Have you ever looked at the calendar and then looked at the weather - they don't seem to go together. I have more golf rain checks than I do actual games played. I once again joined the ladies league and I love it. You could say that I have that "golf bug". My friend and I play, or should I say, we have tried to play once a week, but we've not succeeded in actually getting more than 1 or 2 games in.
I worked part time at the casino wrist banding folks for concerts and I have now quit that job due to too many issues at the casino (liquor license being suspended; problems with tickets; problems, problems and more problems). I have to say that the reason I did this was to pay for our upgrading the kitchen and as of last Sunday that got completed. I'm very happy with Kent who came and put our glass tile back splash on the walls. Then Cecil came and put the window frame back in place. It all looks great and so now we can once again entertain. I'm home on weekends; the weather better be looking more like summer and the kitchen is complete. After all isn't that the place in the house that everyone ends up in.
Hoping your summer is looking great!
Friday, July 22, 2011
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Family History
We are back from a 16 day trip to the other side of the world (Germany & Austria). It seemed like yesterday when we were all planning this trip - Jack, my parents and my brother, Mark. Then reality sets in and flights are booked; accommodation is made in two cities (the unknown areas so fear of being located in the wrong place) and then some trips are even booked and confirmed.
We had a few anxious moments and some restless nights with lots of noise from the streets below but all in all it was a good trip. We saw some of the same sights in Salzburg and met with a small number of family members. The language barrier is always the hardest but my dad met the challenge and did most of the translating for us.
But the best city was Munich and we would recommend that to anyone. So much history there and if you are a history fan from the war, this is a great place to start. We learned so much and saw first hand what it would of been like to have been living during the "Hitler Days". My dad was named after Adolf Hitler as his mother received $500 schillings for doing so. I never gave it much thought about his name until you visit a country that had so much hate for a man. Even on this trip several folks asked my dad if he wanted to change his name to something else given the history. But he has always stayed strong to his birth name that his mother did in sacrificing him for money to feed their family while my grandfather was away fighting the war. So much history in a country and in a family.
My dad even learned some new history facts on one of our guided trips and so this brought some new insight to his recollection of growing up.
We were made to appreciate our lifestyle and our faith after witnessing so much drinking and smoking at every age. Both the drinking and smoking are made so inexpensive that this lifestyle is accepted everywhere and for every age. It's sad to see this take over so many lives and yet at the same time, the people see it as being a normal way of life.
On our last three days by ourselves we visited and stayed in a little sleepy town known as Freising. This is a town adjacent to Munich and houses some hotels known as the "Munich airport area". We stayed there the last time we visited but only on a overnight trip. This time we actually got to explore this town and we were amazed to see all the young families - it seems to be where commuters live rather than in the big city and with the trains running directly to Munich, people commute. But the main thing was the old buildings and the history of such a small place. We wandered around the main cobblestone street admiring the old buildings and the amount of statues everywhere. Of course it wouldn't of been complete until you hear the beautiful bells ringing through out the land for everyone to hear. This was supposed to be a sleepy little stop over but instead it gave us a sense of history and family all in one short little visit. We loved this town and would think nothing of going back and spending a couple of days here again.
So we are glad to be home; not glad to be on a different time zone still but glad to get ourselves back in a routine and not living out of a suitcase.
We thank God for blessing us with safe travels; good health during our stay, as well showing us another side of life and the importance of having a balanced life which includes faith.
We had a few anxious moments and some restless nights with lots of noise from the streets below but all in all it was a good trip. We saw some of the same sights in Salzburg and met with a small number of family members. The language barrier is always the hardest but my dad met the challenge and did most of the translating for us.
But the best city was Munich and we would recommend that to anyone. So much history there and if you are a history fan from the war, this is a great place to start. We learned so much and saw first hand what it would of been like to have been living during the "Hitler Days". My dad was named after Adolf Hitler as his mother received $500 schillings for doing so. I never gave it much thought about his name until you visit a country that had so much hate for a man. Even on this trip several folks asked my dad if he wanted to change his name to something else given the history. But he has always stayed strong to his birth name that his mother did in sacrificing him for money to feed their family while my grandfather was away fighting the war. So much history in a country and in a family.
My dad even learned some new history facts on one of our guided trips and so this brought some new insight to his recollection of growing up.
We were made to appreciate our lifestyle and our faith after witnessing so much drinking and smoking at every age. Both the drinking and smoking are made so inexpensive that this lifestyle is accepted everywhere and for every age. It's sad to see this take over so many lives and yet at the same time, the people see it as being a normal way of life.
On our last three days by ourselves we visited and stayed in a little sleepy town known as Freising. This is a town adjacent to Munich and houses some hotels known as the "Munich airport area". We stayed there the last time we visited but only on a overnight trip. This time we actually got to explore this town and we were amazed to see all the young families - it seems to be where commuters live rather than in the big city and with the trains running directly to Munich, people commute. But the main thing was the old buildings and the history of such a small place. We wandered around the main cobblestone street admiring the old buildings and the amount of statues everywhere. Of course it wouldn't of been complete until you hear the beautiful bells ringing through out the land for everyone to hear. This was supposed to be a sleepy little stop over but instead it gave us a sense of history and family all in one short little visit. We loved this town and would think nothing of going back and spending a couple of days here again.
So we are glad to be home; not glad to be on a different time zone still but glad to get ourselves back in a routine and not living out of a suitcase.
We thank God for blessing us with safe travels; good health during our stay, as well showing us another side of life and the importance of having a balanced life which includes faith.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
One Year Later.......
Jack and I looked at the calendar and were reminded that one year ago our life would not be the same. In some ways this has been an awful year and in other ways it has brought new friends into our lives.
When people are displaced they go through many emotions as well they question every step they take, wondering if it would be the right one. We still are questioning our next "church family" step and we haven't quite figured out what that looks like. I must say that one of the things I miss most is the acapela singing and I know that most would say "WHAT". But having come from instrumental services before, I just fell in love with harmony singing. We have found some awesome speakers and we know that we can be fed spiritually from several different churches, but the music is truly missed. I think it has to do with the lead up to the sermon and that the music can touch your heart & soul.
Jack has now started to work part-time with a funeral company - Evan Strong Funeral and he is really enjoying it. He has helped out a couple of families that were looking and one that needed a funeral service. Everyone of our friends that he has talked to has said that this is the perfect career for him, especially with his personality. This new career has allowed us to think more about our life span and has also made us more aware of what each of us wants when our time is up. I'm glad that we have lots of Acapella music cd's as this will be something that we both want when our lives are celebrated.
Tomorrow I fly (compliments of my brother-in-law) to New Jersey to surprise my sister for her 50th Birthday. The two of us girls are then being whisked away to New York for the weekend to see a show (Jersey Boys); staying at the Marriott Hotel in Time Square and just enjoying shopping, the spa and whatever else we can find and do. Stephan is one wonderful husband and brother-in-law and I am so glad that he was able to help plan this surprise for her. The secret keeping will soon come to an end and I will be happy as we have kept this from her since January.
When people are displaced they go through many emotions as well they question every step they take, wondering if it would be the right one. We still are questioning our next "church family" step and we haven't quite figured out what that looks like. I must say that one of the things I miss most is the acapela singing and I know that most would say "WHAT". But having come from instrumental services before, I just fell in love with harmony singing. We have found some awesome speakers and we know that we can be fed spiritually from several different churches, but the music is truly missed. I think it has to do with the lead up to the sermon and that the music can touch your heart & soul.
Jack has now started to work part-time with a funeral company - Evan Strong Funeral and he is really enjoying it. He has helped out a couple of families that were looking and one that needed a funeral service. Everyone of our friends that he has talked to has said that this is the perfect career for him, especially with his personality. This new career has allowed us to think more about our life span and has also made us more aware of what each of us wants when our time is up. I'm glad that we have lots of Acapella music cd's as this will be something that we both want when our lives are celebrated.
Tomorrow I fly (compliments of my brother-in-law) to New Jersey to surprise my sister for her 50th Birthday. The two of us girls are then being whisked away to New York for the weekend to see a show (Jersey Boys); staying at the Marriott Hotel in Time Square and just enjoying shopping, the spa and whatever else we can find and do. Stephan is one wonderful husband and brother-in-law and I am so glad that he was able to help plan this surprise for her. The secret keeping will soon come to an end and I will be happy as we have kept this from her since January.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Winter Blah's
The winter blah's are setting in. All our medical tests are complete and Jack came through all of his tests/surgery. I was given a clean bill of health this year.
However, Jack and I have really missed our winter get away. We always have gone to Phoenix or Vegas for a short break to just soak up the sun and the heat. This year we have chosen to go to Europe in May with my folks & brother. My father was told to live out his "bucket list" so that is where he wanted to go. Not that I don't mind doing that, but this winter has just dragged on and on and where are those Chinooks that we always get? I'm battling my second cold in less than 2 months and I hate that. I know that if I got some sun I would feel much better, but that will have to wait.....of course the tanning beds will give me some heat and some color..so perhaps starting on Monday that is where I need to be.
I started a part time job working at a casino wrist banding folks for concerts and so far I have seen just about everything. The pay is good, however the hours are long and you have to stand the complete time. Last Saturday I worked 10 hours and did I ever ache. Tonight shouldn't be as long and the group tonight is the "Platters" - that I can hardly wait to hear. So this job will bring me a little extra cash for home reno's; our trip or just to buy the babies something special for whatever.
Okay winter be done and gone - it's time to get melting and warming up. Okay it's time for that second cup of coffee so I can get my day going. Have a good one!
However, Jack and I have really missed our winter get away. We always have gone to Phoenix or Vegas for a short break to just soak up the sun and the heat. This year we have chosen to go to Europe in May with my folks & brother. My father was told to live out his "bucket list" so that is where he wanted to go. Not that I don't mind doing that, but this winter has just dragged on and on and where are those Chinooks that we always get? I'm battling my second cold in less than 2 months and I hate that. I know that if I got some sun I would feel much better, but that will have to wait.....of course the tanning beds will give me some heat and some color..so perhaps starting on Monday that is where I need to be.
I started a part time job working at a casino wrist banding folks for concerts and so far I have seen just about everything. The pay is good, however the hours are long and you have to stand the complete time. Last Saturday I worked 10 hours and did I ever ache. Tonight shouldn't be as long and the group tonight is the "Platters" - that I can hardly wait to hear. So this job will bring me a little extra cash for home reno's; our trip or just to buy the babies something special for whatever.
Okay winter be done and gone - it's time to get melting and warming up. Okay it's time for that second cup of coffee so I can get my day going. Have a good one!
Friday, February 4, 2011
Medical February
Why does it seem that every January comes medicals and then in February for the past couple of years, Jack is in the hospital having stones removed. We were laughing about how time has flown by since his last surgery and even then we were confused as to which surgery it was and how long he was in the hospital. The hospital pre-admission clinic sent out his forms and when he opened the envelope they were for a woman...good thing that we has had time to get the right forms.
With this surgery the doctor ordered blood matching just in case he needs a transfusion and then they gave him a medical wrist band...too which most of the information has come off with having taken a shower or 2! You would think that the admissions department would give him the new bracelet upon being admitted at the hospital. So on Tuesday, Jack will be have a 1 inch kidney stone surgically removed from his right kidney. Prayers are always needed during this time as the unknown is out there.
I too would ask for some prayers as I also went for my physical last week and then for follow up tests (bone density & mammogram). And much to my dislike I received the phone call to come back for some various mammogram scans & an ultrasound....the dreaded call that all women hope they don't get. I'm telling myself that this is just a follow up to see something that I can't see or feel. So while my husband is recuperating in the hospital I will be at the lab getting re-analyzed. I know that I have to trust in God that he has these medical folks well trained in their medical profession to find/analyze anything and everything. God is Great.
With this surgery the doctor ordered blood matching just in case he needs a transfusion and then they gave him a medical wrist band...too which most of the information has come off with having taken a shower or 2! You would think that the admissions department would give him the new bracelet upon being admitted at the hospital. So on Tuesday, Jack will be have a 1 inch kidney stone surgically removed from his right kidney. Prayers are always needed during this time as the unknown is out there.
I too would ask for some prayers as I also went for my physical last week and then for follow up tests (bone density & mammogram). And much to my dislike I received the phone call to come back for some various mammogram scans & an ultrasound....the dreaded call that all women hope they don't get. I'm telling myself that this is just a follow up to see something that I can't see or feel. So while my husband is recuperating in the hospital I will be at the lab getting re-analyzed. I know that I have to trust in God that he has these medical folks well trained in their medical profession to find/analyze anything and everything. God is Great.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
2010 Move Over for 2011 To Arrive
As we close out 2010 we reflect on all the happenings (good & bad) for the past 12 months. We hopefully learn from our mistakes, embrace the beauty of our babies in our life and move forward to become a better person.
There are many things that make us all grow as individuals, as husbands & wives; as grandparents; parents; co-workers but most of all as God's children.
I wish for a church family that we can settle into and learn from others. I wish for my kids to seek out God in their hearts and help their children find him as well.
I wish for full time employment for Jack to make him feel more complete.
I pray that better health come to my family and to Jack and that this be the last year of kidney stones for him.
May God be part of all your lives and may he always be within your heart.
Welcome 2011 and may you bring love, joy, happiness and peace to all. Happy New Year my friends!
There are many things that make us all grow as individuals, as husbands & wives; as grandparents; parents; co-workers but most of all as God's children.
I wish for a church family that we can settle into and learn from others. I wish for my kids to seek out God in their hearts and help their children find him as well.
I wish for full time employment for Jack to make him feel more complete.
I pray that better health come to my family and to Jack and that this be the last year of kidney stones for him.
May God be part of all your lives and may he always be within your heart.
Welcome 2011 and may you bring love, joy, happiness and peace to all. Happy New Year my friends!
Monday, December 6, 2010
An Exciting Month
December is always such an exciting month. I love everything about Christmas and it starts with getting the house ready with baking, card writing and of course decorating. I also love buying gifts, clothes etc. for our adopt a family that we take on at work. Now in December we have Jack and Wyatt to share birthday gatherings and so that's even more exciting.
But this year I have chosen to take Jack away for a warm vacation....our gift to each other. He hasn't had much luck in finding any work and so a friend from work showed me this awesome cruise in the Caribbean and we leave Saturday from Miami. Now being the travel convey nor, I decided to book our flights only through warm destinations so we aren't storm stuck somewhere. So Wed am we fly to Phoenix and then onto Miami on Thursday. We will be trading the snow in for some sand and then on the weekend we trade the regular sand in for much whiter sand (or at least that's what I'm told).
When we get back it will already be the week of Christmas and so there will be lots to do to get ready for family to arrive from Saskatoon. Plus the babies should be walking by then. Last night at the (shared) birthday event, Wyatt took 2 steps to me without hanging onto anything. I will miss seeing him walk but I know that 10 days away isn't long for him to get running.
So Merry Christmas to everyone and may the Lord Jesus be close to your heart over the holiday season.
But this year I have chosen to take Jack away for a warm vacation....our gift to each other. He hasn't had much luck in finding any work and so a friend from work showed me this awesome cruise in the Caribbean and we leave Saturday from Miami. Now being the travel convey nor, I decided to book our flights only through warm destinations so we aren't storm stuck somewhere. So Wed am we fly to Phoenix and then onto Miami on Thursday. We will be trading the snow in for some sand and then on the weekend we trade the regular sand in for much whiter sand (or at least that's what I'm told).
When we get back it will already be the week of Christmas and so there will be lots to do to get ready for family to arrive from Saskatoon. Plus the babies should be walking by then. Last night at the (shared) birthday event, Wyatt took 2 steps to me without hanging onto anything. I will miss seeing him walk but I know that 10 days away isn't long for him to get running.
So Merry Christmas to everyone and may the Lord Jesus be close to your heart over the holiday season.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Thank you
Thank you to everyone that was praying for my dad - I can report that his surgery was a success and he came home on his 7th day in the hospital. The hospital has home care come in on a daily basis to change out his dressings. The nurse today did say that they thought he was getting an infection in his staples so he will call the doctor and get a prescription.
Today and yesterday were the Christmas set up days. I made lots of baking, finished my cards and then set up the tree & village. I don't want to get behind before we go away in early December.
Last night we babysat Wyatt and Breanne and Lyla came for a visit. It was a couple of weeks since the kids were together at Lyla's party. It is fun to watch these two little ones learn to play and share (some but not much happening there). But Wyatt had dinner with us and even went to bed without a fuss so things are changing. I can hardly wait for the grandkids to see the tree lit up. I decided to go with an easy decoratihg and non-breakable items this year. Looks good and should be more durable.
Well not many more sleeps until we are on our cruise and let me tell you i really need this after this year of turmoil and dissappointment. I hope to come back refreshed and more positive about the future.
Today and yesterday were the Christmas set up days. I made lots of baking, finished my cards and then set up the tree & village. I don't want to get behind before we go away in early December.
Last night we babysat Wyatt and Breanne and Lyla came for a visit. It was a couple of weeks since the kids were together at Lyla's party. It is fun to watch these two little ones learn to play and share (some but not much happening there). But Wyatt had dinner with us and even went to bed without a fuss so things are changing. I can hardly wait for the grandkids to see the tree lit up. I decided to go with an easy decoratihg and non-breakable items this year. Looks good and should be more durable.
Well not many more sleeps until we are on our cruise and let me tell you i really need this after this year of turmoil and dissappointment. I hope to come back refreshed and more positive about the future.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
An exciting but Prayerful Week Ahead
This week a head will be one that is filled with fun, laughter and then onto some prayerful, emotional time.
My beautiful granddaughter, Lyla will be turning one. Where has the year gone? I didn't know that so much love could be passed onto such a little person, an extension of love from a mother to a daughter. Every time I see Lyla it reminds me of my days with her mommy, Breanne. My little Breanne has now grown into this beautiful woman that has just become a wife but more than that she has become such a nurturing, calming mother. And I must say way better than I did at her age. I know deep in my heart that this little girl will grow up with dignity, pride and very diva dressed. I'm just sorry that I will miss her actual birthday along with Breanne's birthday when she turns 26.
This week also holds much of the unknown as my father undergoes surgery to correct the colostomy that he needed one year ago. At least this time I will be there with my mom waiting to see how he pulls through. Last year in October it was a scare for both Jack and I when we received the call that my dad's bowel had burst and was undergoing major surgery. We were in Edmonton at my Aunt's side waiting for my uncle to breathe his last breath and pass away from painful brain cancer. But my dad has done so well and over come so much with having to carry his waste on the outside of his body. This humbling experience has shown us that you can carry on with life and that people will love you and encourage and support you all the way through.
While I am in Saskatoon, my dear friend that passed away (way to early at 52)we will all be celebrating on what would of been his birthday, Nov 11th. Darryl would of been 53 and was married to my best friend for 30 years. This evening is to be filled with memories, stories and of course I'm sure a few tears. Darryl was my neighbor growing up and then he was the first older guy that I dated. But it was my friend Penny that stole his heart and for that we have all been close friends for years. Our oldest children were born a couple months apart, bowled together in a league and to this day both my son Ryan, and their daughter, Lisa still talk on facebook regularly. They both went into broadcasting in separate cities and Lisa has gone on to become on air radio announcer in Northern Sask. I marvel at how so much love in a friendship can carry on for years. Even though we have all moved away our connection to one another still pulls us back.
This will be a week filled with much joy & pride; then much anticipation of hope for my dad's recovery; and then onto the celebration of a dear friend's life that was taken so early from us. I know that I am thankful of own good health and that of Jack's and my children & now grandchildren as well.
May God be with my dad as he undergoes major surgery and let him resume his vibrant life that he once had.
My beautiful granddaughter, Lyla will be turning one. Where has the year gone? I didn't know that so much love could be passed onto such a little person, an extension of love from a mother to a daughter. Every time I see Lyla it reminds me of my days with her mommy, Breanne. My little Breanne has now grown into this beautiful woman that has just become a wife but more than that she has become such a nurturing, calming mother. And I must say way better than I did at her age. I know deep in my heart that this little girl will grow up with dignity, pride and very diva dressed. I'm just sorry that I will miss her actual birthday along with Breanne's birthday when she turns 26.
This week also holds much of the unknown as my father undergoes surgery to correct the colostomy that he needed one year ago. At least this time I will be there with my mom waiting to see how he pulls through. Last year in October it was a scare for both Jack and I when we received the call that my dad's bowel had burst and was undergoing major surgery. We were in Edmonton at my Aunt's side waiting for my uncle to breathe his last breath and pass away from painful brain cancer. But my dad has done so well and over come so much with having to carry his waste on the outside of his body. This humbling experience has shown us that you can carry on with life and that people will love you and encourage and support you all the way through.
While I am in Saskatoon, my dear friend that passed away (way to early at 52)we will all be celebrating on what would of been his birthday, Nov 11th. Darryl would of been 53 and was married to my best friend for 30 years. This evening is to be filled with memories, stories and of course I'm sure a few tears. Darryl was my neighbor growing up and then he was the first older guy that I dated. But it was my friend Penny that stole his heart and for that we have all been close friends for years. Our oldest children were born a couple months apart, bowled together in a league and to this day both my son Ryan, and their daughter, Lisa still talk on facebook regularly. They both went into broadcasting in separate cities and Lisa has gone on to become on air radio announcer in Northern Sask. I marvel at how so much love in a friendship can carry on for years. Even though we have all moved away our connection to one another still pulls us back.
This will be a week filled with much joy & pride; then much anticipation of hope for my dad's recovery; and then onto the celebration of a dear friend's life that was taken so early from us. I know that I am thankful of own good health and that of Jack's and my children & now grandchildren as well.
May God be with my dad as he undergoes major surgery and let him resume his vibrant life that he once had.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Selling Stuff
I am ever so grateful that we will finally have at least 2 different buyers that want to come today and buy our hot tub. Our dear hot tub that has sat all year with only a few granddaughters that "swam" in it. We have been trying off and on since June to sell this four year old, hot/warm water bucket in our yard. Since my kids moved out we just haven't used it like we thought we would have. We laugh about us buying this tub on a whim....I'm sure not many folks have that same buying mentality....where you see it; need it; have to buy it; and then after some time, that needing feeling goes away. Now I just need to figure out what item I can purchase for that empty space on the deck????? I'm sure it will be something that I will need and will make great use of!
Isn't that funny how life has us believing that we need to fill up areas that are vacated; or we need to replace things that have gone away or we've made changes in our life. God is instrumental in all changes in everyday life and sometimes we need to strip ourselves of all the outside, materialistic things and just start anew!
Isn't that funny how life has us believing that we need to fill up areas that are vacated; or we need to replace things that have gone away or we've made changes in our life. God is instrumental in all changes in everyday life and sometimes we need to strip ourselves of all the outside, materialistic things and just start anew!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Time for Prayer
Jack and I were given a beautiful 4 bedroom home to stay at in Kimberly last weekend and it was fabulous. The home belongs to friends that own this as a recreation home..God does truly bless some folks. Anyway it was great to get-away, golf some, sleep in and most of all enjoy God's nature that he created. We had a doe and her two fawns crash in the yard during the day and early evening. It was like being right with the animals.
Then on our way home, I got the dreaded call that my dear friend Darryl passed away peacefully from bone cancer. When I got home I called Penny (his wife/my high school girlfriend). She told me that it was so peaceful for him. He was filled up with fluid but about 30 min. before his passing the gurgling stopped. He was still listening to his wife & daughter talk to him. Then 10 mins. before he reached up and said "open the gates further, I need them opened more". Then just before he passed away he started talking again, "I see wings, I can see wings". Penny and her daughter, Lisa told him that it was okay to go, that they would be okay, that their other daughter/sister who is in another hospital suffering from a brain stem injury, due to her husbands reckless driving, that she would be okay; And then he took his last breath and was gone...so peaceful. (Now this couple didn't attend church other than Xmas & Easter; they were married in one church and their girls were baptized there as well but that was it). This conversation brought me some peace as well for them. Just knowing that he didn't suffer was okay. His service is this Saturday morning.
Then the next thing I got was a message that my dear great aunt (91) who lives here in Calgary passed away. And her passing was peaceful as well - talking with her grown daughter right up to her last breath. The last thing that they told each other was that they loved one another...again very surreal knowing that she too didn't suffer. She has been cremated and her ashes mixed in with her husbands (my uncle) who passed away from Alzheimers and cancer 2 years ago. Their ashes will be interned in Ontario later next spring.
So I thought that was it, and then my mom called on Monday to say that our good friends father passed away from his plight with alzheimers. He was pretty much comotose when he passed. His service is this Thursday.
With all this saddness I was reading a book that Jack has been after me to read and it has helped me put life in perspective. The author is Shauna Niequist and the title is "Cold Tangerines". Some of the book was like looking into a mirror and when I posted a message on my friends Memorial page, I used one of the comments from the book as I thought it was appropriate..."Life with God at its core is about giving your life up to something bigger and more powerful. It's about saying at every turn that God knows better than we know, and that his Spirit will lead us in ways that we couldn't have predicted". Ladies this is a great book and Shauna has written a second one out so I will post the title when I have read that one.
Life has a many twists and turns and we never know when our time will come to an end. But knowing that my last three friends/family passing were peaceful and trusting makes my soul feel a bit lighter.
Then on our way home, I got the dreaded call that my dear friend Darryl passed away peacefully from bone cancer. When I got home I called Penny (his wife/my high school girlfriend). She told me that it was so peaceful for him. He was filled up with fluid but about 30 min. before his passing the gurgling stopped. He was still listening to his wife & daughter talk to him. Then 10 mins. before he reached up and said "open the gates further, I need them opened more". Then just before he passed away he started talking again, "I see wings, I can see wings". Penny and her daughter, Lisa told him that it was okay to go, that they would be okay, that their other daughter/sister who is in another hospital suffering from a brain stem injury, due to her husbands reckless driving, that she would be okay; And then he took his last breath and was gone...so peaceful. (Now this couple didn't attend church other than Xmas & Easter; they were married in one church and their girls were baptized there as well but that was it). This conversation brought me some peace as well for them. Just knowing that he didn't suffer was okay. His service is this Saturday morning.
Then the next thing I got was a message that my dear great aunt (91) who lives here in Calgary passed away. And her passing was peaceful as well - talking with her grown daughter right up to her last breath. The last thing that they told each other was that they loved one another...again very surreal knowing that she too didn't suffer. She has been cremated and her ashes mixed in with her husbands (my uncle) who passed away from Alzheimers and cancer 2 years ago. Their ashes will be interned in Ontario later next spring.
So I thought that was it, and then my mom called on Monday to say that our good friends father passed away from his plight with alzheimers. He was pretty much comotose when he passed. His service is this Thursday.
With all this saddness I was reading a book that Jack has been after me to read and it has helped me put life in perspective. The author is Shauna Niequist and the title is "Cold Tangerines". Some of the book was like looking into a mirror and when I posted a message on my friends Memorial page, I used one of the comments from the book as I thought it was appropriate..."Life with God at its core is about giving your life up to something bigger and more powerful. It's about saying at every turn that God knows better than we know, and that his Spirit will lead us in ways that we couldn't have predicted". Ladies this is a great book and Shauna has written a second one out so I will post the title when I have read that one.
Life has a many twists and turns and we never know when our time will come to an end. But knowing that my last three friends/family passing were peaceful and trusting makes my soul feel a bit lighter.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Is Summer Nearly Over
Where has the summer gone? It seems like only yesterday and we were counting down the days until the wedding. And we all know what happens on that day - it goes by in the blink of an eye. And so then I thought I could enjoy August - but that seems to have slipped by as well. Perhaps, it flew by because I was busy with golfing every week; or perhaps I was spending so much time with my beautiful Lyla & handsome Wyatt. These babies have grown and changed so much, every day and I don't and didn't want to miss a day. So I saw them on average 3- 4x a week. Such a lift to a persons soul.
August is more than half over and already the commercials on tv are driving me crazy with the back to school slogans. Jack's granddaughters are looking forward to returning to new schools; old schools but to friends most of all. My nephews in the US don't start until after labour day so they still have a bit of freedom. I just have a short 2 weeks until the conference, to which I'm on the committee will be up and running in Lake Louise. Here Jack gets to come and relax and enjoy one of God's truly majestic places on earth.
But this weekend with a couple of extra days thrown in, we will be out in Kimberly enjoying some hospitality of some dear friends and getting away for a retreat to the end of summer. Or at least I think it will be a retreat...I need to find some books to read. Jack got me to relax yesterday with a variety of movies and pj day (all day). All I had to do was make breakfast and dinner and we snacked and enjoyed funny, serious and "who don'it" kind of flicks. Somehow if the weather isn't good, I can see us doing the same thing in Kimberly.
Regardless of how the summer went, 2010 will be coming to a close very soon. In some way we can reflect back and say it was sad; it was complicated; it was serene; it was breath taking; but most of all it was togetherness. We always come away and say it was our determination as a couple to do things and achieve things - together. I love my life with all the bumps and hiccups along the way and most of all I love my soul mate who is there with me; beside me and most of all respecting me as our journey sometimes goes in many different directions.
Here's to enjoying the last days of the summer of 2010!
August is more than half over and already the commercials on tv are driving me crazy with the back to school slogans. Jack's granddaughters are looking forward to returning to new schools; old schools but to friends most of all. My nephews in the US don't start until after labour day so they still have a bit of freedom. I just have a short 2 weeks until the conference, to which I'm on the committee will be up and running in Lake Louise. Here Jack gets to come and relax and enjoy one of God's truly majestic places on earth.
But this weekend with a couple of extra days thrown in, we will be out in Kimberly enjoying some hospitality of some dear friends and getting away for a retreat to the end of summer. Or at least I think it will be a retreat...I need to find some books to read. Jack got me to relax yesterday with a variety of movies and pj day (all day). All I had to do was make breakfast and dinner and we snacked and enjoyed funny, serious and "who don'it" kind of flicks. Somehow if the weather isn't good, I can see us doing the same thing in Kimberly.
Regardless of how the summer went, 2010 will be coming to a close very soon. In some way we can reflect back and say it was sad; it was complicated; it was serene; it was breath taking; but most of all it was togetherness. We always come away and say it was our determination as a couple to do things and achieve things - together. I love my life with all the bumps and hiccups along the way and most of all I love my soul mate who is there with me; beside me and most of all respecting me as our journey sometimes goes in many different directions.
Here's to enjoying the last days of the summer of 2010!
Friday, August 6, 2010
Disappointment & Happiness All in One Month
July came and went but not without much sadness and then near the end pure joy and happiness.
We lost getting our new home as we couldn't sell our current place. The market in Calgary has taken a turn for the worse and houses are just sitting on the market. As a home seller you either keep holding out or you drop your price drastically just to encourage real shoppers...too which we weren't prepared to do. So having said that we chose to not sell which meant we had no choice but to not buy our dream home. Fortunately for us, we were able to receive our deposit cheque back in the mail last week. As well, I noticed that our dream house is back in the pool of homes for sale by the builder, with a lovely $40,000 increase in price.....huh?
Then came the highlight that we were all waiting for - Breanne & Marc saying there I DO's! It was such a magical day and the weather was fantastic for the complete weekend. It was a sure joy to walk my beautiful daughter up the aisle (with her dad) and then to have Jack marry them. Jack included a family prayer with all of us and Lyla. Such a beautiful service. One of the highlights was Jack forgetting the rings out in the car and asking me to take his car keys to go and get them....right during the vow part. Needless to say the kids thought he was joking and when the guests started clapping & laughing they knew that he wasn't kidding. So a bit of humor to always remember on their day.
My mom & dad helped out so much in preparing the yard for the rehearsal dinner and then starting the bbq. Thank you for all that you did. The bridal luncheon on the Friday was our special time for just my daughters, my mom and sister. To which my sister made a special toast and gave me a very special gift...just for being her sister. It was a beautiful strand of pearls that she had won at an auction and she said that she didn't need 2 sets. What an amazing sister I have and now a beautiful gift to always know how close we are as sisters.
After all the festivities and feeling very exhausted, Jack and I went to Panorama for a well deserved long weekend. Both of us were both mentally and physically exhausted and enjoyed doing a little visiting but much more - needed rest.
So after much sadness July came to close with my heart & soul being refreshed, enlightened and a feeling of peace. Peace with our life, our journey and most of all a peaceful feeling of knowing that no matter what happens, Jack and I will be just fine. We have so much to live for and to continue searching for our new church family out there. We are both ready to move into our next phase of 2010 and leave the first of half behind us.
We lost getting our new home as we couldn't sell our current place. The market in Calgary has taken a turn for the worse and houses are just sitting on the market. As a home seller you either keep holding out or you drop your price drastically just to encourage real shoppers...too which we weren't prepared to do. So having said that we chose to not sell which meant we had no choice but to not buy our dream home. Fortunately for us, we were able to receive our deposit cheque back in the mail last week. As well, I noticed that our dream house is back in the pool of homes for sale by the builder, with a lovely $40,000 increase in price.....huh?
Then came the highlight that we were all waiting for - Breanne & Marc saying there I DO's! It was such a magical day and the weather was fantastic for the complete weekend. It was a sure joy to walk my beautiful daughter up the aisle (with her dad) and then to have Jack marry them. Jack included a family prayer with all of us and Lyla. Such a beautiful service. One of the highlights was Jack forgetting the rings out in the car and asking me to take his car keys to go and get them....right during the vow part. Needless to say the kids thought he was joking and when the guests started clapping & laughing they knew that he wasn't kidding. So a bit of humor to always remember on their day.
My mom & dad helped out so much in preparing the yard for the rehearsal dinner and then starting the bbq. Thank you for all that you did. The bridal luncheon on the Friday was our special time for just my daughters, my mom and sister. To which my sister made a special toast and gave me a very special gift...just for being her sister. It was a beautiful strand of pearls that she had won at an auction and she said that she didn't need 2 sets. What an amazing sister I have and now a beautiful gift to always know how close we are as sisters.
After all the festivities and feeling very exhausted, Jack and I went to Panorama for a well deserved long weekend. Both of us were both mentally and physically exhausted and enjoyed doing a little visiting but much more - needed rest.
So after much sadness July came to close with my heart & soul being refreshed, enlightened and a feeling of peace. Peace with our life, our journey and most of all a peaceful feeling of knowing that no matter what happens, Jack and I will be just fine. We have so much to live for and to continue searching for our new church family out there. We are both ready to move into our next phase of 2010 and leave the first of half behind us.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Life Can be Unfair Sometimes
I just heard back from my parents about my best friends in Saskatoon. Darryl (I used to date him) has been diagnosed with bone cancer of the spine. He has been suffering with back ache since mid May after a diagnosis of a cancer growth on his eyelid. They were waiting to hear back from a specialist in Calgary that deals with cancer of the eye. When his family doctor sent him for xrays of his back, both the doctor and the radiologist missed the cancer and said his back problems were from pulled muscle. But they gave him heavy medication. After a couple more weeks of suffering; a chiropractor then said he couldn't help him and to seek another opinion, his wife finally took him to the hospital emergency room. When they ran another xray the doctor asked how could these doctors of missed a totally disintegrated 11th disc and pockets of cancer down his back. Move ahead 4 days and a MRI revealed that he was totally covered in cancer. Now 2 discs are rubbing bone on bone and his pain has brought him to morphine every 4 hours with another pain killer in between. So I drove out to Sasktoon for a quick 24hr trip to see him & my best friend, Penny. They are devastated as he is only 53 and his life was just ahead of him. Then after 1 more week in the hops ital, there youngest married daughter drops her 1 year old off at the house for her sister (who is visiting) to babysit and goes out with her husband. Her husband drives recklessly and crashes their vehicle into a power pole on the wives side the vehicle. So at 9:30 pm Sat evening, Penny gets a call from the police to say that her daughter was in a serious crash and needs to come to the hospital. Upon arriving they find her daughter with a broken collarbone; smashed pelvis, internal bleeding and most likely a crushed liver. She is not expected to live. So the family decide to try and get Darryl transferred from one hospital to the other to see his dying daughter as he is most likely not going to make it much longer either.
How sad is this story? As a parent and wife who's bedside do you sit beside? How do you split your time between two people that you love and you want to hang onto both? This is just tearing at my heart & soul and I know that everyone is asking, why, why - how come life is so harsh? What have these people done?
And you know the hardest part - when I was visiting Darryl and we were both crying and talking about our past lifetime with all of us together in high school, I told Darryl that he did have it better than some. At least he would get a chance to say goodbye to his family. Whether it be in a letter, video tribute to them or whatever. As when a family member is killed in an accident they never get that opportunity...dejavu? How awful to have said that and feel that this was an omen.
How do you pray for hope in this situation? How do you request God to not take both and not put Penny through anymore pain & suffering? How do you ask God to make sure that the little 1 year old baby, not be without a mother and most likley a father as charges are pending against him for this accident.
Once I dry my eyes (for the millionth time) I will ask God to be kind and save at least one of them. And to spare a young person rather than a dear, dear friend.
How sad is this story? As a parent and wife who's bedside do you sit beside? How do you split your time between two people that you love and you want to hang onto both? This is just tearing at my heart & soul and I know that everyone is asking, why, why - how come life is so harsh? What have these people done?
And you know the hardest part - when I was visiting Darryl and we were both crying and talking about our past lifetime with all of us together in high school, I told Darryl that he did have it better than some. At least he would get a chance to say goodbye to his family. Whether it be in a letter, video tribute to them or whatever. As when a family member is killed in an accident they never get that opportunity...dejavu? How awful to have said that and feel that this was an omen.
How do you pray for hope in this situation? How do you request God to not take both and not put Penny through anymore pain & suffering? How do you ask God to make sure that the little 1 year old baby, not be without a mother and most likley a father as charges are pending against him for this accident.
Once I dry my eyes (for the millionth time) I will ask God to be kind and save at least one of them. And to spare a young person rather than a dear, dear friend.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Prayers for Work
Over the past couple of months I have been searching for prayers for Jack. It is amazing how many you can find on the internet and I'm greatful for that. Here are a few that I will share with you, feel free to pass on or pray for others that have lost their jobs.
In Time of Need
Heavenly Father, in my present need, help me to believe that You are aware of my anxiety and will do what is best for me. Give me the strength to trust You and put the present and future in Your Hands. Grant this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Dear God, I place my humble needs before you:
My need to meet my responsibilities in the world.
My need to use my God-given talents and abilities.
My need to fulfill my place here on earth.
I pray for Your guidance now to show me the way
To the perfect opportunity to do what I love,
To do what I can do well, and what will fulfill
My needs mentally, spiritually, and financially.
Help me to walk in faith as You show me the way!
Thank You, Lord. Amen!
My favorite:
Lord, you are a loving Father and generous to your children.
You bless and inspire the world with your good work.
Help me in my search for profitable work
So that I may care for my own as well as you have cared for me.
Thank you Lord, for your loving guidance today. Amen!
In Time of Need
Heavenly Father, in my present need, help me to believe that You are aware of my anxiety and will do what is best for me. Give me the strength to trust You and put the present and future in Your Hands. Grant this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Dear God, I place my humble needs before you:
My need to meet my responsibilities in the world.
My need to use my God-given talents and abilities.
My need to fulfill my place here on earth.
I pray for Your guidance now to show me the way
To the perfect opportunity to do what I love,
To do what I can do well, and what will fulfill
My needs mentally, spiritually, and financially.
Help me to walk in faith as You show me the way!
Thank You, Lord. Amen!
My favorite:
Lord, you are a loving Father and generous to your children.
You bless and inspire the world with your good work.
Help me in my search for profitable work
So that I may care for my own as well as you have cared for me.
Thank you Lord, for your loving guidance today. Amen!
Friday, June 18, 2010
Another Week
Another week has nearly come to an end and lots has happened. It seems that everyday I'm either painting, cleaning or just scheduled to be out of the house in the evening. I keep telling Jack that we can sleep in on Saturday, but will that actually happen - not sure!
This week we received good news that my dad will be able to have his colostomy reversal done in August. He must have his chemo appointment in July then surgery in August then three months before the next chemo treatment. His recovery time will be six months before he will be ruled a clean bill of health. Lots can go wrong and things that you don't even know can happen. So we won't be booking any trip with them to Europe until he has passed the six month mark.
Also we had a showing (with not more than 2 hours notice) and were shocked when the real estate agent wrote comments on our "call to view" page. This page is for feedback to the seller about your home - or at least that is what we were told it was for. Anyway, do you know what kind of a neighborhood you live in? I always thought that McKenzie Lake was a family, middle to high income area. Yes, the area we are in is the 2nd phase of about 4 so no issues there. I also know that we live on an inside crescent so no outside traffic flow happening. I also know that we haven't had a murder, rape, robbery, house invasion or drug bust of a home etc. on our block or surrounding area. And yet, some supposed realtor that "used to sell houses in McKenzie Lake" had the audacity to write that his client didn't feel safe in our neighborhood. Well I sure took exception to that and wrote him a note - here are the email transcripts along with his (of course) rebuttal: On a scale of 1 to 4. Was the property appealing? 2- Somewhat Are you considering a second showing? No
Would you like to be kept informed if we receive an offer on the property? No
Please rate the exterior condition? Average Please rate the interior condition? Average; Please rate the floor plan: Average Additional comments: (optional) (the neighbourhood is a little too rough for my clients)
My email back:
I am attaching the comments that you reported on the “Call to View” page and wanted you to know that we appreciate when realtor's take the time to let sellers know the feedback. However, the last comment about the “neighborhood being a little too rough” I believe is uncalled for. The community of McKenzie Lake is a fairly fluent area consisting of middle to high income home owners and by using this type of slander makes me worried for folks that are trying to purchase property and what they are being told about family communities. As well, we as a community have issues just like any other community in an ever growing city. But there have been no murders, drug houses being shut down or any other criminal activity on our block or surrounding area that I am aware of.
I would hope that this was just a slip and that you didn’t mean to print this or my suggestion to the real estate board is that all realtor's would have to take a sensitivity class before taking clients out and publishing comments that are hurtful and derogatory.
His Reply:
Feedback is requested and comments are done on a complimentary basis. The reason many realtor's no longer give feedback is just as per the email below. The comment was meant as a constructive comment and nothing but. I apologize if you feel offended but maybe don’t ask for feedback if you don’t like the commentary. I am well aware of the community of McKenzie as I worked in it for 10 years. Yes, parts of it are very affluent and others are a little worn down. That is what was intended by the comments.
Okay, call me prejudice but if you have ever lived in a community you know how old each part is. I believe that if he truly sold houses in this community and he had a client that wanted to buy, then he shouldn't of taken them to the 2nd oldest part and not expected to see older homes. "Worn down", sorry I don't agree as our particular Crescent has home owners who take pride in their homes. There aren't a bunch of renters that let the yards go to hell. Anyway, I was serious about the "sensitivity training" as I have no issue in commenting on the house, but you are pushing it when you talk about "safety". As well, what do most mothers tell their children, if you don't have anything nice to say......"
Besides we live in a city with all kinds of crime everywhere and someone isn't going to find a home where there is no crime.
So that's my happy story and my not so happy story.
This week we received good news that my dad will be able to have his colostomy reversal done in August. He must have his chemo appointment in July then surgery in August then three months before the next chemo treatment. His recovery time will be six months before he will be ruled a clean bill of health. Lots can go wrong and things that you don't even know can happen. So we won't be booking any trip with them to Europe until he has passed the six month mark.
Also we had a showing (with not more than 2 hours notice) and were shocked when the real estate agent wrote comments on our "call to view" page. This page is for feedback to the seller about your home - or at least that is what we were told it was for. Anyway, do you know what kind of a neighborhood you live in? I always thought that McKenzie Lake was a family, middle to high income area. Yes, the area we are in is the 2nd phase of about 4 so no issues there. I also know that we live on an inside crescent so no outside traffic flow happening. I also know that we haven't had a murder, rape, robbery, house invasion or drug bust of a home etc. on our block or surrounding area. And yet, some supposed realtor that "used to sell houses in McKenzie Lake" had the audacity to write that his client didn't feel safe in our neighborhood. Well I sure took exception to that and wrote him a note - here are the email transcripts along with his (of course) rebuttal: On a scale of 1 to 4. Was the property appealing? 2- Somewhat Are you considering a second showing? No
Would you like to be kept informed if we receive an offer on the property? No
Please rate the exterior condition? Average Please rate the interior condition? Average; Please rate the floor plan: Average Additional comments: (optional) (the neighbourhood is a little too rough for my clients)
My email back:
I am attaching the comments that you reported on the “Call to View” page and wanted you to know that we appreciate when realtor's take the time to let sellers know the feedback. However, the last comment about the “neighborhood being a little too rough” I believe is uncalled for. The community of McKenzie Lake is a fairly fluent area consisting of middle to high income home owners and by using this type of slander makes me worried for folks that are trying to purchase property and what they are being told about family communities. As well, we as a community have issues just like any other community in an ever growing city. But there have been no murders, drug houses being shut down or any other criminal activity on our block or surrounding area that I am aware of.
I would hope that this was just a slip and that you didn’t mean to print this or my suggestion to the real estate board is that all realtor's would have to take a sensitivity class before taking clients out and publishing comments that are hurtful and derogatory.
His Reply:
Feedback is requested and comments are done on a complimentary basis. The reason many realtor's no longer give feedback is just as per the email below. The comment was meant as a constructive comment and nothing but. I apologize if you feel offended but maybe don’t ask for feedback if you don’t like the commentary. I am well aware of the community of McKenzie as I worked in it for 10 years. Yes, parts of it are very affluent and others are a little worn down. That is what was intended by the comments.
Okay, call me prejudice but if you have ever lived in a community you know how old each part is. I believe that if he truly sold houses in this community and he had a client that wanted to buy, then he shouldn't of taken them to the 2nd oldest part and not expected to see older homes. "Worn down", sorry I don't agree as our particular Crescent has home owners who take pride in their homes. There aren't a bunch of renters that let the yards go to hell. Anyway, I was serious about the "sensitivity training" as I have no issue in commenting on the house, but you are pushing it when you talk about "safety". As well, what do most mothers tell their children, if you don't have anything nice to say......"
Besides we live in a city with all kinds of crime everywhere and someone isn't going to find a home where there is no crime.
So that's my happy story and my not so happy story.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Time is ticking down
Time is going by so fast that some days I feel like I never accomplish anything. We have so many balls in the air that it's scary.
Breanne & Marc's wedding is now 45 days away and there are so many things to do, buy or just plain pick up. The babies still don't have outfits and we need to get that ordered as well. The wagon needs work for the processional and the goodies need ordering,plus the candy, plus, plus, plus.
Then there's our house. The one were in hasn't sold as there are 10,000 homes for sale in the City of Calgary. We don't have much competition in our price range, in McKenzie Lake but thank God the new home is finished and won't be done now until September. First it was July, then mid August and now mid September. Does it sound like God has his hand in this plan? I think so. We won't be homeless for long if at all when you look at no sale on this end and a delayed move in date.
Then add to our list of things, Jack hasn't found a full time job either. He has a contract for part time work until August but has been sending in resumes to various places. Time is busy ticking away with this being a big part of securing a mortgage and being able to move on.
So with all these balls in the air we have been busy with grand babies, planting (real) flowers to spruce up the yard; continuing with wedding plans; as well we have been evacuated out of the house for several open houses or just plain showings.
Life is never dull and my wish is to have everyone pray for Jack to secure full time employment and take one of our balls out of the air permanently. We continue to pray for many things but this is a rather important one for our future.
Breanne & Marc's wedding is now 45 days away and there are so many things to do, buy or just plain pick up. The babies still don't have outfits and we need to get that ordered as well. The wagon needs work for the processional and the goodies need ordering,plus the candy, plus, plus, plus.
Then there's our house. The one were in hasn't sold as there are 10,000 homes for sale in the City of Calgary. We don't have much competition in our price range, in McKenzie Lake but thank God the new home is finished and won't be done now until September. First it was July, then mid August and now mid September. Does it sound like God has his hand in this plan? I think so. We won't be homeless for long if at all when you look at no sale on this end and a delayed move in date.
Then add to our list of things, Jack hasn't found a full time job either. He has a contract for part time work until August but has been sending in resumes to various places. Time is busy ticking away with this being a big part of securing a mortgage and being able to move on.
So with all these balls in the air we have been busy with grand babies, planting (real) flowers to spruce up the yard; continuing with wedding plans; as well we have been evacuated out of the house for several open houses or just plain showings.
Life is never dull and my wish is to have everyone pray for Jack to secure full time employment and take one of our balls out of the air permanently. We continue to pray for many things but this is a rather important one for our future.
Sunday, May 30, 2010
2nd Last Day of May and feeling Revived
Today is Sunday, May 30th and it feels more like November or March, but not almost the beginning of June. That is the weather feeling but not the spiritual feeling. Jack and I have been discussing seriously for the past 2 weeks about getting back into the church groove. We feel that our soul has started to heal and that it was time to go and hear a spiritual message. Now don't get me wrong, I love doing devotions with my husband, but somehow I needed to hear a different message. Even reading the paper this morning, the Christian section talked about Christians that only go to church 2x a year (Christmas & Easter) and the only 2 messages that they get from that. My soul needs a different message and so does my heart.
So with that we decided that going to Oak Park was the right thing to do. When we entered church the elder greeting was very friendly and encouraging. Then as we walked further into the foyer we were once again greeted by several folks wearing some kind of official name tags, but again very friendly in there welcome to us. We did have a chuckle about "which other CCOC members might be there" and low and behold sitting near the back to the side were Bob & Betty Watts along with Wes & Roberta and family. So we chose to sit behind them. They commented on having had the same thought when they got to church as well.
The message that Steve McMillan gave was quite close to what the newspaper had said about the 2x a year visitors. As well he talked about the journey that Oak Park was going to be on and the new things that they were going to be doing. Most of the dialogue were things that Maryvale had already been doing so it was nice to hear that people want to give back to their community.
After church we were invited by the Watts families to go out to lunch. This proved most interesting as it allowed all of us to share our feelings on Oak Park and what/where we see ourselves going to worship. Many feelings shared were the same, and yet we were looking for different areas of interest but the main agreed interest was the need for some spiritual focus. To hear a gospel or read from the bible and hear the translation was a common factor.
We talked on the way home about it being too soon to settle on a church as well the need to not want to get involved with any ministries as of yet. So we will continue to go to several churches to have ourselves spiritually met. I know that it will take some time, but that's okay. We're not in a rush to settle and I know that when we do it will be for all the right reasons. God is everywhere and so knowing that we will take our time to be a part of his church family which is okay with us.
So with that we decided that going to Oak Park was the right thing to do. When we entered church the elder greeting was very friendly and encouraging. Then as we walked further into the foyer we were once again greeted by several folks wearing some kind of official name tags, but again very friendly in there welcome to us. We did have a chuckle about "which other CCOC members might be there" and low and behold sitting near the back to the side were Bob & Betty Watts along with Wes & Roberta and family. So we chose to sit behind them. They commented on having had the same thought when they got to church as well.
The message that Steve McMillan gave was quite close to what the newspaper had said about the 2x a year visitors. As well he talked about the journey that Oak Park was going to be on and the new things that they were going to be doing. Most of the dialogue were things that Maryvale had already been doing so it was nice to hear that people want to give back to their community.
After church we were invited by the Watts families to go out to lunch. This proved most interesting as it allowed all of us to share our feelings on Oak Park and what/where we see ourselves going to worship. Many feelings shared were the same, and yet we were looking for different areas of interest but the main agreed interest was the need for some spiritual focus. To hear a gospel or read from the bible and hear the translation was a common factor.
We talked on the way home about it being too soon to settle on a church as well the need to not want to get involved with any ministries as of yet. So we will continue to go to several churches to have ourselves spiritually met. I know that it will take some time, but that's okay. We're not in a rush to settle and I know that when we do it will be for all the right reasons. God is everywhere and so knowing that we will take our time to be a part of his church family which is okay with us.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Life's Journey
Our journey lately has been a turbulent one but we have held our ground and become closer as a couple. We have loved watching our new home getting built and much like life the house has most of the outside complete. So we continue to journey together and apart finding new things and new friends.
Jack signed me up for a ladies golf school to help me "refine" my game and meet some new ladies. So last week was my first lesson and wouldn't you know it but a golf supplier for the company I work for, is my instructor. Of course he only knows me from work and not my "golf skills". Wasn't he in for a surprise. Not to mention that I was enrolled in a intermediate class - not a beginners. So much to my surprise I met some lovely ladies (only 6 in the class) and also learned quite a bit about my handling of a golf club plus my stance was all wrong. I also learned that I needed to get "newer" clubs as mine were from the 80's. So after a great discount from my instructor, hitting the driving range yesterday was wonderful. I am really excited about going for lesson #2 on Tuesday.
Yesterday was a first of open houses for our house and one promising lady that came through. Our realtor plans on having a couple more open houses next weekend, as well the one lady plans to bring her brother through, as she dislikes the kitchen (this was my opinion as well). Her brother is a contractor so she wants his opinion on what could be done. We pray that they see the beauty of the whole house and that she will make this her home (after Breanne's wedding in July).
So life's journey continues for both of us. Jack is reading more and keeping his spirits up and we are faithfully doing our devotions together to enrich and bring us closer together to God as a couple, plus we are getting on with our life in whatever direction that takes us.
Thank you to all of you that have reached out to us this past month...we couldn't of gone on with out all your prayers, letters, cards, and emails. We love all of you and want you to know that Life's Journey has taken on another avenue and we are feeling blessed by all of you.
Jack signed me up for a ladies golf school to help me "refine" my game and meet some new ladies. So last week was my first lesson and wouldn't you know it but a golf supplier for the company I work for, is my instructor. Of course he only knows me from work and not my "golf skills". Wasn't he in for a surprise. Not to mention that I was enrolled in a intermediate class - not a beginners. So much to my surprise I met some lovely ladies (only 6 in the class) and also learned quite a bit about my handling of a golf club plus my stance was all wrong. I also learned that I needed to get "newer" clubs as mine were from the 80's. So after a great discount from my instructor, hitting the driving range yesterday was wonderful. I am really excited about going for lesson #2 on Tuesday.
Yesterday was a first of open houses for our house and one promising lady that came through. Our realtor plans on having a couple more open houses next weekend, as well the one lady plans to bring her brother through, as she dislikes the kitchen (this was my opinion as well). Her brother is a contractor so she wants his opinion on what could be done. We pray that they see the beauty of the whole house and that she will make this her home (after Breanne's wedding in July).
So life's journey continues for both of us. Jack is reading more and keeping his spirits up and we are faithfully doing our devotions together to enrich and bring us closer together to God as a couple, plus we are getting on with our life in whatever direction that takes us.
Thank you to all of you that have reached out to us this past month...we couldn't of gone on with out all your prayers, letters, cards, and emails. We love all of you and want you to know that Life's Journey has taken on another avenue and we are feeling blessed by all of you.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
The Door is Closed
The big office clean up happened at 6:30pm last night. And yes it was difficult to sort through and pack up but it was the final chapter in the book. Some might say that it must of been good to do this or some might say that it was the finale and I believe that both statements are true. The crew to help clean were Jack's brother, Bud & Marlene, our good neighbor Kevin who had his van and years of experience of moving things and my son-in-law, Cecil who had his truck to take away the bookshelves.
While Bud & Marlene worked on packing up the books, I helped Jack sort through nine plus years of binders, papers, gifts, photo's etc. Was it tough - you bet it was. The memories were overwhelming for both of us. But yet we managed to keep it together while we did this.
While it was tough to do this, it was tougher seeing some folks at the church that had a harder time coming to see us and say "nothing" or just "goodbye". When I hear "goodbye" I know that this means, we won't see you again, or the door is now closed and we know you won't be back. And that's okay for me. As change has to happen and it won't if we are still there.
To the folks that wouldn't come out to say good bye, good luck and remember God is always watching!
As we settled into our home last night, we talked about the relief of knowing that this last bit has been handled. The books and papers neatly piled in the old office, the keys turned in, the lights turned off and the door closed. However, we know that we have not closed the door to Jesus. Somewhere amongst the hurt and disappointment in how this whole thing was handled, we will go on to continue to want to follow in Christ's footsteps. We will still reach out to others in the areas that we are both gifted and we know that we will make a difference, just somewhere else.
I know that this is not Sunday (my hardest day of the week) but I know that my soul has started to heal and the more that we read together and talk about things, I feel that I am soon ready to go back out into the world of believers.
We have had several invites to go to a variety of churches and one that was the closest to our hearts, was from a family that left Maryvale. This young family took the time to correspond and encourage us! Hard to believe in some ways, but after reading the hurt they experienced and being able to relate to them, we have to believe that there are still good people out there. And in my last message to them, I expressed how we might just show up in the lobby of there new place to worship, and we would be there because we want to all be fed spiritually together. After all, isn't that what church family wants - togetherness in Christ?
While Bud & Marlene worked on packing up the books, I helped Jack sort through nine plus years of binders, papers, gifts, photo's etc. Was it tough - you bet it was. The memories were overwhelming for both of us. But yet we managed to keep it together while we did this.
While it was tough to do this, it was tougher seeing some folks at the church that had a harder time coming to see us and say "nothing" or just "goodbye". When I hear "goodbye" I know that this means, we won't see you again, or the door is now closed and we know you won't be back. And that's okay for me. As change has to happen and it won't if we are still there.
To the folks that wouldn't come out to say good bye, good luck and remember God is always watching!
As we settled into our home last night, we talked about the relief of knowing that this last bit has been handled. The books and papers neatly piled in the old office, the keys turned in, the lights turned off and the door closed. However, we know that we have not closed the door to Jesus. Somewhere amongst the hurt and disappointment in how this whole thing was handled, we will go on to continue to want to follow in Christ's footsteps. We will still reach out to others in the areas that we are both gifted and we know that we will make a difference, just somewhere else.
I know that this is not Sunday (my hardest day of the week) but I know that my soul has started to heal and the more that we read together and talk about things, I feel that I am soon ready to go back out into the world of believers.
We have had several invites to go to a variety of churches and one that was the closest to our hearts, was from a family that left Maryvale. This young family took the time to correspond and encourage us! Hard to believe in some ways, but after reading the hurt they experienced and being able to relate to them, we have to believe that there are still good people out there. And in my last message to them, I expressed how we might just show up in the lobby of there new place to worship, and we would be there because we want to all be fed spiritually together. After all, isn't that what church family wants - togetherness in Christ?
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