Christmas Greetings to you and yours.

GREETINGS!
Last Sunday the preacher was talking about the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. This was a farming community where people raised sheep. The barns, or stables, were where baby lambs were born during lambing season. What better place for the Lamb of God to be born, but in a lamb's stable? And the Good Shepherd's first visitors were the shepherds that were out in those Bethlehem fields tending their own sheep. Isn't God's attention to detail amazing and inspiring?

Another point the speaker made that I had not thought of before was this: Bethlehem was a village of probably a few hundred. Yet thousands and thousands of people had to travel to Bethlehem for the census count. Maybe this explains why Mary and Joseph were still living there when Jesus was 2 and the Wise Men came for their visit. There's no 'proof' this was the case but it does lend to plausibility.

We pray that this Christmas will be a blessing to you and yours as you are 'pondering' - as Mary did, - on this gift God gave to mankind, that precious baby lamb that came to take away the sins of the world.

NEWS ON MIKE AND SUZANNE:
If you haven't heard (due to my lack of correspondence,) :-) we moved to Rogers, AR a year ago to help a church that was struggling to stay alive. After working with the folks for a total of 2 years (one year commuting, one year residing) the church has not made any gains. It has been voted to sell the church and Mike has stepped down as pastor. We still attend the church and will for the time being at least till the Lord leads us elsewhere. Services will continue to be held until some finality comes along.

There are some exciting possibilities as to the future of the church, one being maybe merging with another group that is better established but has no church home (building). They have their own pastor and have been conducting 'our' services for the time being.

Mike continues to work in respiratory therapy in a nearby hospital. I, Suzanne, work in the local public library as a cataloger. It has been an interesting year of stretching and adjusting from an academic, Christian library setting to a public, secular one. We are in good health "all things considered." We just have the usual aches and pains and runny noses. The calendar seems to dictate living life at a little slower speed then we used to.

I was able to attend a librarian's conference in June since it was close by. The day after I got home, Mike left for a respiratory conference. (Somebody's got stay home and feed the dogs.) :-) In July we attended a pastor's conference just over in Oklahoma. It was good!! Mike also performed one wedding, and just recently, one funeral.

An ASIDE - Mike needed his ordination certificate for the wedding. We never did find it, but did find his license to preach. Wednesday night, Dec. 23rd, as Suzanne was cleaning the Living Room and her "office area" - she found it in a box with Easter decorations!! Of Course! They had all come out of his office two houses ago!!! (Don't ask...)

NEWS OF OUR KIDS:
Christa (aka Christy) and her family are still serving the Lord in the Philippines. Erin is involved with coaching at Faith Academy as well as outreach projects for the students. Their kids are growing up too fast: Paul, 11, is in 6th grade (middle school), plays soccer and the guitar and clarinet. Samuel, 9 is now in 4th grade, likes and plays soccer, but enjoys other sports as well. Amy, 7, is in 2d grade already, enjoys her dolls and playing house. She plays soccer some as well. (How could they not, if their dad's a soccer coach???)

Michelle has been living in a group home now for 3 years, in Burlington, KS - near where we used to live. She has worked with many of these residents for many years and knew them as friends before she ever moved in. She really loves living there and being in all the activities they have for them. We are, however, looking into moving her closer to us. It will make dealing with little issues or questions from time to time if she's closer.

James lives in our house in Kansas and works at a restaurant in Lawrence, KS. He is doing well and slowing getting back on his feet. He's been at the restaurant for 4 years now - much longer than most employees as this is a college town. His daughter, Aurora, is 8 and in the 3rd grade already.

Jonathan and Jessica still live in KC, MO. He graduated last May from Calvary Bible College with his bachelor's degree in pastoral studies. At the moment they are both working and waiting on the Lord for direction of service.

James, Michelle, Mike and I spent Thanksgiving at Jonathan's and Jessica's house. We had a nice time together celebrating Thanksgiving as well as getting out Christmas decorations and putting them up and driving in a slow moving lane for 2 hours, I think, to see Christmas lights.

FAREWELL
May you have a very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year, filled with that blessed hope of our Lord's soon return. (How can he not?)

Mike and Suzanne

Update on "Congratulations" from Oct 10th.

December 6,2009 -Update
I met J. & A. D. today, and Mackynzie as they were at church today. She's a sweetie. Mom and Dad are nice people. too. It was fun getting acquainted with them at the church dinner afterwards.

"Funny thing happened on the way to the market"

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When we were expecting our first child, my husband was still in college and we lived in the married students apartments. One eve. M. had already gotten ready for bed when a commercial came on the TV talking about apples. A cold, sweet, juicy apple sounded so good that I talked him into changing back into his clothes and going down to the 24 hour grocery store and getting me a few.

When he returned, he had also stopped and bought some donuts. Well, I LOVE donuts, specially those kind!! They are almost a "weakness" for me, even yet. Now I had a dilemma. What was I going to do? He had inconvenienced himself to do something for his pregnant wife, only for her to refuse it for something else when he brought it home to her? How could I???

I looked at the apples, then I looked at the donuts! Apples will keep in the fridge, and even be cold by tomorrow. The donuts are better fresh. They don't keep. So donuts trumped apples and I ate the donut instead.

He changed back into his p.j.'s and went to bed...

Little Redhead

"Heaven, beware." The little redhead has arrived!:-) Can't you hear her infectious laugh?
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Dr. Gannett always referred to his wife as his (little) redhead , or his redheaded sweetheart. His love for her beamed from his eyes whenever he spoke of her. She was a people lover and took everyone to heart. She had an impact on thousands and thousands of people. She will be missed. She and her husband, however, left a legacy in their family and in every graduate who has gone out into this world, (from Southeastern Bible College), serving Christ.
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Her funeral will be Friday, Nov. 13, 2009 in Birmingham, AL. If the Lord brings her to your mind pray for the Lord's comfort for her family, and for the service as they celebrate her life, and give praise to the Lord for the blessing He has been through her to so many people.
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Delivered to Heaven

In Memory of Georgetta Gannett, who passed into heaven yesterday.
(President's wife of my alma mater when I attended there.)


Just like a babe, delivered in pain,
Passed thru the waters and given a name
I’m welcomed by family, in Jesus’ name.
My journey to heaven is almost the same.

Death pains are only the labors of birth,
E'en passing through waters when leaving this earth.
My Father will greet me and welcome me there.
He’ll hug me and hold me with warm tender care.

I’ll put Jesus’ face to that wonderful voice.
I’ll breath in new air; I’ll cry and rejoice.
He'll show me my home prepared there for me.
New garments of white, are waiting, spot free.

I’ll drink from the fountain refreshing and clear.
Surrounded by family that I hold so dear.
The saints will rejoice when to heav’n I’m borne.
By angels I’m carried on that wonderful morn.

What a wonderful day when Jesus I’ll see
When to heaven I’m ‘birthed;’ delivered, and free.
Loosed from earth’s bonds, unfettered at last
Eyes looking forward, forgetting the past.

The dark of earth's "womb" aside `twill be cast.
The “Light of the World” I’ll bask in, at last.
For finally I’ve reached my heavenly home
Forever to be and no more to roam.

autumn trees...

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look like nature's fruit colored lollipops.

Question

The nation of Israel originally was referred to as just "Israel". Then at some point the nation was being referred to as "Israel and Judah". When and more importantly why? I believe it was long before the nation split into north and south kingdoms. If you know or have a thought, I'd like to hear it. It is something that has bugged me for sometime, but I have not found an answer.

My favorite season

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My favorite season is the spring:
…..When life anew is peeking out
…..And colors soft and fresh are clean,
…..New hope returns without a doubt
…..And longer nights all flee the scene.
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My favorite season is summer:
…..Days are bright with azure skies and sun
…..Gardens burst with food and blooms.
…..Life fills days with outdoor work and fun.
…..And special days for brides and grooms.
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My favorite season is the fall:
…..As rains refresh the waiting soil,
…..Colors dab the painted trees.
…..Harvest brings rewards of toil
…..And thankful pilgrims on their knees.
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My favorite season is winter:
…..The peace and rest of snowfall’s white
…..Renews alike the soul and ground.
…..The earth’s asleep `neath blankets, light
…..With sleeping creatures all around.
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For the Infant of the Nativity
Is the Master of Creativity.
For the seasons all year round
Declare His wonders that abound.

Suzanne Guinn
7 November 2009

The hues of the seasons.

Spring hues softly whisper, “I'm here.”
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Summer colors speak up and say, “I'm here.”
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But Autumn tones resound with “I Am Here!”
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Before the quietness of Winter white begins.
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swg

Fall colors are like...

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God. They were there all the time. But it takes certain circumstances to see them. So is God. Just because you can't see Him, doesn't mean He's not there.

Jesus Loves Me, For Seniors

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Jesus loves me, this I know,
Though my hair is white as snow
Though my sight is growing dim,
Still He bids me trust in Him.

(CHORUS)
YES, JESUS LOVES ME.. YES, JESUS LOVES ME..
YES, JESUS LOVES ME, FOR THE BIBLE TELLS ME SO.

Though my steps are oh, so slow,
With my hand in His I'll go
On through life, let come what may,
He'll be there to lead the way.
(CHORUS)

When the nights are dark and long,
In my heart He puts a song..
Telling me in words so clear,
"Have no fear, for I am near."
(CHORUS)

When my work on earth is done,
And life's victories have been won.
He will take me home above,
Then I'll understand His love.
(CHORUS)

I love Jesus, does He know?
Have I ever told Him so?
Jesus loves to hear me say,
That I love Him every day.
(CHORUS)

Anon.
An email forward from a friend.

Break from my rantings:

Have you ever noticed that the German way of spelling the name of this month we're in makes an appropriate sentence? Oktober=OK to brrrrrrrrrr. :-)

OK, so I have a weird sense of humor. What's else is new?

OK, CF, I'll say it for you: "Mom joke!"

Congratulations...

To the Duggers and the Duggers. One has a new baby, the other has a new GRANDbaby!!

Oct 8th Mackynzie Renee was born. 8 lbs and 19.5 inches long.

December 6,2009 -Update
I met J. & A. D. today, and Mackynzie as they were at church today. She's a sweetie. Mom and Dad are nice people. too. It was fun getting acquainted with them at the church dinner afterwards.

Question

If men want to help you fix a problem, then why do they refuse to get help to fix their own problem....?
Just something to think about.
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Gosselin hysteria

Ok - My blog, my soap box. :-) I'll state my point first. Cancel the Jon and Kate show and drop the whole thing. Don't revamp and rename. Just drop it.

TV has already done enough to contribute to the demise of that family and marriage. One parent is not totally innocent or totally guilty. So why then "reward" one parent by keeping them in the show, and not the other??? The one they keep is the one that has "misbehaved" more on the TV show than the one they let go!!! Oh, but controversy draws in viewers and therefore makes more money for the company. At the expense of the kids and the family as a whole????? We are an outrageous culture! This is absurd.

I know that single mothers raising a family is a big epidemic in this country. But did you ever stop to think about the family-less fathers??? Not all of them are bad or jerks. They have lost more, in a lot of ways then the family that got left behind. Yes, the children are young and impressionable and need a father and a mother. Yes the mother struggles with raising the kids alone. But did you ever stop to think what a father goes through? Yeah, even the rotten ones. Lots of times they behave the way they do because of guilt.

Does anyone try to reach out to these dads and help them? Here's a novel idea - let's have a reality show that showcases how single fathers, family-less fathers deal with their situation!! Less boring, you say? Less drama? Maybe, maybe not. How would we know, we've never had a TV show that focuses on what the fathers go through that end up divorced and away from their kids. Maybe it's time we did!

OK, I'm stepping down. :-) I feel better now.

Pray for our kids in the Philippines.

Got this from our daughter in Manila, Philippines.

Hi Guys-- this will be quick, as I don't have long and want to get our blog updated with more detailed information.
short points-- We had a Tropical Storm come through over the weekend, which turned into a Typhoon just after it passed over us... but while here it dumped 15+ inches of rain. We typically get 12 or so inches in the whole month of September... In all of this we had a landslide behind our condos-- no damage to our building and cars. We were without power for 3 days-- generator that would come on periodically but not reliable. We are safe and fine. We have food, water and power-- for now. Nearby areas of Marikina, Pasig, Cainta have been damaged greatly. If you hear of those areas that is our neighborhood. We can get out and around mostly. The ongoing concern and prayer would be for the warehouses of food storage-- for grocery stores--many have been flooded and all or most inventory lost. So pray for the supply of food and water to be replinished.

Also there are 2 more storm systems making a path towards the Philippines-- so pray for protection in that as well.

There are many families in our community whose homes have been ruined or damaged, so please keep them in your prayers.

With that there will be more information on our blog... We still don't have our internet-- but at least we have power.

love you guys,
Christa

Life Lesson

Naomi, her husband and children moved from Israel to Moab because of famine and the need for survival. During the 10 years they lived there her husband died, her sons married and died. She then decided to return to her homeland and one of her daughters - in - law, Ruth, went with her. Now most of us know that Ruth ended up in the lineage of Christ. But they didn't know that at the time.

Lessons learned:
1. God uses circumstances in our life sometimes to make major changes in our lives and position us in such a way to bring about his purpose.

2. Naomi suffered the loss of three loved ones and felt even abandoned by God. She could only see the immediate circumstances. Even tho' she felt sad, lonely and abandoned, she wasn't alone. She went through and experienced those negative emotions, yet God was with her the whole time.

3. Even tho't Naomi was overwhelmed by the little picture (her immediate circumstances), God had the bigger picture in mind. In the end he provided for Naomi in ways she never dreamed of; he "manipulated" (if you will) events to bring about his purpose; AND, He brought Ruth into the lineage of his son's birth on earth, thus providing for all of us what we need most - a saviour.

Do you (or I) know what God is doing in your life or the reason for events taking place in your life? Maybe not. Does God? Absolutely.

Can we trust Him to see the big picture and to take care of us in the mean time? Absolutely!!!

TRUST - and - OBEY! for there is no other way to be in the center of God's will and get the best results.
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Sept 14, 36 years ago

I remember it as if it were yesterday. My husband was still a student in college and we were living in Birmingham, AL. We were expecting our first child. I woke up in the early hours of the morning in labor. We headed to the hospital and I was sure he aimed for every pot hole on South 8th Street. It was the only way to go to St. Vincent's hospital. At 7:33 p.m. our first born child, a daughter was born. She was absolutely beautiful. Still in the delivery room, I told my husband let's have another!

She really was a beautiful baby - really. And, not because she was my baby and I thought so. Even others commented on how she looked like the baby on the Gerber jars. She had smooth pink skin and big brown eyes. I would sit by her bassinet and stare at her and watch her sleep. "For Hours!"

It was a joy to watch her grow. Her first steps, (holding those baby food jars). Her first tooth (finally, at 13 mos.) Her first day at school. Her first date, her first car. And becoming the woman God wanted her to be.

She was named for her Aunt and her grandmother and her name meant "the dwelling place of Christ." Today she is a beautiful women, with three children of her own. The meaning of her name has become true of her, for as she is serving the Lord on the mission field, He is able to reach out to others because he dwells in her heart.

Happy Wonderful Birthday, CB. We Love you! - mom and dad.
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9-11 Remembrance

God bless the USA!

Take a moment today and pray for our country!
Pause and say thank you for those who gave their lives.
Take a moment and praise God for those who lived
Pause and say God bless you for those who survived.
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This country has always given its life to save others.
Jesus has done the same - for you and me. For eternity.

This week in Rogers, AR

-Last Saturday, I helped out at the library's booth at the annual Frisco Festival. I was quite tired afterwards, from standing on brick pavement for 3 hours, but enjoyed it nonetheless. I was scheduled to work Sunday afternoon, but got off as a result. Friday evening before, I did do a walkabout and found a store for local "starving artists" where they can sell their wares. I'm going to keep that bit of information tucked away in the back of my mind.

-Today was my short Friday, so I went and picked up my antique (!) bicycle. I had taken it to the repair shope as it needed a new seat and new tires put on it. It is a J. C Higgins and over 50 years old. It's called a 'touring' bike, no gears, just brakes. I took it for a spin for a five whole minutes. BOY am I out of shape. But I look forward to more outings on my bike.

-Plans with company for this weekend fell through, so I made new ones. MG and I are driving to Harrison, AR to see another childhood friend of mine (VW) who has also moved back to Arkansas after many, many years!!! I don't think I have seen her since our wedding. I know we kept in touch for a few years, but she moved to New Jersey and that nixed seeing each other.

-Oh, I have heard back from my friend, CC. We have finally established contact through Facebook pages and exchange of email addresses. She has moved to OR and is looking for a place to settle down. So, she doesn't have access to the internet yet through her own computer. She has to go to the local library to get online. - Boy, I know how inconvenient that is. Been there, done that!

Taking Note

--A week ago today was Hawaii's 50th anniversary of becoming a state. I can remember hearing about it when I was a kid. Let's see - we were living in southern Missouri, but if I remember right, we were in NY state at this time that year. Won't tell you how old I was, but a half a century ago is "bad" enough. I did read however that celebrations in Hawaii were going to be low key because not everyone was happy with their royalty being bumped and becoming part of the US. They certainly have a culture quite unlike the mainland states.

--The passing of a person of historical significance: Edward Kennedy. Even tho' I cannot agree with his philosophical views, ethics, and politics, I am sorry to hear of his passing. He is now in eternity and his "fate" is sealed and in God's hands. I would be amiss to at least acknowledge that he definetly had an impact on our country, maybe even moreso because he didn't serve as president. He was able to be in office much longer by being senator then being president.

--Got 10 more boxes unpacked this week!!! (Art supplies) Now I'm getting antsy to do some art work once again. But still have a few more things to do to get everything in place. I also still have other craft room boxes that need unpacking. I need to: "organize, organize, organize!"

--It was nice to get some yard work done this week, a couple of rose bushes and 2 other plants planted. Thank you DM. We have so much shade it's hard to know what you can plant and where. We really don't have a spot that gets sun all day - thus my 3 tomatoe plants are not meeting expectations! It's taking them several weeks to even grow and are just now putting on about 10 tomatoes that are the size of a golf ball and smaller. September is in one week. So my hopes of tomatoes are slim.

--I'm still waiting to hear again from my "long lost friend" CCM. She was getting ready to move. So it may be a month or two before she is back online again. I did locate her on Facebook as well as her older brother. (He hasn't responded either.)

--The place where I work has a foundation associated with it. Our mayor apparently disapproves of how they spend their money. But they don't answer to the city and I guess he's having a fit. Because the mayor is the mayor his correspondence is subject to FOIA. (Freedom of Information Act). So the newspaper is going to publish a letter he wrote the foundation. So we'll see what enfolds.

Long Lost Friends

As we go through life we make a lot of friends. If we move and live in different places, we make even more friends. Unfortunately, over the years, the more we collect friends and move on, the harder it is to keep in touch or track of friends from our early years. As we get old-ER we sometimes think back and wonder what happened to some of them.

After we moved to Arkansas, I discovered sort of by accident that one gal I knew had also moved back to Arkansas - even to the same town area when she had lived before. What a surprise. Altho' we still haven't gotten together, we have been in email contact.

I have another friend I knew as a teenager. We didn't go to the same school but we did go to the same church. In our twenties we lost touch and drifted away. It was probably as much my fault as anyones. (I haven't sent Christmas cards for the last 3 years and that doesn't help.) Well for the last 15 maybe 20 years I have tried to track down this one friend. Her husband was in the military and last I knew they lived in Ore. But that yielded no results. I checked information with the phone companies, more than once. Through my genealogy research I even tried finding her, to no avail. I searched for her on the internet. No help. I contacted the college she graduated from. She had asked to have her name and address removed. Her's brother's name (my old boyfriend) was there. I had even found his phone number and address through information. So I wrote. It never got returned, but neither did he answer. No surprise there, really.

After we moved to Arkansas I started working at the local public library. Not long afer that so did a fellow who used to go to school with my friend, CC. He went to grade school, Jr high, one year of high school and even college with her. But he didn't know where she was. We talked about it last week. I came home and tried once again to find something in Oregon with no results. I have a facebook account, so I decided to see if she was on there. I didn't pull anything, but it did give me a link to Classmates.com. So I tho't I would try that.

I clicked on the link and read the info that was public. It matched! I was sure that was her. Who else would have the same maiden and married name and attend the same high school and college!!!??? So, I took a chance and left a "public note" with my email address written out with not "@" symbol.

The next morning I had off from work, as I worked into the evening. I got on the computer to check my mail, just in hopes that maybe I had a response. But, I knew that the chances were unlikely. I have a classmates account, but I "never" look at it, except once in a blue moon, if then.

I opened my account and there at the very top was a response from my posting. Yes, it WAS her!!! I could not believe it. After all these years of hunting, I finally found CC. She was surprised but happy to hear from me. It was short with promise of more to come. She is moving, so I am impatiently waiting to hear from her again, soon. I hope she is able to get to some internet connection even before she gets moved, settled and set up once again. But I look forward to hearing all about her life, her children, her siblings, and yes even the boyfriend. Weird thing of that is, I've had better "luck" knowing where he was then anyone else in the family...:-(
But that didn't do me any good, if he (or his wife) won't write me back!!! Can't blame them there, tho. But now, I'll just have to wait. Afterall what's a few more days after 15 to 20 years!!!

Weekend visit

"Michelle and the three J's" were down for the weekend! We had a delayed July family celebration. We all have either birthdays or anniversaries in July. So 'the kids' were able to come to Ark. We had a really nice time together. Now everyone is gone, including my husband who is gone to work. So the house is quiet except for the TV in the background, and the raindrops falling on the skylights in the ceiling. This is my "long weekend" off from work, so it has been very enjoyable and - tonight - quiet and relaxing. I've posted pictures to facebook, searched for an old friend and may have found her on Classmates.com. I left a message. I hope I hear from her. It has been over 30 years since we last were in touch.

Some family news flashes

Our daughter, MS, turned 33 last Sunday. Her brother surprised her and took her out for lunch. Her mom and dad sent her flowers.

The next day our oldest grandson, EPF, turned 11. (He'll be a teenager before you know it.) Happy Birthday, you two.

I've started walking again for exercise - even take the (old, half-blind) dog with me sometimes. My blood pressure has gone up (used to always be good). I've put back on the weight I lost last year. :-( And Mike thinks I should be check for sleep apnea. So I need to do something about this!

MS was here a couple of weeks ago for a 1-week visit. It was good to have her here, but I do think she was a little bored.

MG and I attended a Pastor's conference last week (evenings) in Okla. The messages were really good. (The suppers were, too.)It was tiring to work all day and travel 3 hours round trip each night but it was worth it.

I took my old, worn out, rusty bike in to be fixed. I found out it was worth something because of it's antique value!! He told me NOT to paint it. Not sure what I'm going to do.

I applied for a job in another library that was a "perfect" fit with my experience. It was based on having a degree and pays much better than I'm getting now. But I didn't get it. So I'll stay where I'm at for the time being.

I thought about posting my opinion here about the current state of affairs of our country. But I'm so disgusted with this president that I'm not even going to waste my breath doing it. I didn't think anyone could top Clinton. But he was corrupt morally. This president is corrupt, - well I was going to say mentally, but 'philosophically' is less cruel and probably more accurate. He said he'd bring change; folks said they wanted change. It proves the axium - be careful what you ask for - you might get it... We're getting change alright. Its disgusting.

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New Printer

Last Friday eve. I bought a new printer. YEAH! I have been without one for almost a year - since before we moved. - Long story. But I am so glad to finally have one again. It's amazing how dependent we get on something, and how hampered we are without once we've had it.

I bought an Epson Workforce 600 for about $150. (on sale). I almost bought a more expensive one because it has 5 color cartridges instead of 3. But I decided - for what I do, this will work just fine. A few days later, when I was at work (library) someone came in wanting to know how something had been rated. (don't remember now what), so, later, I looked up printers too. It stated that an Epson printer was in the top 6 best rated printers. I couldn't remember for sure which one it was I had bought. But when I got home I looked at the box - and sure enough - I had bought that Epson that was rated one of the best. PTL I made the right decision. This one was rated better than the more expensive one. So a high(er) price doesn't always mean high(er) quality.

Death of a pop star

Our world and the media has gone mad over the death of an entertainer, who died yesterday. On CNN alone, I counted 157 videos on their website and only about 7 were not about the death, the music, the life of Michael Jackson and the reaction of people around the world.

To me this is a good example of someone who looked every where for happiness and never found it: Music, Fame, Looks, Money, Sex, Drugs. You name it. He tried it. He looked everywhere but to Jesus Christ. Someone once said we have a God shaped hole in our heart and nothing but Him will fill the hole. Anything else will leave gaps still empty.

His death also shows the shallowness of our world and our country. We have lost our moorings. Scripture talked about how Israel went whoring after idols. We are no different today then Israel was then. I am sorry that a soul has gone out into eternity without any indication of belonging to Christ. But he was certainly not my idol. Pop or otherwise.

Liberal media and censorship/Murder in Little Rock

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An American citizen-turned-muslim shot and killed an American soldier in Little Rock, Arkansas recently because we have soldiers in Iraq killing muslims over there.
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The news media however squelched the story because Obama was on his way to visit muslim countries and "we" didn't want to offend any of them.
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This is a 2-fold outrage:
1. The belief that killing one man here was going to have any effect on those over in Iraq, (just because of your beliefs.) That's not even logical thinking. That's like saying I'm going to pour water over this person here because that person over there needs a bath. Yea, lotta good that will do.
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2.The news media censoring the story because it might offend foreigners that our President was visiting.
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What about those of us who are offended over here this situation for doing that? (Also for our President bowing to the King of Saudi Arabia. I'd like to see Queen Elizabeth do that!!!)
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What about standing up for our own values and our own country?
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What about being enraged over someone committing murder? Even the recent killing of the abortion doctor in Wichita is still murder!
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This is not a muslim country! Why are we cow-towing to them?
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We are so concerned about being so politically correct that we are blinded to real values and truths, especially biblical ones. If you have read this want to know what I really think, write and ask me. (!)
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Class was a dud

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Earlier this week the library asked me to teach a class today on MSPublisher as I was now the only there that knew how since someone else left. So I worked a half day yesterday so I could work half day today. Well, 4 people were signed up - but none of them showed up! Oh Well - maybe they will next time. It was a nice break from cataloging, to prepare for the class. How many people can be paid at work to make a garage sale flyer!

Since I worked half days (mornings) I had the rest of the days off. So that wasn't too bad really. I took naps both afternoon. Guess I'm still resting up from the conference I went to, Tuesday and Wednesday.
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Celebrating a momentous birthday

Tuesday was my birthday and it was for one of those signifcant double digit changes. It has been celebrated in some unusual ways. I'm at a chrisitan librarians' conference; we went to hear Shoji Tabushi last night in Branson, MO; I've had cards and emails and good wishes on facebook from 'everywhere'; one of my kids even tried to make me feel younger by deducting 10 years off my age!!! I even got my nails done as a birthday present to me. I met a Vietnamese gal and left a christian witness. Guess it was worth the $25!!!

Barbershop singing

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I sang in a barbershop quartet today in the middle of a parking lot!!! Well sorta! There was an International Festival in town today. One of the booths was for the Pride of the Ozarks Barbershop Quartette. (sp?) We "sang" My Wild Irish Rose. Well I hummed as much as I said the words!! The 3 men sang melody, baritone and bass and knew all the words!!! I sang tenor! Well, I tried to anyway. It was fun.

Sayings:

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Life is what happens when you're making other plans.
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Sayings:

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No decision is a "no" decision - about Christ, or anything!
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Sayings:

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Has it ever occurred to you that nothing has ever occurred to God?

Church sign in Rogers, Arkansas

Sayings that I hear, like, and remember...

will be posted from time to time...

"Don't spend time thinking less of yourself.
Spend time thinking of yourself, less."

-David Jeremiah, 5-31-2009

Memorial Day Sunday

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My husband is pastoring a small, struggling church. Today we had 5 families that were gone because of the holiday weekend. So we mixed things up a bit - had "church" in the fellowship hall instead of the bigger (more empty) sanctuary. It made for a more informal, cozier time together. Afterwards we had everyone (all 10 people) at our house with an impromptu potluck dinner. One lady in our church (whom I knew as a teenager) helped me Sat. evening get some things ready for the dinner. It was a wonderful time of food and fellowhship. What could have been a down and discouraging day was wonderful and a blessing.

Proud of my family!

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JRWG graduated on the 9th from college earlier this month. Congrats and Way to go, Son! Even if it did take you 12 years, you finished what you started. We're proud of you.

Our older grandson, EPF, is learning to play the guitar and even played in Chapel at his school this year!
ABF, our younger granddaughter, is taking ballet and was a little swan in a production of Swan lake! Of course she was the prettiest one there!
SCF, our younger grandson, did something in sports this year. But his grandmother is getting old... I'll have to go look that back up and come back here and post it! But I don't want to leave him out. He's made some accomplishments and learning new things all the time, too!

Our older granddaughter, ARG, is finishing second grade this year. She was taking ballet, too, at one point. We do not get to see her any more, (long story), but we are still proud of her and love her, too! We hope she knows that.

Entropy

Do you know what "entropy" is?
Think about it for a while and I'll be back later with some thoughts.

Happy Mothers Day

Happy Mothers Day, friend. I hope you had a wonderful day. Mother's day for me this year was almost everything you wouldn't want it to be. We had a nice service at church Sunday morning and flowers were passed out. But, I didn't get that special dinner, I didn't have my kids all around me for the day. I didn't get all that usual attention on Mother's Day. "Worse yet" I had to work that day. We rotate Sundays where I work and mine was on Mother's Day. That could be a real bummer, too. But it really wasn't.

The day before was my youngest son's graduation. All our "stateside" kids were there. They took a moment to share cards and gifts with Mom; AND we shared the whole day together. When we got home from graduation, I had an email from the other 'kid' with pictures and greetings.

So - yeah - I had a wonderful Mother's day - spent time with my family - saw or heard from all my kids - got cards and gifts - and a rose at church. It was just spread over Saturday and into Sunday morning and not your usual, typical kind of day. But that didn't really matter. What matters is family, love, remembrance and time together.

I hope yours was special in your own unique way.

Why should I blog?

Well obviously it has been months since I have posted anything. I have come across items, events or thoughts to put on here but never get it done. Such as---

--A new president elected. (Lots of opinions there!)
--An ice storm that ravished NW Arkansas and other areas. (How it effected us.)
--End times discussion, (precipitated by our last election).
--Developing the thesis statement: What I believe doesn't determine what is true.
--Discussing unity in the church, recognizing we are all human (imperfect), but need all the 'body parts' to be whole.
--Work related issues, 1. local use vs. authority records, 2. accepting change, 3. getting along with your coworkers.
--Noting personal milestones: (my youngest son graduates from college in May, at age 30. Woo Hoo! Good for you JRWG)
--And personal activities, (1. I joined a local community choir; I've enjoyed it but it takes a lot of my time; concert is Saturday so we'll be done for a while. 2. I'm still trying to get us all unpacked and settled. 3. I want to do more scrapbooking, and even get back into my painting... 4. We've had visits by friends and family.)

I also need to determine what direction to take this blog. Do I want to keep it personal? But who cares in the world about a strangers life? Do I keep it professional? If so, General or specific? Do I make it spiritual and discuss issues that come in the Christian world. Do I use this just to voice my opinion on national and world events? But what difference does it make what I think? Keep this as a diary?

So, hang in there. We'll see if we want to continue and on what theme or to use this time getting all those other things waiting for my attention.

While we're talking about it...

...I just heard a week ago that Louis Teicher passed away this past year. You may not know who that is unless I say "Ferrante and Teicher" and if you are 50 and older. They were a piano duo that met in Juliard and went on to fame as duo-pianists. They came to Birmingham, AL while I was in college in the late 60's/early 70's. I was able to attend the concert and enjoyed every minute of it - especially since my undergraduate major was piano. I still have the records of them that I had bought those many years ago. Even tho' they no longer can play together, we can still enjoy their tremendous talent.

Death - so routine, yet not.

Tuesday evening, some friends W&MW lost a friend to cancer. SB was a fairly young man, about 49 years old. He was estranged from family. W&M and 2 other couples were about the only "family" he had. We visited the hospital Sunday where SB was hospitalized; medicated so heavily because of pain.

This has been hard on W&M because he was like their son. Being that we are friends of the friends - it puts a layer of people between us and SB. Does that make sense? But watching this from the sidelines has brought some musings to my mind. SB was a christian and ready to go be with the Lord. Yet, he was not wanting to die. He wanted to fight. We all have that will-to-live fight in all of us. It is natural. Yet, "from dust thou art, to dust thou shalt return."

This, of course, is not the first time I have encountered the death of someone. Our parents, other relatives and many friends have passed away. (Even my last post was the obit of a professional friend of mine.) Yet every time it seems like such an interruption to life, sometimes even a waste from the human point of view.

Dying is a natural process, yet we very seldom want to embrace it. It isn't routine, obviously, since it can only happen once in each persons own life. Yet it happens all the time. Is it something we can accept? Just why is it so hard to accept the death of someone? Often we have emotional ties to the deceased. We will not be able to have that kind of relationship again.

This is true, but death is a very natural part of life. I don't know that I really have an answer to these questions, but it is something to think about. I don't know that I really am any closer to accepting or understanding death, either. I do know that death is not an evil thing. Scripture even states that 'precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.'

I suppose we fall somewhere between being totally torn apart when someone is ripped out of our life to being emotionally detached knowing that death is just part of the cycle of life. It could be that none of us will never really, totally understand death until we experience it for ourselves. Yet the knowledge gained cannot be passed on to someone else, until they, too, pass to the 'other side.' In other words, this may be something we can never know on this side of life.

Hilda Kroeker's obit

Kroeker, Hilda
Hilda Kroeker passed from this life to be with her Lord on January 4, 2009. She was born Dec. 16, 1924, at Mountain Lake, Minn., and was the third of nine children born to Martin and Helen Kroeker. At a young age, the family moved to the community of Marion, South Dakota, where she attended elementary and high school. She graduated from Tabor College, Hillsboro, Kan., and received her masters degree from Emporia State University, Emporia, Kan. She began her teaching career in 1950, at the elementary and high school levels. She joined the faculty of Calvary Bible College as head librarian in Kansas City, Mo., in 1962, where she remained through 1984. After retiring, she began her second career in apartment management. She was an active member of Mission Road Bible Church until her health would not allow her to participate in many activities. She kept a personal interest in the lives of many of her former students and remained friends with them. She greatly enjoyed traveling, and participated in many of the trips sponsored by Powell Gardens. She kept extensive scrapbooks of each of her trips. While at Calvary Bible College, she organized the "Friends of the Library," and served in many capacities of the Christian Librarians Association, including Vice-President and President. She was honored with having the library at Calvary Bible College named "Hilda Kroeker Library." She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, one sister, one brother-in-law and one sister-in-law. She is survived by her sisters, Mary Loewen, Martha Fast and Elvira Plett, all of Hillsboro; her brothers, Werner Kroeker, Clovis, Calif., Alvin Kroeker, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and O.J. Kroeker, Shawnee, Kan.; many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great- nephews, and many friends locally and across the country. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 8, at D.W. Newcomer's Sons Johnson County Chapel, 11200 Metcalf, Overland Park, Kan. The funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 9, at Mission Road Bible Church, 7820 Mission Road, Prairie Village, Kan. Contributions in her memory may be made to New Hope Children's Home, India. Mail to: College Community Church, 2529 Willow Avenue, Clovis, CA 93612. Fond memories and condolences may be left at www.dwnewcomers.com Arrangements: D.W. Newcomer's Sons Johnson County Chapel, (913) 451- 1860.

I have just arrived back home from traveling to Kansas City for Miss Kroeker's funeral. It was a lovely celebration of her life and ministry. Many testified of her love and interest for her family and for young people. After her parents died she took up their commitment of praying for their children and grandchildren every day. How many of us parents even have that desire today?

Hilda Kroeker

Miss Hilda Kroeker passed away Sunday and is now enjoying her rewards in heaven. This lady served as the first professionally degreed librarian for Calvary Bible College and Theological Seminary in Kansas City, MO (USA). She served there for well over 20 years. The exact amount now escapes my mind.

I had the privledge of meeting her and visiting with her on a few occasions. Years later, I followed her in the same position (with other intervening librarians.) She did a lot to bring up the quality and level of the library to academic standards. She was a leader and mentor. She advised me on a few occasions and encouraged me on others. One urging was to join the Associaion of Christian Librarians which she had been involved in for many years.

She never married or had children. But she was an asset to many young people that passed through our academic halls of CBCTS. She was at least in her late 70's. She never forget her poise and professionalism. She was a big supporter of the Friends of the Library well into the last years of her life, including during the years that yours truely worked at reviving the comatose organization.

She gave much of herself to the institution and the library, so it was a wonderful day when CBCTS recognized her by naming the library after her. It was the least we could do for her after all she did for us.

New Year's Intentions

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It has been said that you no longer are to make New Year's Resolutions. Instead, they are to be called Intentions. That's probably a good thing, because that is pretty much what resolutions turn out to be. How many have we made down through the years and never kept? - Maybe not every year. But any year? yeah, we very seldom keep any of them.

So this year, I have some intentions. One of them is to get back to my exercise regimen and healthier eating. I did well for 1 1/2 years and lost xxxxx amout of weight. But when I quit work in May, and began preparing for our "big" move this year, my "routine" and structure fell by the wayside. So I put about 2/3's of the weight back on.

Holidays are the "worst" time to try to diet. I decided that I was going to enjoy the holidays, but as soon as they were over, I was hitting the gym once again. Yesterday, after work I went back to the gym and starting exercising. I walked a mile, carrying some light weights, then worked out on 6 or 7 machines. I put in about 45 minutes of some good exercise.

Already this morning I could tell the difference. Although, having exercised late in the day, I slept very light and woke up about every hour till towards morning. BUT, the good thing was, I woke up (the last time) about an half hour before I usually get up. When I did - I was WIDE AWAKE. Now, you have to understand, I am not a morning person and it takes me awhile to really feel awake and revved.

I'm slow to get started and awake but I'm also slow to wind down at night. It's easy for me to "sleep-in" come morning and it is easy for me to stay up late at night. But today I was wide-eyed and bushy tailed. What did I do? I got up! WOW. That gave me a whole extra half hour in the morning.

I decided to go into work early. As a result, I was able to take an hour for lunch instead of an half hour. Since I did that - I was able to come home during lunch and get some supper cooked for Mike to have when he got up. Maybe he can even take some to work tonight.

Now don't get any bright ideas! I can't promise I'll do that every day. But, my INTENTIONS are to keep up this new routine as much as I can. I don't really have any other planned intentions. But, finishing getting unpacked would probably be a good one to add. But there's also so many other new things I want to get involved in, here in Arkansas that I didn't have the opportunity to do, living in the country in Kansas. So, I don't know how quickly the rest of that unpacking will get done. Well, maybe a year from today, I can an inventory and see just how well my intentions turned out, and just how much of that unpacking I got done.

What about you? Do you even have any? How did you do with your "resolutions" from a year ago? Maybe you ought to make a list of (only) intentions. BTW, there's not as much guilt with having intentions then resolutions if you don't get them done.