Tuesday 29 December 2009

Mama is sick!!

Mama is sick tonight!! I don't like that!! Please pray for her!! She is running a temp of about 101.

It started about mid-night last night - upset stomach. At 5AM this morning she lost her cookies and had a real tough time with that. She never gets sick like this. The real tough part was that we were almost 200 miles from home.

Monday AM we went on a trip visit my brother in Stuart, FL. My Swedish family followed us down in their rental car and are going on to Miami to fly out to a beach in the Caribbean somewhere. Mama and I had to cut our trip short and come back to Central Florida. Hopefully she will recover quickly!!

I do not like it when my best friend is sick. I hope I am a good caregiver and help her to get back on her feet quickly!!

UPDATE WEDNESDAY MORNING!! Mama feels much better today!!! Much!!! Now I won't have to do the laundry, dishes or put away the Christmas decorations!! Well - I probably should still help!! LOL !!

Saturday 26 December 2009

Boxing Day? Are you shopping today??

Today is a day for shopping! Maybe you will find a nice Nativity Scene at half price!!


Have a great New Year!!

Tuesday 22 December 2009

Sleigh Ride!!



Merry Christmas!!!

From
Mama & Papa

Wednesday 16 December 2009

YIM !! YIM !!



Two words that became precious to me yesterday!! Yim!! Yim!! Yesterday Samuel and I played hide n seek at the park - we would take turns with his mother Anna-Lena counting to 10 and then looking behind the Cypress, Live Oak, or Magnolia tree's. Hiding wherever we could find a spot.

Samuel is 4 years of age, Swedish, and speaks very little English. But he has learned my first name very well - Yim! When we first met he was quite shy, I think our language differences scared him - now we are best of buddies.

Even though we do not communicate well with words we communicate. Hugs, kisses, smiles and approving looks at each other do it. And - one more, laughter!

I have learned to laugh more with Samuel.

Maybe we should all use less words and just smile more at each other and laugh with each other.

Oh, Samuel did use a phrase that I recognized right away, " na nah na na nah na nah!" (You can't catch me!) The race was on as I darted after him on the park play ground!

Friday 11 December 2009

Today was a very special day!

Today was a special day for mama and I. For three winters now mama and I have been volunteering on Friday mornings to work for a homeless shelter here in Citrus County, Florida. Today, Friday, was a typical Friday morning - almost. We arrived at THE PATH at about 8:30am. We went in and met with staff briefly and then we were introduced to three men who would be going with us for the rest of the morning to look for employment.

Each time, as we start down the road, I ask mama to pray for us. As she prays for us I drive. After she gets done praying, several ask if I had my eyes closed!! LOL

We went to several places, most of which were not hiring, but work applications were completed anyways to be put on file.

One of the stops was special. We usually don't go in with them, we want them to do the work. We are the encouragers. But this one was different. We were at a fast food restaurant and talked with the shift supervisor, after mama and I gave him a hug and I tried not to cry.

One of the men with us got an employment application blank and completed it while we waited. After completing the application the young man gave the shift supervisor the application. Again, I struggled with tears as I watched the supervisor take the application and tried to reassure the young man.

Almost two years ago we had stopped at this restaurant with a van load of young men who were seeking employment. One of them that day was a convicted felon who had an extensive rap sheet. We had been working with this young man several weeks. He was struggling with his spiritual life, self esteem and what the future held. He had completed several food culinary courses and was hoping. He was hired that day!!! Two years later - he is that shift supervisor today!! He now has his own apartment, a new baby girl and is trying to walk where Jesus leads him.

Yes, today was special - and I am crying. Do you know that God answers prayer?

Monday 7 December 2009

Glad to be in Florida! Kinda!


I always look forward to coming to Florida for the winter. It is not a necessity to come here, but I certainly do not miss the cold weather and the snow.

We have friendships here, very special friendships, a wonderful church, and we keep busy with our church activities and working with the homeless. But we miss "home".

You see, our children and grand children are now close to 1200 miles from us rather than less than a 100. That is hard. Separation from loved ones is hard. Especially this time of year - Christmas. Mama and I will miss all of our children and we pray that the Christmas Season will go well for them. We also will pray that you will make sure that your family relationships are stronger this year than ever before.

Friday 4 December 2009

We have arrived!!

We are in Florida! When are you all coming to visit?? We love it here - busy already!! We worked for the shelter today. We took two nice ladies out looking for jobs. Pray for them.

We love our trailer down here!! It is just the ticket for us. We have two bedrooms and two baths - works out great.

You all have a great day!! Stop by!!

Tuesday 24 November 2009

Happy Thanksgiving!

This is the time of year we give thanks for many things. I want to use this post on my blog today to give God thanks for friends like you. Thank you for your kind words throughout the year. Some of you I got to meet for the first time this year. That was special.

I want to encourage each of you that stop by this blog to be a friend to someone during this Thanksgiving Season. Our relationships need to be cherished - work on them.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING !!!

GOD BLESS!!

INDIAN LAKE PAPA AND MAMA

Wednesday 18 November 2009

Paul

Tonight, Wednesday, is our prayer service time. We sing a few songs from the hymnal, then the pastor gives a devotional and then we have a prayer time.

Tonight during the devotional I glanced at Paul sitting across the aisle from me. I had my Bible out with my pen and highlighter and noticed Paul was doing the same - although he seemed more intense than me. Paul was definitely paying closer attention to the pastor than I was.

The topic was Thanksgiving, a typical topic for this time of year. I am thankful for sure, but I admit, I wasn't into it as much as Paul.

I wonder if Paul was more in-tune than I was because he has terminal cancer and has been given literally a few more weeks to live unless God chooses to intervene? I wonder ?

Friday 13 November 2009

Good Morning Jesus!

Papa is slightly weeping now. I am not sure why God has blessed us so much - why does he do that?

The picture was taken last February at the Great Wall of China - that is my daughter and her hub. They were there to bring home our 3rd grandchild Sara. She was made in China! LOL

Life has been so special the last 9 months getting to watch Sara grow.

But what I want you to think about - is how God provides. In 1991 our family was going through great turmoil - my prayers to God were basic - for survival as a family. God answered those prayers above and beyond - now I weep again.

Thank you Jesus! I am so ever grateful.

Sunday 8 November 2009

Follow me!

As most of you know I love to ride horseback. This picture was taken the other day as Susan and I were trail riding in a forest area of southern Michigan. It was a beautiful late fall day. Susan took the picture of me leading us on the trail. Amos likes to lead. He does not like to follow - his walk is a little faster than most other horses, so we lead and they stay with us. The important thing is - I had better know where we are going and keep my eyes open for "surprises". Amos does not like to be startled. So I try to stay alert!

I Corinthians 11:1 basically says. "... follow me as I follow Christ." Sooooo, if you want to know how to follow Christ, you should be able to follow me as Paul was implying and I should be able to be your example. If you are following me, I will really try to do my best, and if I screw up, please forgive me!

Saturday 7 November 2009

Fun day today! Trail Ride!!

In about an hour Susan and I will load Izzy and Amos in the trailer and go off the farm about 40 miles and go for a trail ride today. We will go to a public recreation area that has miles of horse trails.

It is a beautiful day - high should be in low 60's and no rain. Hopefully lots of sun shine.

I haven't trail ridden off site for probably a year or more. So this will be almost a new adventure.

Hopefully we will get lots of pictures so that I can post later.
Have a great day - God has given this day for our pleasure.

Monday 2 November 2009

God's Handiwork !!

I guess its debatable as to whether this log home is God's handiwork or not. I say it is. My brother just was using God's wonderful creation to make a beautiful home.

My brother began this project several years ago and today lives in this beautiful log home.

He actually went out and cut each log out of a wood lot with a chain saw. I know that he cut over 200 logs to build this home. He even purchased a portable saw mill to mill his logs and lumber.

When we turn our lives over to Christ to be used by Him, He has amazing plans for us. Remember, He created you - put your life in the Master's Hands!

Friday 30 October 2009

Merry Christmas!

We will have an "unusual" Christmas this year - plans are near finalized. Jonas & Anna-Lena (in the picture with mama) are coming to our home (building in the background) in Florida. They will bring their two children Sam age 4 and Sanne age 4 months. There will be 7 of us together for about 4 weeks.

Now if that were our home in the background we would have plenty of space. However, we have a single wide trailer in Florida!! Yes, we will be cozy and close!HA! The building in the back ground is actually the king's home in Stockholm, Sweden!

Did I mention they are flying from Sweden ??!! We are all very excited!! They are precious family!! We shall have lots of fun!!

Monday 26 October 2009

A Special Day!

Today is a very special day - Sara's birthday. When you look at this picture (Paul & Sara) you can't help but be pleased and thankful. You see this could have very easily been Paul's last picture alive. The picture was taken yesterday.

As you probably know Sara is my adopted grand daughter from China. Sara joined our family in February 2009. Paul and Sara were friends in the same orphanage in China and were adopted at the same time by different families. The exciting news is that they live only 45 minutes from each other here in the USA !! Yesterday Paul came to Sara's birthday party - she was 4! A happy day for all - but almost ended in tragedy.

Paul and Sara were dressing up and having lots of fun - Paul even had a pair of high heels on - cute. As we adults talked all of a sudden we heard a loud thump and then a series of many "not good" thumps. Paul had tried to navigate going down the basement stairs - not good in high heels! He rolled and bounced down probably 90% of the stairs - several adults rushed to him. He had scraped his head but was okay, crying and terrified. His mother cradled him in her arms - after all he was her adopted child.

You and I also have the option of being adopted into a family - God's family. And just like Paul's mother and father our Heavenly Father wants to embrace us. Not just when we are fine but also when we are hurting. He loves us.

Friday 23 October 2009

Choices

Last night I rode Amos - I know, I said I was not going to ride anymore. I struggle with the decision to ride almost each time I ride. My biggest concern is that I could fall and obviously be injured. With my Parkinson Disease that probably increases that risk.

However, I feel great and think I can do this. I have been on medication since the first of August and feel much better. I feel relaxed but have quicker response and I am more alert. So I am going to ride.

Thank you Susan for letting me ride Amos. Susan has been glad that we can ride the trails together. We try to encourage each other. I do not like to ride alone.

Some times making choices are not easy. I have weighed this decision quite hard. I think the exercise has been good for me, I am a confident rider, I think a good rider and I love being around horses, so, I am going for it. I can only ride until late November then go to Florida. So next Spring will tell the story.

God bless and I would appreciate your prayers and your counsel.

Papa

Tuesday 20 October 2009

Whoops !!


A couple of weeks ago I "goofed" with Amos, the horse I use to own.

I was going riding with Susan so I was planning to ride Amos. As I approached the gate to take Amos out of his paddock he had seen me and got to the gate quickly - he is always anxious to meet me and come out.

There is a one strand electric fence wire that goes around the top of the entire paddock, to keep the horses from leaning over the fence. Before I opened the gate I disconnected the electric fence wire that goes across the gate. Amos then came up stuck his head over the gate and as i reached to touch his nose he "bumped" his nose on the 'hot' side of the electric fence - ouch! He bolted and ran about 30 yards back into the paddock - looked at me, and stood there - not sure what had happened. He was apparently not sure if I had done that. He was now trying to decide whether to approach me or not - could he trust me?

Deb, a blogging friend just did a post on trust. It has made me think, can I be trusted? To me trust is a major factor in our relationships - maybe the most important factor. Look at those who are closest to you, how important is trust? And, remember it works both ways.

As Amos stood there waiting to decide what to do, I opened the gate and went to him. He waited for me to come, but did not come towards me, I had rattled his trust in me just a little. After I stroked him on the neck, talked to him, he was fine and our relationship returned to normal - but if it happens again - he will even have less trust.

How are you doing with trust?

Friday 16 October 2009

I do not know the people in the back!

What would you do??

You are walking down the street, in a town you have never been to before, minding your own business and these two people come up to you and beg for food!

You look at their faces, you know they must be related - same noses, same eyebrows, same small mustache (even the lady!) under their huge noses, and even their glasses are the same - what do you do ?? I looked for the police, but it was early Sunday, no donut shop open so couldn't find a cop when you needed one!

We tried to ignore them - but - they just wouldn't leave! So we had lunch together and found out the "lady" (term used loosely) has a blog, LIFE ADAPTED (how fitting) and it is a very interesting blog.

If you ever decide to go meet bloggers that you have never met before - be cautious! Some are pranksters! LOL

We had a great time and as you can tell, lots of fun! Very special time.

Wednesday 14 October 2009

We had a great Visit!


We would like you to meet Ed! The one in the blue jacket is Ed! We met in New England, CT on Tuesday the 6th. We had a great visit! We had lunch at a restaurant along the boardwalk on the coast of CT. We chatted about our lives and had a great time together.

Meting Ed was not a meeting of new friends even though we had not met each other physically before - this is a meeting of existing friends and a friendship that both mama and I cherish!

Wednesday 7 October 2009

Friendship - you need to make it work!

As I do this post I am several hundred miles from home. This trip mama and I are on has confirmed some "old" friendships and some "new" friendships. Do we really grasp that to have friendships we have to be a friend? In other words, we have to work on it.

Last Friday we stopped and saw Vicki - a young lady who we had not seen since she was 15! She is now a mom of three children - a friendship from the past that was renewed. Shortly after seeing Vicki we went and saw Scott & Darla and family - for a couple of days. What a special time. I taught their boy how to bowl (Heh Heh) and advised their 18 year old daughter no dating for several years yet - oh what precious friends!

Then on Sunday at lunch mama and I met "Life Adapted" (see my blog roll) and her hub! What a precious couple. God has blessed us again with new friends.

Yesterday, Tuesday, we went to the "Sound" along the Atlantic coast line and walked the boardwalk with Ed (see my blog roll) also a friend who we met for the first time. I wept (as I am now) as I hugged Ed - he is a very special friend - now with a face.

In a few hours mama and I meet Butch (on my facebook list) and his wife. We are going out to dinner together - we are excited. THis trip/vacation would be nothing if it were not for family and friendships.

I challenge you to work on your friendships - they are precious you know! By the way how are your family relationships doing?

Thursday 1 October 2009

All is well!!

Well it looks like we will walk side by side for awhile yet. The additional testing came back favorable. They wanted to do additional testing to make sure some shadows / pockets were okay. All went well!

We praise God for granting us our petitions and answering our prayers. We love Him supremely.

We will be gone for a few days - so be good.

God Bless!

Papa and Mama too! X O

Tuesday 29 September 2009

SERIOUSLY, PLEASE PRAY FOR MAMA!

About a week ago mama had her annual mamogram. They just called and want to do a retake of the Mamogram and possibly a CAT scan this Thursday. Papa is not handling this well - this is my bride of 44 years, my best friend.

This may be nothing just a retake but regardless we would covet your prayers.

We leave for vacation on Friday but will try to update late Thursday if we hear anything.

God bless!

Papa and Mama too!!

Monday 28 September 2009

Come Visit out church!

Our church has a unique program. We provide Valet service - really do. We have a young man that not only greets you as you get out of your car but he will actually park your car for you - and will even get your car for you after church. So please stop by and visit our church someday.

If you came to our church and saw cars parked like the picture I am sure you would not hand our valet your keys.

I am confident if you stopped by we would treat you well.

Mama and I are going away for a few days the end of this week - so if you stop by this blog, be nice! See ya when we get back!!

Tuesday 22 September 2009

Friends !!

There are at least four sets of friendship in the picture to the left. First the obvious one is Susan grooming Izzy. The second set would be me (taking picture) and Amos (eating grass). The third set would be Susan and I. We are riding buddies. We mostly work on our riding issues when we ride together but sometimes we work on the "world problems".

Today Susan and I will ride at sunset time. Susan purchased Amos from me in May. I thought at that time that I needed to give up riding to be safe. However, now I can ride some and Susan lets me ride Amos. Susan is a great friend - thanks Susan.

However, there is at least one more set of friends, set number four. Izzy and Amos. They DO NOT like to be separated. Even when trail riding they like to be fairly close - never out of sight from each other. If they get ahead of each other they will often look back or even stop and wait until the other catches up. If they cannot see each other when we are out trail riding they will whinny at each other to keep track. Visual contact and voice contact are important to them.

How close of a friend is Jesus to you? Do you keep contact with Him? You do know He is there with you at all times, right? Sometimes I can see Izzy in the distance moving through the trees on the trail, Amos loses sight of her and whinnies, but she is just around the corner. Even though Jesus is right there, I need to pay better attention as to His whereabouts.

Thursday 17 September 2009

The Answer to Life's Questions! I've got it!

Last night at the Wednesday mid-week church service we sang a familiar hymn. I like the hymn and have sang it many times but never noticed the format until the song leader pointed something out. Here are the words.

LET HIM HAVE HIS WAY WITH THEE

  1. Would you live for Jesus, and be always pure and good?
    Would you walk with Him within the narrow road?
    Would you have Him bear your burden, carry all your load?
    Let Him have His way with thee.
    • Refrain:
      His pow’r can make you what you ought to be;
      His blood can cleanse your heart and make you free;
      His love can fill your soul, and you will see
      ’Twas best for Him to have His way with thee.
  2. Would you have Him make you free, and follow at His call?
    Would you know the peace that comes by giving all?
    Would you have Him save you, so that you can never fall?
    Let Him have His way with thee.
  3. Would you in His kingdom find a place of constant rest?
    Would you prove Him true in providential test?
    Would you in His service labor always at your best?
    Let Him have His way with thee.
There are three verses, each verse asks 3 questions for those singing the hymn. A total of 9 questions. The answer for each question is the same - "Let Him have His way with thee." How simple! When life is confusing and challenging and we do not know what to do, all we really need to focus on is: "Let Him have His way with thee!"

Wednesday 16 September 2009

Bike Ride!

I took this picture this morning just before I left to go to the post office. I left at 8:30AM and returned by 10:00AM. I mailed a package to Deb, a blogging friend in Oregon. The ride was 11 miles round trip.

For over two years now my bike riding has been very limited to "short" rides around the neighborhood. In July the diagnosis of Parkinson Disease changed everything. Now I am on medication that has helped and now I have more energy and I am getting my strength back. In August I averaged riding 3 miles per day - 100 miles that month. This month, September, I am averaging over 7 miles per day.

Mama and I appreciate your prayers for us and we pray that we will be a blessing to you as we share our journey together serving our Savior.

Saturday 12 September 2009

How to end the day!

The last two evenings mama and I have jumped on our golf cart and took a 2 minute drive down to the lake shore and watched the sunset. Last night the picture was taken - what a beautiful sunset!

When I see sunsets I know there is a God. There is no reason to have a sunset unless someone is there to enjoy it. A "designer" had to be involved. And I don't think Thomas Edison, Henry Ford or Harvey Firestone (who were all friends by the way) could have formed a committee and created sunsets. They were the best, but just not that good!

Wednesday 9 September 2009

A VERY SPECIAL DAY!


Sunday, September 6, 2009 was a very special day. Sara in the white dress was dedicated by her parents to God. It was a very special service with several very important thoughts.

1) Sara was dedicated to God - His child.
2) Parents committed to raising Sara in a Christian home.
3) Extended family, including mama and papa said "We will!" when the pastor asked if we would help to ensure that Sara has a Christian upbringing.

This was an important day in not only Sara's life but each of us that will share and have an impact in her life. Pray for us all.

Friday 4 September 2009

Clutter !!

I have been riding my bike through the neighborhood lately. Today something caught my eye - garages with cars parked outside. I stopped and looked at several of them and just shook my head. There was absolutely no way you could get a car in! I thought when a garage was built it was to park a car in? Don't we describe garages as one car, two car or maybe even three car garages? Shhheeesh!! My garage is one car, and I can park my car in it - thats what it was designed for.

I got to thinking, how cluttered is my life? Is Jesus getting in like He would like to or am I keeping him outside because I have too much other stuff crowding Him out? Is my mind so preoccupied with other stuff that throughout the day He is not in there? I have social stuff, sports, and all kinds of stuff that is in there. I am sure He could crowd in there somewhere. That reminds me, tomorrow starts college football on TV - gotta make room for that! Lets see, where was I? Oh yeah, making room for Jesus - I hope my Michigan State Spartans win tomorrow - boy, I just can't keep focused, I wonder what the problem is??? What was I designed for anyway??

Tuesday 1 September 2009

Refund on tax dollars?

Can you get a refund on your tax dollars when the government screws up ?? Who is held accountable??

The sign in the picture is wrong. The sign is giving direction to the "Pickney" recreation area. It should read "Pinckney" - they left one of the "n's" out. Now they will have to make a new sign, send a crew out and take down the old sign and install a new one! Do you realize how many of your tax dollars will now go into fixing this?

I think I will ask my governor to give me at least a credit on my taxes!

Thursday 27 August 2009

Death - The passing of a man this week


I usually don't do two posts on the same day. However today I am as I am struggling with emotions. A man passed away this week that has my heart troubled - searching my own heart for answers as to why? Also what kind of legacy did he leave for others? What are my thoughts and what are my feelings? This man has impacted my life - and he will be missed.

Perhaps you may be thinking of Ted Kennedy. I am not. I am thinking of Greg. Just this afternoon I learned he had passed away from cancer. My reaction was; "oh no!" I did not realize he was ill. Our pastor from Florida sent out an email sharing the news.

You see, Greg was homeless, completely homeless. He lived in the woods in central Florida and rode a bike and lived out of a knapsack. He was probably 40 years of age or so. I remember Greg mostly from Sunday mornings. He usually would come into church after the service was in progress. he would spot a pew near the back, and then, carrying his knapsack, would work his way into the middle of the pew he wanted. People would smile, greet him, hug him and let him know he was welcomed. He has done this for several years.

Monday, August 31st there will be a memorial service at church for Greg. His Sister and his friends will be there. HIs church family will also attend - he loved them and they loved him.

No fan fare, no limo's, no one lining the streets but he will be missed. Sorry I didn't get to say good bye Greg. I will miss you at church Greg - thanks for helping me keep my priorities straight.

Amos' girl friend

This is Izzy - Amos' girl friend - they share the same pasture together and are basically inseparable. The other day after riding Amos I took him from the stable barn and put him in his pasture. He was upset because Izzy was still back at the stable! Susan was still finishing up Izzy and taking care of Izzy's tack - but all Amos knew was she was not there! I went and got Izzy and put her in the pasture and all was well.

Izzy is one fine lady! She is a beautiful registered quarter horse - yeah! She has a shuffle gait - a walk with a slight trot - that is superb to ride on. She could go all day at the shuffle. her front quarter shoulder muscles catch your eye quickly, she has great confirmation.

They walk side by side on the trail - they trailer great together - they are just compatible.

However, one is in charge, is the dominant one - the boss. Can you guess which one?

Sunday 23 August 2009

My Best Friend!

A few years ago mama and I went on a Senior Retreat together. Below is a slide presentation I put together. Does anyone have any idea where we went? There were several hundred of us that went on this tour bus excursion. We had a great time.

Tuesday 18 August 2009

Please pray for Carly

Carly had surgery to repair something on her heart. She had the surgery on the 6th and is
having to fight a few obstacles as she heals. It sounds like her heart is okay, but she has
had infections and other issues. She is still in ICU, which originally should have been for only 3-4 days.

Your prayers would be greatly appreciated as this very young child struggles to begin life. Keep her and her family in your prayers.

Thank you!! Mama & Papa

Update: Thursday August 27, 2009 - Did surgery again yesterday as scheduled, except a day earlier. This little one is 10 months old so keep her in your prayers. Will update when I get more info.

Sunday 16 August 2009

Baptismal Service this Evening

Tonight was a very special evening. We had a baptismal service at the lake here. There were over 150 people there and about a dozen baptismal candidates, half of which were children of various ages.

I especially love to listen to the children as they give a "testimony" just before being submersed in the water. The question usually asked by the pastor is; "(name) why are you getting baptized?" Their answers vary, but usually are simple - such as; "because I love Jesus" -

I love to watch children find Christ and taking steps along their spiritual journey. Their issues are usually simple, may be serious, but simple. Most issues center around behavioral decisions. What if their family members are not Christians? What if their friends make it difficult? They need good Christian coaching. Even getting a bible may be complicated. But most are eager to be baptized - and excited! Sara, our youngest grand child watched with great curiosity and had some questions - like - what are they doing? She is almost 4. Soon, very soon papa is confident that Sara will ask Jesus into her heart! But guess what ??!!

Next month Sara will be dedicated at church - remember, she just joined our family in February, from china! Her spiritual journey is already starting because of the faithfulness of her family. I pray that as her grandpa that I can help her along her spiritual journey.

Thursday 13 August 2009

Bridge to no where?

Have you ever been on a road or bridge that seems to be going no where? The bridge in the picture appears to just go out into the channel and end - not so. Mama and papa have driven across this bridge a couple of times. The bridge goes out into the channel and then goes down underwater so that shipping traffic can go 'over' the bridge - vs. under the bridge.

Someday if you get a chance check this neat man-made structure out. By the way it runs fron the coast of Denmark to the southern coast of Sweden.

Perhaps each of us may cross bridges today that will impact our decisions for tomorrow. Make your choices well, some bridges may be a little scary, the one in the picture it is hard to see the other side - but you do get across.

By the way, always take Jesus with you. Now that I have Parkinson Disease I have some bridges to cross that I did not expect in life. Christ will go with me - and - mama is there too!

Sunday 9 August 2009

Choices R (yours) and Mine

This past Friday was a very emotional day for mama and papa. As the girls from girls camp left from camp we stood by each vehicle saying goodbye to each girl. Some we laughed or giggled, some we cried. You see, each one will go home to face life and the circumstances of home.

Most if not all the bloggers on my blog roll have contact with young children. We need to be sure that as we stand there having our adult conversations that we remember the little ears that are listening and sorting out their role and that we build them up. They need to feel secure.

If the little girl in the picture had just left your presence, having listened to your conversation, what would she be praying about? If it was my grand daughter, I am sure she would be praying for me and that it would be nice to see grandpa more. I get so busy that I fail to put them as a priority. Pray for papa that he does better. Papa loves children, especially my grand children, I can do better.

Saturday 8 August 2009

Relay For Life - Allegan, MI August 7, 2009

Yesterday, Friday evening right after Girl's Camp mama and papa went to Allegan to walk with Peter and Kim in the Relay For Life (Cancer Awareness) event. It was a wonderful time. First Kim walked a lap designated for the 'Caregivers' then they had a lap for the 'survivors' of which there were many - most in purple shirts with the word 'Survivor' across the back. Peter is a survivor of Leukemia (AML) and had a bone marrow transplant from his sister 6 months ago.

He has done well with two exceptions. He now likes pink as his favorite color and likes to shop - must be that feminine bone marrow!

Stop by Peter's Blog and wish him well and let him know you will pray for him. His link is on my blog roll as well.

Sunday 2 August 2009

Girls Camp August 3rd thru August 7th

Starting tomorrow, Monday, mama and papa will be off line most of the week. We are starting a new adventure - "grand parents" at girls camp here for a week. The ages of the girls range from 10 to 12. our task will be to watch for the girls that are homesick, having some kind of adjustment at camp. Papa will be carrying a back-pack stuffed full of stuffed animals to hand out to "girls in need". Mama and I will dress up for the week. Mama has a nice long "granny" dress to wear and I will wear my bib overalls.

There will be services each day with an invitation to the girls to accept Christ as Savior. Mama and papa will pray with these girls.

We are asking that you be our "Prayer Partners" this next week. Thank you and God bless!

Thursday 30 July 2009

A precious picture!

This picture is precious to me. I will view it several times today. It is in a group of pictures that will rotate on my desktop as part of my "screen saver" on my computer. I will stop and weep a little when it comes up. There are several things that make this picture special - can you figure them out?

First, Sara on the slide jumps out at you - she loves the speed of this slide! She is one of my three grand children. Second is the "tot lot" where the slide is - walking distance from our home - what a great country we live in that we can walk out of our homes and enjoy moments like these. Third is in the background. Many people enjoying the activities of the 4th of July festivities here on the church campground. However, the fourth thing about this picture is the hand holding the other camera - it is mama's hand. I purchased the rings on that hand over 40 years ago - I still love and hold that hand as often as I can. I am concerned about that hand because mama has crippling arthritis in both of her hands. Look closely at her fingers. She has had that for years. She could not remove those rings even if she wanted to. Yet those hands are busy serving Christ each day. She rarely even mentions the pain in her hands and will work with those all day - yes mama is very special and a tremendous gift to papa. I love you mama.

Tuesday 28 July 2009

Gator Aid

Last evening Susan and I fed and watered about 20 horses at Shamrock Stables where Amos resides. I even mended a section of electric fence. Susan is my riding buddy and the lady that bought Amos. The owners of Shamrock Stables had to go out of town. We loaded the Gator up with buckets of grain and began our adventure. It was interesting as we went to each different pasture area and began putting grain in the buckets. There was a definite order in which to feed them - the 'boss' got fed first. We took turns scooping the grain and I did most of the gator driving. That was my first time driving a gator. Maybe I should get a gator for mama to do her yard work and chores. Maybe as a Christmas present.

Last evening was a beautiful time with the horses. I commented to Susan as we traveled along down the pasture lanes how blessed we were to be able to do this and to be a part of God's creation. We take so much for granted and miss what is going on around us. In fact I just stopped typing for a few seconds and glanced out the open window - the birds are singing beautifully - at least three different varieties! The sun is shining, I just saw an old man out for a walk and I prayed for him as he went by. A young lady in a nice spandex jogging outfit went by as well - after that I prayed for me! Oh my, the birds are just special today! Take time to enjoy the day - a biker friend of mine just peddled by, I think I will go biking as well! Take time to find God in your life today.

Sunday 26 July 2009

"What is your biggest fear?"

Thursday, the 23rd, when the specialist announced I had Parkinsons, later he asked me what was my biggest fear. What quickly popped into my mind surprised me. My biggest fear has really nothing to do with mama or my family, they will be by my side no matter what, they are precious. We are together 24/7.

My biggest fear, is losing you - my blog friends and my Facebook friends.

I turned and looked at the doctor and began to weep as I answered his question. I glanced at mama and she was fighting back tears as well. She knew the answer as well - the biggest toll so far this disease has taken is my typing. I now have to use one hand, one finger. If I lose my blog and my facebook I will be devestated. We love you and feel that we have many friends and passer-bys that we have helped. We have opened our home to you, have given assistance and counsel to many. My fear is that if the day comes that I can not type - that door will close. So far we are doing fine, pray for us. Just as Blogspot and Facebook have become a ministry - so will Parkinsons.

God Bless!
Papa and Mama too

Thursday 23 July 2009

What does the Future Hold? (Part 2)

Did not plan to do a part 2 - but after today thought that a part 2 would be appropriate. Today at about 2pm the doctor, a tremor specialist told mama and I that I have Parkinsons. We were not prepared for that, we had ruled that out. It is considered a mild form and we shall see what medication can do.

Not sure what the future holds but mama is there with me and we will cross the finish line together as long as God allows.

The picture was taken Labor Day when mama and I had just finished walking the Mackinac Bridge, approximately 5 miles.

Keep holding my hand mama, we aren't through yet.

Tuesday 21 July 2009

What does the Future Hold?

I am sure, like me, you would at least like to know what the future holds. The picture was taken about 10 years ago - a very special wedding that mama and papa got to attend. The young lady in the picture is the daughter of very special friends of ours. I am sure that day she was excited but also "curious" as to what God's plan for her life would be. Little would she know that 10 years later she would now be in her 3rd State, full-time church ministry and a mommy of two children. Life changes and God directs our lives if we allow Him.

The young lady and her husband are now pastoring a good size church and she is now a "Pastors wife". Pray for them as they continue on their journey with Him. So far they are endeavoring to make the right choices - I wonder where the next 10 years will find them? Our prayers may impact that so pray they will follow Christ.

Friday 17 July 2009

Beautiful Flowers!

We love flowers! Here is a picture of Hollyhocks in our front yard. The flowers are 9' tall - I measured them this morning! They are beautiful! God's art work is untouchable! The kind of sad story is that sometime this fall they will die, they are already at their peak. BUT, next spring they will be back.

Another beautiful flower in this picture is mama! Isn't she beautiful - inside and out! I love mama. If God takes her before me, I will miss her. BUT just like the flower she will bloom again someday - and this time for eternity. I anxiously await the day that mama and I can walk hand in hand in God's flower garden.

Wednesday 15 July 2009

Wild Mustangs

This is a picture of wild mustangs - to me, they are beautiful! They run free in certain parts of the U.S. They appear to have a life of ease, but not so. Wild horses have their predators and are always watching for danger. Did you know that wild horses rarely whinny? The reason being is that the noise would give predators their location.

Wild horses may travel many miles in a day trying to locate water and an area to graze - life is tough for a wild mustang.

I have been watching many children this week here at the church camp going up and down our street on their bikes, laughing and playing. But this morning papa was shaken back to reality about the children.

At about 7:30AM I went to the Prayer Cottage and found several new prayer request cards. Some had apparently been filled out by children. One requested prayer for her father. "My dad has left and gone away, I am afraid I will never see my dad again." Another child, maybe same family, requested the following; "I wish I could hug my dad, I miss him."

I need to pay attention as much as I can as to who is hurting around me and make sure I listen when God prompts me to step in. I really don't want to miss helping when those opportunities come by. There are a lot of hurts covered up out there.

Sunday 12 July 2009

Slightly Sloppy Seas

This picture was taken when the forecast was "slightly sloppy seas"! Actually the seas were turning into a tropical storm. The picture was taken in the South Pacific near the Fiji Islands.
Harmon Schmelzenbach, missionary that is in charge of a boat ministry in the Fiji Islands took the picture. This was one of those days when the only word you utter in prayer is; "Help! - Amen!"

Recently mama and I have watched many lives being rocked by "Slightly Sloppy Seas". I don't understand why we have to go through sloppy seas, but we do. My parents did, their parents did and guess what my kids will - and are - as well. If any could be exempt, I wish my kids could be. But just not so.

We have our faith in God that sustains us and whom we can trust in. I am praying this morning that I will trust Him more - even when I have to pray "Help!"

Thursday 9 July 2009

Horse Feed

Amos, the horse I use to own, is getting close to his senior years so his feeding requirements are changing. He doesn't need a high energy feed, his working requirements will decrease with age. However, to keep his body in good health we want him to have good nutrition. His new owner wants him to stay healthy for many more years.

How is your spiritual health doing? Recently I have been thinking about my health, both physically and spiritually. I have been reading the Bible for over 60 years, maybe I can quit now - think so? In a few days I will be 66. Maybe I will just close up my Bible and put it on a shelf. Prayer, that is another one I can push side - usually its the same old requests and petitions - He already knows anyways before I pray. Devotional reading? Naw, nothing new out there -

Actually - when I get done with this post I will be heading to the prayer cottage here on the church camp. I am so blessed to be able to spend time there. I love the time I spend with my Savior.

Monday 6 July 2009

Meet Sydney!


Meet Sydney my grand daughter. She rode in the back of papa's truck during the parade and tossed out candy. I love Sydney! She is 8 and a very smart girl - she definitely has her papa's genes.

One of the special things I love about Sydney is she has a very tender heart. She is always coming up to others and throwing her arms around you and saying, "I love you!"

I want you to know that Sydney has already given her heart to Jesus. She gave her heart to Jesus one Sunday morning at church. She has a wonderful church and a pastor who loves the children very much. A few weeks later she asked her parents if she could be baptized - by submersion! We got to attend that very special event.

Please be praying for this very special girl that as she grows up that she will always remain true to her Savior and that she will be an instrument for Him.

I love you Sydney!

Papa

Sunday 5 July 2009

Let Freedom Ring!

Yesterday was our big parade - lasts about 20 minutes - We won 1st place with our family float. There were several floats. Probably 35 kids on bikes, old cars, walkers, and at least 25 decorated golf carts. I even entered my truck in the old vehicles and shared 1st place ribbon! It was fun!

Today, as a family, 30 plus of us will worship together. Then we will walk to the camp dining hall where we will eat together.

God is so good - all the time! Let Freedom Ring!

Friday 3 July 2009

Time for Family

The picture to the left is mama with her family. Mama's mother is sitting down the rest are her brothers and sister. Her mom is 91 and doing great! Fourth of July they all get together to discuss family, religion and politics. They are very conservative in their political views so you can imagine how the conversation goes!

Regardless of their views they are a close family and the 4th of July is the time they all get together for a couple of days. They have a very strong opinion on family values.

We will be praying that this special time of year will find your family values strengthening and that remember - "Let Freedom Ring!"

Tuesday 30 June 2009

4th of July - a fun time! I think!

This was mama last year - making homemade ice cream! In a day or two we will be doing this again. We make one of three freezers of homemade ice cream - we end up with 16 quarts of ice cream for about 35 people. Already some of mama's extended family have started to arrive. We will peak on Saturday with 35 to 40 family members.

Most of you know that we live on a church camp ground of over 300 acres. The camp has three motel units, approximately 25 rustic cabins you can rent, and 150 RV sites with full hook-ups. Every thing by Friday will be filled up! There are 175 homes like mama and papa's here as well. Most of mama's extended family will eat all of their meals at our house from Thursday through Sunday.

I have one question, does anybody have a spare room I could rent starting any day now until Monday noon?? Please ?? I'll bring some ice cream! Please take pity on papa!!