working.

A new year to follow the life of Christ as we anticipate his birth.

You know how I love to add my photos.
Won't work today.
No way, no how.

I must laugh.
 I tried to upload a picture of my favorite scripture.
Perhaps God is telling me something.
It says . . . BE  
 S T I L L    and
  K N O W     that I AM . . . GOD.

SO, I still my soul, write a note to Google and wait.

I love this pottery crèche that my sister gave me
years ago, before I lived where they make the figures.
It's simple, elegant, and tells the TRUE message
of Christ-mass.   The Christ Celebration!

After All, that is what ADVENT is all about.                                                  
ADVENT is greek for COMING.
We wait for the coming of the Lord.

I wait for new inventions to work as I wait.

Always something new.

I still my soul.

I write another note.

I wait.

It's that 'pregnant pause' that is so difficult.

I often think of Mother Mary, filled to fullness in her ninth month of pregnancy.
Filled with the Son of God.
Filled with joy as she carries this weight that will grow heavier over the years.

Perhaps I can carry the weight of impatience.
B R E A T H E . . . I say to myself.
New is good.
Just like new birth is good.
The birth of Jesus changed the world.
Perhaps the insights in this blog may change a heart.

12.02:: A maze of appointments, meetings, obligations, spinning, whirling, pressing on and I am ready to BE STILL.  Oh JOY.  Sitting still so late at night, when all is silent . . .  sleep, sweet sleep overtakes me.

Tea time is so daily.
It's a time to give rest to the soul
and give thanks for special gifts - like this tea cup.

12.03::  Type, file, scroll, study, mark, take notes, observe, contemplate, create.  Pieces of paper roll out of my printer as I study dozens of e-files.
 The amazing work of these computers overwhelms my soul.  I take a moment to re-read one of many blogs sent to me to embrace the presence of the Lord.
 I love other's insights into scripture after I spend my own time meditating on God's Word.

12.4::  Home all day!  Sifting through files of affirming words to remind the women joining our Women of Worth gathering on Sunday that they are truly AMAZING!
 It's a time to slow down, notice the gifts God has given each of us, drink in love and sweet affirmations from each other as the Lord guides us.
 Treats for the tummy, treats for the soul and the rare treat of time together.
 I can't wait!
 We are 'Queen for the day!" and so deserving of the title.  My favorite cup reminds me of this.

12.5::  "Come Thou Long Expected Jesus" rings through me head as I read prophecy from Malachi 3 and the song of Zechariah in the Gospel of Luke.  The expectation is heightened when John, the baptizer comes on the scene.  DRAMA, explosive words, excitement in the tight environs of the

I love my wreath, always ready to hang for winter.

hebrew people.  Anticipation . . .   I get excited every year as the story unfolds.  I never tire of that 'expectant' feeling that a mother has just before giving birth.  The celebration of the birth of the King of Kings is getting closer and I'm EXCITED!

12.6::  2nd Sunday of Advent.
We seem to balance our lives so tightly it's like dancing on the head of a pin.
 If one more item is added to our agenda, something will fall off that tiny place of balance . . . perhaps it's me who will fall off.

Zechariah, father of John the baptizer, raised his son to make a 'space' in his life to invite the 'ONE who is to come' into his life.  John grows up and God calls him into a mighty task . . .  make a  pathway so that the "'One' who was and is and is to come" can make his way into our hearts.  John yells to the endless crowds coming to see him, "Make way for the Lord!  Repent! Turn around!
 Find a special pathway to invite God's Presence back into your heart!"

A great idea if no candles are allowed.  Birch twigs in greens.
To make an Advent wreath, place 4 on greens and pin
a red 'winterberry' on each advent candle as the
season of Advent unfolds.

Let's light another candle that will pierce the darkness and remind us of the light of Christ who seeps into our souls when we invite Him to do so.

12.7::  Crisp, sunny with frosty ground . . . a perfect backdrop for winterberry bushes blooming with bright red fruit.
 I snuggle into my favorite chair and wonder at all the activity I see around me.  Decorations still going up and friends walking by in warm coats, hats and scarves.
 I wonder as I read from Isaiah and Amos . . .  Prophecy, foretelling of what is to come, words of encouragement or exhortation, all good, all meant for my soul.
 Where am I in my walk?
Do I simply move forward with the natural momentum of the week or do I step out, charge myself up a bit and give beyond my norm?
 Give of myself?  Give of my abundance?
Give of my knowledge (what little I have)?  YES!

A carved 'Charlie Brown' tree sits in front
of closed curtains.  The angel my sister
made decades ago is lovely in the sunlight.

It's the season of giving of self,  heart and soul.
Think big - do good- BE in Christ.

12.8:: Up early to open the house to fix-it guys.  One leaves and another enters.  We're ready for winter.
 Words on paper, emails galore, business, thinking, swirling in music, remembering for a report.
Ahhhhh, so nice to be done . . . for the day.
Sun hides behind dark skies as sun-rays flicker on empty corn fields.
 A nice day to remember the reason for the season.
Oh joy!

12.9:: Early up again to meet the ol' doc.  All is well with this old body . . .  as long as I follow the rules . . . so many rules.
 BUT God is good, Life is good, WE are good.
Hubby and I keep chugging along with errands, some breathing time and a tiny bit of pre-Christmas enjoyment.

12.10:: Lists, agendas, deadlines, meetings into the night.
A long day is slated.  B R E A T H E . . . be still . . .  know the Lord is guiding my every step.  Jeremiah 29 comes to mind, "I know the plans that I have for

you," declares the Lord. "Plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope."
His plans are my plan.  Praise Him that He PLANNED the presence of His Son from the very beginning . . . even before creation.  God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. AMEN

12.11:: Hazy skies fade into sparkle as temps rise.  It's like a gorgeous fall day!  I love it.  A very long meeting last night left me drained but the beauty of this day revives my soul.  I "press on toward the goal of the upward call of Christ Jesus," as I remain focused on my Lord.  My desire to quit is strong as my body limps along.  Yet, I feel 'called' to stand the test and press into the challenges set before me.  God is so good.  I must focus on those faithful encouragers who are with me every step of the way.  JOY comes in the midst of adversity because my JOY is in my Lord, Jesus Christ.

12.12:: I create a poem on JOY to add to the gift package tomorrow from St. Nicholas.  A wonderful tradition is to share the legend of this devout Christian who came from a wealthy home but chose to give all he had away to give JOY to others.

Christmas cookies are my favorite way to celebrate
this season of giving and sharing the love of Christ.

JOY is a choice made daily, like turning on a light.
It makes life seem brighter instead of dark as night.
We can look at each letter to help us understand
the meaning of the season the focus of this land.
The J reminds us of Jesus,
the O reminds us of Others.
The Y means YOU are loved by Christ
who lives in us forever.
So when you make Jesus 1st,
on your list of things to do,
then it is no wonder that others see JOY in you!

12.13:: JOY Sunday is a time in Advent to 'lighten up.'  We add a light spray of flowers and invite the children to participate in the service.

I love trees filled with food for birds and even
some close-to-the-ground food for bunnies.

The third, JOY,  candle is lit on the Advent wreath and brings a tad more light into our worship space. Light piercing the dark but very warm day reminds us of the Hope of Christ and the reason for this season of celebration . . . we are getting closer to the end of this pregnant pause.

12.14:: Balmy days invite us outside but the drizzle gives us pause.  I'm not complaining.  So far, the 'winter' seems like spring!  Yet, as I am driving home mid-afternoon, with ever darkening skies, I enjoy the sparkle of Christmas lights that dance in front of homes.  Some inside trees are lit inviting my quick glance into a bit of celebration.  NICE!

12.15:: Nothing beats a decorated 'outside' tree.  Munchies for birds and ornaments from nature.  God provides everything we need.  Birds and squirrels and bunnies (and even the skunks that visit us at midnight) never seem to worry about tomorrow.  Why should we?  As I try to meet endless deadlines I am also trying to take a 'time-out' each week.  Hubby and I are excited to have received FREE tickets to Longwood Gardens, a bit of a drive for us but OH SO BEAUTIFULLY decorated for Christmas.  JOY comes in 'natural' packages.

Perhaps this was a leaky fountain but now it is a
great place to nurture succulents.  Lights
stream down each tier like running water.

12.16:: A long journey that was filled with DECEMBER DELIGHTS filled our souls for a long time to come.  A special luncheon began the day and then we drove to the gardens.  Endless vignettes of beauty filled our sightline as we moved through acres of enchantment. I should have taken more pictures but the black night popped with the color of lights and water dancing to music.  Mild weather enabled us to walk for three hours as we drank in the beauty of the season.  I think it is the BEST year we have had at the gardens even though every year is amazing.  I thank the Lord every day that I have eyes to see, ears to hear and an open soul to receive such blessings.

12.17::  A time to send greetings to those we love.  This is often the only time of year we share with friends we have known but have not seen for years. I love hearing about friends' children and family adventures.  It's a time to 'connect' and a time to refresh our memories of days gone by.  NICE.

12.18:: SUN!  Oh JOY! It's amazing, as the days grow darker and sun hides behind thick clouds, how my body seems to shut down.

My camera moved in this night shot but the blue lights
were spectacular as we entered the conservatory
so beautifully decorated with LIGHTS!

 I exercise more slowly and begin my day sluggishly.
I'm ready for bed an hour early.
 LIGHT shining through the darkness does make a difference.
 No wonder we celebrate the Light of Christ and His birth during the darkest time of the year.
 HE makes all the difference in this dark world . . .  and in my life!
Thank you God for sending Your Son to US!

12.19:: "My soul MAGNIFIES the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my savior."  Words from Mary after Elizabeth greets her with BLESSING!  Two women bonding together as each carries a miracle of life within them.  The power of the Holy Spirit communicates to Mary and Elizabeth the awesomeness of this moment.  No need for conversation.  They KNOW the spirit of the Lord is upon them and filling them to overflowing with JOY and grace.  AMEN!

12.20:: My nephew's birthday, another year to celebrate the life of this precious soul in Christ.

Open the doors and majestic trees greet the eye.

Advent 4, a very dark beginning to the day, as days continue to become the shortest in the year.  FOUR candles of light brighten a dim corner of the church.  JOY rings out as we rejoice in the story of the encounter between Mary and Elizabeth.  God graces two women with life.  Each carries that life that belongs to God and is God, respectively.  They burst forth with joy as their bodies burst forth with new life in God's due time.  John is a miracle to Elizabeth in her very old age.  The seed of God within Mary is a miracle for all humanity who will soon be born, will live a very short but productive life, and will be crucified so that we who believe in Him might have eternal life.

12.21:: The longest day of the year is pretty mild but sun has yet to peak through cloudy skies.  We hide inside and recall the glorious concert of carols we enjoyed yesterday.  Oboe, bassoon, clarinet, flute, french horn produced delicate tunes that danced in our hearts.  The grand piano duets and the choir anthem were a grand addition.  NICE.  Music gives rest tot he soul, especially for the listener.

Our little manger at church.  It's a perfect size for our little church.

12.22:: Just when the Light of Christ pierces through the darkness in celebration of His birth, we begin to see four minutes more light each day.  Wise men thought of the perfect time of year to celebrate.  Balmy weather with gray, dark skies confuses the mind.  It seems like spring!  We have been so blessed so far.  Tonight we drive around the neighborhoods basking in the luxury of outdoor decorations and lights and who knows what.  It's a fun time of year even if it is a bit busy.  We make time to be quiet, listen, wait, contemplate God's Word and simply breath in new discoveries daily.

12.23:: The day before Christmas Eve and all through the house, the rain was pouring far more than a douse.  The mantle was filled with all matter of things, the manger, the stocking and a wooden man who sends out puff-rings.  A dark, quiet day.  A time to say THANK YOU to friends who care enough to write a message, purchase a stamp and send their love.  I am way behind on this part but at least I try to respond to each person before the new year.  My mind dances with words for tomorrow.
The Lamb of God, born in the midst of sheep herders' flocks.  Sheep raised for required sacrifices and a little Lamb of God destined in the same way. . . for us.  An incredible gift  . . . for us.

12:24:: "And the glory of the Lord shone upon them . . . "  The Eve of the Nativity of our Lord, Jesus Christ is when we have our grand celebration.
The children take over the first service with the Pageant, narrated by the Youth.  This service is packed and rowdy and wonderful.  The time for carols before the later Festive service is my favorite.  In our tradition we can finally usher in Christmas with all those traditional songs.
The Festive Service with incense is fabulous, regal, filled with the Glory of the Lord as we are swept into the story of Mary, Joseph, the shepherds and, of course, the birth of Christ Jesus.

The Moravian star is a standard
symbol of light piercing the darkness.

This is the first crescendo of our liturgical year.
 This lofty beginning will hold us through Lent, Holy Week and, of course, the grand crescendo of the year, Resurrection Sunday.
CELEBRATE!
Celebrate Life!
Celebrate Life in Christ eternal, that we each may know and understand our own, personal relationship with God in Christ and rejoice in resurrected life.

12:25 Celebrate quietly . . . B R E A T H E . . . let the foggy, dark day envelope us like a blanket as we bask in the glory of last night's celebration of our Lord's birth.  Crazy, wild children's pageant with deep meaning, packed church and joyous embrace.  The second service, formal, traditional, a bit staid, was loved by that crowd too.  It's the Jesus story, heard year after year, given a new twist each time but remaining with the same traditions that draws people together.  It did help that our 70 degree weather drew more people than we'd imagined.  The true meaning of Christ-mas was presented, received, and given to the glory of God.  Hubby and I rejoice in His Holiness.

12.26:: In the beginning . . .  God . . . breathed words and that powerful breath created this microcosm

Each year we put up hubby's manger from when he was
a child.  His dad bought it in Germany during WWII.

in which we live.  Then God breathed his presence into a handful of dirt and man was created.  Then God provided parameters for his human creation.  We know how well that worked.  John 1:1 introduces us to God's new plan for us, Jesus Christ, who has been part of creation from the beginning.  I'm meditating on the words, "In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God . . .  and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us."  There is dynamite-power in these in these words.

12.27:: We celebrate the first Sunday after Christmas.  The little tree that the children trimmed with Christian symbols toppled over in the night so we gathered a few early-birds (before the 8am service) to whisk away the tree and clean the plethora of pine needles left behind.  The tree, symbolized life, new life, with candy cane shepherd's crooks and all sorts of wonderful ornaments to remind us of Jesus' birth.  Life happens, as they say.  The poinsettias surround the manger as we recognize the "Word made flesh among us."  Christmas songs ring out and w rejoice at His coming.

Even our small church goes all out for Christmas.
We don't decorate until Christmas-eve and all
remains up until Epiphany,
12 days after Christmas.

12.28:: This old gal caught the Christmas spirit along with loads of germs.  Sore throat is now a full fledged cold.  It's not as bad as it could be as I gargled with Listerine every two hours as soon as I came home yesterday.  So much to do but the body moves slowly through the day.  I rejoice that hubby is making sure I am well cared for.

12.29:: I slog slowly and take mini-naps as I work through year-end reports and study by-laws.  Rain plops pellets of pearly pieces hard on window sills as temperatures continue to hover high.  No complaints here.  Although I rather enjoy shoveling snow, my body is just not up to it today.  Thank you, God, for so much rain.

12.30:: Feel a bit more perky as I plow through lovely Christmas cards, notes from friends, wonderful annual stories.  Our notes to friends will have to wait a few weeks, perhaps February would be nice.

This was last year's shot of the church.
No problem with snow this year . . .  so far.
Balmy days with little rain on Sundays.

 Major meetings and year-end expectations will, by then, be nicely tucked into files as we move into another season.  I've been off milk products for several days - so miss my yogurt but it helps to keep my nose from running too much.

12.31:: I awake to wonders that never cease.  Hubby is so creative.  Sparkle-stripes cover top hats and blow-whistles sit ready to celebrate the BIG day!  Nicely decorated envelopes with surprise-cards inside greet me as I move about the house in the early hour of the morning.  No wonder he staid up a little later last night, well after I was zoned out.  He sure knows how to celebrate the end of the year, and my birthday!  Happy Birthday to ME.  The sun even peeked out of gray skies for an hour.  I'm ready to celebrate . . . in spirit.  My body still slogs slow but is enthused to move a bit faster.  I'll write more next year!