Enjoying God's Goodness

A Green Christmas this year!

2012-01-01T00:44:00.008-06:00

We celebrated Christmas all day Sunday ~ a wonderful service at Chippewa Evangelical Free Church, opening gifts, croquet on the lawn, and turkey dinner with all the trimmings.

What could be better?

We are so very grateful that Jesus came to earth to make it possible for us to know God's love and forgiveness, to have a relationship with Him, and to understand how to live the abundant life He offers so freely to us.

(Just a reminder, click on the collage to see the pictures up close and personal.)

The Steelers~Rams Game on Christmas Eve

2012-01-01T00:29:00.002-06:00

One highlight of our time with John and RayAnn in Beaver Falls, PA was the opportunity to go to a Steelers Game ~ with box seats (which means Food and Heat). It was Faith's first Steeler's game and she enjoyed it all, even waiting in line for popcorn! It was great that they WON the game, too.

White Sulphur Springs

2011-12-31T23:55:00.003-06:00

The first time we went to White Sulphur Springs in Manns Choice, Pennsylvania was in 1986. It was just before we moved to our new assignment at West Point. It "just so happened" that several families from West Point were at OCF's family conference center that week ~ and the adventure began. We spent many weeks at WSS ~ with cadets, at tennis camp, on vacation. Aimee attended the first Allegheny Outback way back when. Lots of memories....lots of time on the wrap around porch of the old Harrison House talking and catching up on one of the handmade rockers.

This year we made a trek back to WSS with the Marx Family (who also have a long history of times at WSS as their boys were growing up and now as they bring their granddaughters to spend the week each summer as they are growing up) the week after Christmas. It was a great time...seeing old friends, meeting new ones, horseback riding, hiking, bowling, square dancing and line dancing in the old barn, and trying out the climbing wall. Never a dull moment. We enjoyed the worship and great sessions with meaningful, challenging, transformative teaching by Greg St. Cyr.

Just this summer the new facility, Heritage House, was dedicated and opened. What a beautiful facility ~ so nicely done, spacious, and modern. While most of us miss the quaint old Harrison House, the new facility is fabulous and allows lots more families to come each week.

2011-12-31T23:15:00.012-06:00

Happy Birthday, Oma!

I celebrated my 64th birthday at Seven Springs Mountain Resort, eating pizza for lunch and tubing all afternoon with Andy, Aimee, Gary, Faith, and Avery! What a great birthday party! Weather was mild with no wind ~ the sun was out part of the time and a few snow flakes came down through the afternoon.

Tubing is Avery's favorite winter activity ~ she just loves the wind in her face and smiles and/or giggles all the way down the mountain. Faith would have liked to ski but we weren't sure there would be enough snow. Both girls went non stop up and down the mountain for the full 2 hours ~ never asked for a break.

On the way home we stopped at the moving Flight 93 National Memorial. It was simple and beautiful, a fitting tribute to 40 people who made the ultimate sacrifice. "A common field one day. A field of honor forever."

Nothing Like It...

2011-11-26T20:26:00.003-06:00

Nothing like being with family at Thanksgiving!

This year we were in Colorado with Joel, Sarah, Anders (3) and Cade (16 months). We had great weather and a fun time together. On Monday we moved Cade up from the nursery to his big boy room and Joel/Sarah's office down to the former nursery. It's all up and running, complete with decorated walls! A good job done.

Another day we spent the morning at Denver's new IKEA...lots of great ideas! We also visited dear friends...Dan and Julie in their newly renovated kitchen/living space, and Larry, Fran and Bekah at Chick fil a.

On Friday before we left for home, we spent the morning at the Denver Zoo. What a great place!

Thanksgiving was a relaxing day at home. We fed the boys at noon and put them down for naps. Then finished up the food prep and enjoyed a nice quiet turkey dinner!

The Denver Zoo

2011-11-26T19:53:00.002-06:00

Black Friday is a GREAT day to visit the Zoo in Denver!

Not too many people...and it is cool so the animals are active!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-06T14:56:00.001-06:00

How did this NOT get published??? This is Thanksgiving in 2009 at Aimee and Gary's home in Virginia. It's when we all found out that Ander's was going to be a big brother in July. I uploaded the pictures but never got them posted. So, here they are ~ looks like we had a great time together!

First Adventures in Georgia!

2011-11-06T14:55:00.001-06:00

In June, Aimee and Gary moved to Georgia for Gary's new job as Executive Director of Faith and Freedom Coalition! It was a very busy time for them but they are happy in their new setting. We finally made it down to see them in September...and love their new home, housing area, and the beautiful hills of Georgia. We will spend years getting to know the Atlanta area ~ with so very much to see and do.

We made one trip down to Atlanta on Saturday during our stay ~ and enjoyed the Georgia Aquariam. On Sunday afternoon we drove up into the mountains for a great afternoon of apple picking. We were able to see Faith play soccer, tennis lessons for the girls, visit their new church and elementary school...it was a whirlwind trip and great fun.

Sheboygan and the Last Leg Home

2011-09-04T22:25:00.002-05:00

We had been hearing/reading about a big front moving into the north end of the lake on Saturday night...and decided we wanted to get back to Manitowoc before it settled in. We would have been caught for 3-4 days if we did not make it. So, we dropped Waukegan from our plan for the way home and headed directly across the lake to Racine on Thursday. It was a direct shot out in open water...64 miles into the wind all day, taking 8 1/2 hours. We stayed at Reefpoint Marina in Racine.

The next morning we left fairly early to head for Port Washington. For about 2-3 hours we experienced high wave action and gusts up to 33 mph. It was, shall I say, exciting?!? Andy thought it best, at one point, to head toward Milwaukee and get on the leeward shore to be a bit more protected from the wind and waves. To our delight, the wind subsided, the waves laid flat, and we were on our way to Port Washington in good time. When we got there it was early and we decided to make a run for Sheboygan ~ a total of 74 miles for the day. We got there as the sun was setting and were grateful for only a 26 mile sail left for Saturday. We were pretty weary when we arrived at the Harbor Centre Marina and chose to have dinner close by at the Yacht Club...windblown and a little ratty looking after 11 hours on the water.

Saturday morning we woke up and found ourselves completely socked in with dense fog. I took a long walk along the river and down Main Street, discovering the big open farmer's market in a park in the middle of town. Lots of local color there.
By about 11:30 the fog had lifted but not completely. We decided to head out and see what it was like. It was a little scary for about 45 minutes....at one point a fishing boat appeared, speeding toward us out of the fog. A few minutes later we were right on top of a 5-6 foot buoy marker that was just suddenly there! Finally, we sailed out of the fog and had a clear 4 hour sail to Manitowoc.
It was a great trip, but we were glad to be "home" before the storm.

We saw the mighty and powerful hand of God in the winds and the waves along the way. It always reminds us of how small and insignificant we are.
We are grateful for his guidance and protection along the journey.

The Windy City

2011-09-04T22:16:00.002-05:00

Chicago, one of our very favorite big cities...the place we went to school, met and fell in love in the 60's! Lots of memories and fun times to think about and remember.
We could see the Sears Tower all the way from Kenosha. We were able to motor sail most of the way down the north shore from Waukegan to Lincoln Park...54 miles and 8 1/2 hours of motor sailing. We stayed in Belmont Harbor on the north end of the Park.

We arrived around 6 in the evening and by 7 we were with Dave and Cheryl McKay, friends from Rockford and Moody days. Dave has a sailboat,too, so we shared lots of sailing stories/experiences. We had dinner together in Andersonville (Swedish neighborhood) not far form the marina. Great fun...wonderful food!

The next morning I took a long walk south through Lincoln Park along the water as well as the bike path. It goes for miles. I went as far south as Fullerton, the north end of the Lincoln Park Zoo. It was a pretty morning ~ the waves were crashing up against the walkway. I was impressed with how many people jog and bike at all hours of the day and night. Several statues and monuments dot the park.

Andy's sister, Carol, from Oak Park came and picked us up and we went up to Rogers Park (the far north side of Chicago) for lunch at the Jamaica Jerk. By mid afternoon we were back on the water sailing the bay, picking out sights along the shore, enjoying the skyline. In the pictures you will see the old Coast Guard Station, Buckingham Fountain, Soldiers Field, the Planetarium, Navy Pier...the one lone tall condo building was new while we were at Moody in the late 60's, one of the first of it's kind. The lighthouse in the trees was up in near Winnetka as well as the Baha'i Temple.

Racine and Kenosha

2011-09-04T22:03:00.002-05:00

Monday we were off to Kenosha, sailing past the Wind Point Lighthouse, the city of Racine, and the Racine Reef Light along the way. It was 35 miles and 5 1/2 hours of sailing. Kenosha was a delightful surprise...the community has spent millions of dollars developing their waterfront...parks and sculptures, wide walkways for biking and jogging, wonderful condos right along the water. The old downtown is being redeveloped into unique shops and boutiques, restaurants and coffee houses. If I lived in the community, I would open a Market near the marina with basic food and drug store items. I say this because I walked and walked trying to find a grocery and/or drug store, only to find a gas station was THE place to purchase supplies...not my favorite place to shop.

I walked out to the red lighthouse that greeted us at the entrance to the river where, it seems, the local high school kids hang out, swim, and goof off after school. Not far from there, old inland stone lighthouse stands completely restored, now a museum. I must have walked 2 hours...then took a swim at the Southport Marina pool before supper. We found a little pub with outdoor seating just on the edge of the condo complex. Right down along the water there was a very large Civil War Museum as well as a Kenosha County Museum ~ both new and inviting. Fountains and play areas for children lined the harbor, kids feeding the ducks and enjoying the day.

We stopped in Racine on our way back to Manitowoc later in the week. The marina there is run by a company called Skipper Buds. It was modern and nice with a pool and restaurant. We arrived after a long day in the open waters between Chicago and Racine. We walked around a bit when we went for supper at an Irish Pub on Main Street that had been in existence for almost 150 years...with lots of antique lights and decorations. Again, the city had invested a lot in a long walkway along the river and harbor front, as well as a big center for weekend concerts and events all summer long. The old Coast Guard Station is now houses the Yacht Club in Racine.

Port Washington and Milwaukee

2011-09-04T21:46:00.003-05:00

It was my idea, my dream, to sail to Chicago this summer...thankfully Andy opted to help fulfil my dream...I couldn't have done it without him! A cruise on a sailboat can be a challenge. Normally we just go to Manitowoc, hop on the boat, and let the wind take us where it may...we just enjoy the quiet ~ relaxing, reflecting, savoring the day. But, when you have a destination in mind, things don't always go the way you hope.

We took off for Port Washington on Saturday morning...it's about 53 nm south of Manitowoc. The wind and waves were from the north ~ behind us ~ so it is hard to sail. We ended up motoring most of the way with the wind and waves pushing us along. The shoreline looked a bit different than we are used to. There were not cliffs but rather sandy beaches most of the way from Sheboygan to Port Washington. Lots of pretty homes along the shore. It took 7 1/2 hours and we arrived not a bit too soon. Right after we got there the waves got bigger and were crashing over the seawall ~ you can see it in the top right hand picture of the collage. I didn't walk out to the lighthouse that afternoon ~ it just felt too dangerous and I didn't want to be swept away!

We settled in at the Port Washington Marina and then, as is my custom, I took off walking and exploring. After a day on the boat in an area about the size of our master bathroom, I'm ready for some exercise. Port Washington is a fun place to walk. It is built on seven hills ~ each with a ve ld stairway to the top. At one time it was considered as a candidate to be the capital of Wisconsin. The old inland lighthouse (building with the red roof) is now a city museum. Not far away is a beautiful old catholic church ~ both high on one of the seven hills, this one overlooking the harbor. I had biked through Port Washington last summer on my ride for the diabetes association. The country has a wonderful bike path and it meanders through the town.

The next morning we were not in a big hurry to get going so I took another walk around the harbor. The waves had calmed a bit so it was safe to walk out to the lighthouse. We were headed for Milwaukee and that is just about 4 hours (29 miles) away so we left before noon...the wind and waves were still from the north so we were motor sailing south once again. The shore line was now back to cliffs ~ some sandy and some lush with trees.

When we got to the Milwaukee bay I watched for the old North Point Lighthouse. It had been moved inland years ago as erosion threatened along the shore. Now it is a wonderful nautical museum which I have visited a couple of times ~ seeing the view from the top of the lighthouse over the lake. Now I was able to see it from the water ~ encased in lush trees (pictured in the collage).

We found the waters around Milwaukee to be very busy with all sorts of boats...big and small. McKinley Marina is huge and bustling with activity during the day. I'm not sure I would enjoy being docked there all the time. There is a large park along the lake shore in Milwaukee ~ you can rent a surrey with the fringe on top or go paddle boating in a pond. On a nice day there are dozens of bikers, walkers, kite fliers as well as weddings and parties...just lots of activities.

We walked about a mile to find a restaurant for dinner. We were glad we were familiar with the downtown or it would have taken us even longer. Downtown Milwaukee is more of a business/financial center ~ not so much a shopping mecca. By the time we were headed back to the boat, it was pitch dark in the park and a bit eerie. Most all the boaters go home for the night ~ suddenly it was very quiet and a bit disconcerting walking through the park.

There are two active lighthouses in the harbor...the red one for the river entrance and the white one for the breakwater entrance. I'm not sure what it is about lighthouses, but I find them fascinating. I guess I imagine the stories they might tell about ships, pirates, storms, and boats sinking...about families living in the house by the lighthouse, isolated from society, getting visitors only once in a while

Faith is Eight

2011-07-15T16:58:00.007-05:00

I love spending time with my grandkids...lots of time. It takes a great deal of energy and I'm usually exhausted after they leave or when I return home, but it is worth it...every time.
I'm still getting to know them and I'd like you to know them, too.

This post is about Faith. She turned eight in May and will go to a new school in Georgia in August. Third grade. How can that be? She was just a baby a couple of years ago.

Faith has a lot of energy. She loves to try new things...she wants to figure them out, do well at them. She is competitive...loves to win, but she also gets pleasure in just learning how to do it and do it well. This summer one of the things was learning to kayak on her own. We had a pastor donate a solo kayak and her Uncle Paul spent about 30-40 minutes teaching her how to stop, to turn corners, and to guide the kayak where you want it to go. She spent a good deal of time practicing.

She daring...going down the BIG slides at Water Parks since she was three, doing flips off the diving board, and flying off the high dive without any hesitation. At Christmas she took one day of lessons and the second day spent the day with Opa going down green runs, and even a blue run.

Her eyes were full of wonder and excitement as we went up in the hot air balloon recently...not a bit of fear and worry.

Faith laughs easily.

She loves to read.

She also loves soccer and does well playing.

Faith has been doing puzzles since she was about two, I think. She can figure them out and see how things fit. By the time I have the edge pieces sorted for her, she has the edge finished. She sticks with it ~ doesn't quit. Sometimes she gets frustrated when she can't figure something out ~ like the game of CLUE. We played many times this summer and she never won once, but she was willing to listen to tips and ideas on how to figure out who, what, and where. She wanted to learn...she kept asking to play.

Over Christmas I heard her say that someone told her she was too young for Yahtzee. I said, "Faith, you would love Yahtzee. You can learn!" And before I knew it, she was beating me.

Faith is a generous person. I often bring or have on hand a craft the girls can work on. This trip she had just completed one project with Perler Beads when she came up with the idea of making something for her new friend in Georgia, a neighbor. Before long, she was also making some for his brother and sister.

But, she is also frugil. Saving money is another thing Faith does faithfully. She just opened her own savings account and has over $130.00 in it already. But, I've also see her offer to buy a stuffed animal for Avery as well as herself on a trip to the Dells a couple years ago. Money hard earned, but she was willing to share.

There's lots more, but I'll stop for now. I'm sure I'll share more over time as she grows and develops and matures. But for now...what a girl!

Don't you just love her already?

Avery at Five

2011-07-15T16:58:00.006-05:00

One of the first things you see, hear, learn about Avery is ~ she LOVES hot pink. Much of what is wears is hot pink. I took her shopping for a "first day of school" outfit and all she would look at is hot pink...shorts, tops, dresses, skirts, swimsuits...doesn't matter...hot pink.

The girl knows what she likes (and doesn't like)...in food, clothes, activities. She has no trouble expressing her opinion. This spring she tried organized UPWARD soccer. Not so much. We got to see her play when we were in VA in May. She holds back, is hesitant to get in there and kick the ball. No aggressive. Yet, one afternoon at practice her coach put her in charge of a series of sprints across the field. She was the only girl. She said, "GO" and was off and running. I got pictures of her...out in front of all the boys, smiling from ear to ear, running like a deer.

For a long time Avery had a coy little smile. She was quiet, but you knew the wheels were turning. She often let Faith run the show. Not so much any more. She's more willing to speak up and speak her mind.

Avery can be a bit determined. In a little different way than Faith. More of a stubbornness. Maybe it comes with being a second/middle child.

Avery loves to play card games and board games....over and over.

She loves to have a notebook nearby to draw pictures, make mazes, record things.

At this point in her life, Avery is NOT a neatnik. Will be interesting to see how she keeps her room now that the girls have their own rooms. They have a Jack and Jill bathroom and Faith is not real happy about that. I think as she grows, she will like being neat and will do better organizing. It's in her genes.

In August Avery will start kindergarten. She will get on the bus with Faith in the morning and head off to school. She's a little nervous about it but I think she will do just fine. She may hold back a bit at first, but before you know it she'll be in charge.

Avery loves to play games and do activities on the web and would do it for long periods of time if you let her...content in her own little world, working her way through the websites so easily. It's a whole new generation.

She loves her brother and her sister.

Have you noticed, she also loves to strike cute little poses when I take her picture?

She is fun to be around. You would enjoy her!

Ryan at 18 Months

2011-07-15T16:57:00.005-05:00

Ryan comes next in line at 18 months. He has miles of smiles. Just smile at him or point a camera his way and he'll oblige. Right from the start. It was amazing. It's been a blessing to Gary and Aimee as he is the youngest and 4 years younger than Avery.

I think for a long time each and every one of his needs was met for him by one of his sisters. He had it made. It helped that he was so easy going and happy. And, of course, there were the smiles.

He was so proud of himself when he learned to walk. He would just giggle as he took faltering steps. Great fun. Easy to be around.

Ryan loves animals and seems to be fearless around them. He has been around animals at Meadow Farm and Maymont Park in Richmond. This trip we went to Lambs Farm in Libertyville, IL. He just sticks his hand out to them, puts his fingers to their mouths, pets them, chases after them, and even brushes their fur. Ever smiling! A delight to watch.

He loved the train and the old fashioned carousel at Lambs Farm as well.

You know when he's a little tired ~ his thumb goes in his mouth and his other hand grabs his ear. It's cute and he's happy. What can I say?

He's still pretty young and I don't feel like I know too much about him yet. I know he makes me smile!

I sure do love him! You will too.

Anders Nearly Three

2011-07-15T16:57:00.004-05:00

Anders is all boy...rough and tumble, loves ball games of all kinds (soccer, basketball, football, baseball), and now golf. He has all the equipment and loves to drag it all out of the garage and do it all.

He likes to go on walks...we count basketball hoops as we go. He knows where every one is any direction we go in their twisty-windy neighborhood.

He loves going to the park...any park. He is daring as he climbs, jumps, slides, and swings.

Anders loves his little brother and smothers him with hugs and kisses.

Anders loves Haiku ~ their Black Lab. The dog has always been quite gentle and patient with this busy, bustling booming little boy.

He also has a sweet and tender side. One of the first days we were there in March, he looked up from the stroller and said, "I'm so glad you came, Oma." Just about made me weep. I replay that moment in my mind often. Maybe he'll be a romantic!

Last week we went to Rockford, IL to see my Dad. After lunch together we went to a pool party at my uncle's home. Several times Anders got out of the water and walked over to Great Grandpa and struck up a conversation with him. It was so sweet...and my Dad reacted in kind. Got some cute photos of the two of them, head to head.

Anders will be three in August. He's smart as a whip (where did that saying come from?). He has 2 teachers for parents and they have spent a lot of time reading to him, patiently taking him to website to learn his letters, sounds, and numbers long before he turned two. He has some great toys that teach him things, too.

I find him easy to be around. Active. Fun. Independent. Energetic. Curious.

Quite a guy. You'll like him.

Cade Turns One

2011-07-15T16:09:00.004-05:00

Cade celebrated his first birthday the week we were together. He was so cute. At first he liked the look of his mini-cake. His hands went up like he was going to attack...maybe he thought is was mud. When he actually had it in his hands he changed his mind and let out a scream of distaste. When he put it in his mouth, he changed his mind again. He's a cutie.

But you hardly know he is around. He smiles...a lot. He's happy...a lot. She screams...a little. He also takes lots of naps, so he isn't around a lot. So, I don't know him too well at all...yet.

I felt really badly after we had been together at Christmas. There were hardly any pictures of Cade ~ a few of his carrier with him inside, protected from the cold of Colorado.

He definately has a look of Ekedahl about him...his hair line and coulick loooks just like Jim's at a young age. His eyes are huge but they squint when he has a broad smile. He's a cutie.

He's starting to get around crawling. His Uncle Paul taught us all how to teach a little one to crawl...put out a trail of Cheerios. He finally had a real reason to go!

He gets along with anyone, goes with the flow, sleeps almost anywhere (except in the car).

Watch for more on this little cutie!

2011-07-15T15:45:00.001-05:00

Another grand adventure has been in the making for quite some time. For years Faith has wanted to go on a hot air balloon ride ~ and we have been waiting for Avery to be tall enough to join us. We finally went over by Madison, Wi on July 4th! Some day Anders, Ryan, and Cade will go with Opa!

It was a gorgeous evening and we had a great ride. Andy and Aimee were with the chase car and enjoyed seeing us go up, up and away!

2011-07-15T15:29:00.001-05:00

Faith and Avery went with Oma and Opa for a couple of days on the White Iris. They enjoyed every minute...posing on the deck, taking turns at the wheel. using the head, eating lunch on the water, sleeping in their own little berth. At one point Avery said, "Oma, I don't want you to ever leave Wisconsin...you would have to sell your boat." Great fun!

Adventures in VA and PA

2011-05-29T12:02:00.002-05:00

As I posted this, I realized again how much Avery LOVES PINK...it really shines through in her choices in clothes, shoes, hats, and headbands! We had such fun with the school activities, birthday celebrations for Faith's 8th birthday, and soccer. We went downtown on Saturday and took the Canal Boat Tour which they all three seemed to enjoy.

Sunday afternoon Andy, Faith and Avery went to a baseball game ~ something Aimee arranged through Faith's school. Looks like they had a fun time eating their way through the afternoon.

We spent the afternoon at Independence Mall in downtown Philly before taking Faith to the airport to meet up with her Nana and Grandpa to go on the grand adventure to Scotland and England. There were hundreds of school groups (or so it seemed) down there that Thursday, but we enjoyed the self guided tour of the Mint, the Liberty Bell, the various statutes, as well as Washington Park. It was a nice day and didn't start raining until we were half way to the car.

Friday morning before we left New Holland to head home, Janet took us over the Lapp Valley to enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the farm. Ryan isn't shy around the huge cows at all and Avery enjoyed the newborn kittens.

We got home Sunday afternoon just in time to get out to Cedarly to welcome a full house full of guests for the week...tired but very happy we could help make it possible for Aimee to go on her 6th missions trip to Romania

Soccer Stars

2011-05-29T11:37:00.002-05:00

Faith and Avery are both involved in Upward Soccer this spring. Faith has been doing it for 3 years and this is Avery's first year. It was fun to see them in action on the field ~ in games and at practice while we were in VA caring for the kids in May.

I have great kids!

2011-05-08T13:53:00.007-05:00

Thanks much to my thoughtful and kind daughters for a beautiful arrangement, delivered on Friday with wishes for a great Mother's Day.

I'm go glad I have had the incredible privilege of being a Mom (and now an Oma).

It is rewarding to see how God has worked in their lives, how they have matured, and what wonderful women they have become.

On top of that, they are doing a fantastic job as Mother's themselves ~ gracious, loving and kind!

Last but not least, they married well ~ the best sons a mother-in-law could hope to have!

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-08T13:47:00.004-05:00

I'm enjoying a wonderful Mother's Day, even tho the kids and grandkids are 1,000 miles away. We went to church last night and out to Mama Mia's for dinner, so this morning we took off for the Kettle Moraine State Forest down near Eagle, WI. We spent a couple of hours hiking the Emma Carlin Trail...4-5 miles. We enjoyed a variety of spring wildflowers along the trail, but the trees and bushes haven't leafed out much. It's a beautiful day ~ sunny and in the 60's with blue skies. Can't get much better than that!

Note to self: come back in the fall ~ the color will be spectacular!

April Adventures

2011-04-23T22:53:00.002-05:00

Such fun to be in Virginia with the Marx family over Spring Break! The sky was overcast, but it was warm and dry. We went to Belle Isle for a great hike one morning. Crump Park is always fun with a play area, a pond to hike around, and a farm to visit the animals. At home we created Easter cards, enjoyed lots of Yahtzee, and played school. The visit was short but sweet...the kids are growing up so quickly!

Sometimes the way forward is back

2011-03-29T00:35:00.009-05:00

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
Lean not on your own understanding
In all your ways acknowledge Him
And He will make your paths straight
Proverbs 3:5~6

I'm back to the charge and the promise Andy and I committed ourselves to the day we married nearly 42 years ago. Funny how we forget and lose our way.

...stop trying to work things out before their times have come

...trust Me at all times, in all circumstances, with all your heart

...wait on Me in hopeful anticipation of what I will do

...this is a time in your life when you must learn to let go

...entrust the details of your life to Me

...trust Me and don't be afraid

...trust Me one day at a time ~

I'm the one who understands you completely and loves you perfectly

I've been gently hammered with these thoughts over the last couple of weeks.

You are the same yesterday, today, and forever

I can trust You

I can thank You

I am safe in your care

I will trust in Him and not be afraid
The Lord God is my strength and my song
He has given me victory
Isaiah 12:2

Just the Best!

2011-03-18T15:26:00.001-05:00

Two Delightful Little Guys!

We were in Colorado recently ~ to babysit Anders and Cade while Mom worked pretty much full time administering CSAP (state testing) at Lincoln Academy (the charter school where she has worked the past 10 years). It was such fun and the boys were just great, listening and obeying Oma and Opa. We took walks, went to the park, visited a petting zoo, enjoyed the local community water park, and played just about every kind of ball game you can think of.

Secret Things Belong to the Lord

2011-02-26T20:46:00.003-06:00

Tonight at church our pastor talked about the "d" word ~ divorce. It was helpful, even for those of us who are happily married. One thing he said that caught my attention was, "Committment in marriage means being willing to be unhappy until we work it out." That's helpful to me right now ~ I'm in one of those "unhappy until we work it out" places. It has to do with what the future holds for us in the coming years...the future seems uncertain and feels flimsy right now.

Then when we got home from a nice dinner out at one of our favorite Mexican restaurants, I read that "Secret things belong to the Lord (Deut 29:29) and future things are secret things." It turns out that when I try and figure out the future, it is an act of rebellion ~ doubting God's promise to care for me. What I should be doing is to relax and enjoy the journey, trusting God to open up the way before me as I go.

Lots to think about...any thoughts you'd like to share?

Unrestricted Ecstasy

2011-02-24T22:32:00.003-06:00

This year I have been using JESUS CALLING by Sarah Young along with my NLT One Year Bible for my devotions each today. Today the reading was about God's love for me...and you.

There is no force in the universe as powerful as My Love. There is no limit to My Love; it fills all of space, time, and eternity. Now you see through a glass, darkly, but someday you will see Me face to Face. Then you will be able to experience fully how wide and long and high and deep is My Love for you. If you were to experience that now, you would be overwhelmed to the point of feeling crushed. But you have an eternity ahead of you, absolutely guaranteed, during which you can enjoy My Presence in unrestricted ecstasy. For now, the knowledge of My loving Presence is sufficient to carry you through each day.

The older I get, the more I long for Heaven. Some days I don't feel very loved by anyone, even the Father. I feel crushed, but not because of God's love. The thought of unrestricted ecstasy in His Presence sounds mighty good. In the meantime, I'm grateful that He carries me through each day.

Lots of Good Times in the Rockies

2011-01-04T06:07:00.004-06:00

What could be more fun that Christmas in the Colorado Rockies at a fabulous condo with your kids and grand kids? It was a bit of a challenge keeping up with the nap schedules, the variety of ages and stages and interests, as well as the the food prep and diaper changes, but we managed quite a few fun activities. I take way too many pictures (is that possible?) and am only sharing a few of the hundreds (don't you love digital cameras?).

We spent time in the hot tub, did some shoveling and playing in the snow outside the condo, visited downtown Frisco one night, and went tubing at Copper on Christmas Eve. On the way out of town to head back to Denver, we stopped at Smash Burgers...been there yet? It's pretty good!

A Winter Wonderland on a Two Horse Open Sleigh

2011-01-04T05:54:00.003-06:00

Thursday at dusk we headed off to the Copper Mountain Stables for a sleigh ride through the meadow at the base of the ski slopes. It was magical as the snow fell, we sang Jingle Bells, the guide told stories of the logging and mining days, and of course the horses snorted and sniffed.

We stopped at a warm tent in the woods to make smores, drink hot chocolate and sang songs along with the gal playing the guitar...even did the hokey pokey which was a BIG hit with the kids. It was dark when we headed back ~ the mountains were dark, the stars were out, and all was quiet.

Fun in the Snow of Summit County

2011-01-04T05:17:00.004-06:00

It snowed on Sunday and Monday, but the rest of the week it was clear, blue skies and plenty of sunshine for our fun in the mountains. On Monday Faith took ski lessons at Copper while Andy, Joel and Gary skied/boarded. Aimee, Sarah, Avery, Anders, and I took turns going to the sledding hill in Silverthorne (working around nap times). Tuesday found Gary, Aimee, Joel and Sarah snowmobiling at Good Times in Breckenridge. You'll have to ask them about the return trip down the mountain ~ it was quite a ride! The rest of us met up with them at noon to switch cars and little ones. In the afternoon Faith, Avery, Andy and I went dog sledding and was it fantastic. We each got to the mush the dogs ~ flying over open fields and through the woods. Quite exciting! Wednesday Gary, Faith, and Andy hit the slopes again and had a wonderful time. Andy said it was the best day of skiing he ever had ~ helping Faith gain confidence and skill. By the end of the day they were able to go down at least one blue run. Aimee and Sarah took Avery and Anders swimming at the Silverthorne Rec Center in the morning and in the afternoon Avery and I had a fun trip up to Breckenridge to see the snow sculptures and to do some shopping.

At one point in the car driving out Avery was enjoying the sights and wonderful scenery and then said, "I could live here."

Family Shots in Denver

2011-01-04T04:27:00.004-06:00

Denver had no snow for Christmas, but the weather was nice and we enjoyed some adventures and celebrations together before and after our time in the mountains. Jesus, Ryan, and Nancy all had birthdays...with gifts and cakes and songs. We played at the park, hiked at Red Rocks, and spent an evening at the 16th Street Mall. Faith and Avery even got to be a part of the Christmas Eve service at church ~ serving as angels. Many thanks to Sarah and Joel who hosted us!

Double click on the pictures to enjoy all the details...

Cousins in Virginia ~ October 2010

2010-10-24T14:15:00.003-05:00

Put arrow on the picture for the caption...

Creating Excellence in the Pastorate

2010-10-15T15:22:00.000-05:00

Northern Coast of Michigan

2010-09-07T00:42:00.002-05:00

Enjoying the sights and sounds of four very different towns...Frankfort, Leland, Northport, and Charlevoix. Each one had interesting history and local flavor. Charlevoix was my favorite.

P.S. As I am writing this in Wisconsin, the winds are howling and building...we're supposed to get 35 mile an hour winds much of the day on Tuesday. Glad I'm safe at home...

The Power of God in the Wind and the Waves

2010-09-06T18:28:00.005-05:00

We spent some time on the Michigan coast last week, exploring Frankfort, Leland, Northport, and Charlevoix on our sailboat, the White Iris. For several days it was hot and humid ~ hard to sleep at night in our little v-berth with sleeping bags rated to 20 below! Then on Wednesday we discovered a change in the weather coming ~ and we were as far north as we had planned to be ~ over 120 miles from Manitowoc where we keep the boat.

So, we cut our stay short and headed for Frankfort. We got there just before the winds and waves expressed their fury. Gale force winds at 30-35 knots, with gusts up to 40 knots...waves as high as 10-12 feet. Our 32 foot boat got tossed and turned, day and night. Now it was hard to sleep at night because of the roar of the winds, the cold, and the movement of the boat. Quite a change! We were held there from Thursday to Sunday when there was a small break in the weather...then Monday the winds were coming back in force until at least Wednesday.

So, off we went around 8 Sunday morning. It is about 70 nautical miles across from Frankfort to Manitowoc...normally it would take about 10 1/2 hours. But this was not a normal day. The waves were at least 6-8 feet as we left the harbor and we were headed into the wind, coming at us at about 20 knots. The first 25 miles took us hours to navigate...we were beat up already and just getting started. Then we hit about 15-18 miles of calmer seas and lower winds. Ahhh...we should be just fine.

It was not to be...the wind came around to the southwest and picked back up to 20 knots. The waves went wild ~ tho not quite as high. I thought we would never see land. About 10-12 miles out, the winds died down again and we were able to sail in, arriving in rain and dark about nearly 10 at night. What a day...the longest day of my life.

I've always loved the water...grew up enjoying the pool at the country club and Geneva Lake at my Grandparent's cottage. Water (and mountains) brings me close to God ~ His mighty power, majesty, and greatness, as well as His generous creativity. On this day, the water brought we close to Him as a refuge and a safe harbor. I spent much of the day praying and reviewing Scripture passages of His care and keeping.

Welcome, Cade!

2010-07-24T07:15:00.001-05:00

Cade arrived quickly and safely on Thursday, July 8th. By the 10th we were there to meet and welcome him into the family! What a sweet baby he is. Do you see the Ekedahl boy blonde hairline? While we were there, Joel and Andy (with some help from neighbors and friends) started and finished a wonderful retaining wall in their front yard...it was a steep learning curve for the guys but a job well done!

The Marx's Come to Wisconsin

2010-07-24T06:56:00.001-05:00

Just a taste of all the fun things we did in Wisconsin, Iowa, and Illinois while the Marx family was here in July.

THE RIDE

2010-06-19T21:19:00.005-05:00

After three months and 1063 miles (for perspective, it's 1020 miles from our house in WI to Sarah and Joel's house in CO) of training, the 100K ride is over...and I finished pretty well. My goal was to complete the 62+ miles in 5-6 hours and I did it in 4 hours and 40 minutes...and spent an additional 40 minutes drinking bottles and bottles of water and eating granola bars and fruit at the 5 stops along the way...plus chatting with my two great teams members and cheerleaders ~ Andy and his sister, Carol. It was great and gave me something to look forward to as I peddled my way thru little country towns, lots of farmland, up many hills, along Lake Michigan in Port Washington, and down the wonderful paved trail thru Ozaukee County. I never knew just when Andy and Carol might show up...once high above me on an overpass and once as I was coming around a corner by a Country Springs Hotel. Carol's bright peach top always caught my eye, as well as the signs she made to encourage me. They were the only ones who went from stop to stop ~ and lots of people got to know them thru the day.

It was a pretty day ~ blue skies and 75-80 degrees. The first half (north from Grafton to Oostburg) the winds were at about 8 mph but the second half (south from Oostburg to Grafton)they were at 15, gusting to 20 mph. That made it a bit challenging ~ but it did help dry up the sweat.

I made one little extra side trip in Belgium when I miss-read a sign and went the wrong direction for about 1 1/2 miles and then had to go into the wind to go back. Other than that, the way was well marked and I could enjoy the scenery...laundry flapping in the wind on the clothes line, an older lady weeding her huge garden in her brown swim suit, rabbits running across the trail, ponds and wetlands, golf courses, Pioneer Village Living Museum...

I was tired during the last push to the finish, but ended strong and could smile pretty easily when I was greeted by Andy at the finish line. We went to Subway for a sandwich, took Carol back to her car in Milwaukee and went home to clean up for church at 5:00 and dinner out afterwards. Been there, done that ~ and I've got two t-shirts and a great farmer's tan to prove it.

So, 12 Fourteeners climbed in Colorado, 17 miles of the Na Pali Coast kayaked in Kauai, and 100K biked in Wisconsin...next stop...a leisurely walk along the Great Wall.

2010-06-12T09:55:00.001-05:00

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Tour de Cure Training

2010-06-04T21:09:00.009-05:00

I've so enjoyed my time on the trails in Wisconsin as I train for the Tour de Cure ride on Saturday, June 19th....so much to see and enjoy. God is generous in His creation.

ponds and lakes, creeks and rivers, bogs and wetlands...oak and birch trees, sumac and crepe myrtle...wildflowers galore with new ones each month (wild rose and phlox right now)...lots of squirrels, gophers/chipmunks, rabbits, cardinals and robins...baseball diamonds, soccer fields, kiddy parks and golf courses...corn and soybeans...old churches and schools...farm houses and barns...big city streets, four lane highways, quaint rural main streets...rolling hills with mansions, run down abandon barns...trains, Dairyland school buses, trucks and cars...men walking dogs, women pushing baby strollers, rollerbladers, walkers, runners, bikers of all shapes and sizes...a red fox, a startled deer, a 2 foot snake, 2 huge turtles, a big fat toad...lots of surprises!

Today I did my first ever 50 mile ride on my bike. It rained this morning so I had to wait until the afternoon to ride...if the little gadget on my bike is to be believed, I rode 51.3 miles in three hours and fifty six minutes (13 mph). Not bad...I feel like my goal to finish the ride (62+ miles) in 5-6 hours is realistic.

The training is taking a lot of time, but I find it enjoyable, and so far it has not been painful. Fortunately I have several different paved trails I can ride in our area ~ and I can get to them on my bike. I have ridden on three Rustic Roads (#10 is on Mill Road and Valley Road where Cedarly is located in Oconomowoc, #86 is on Waterville Road and meanders thru the Southern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, and #16 is on Sandy Bay Road at the north end of Two Rivers)and five different bike trails (The Lake Country Trail, The Fox River Park Trail, The Glacial Drumlin State Trail are all within Waukesha County. The Mariner's Trail and Rawley Point Trail are in the area where we have our boat.) http://psalm1005.blogspot.com/2009/08/early-morning-bike-ride.html

Tour de Cure

2010-04-04T08:14:00.005-05:00

Recently I was at our City Hall getting information about the upcoming election. In a display out in the hall I was drawn to a brochure about an upcoming bike ride in Wisconsin. I took a copy ~ and a dream was born. This particular ride was 150 miles over two days and I quickly realized that was far to grand for me. So, I went on line and discovered a more reasonable challenge in the TOUR de CURE for the American Diabetes Association. The tour is on June 19th in Ozaukee County, just north of Milwaukee. I will ride 100 K. My goal is to do it in less than 6 hours. There, I said it publicly...I'm committed.

There are a couple of reasons I was drawn to this particular ride. Our daughter, Aimee, had gestational diabetes while pregnant with Ryan last year. This puts her in greater risk for someday getting diabetes. She will continue exercising and watching her diet in hopes that it will not develop. Also, our grandson, Anders, is in a research study for diabetes in Colorado. He will participate until he is 16 years old.

Last April I took my exercise program up a couple of notches in an effort to lose weight and get in better physical shape. My girls have been telling me for some time that walking is not enough (I have walked an hour/4 miles a day since Aimee was born in 1979). I have been doing a 5 mile walk/jog program that also includes knee lifts, side steps, and kicks, as well as arm movements. I have also been lifting hand weights and doing leg lifts with ankle weights. So, I am in much better shape now and could start out right away biking 10-12 miles a day.

We have had some very nice spring weather so I have been training for about 3 1/2 weeks doing about 15 1/2 miles a day (1/4 of the distance of the ride). Yesterday, I rode 21 miles for the first time (1/3 of the distance of the ride). It went well (I did it in 1 hour and 43 minutes) and I have yet to have any leg cramps or pain. I am feeling pretty good about it...I think I can, I think I can.

If you would like to join me in the ride or support my effort, e-mail me and I will send you the information! Notes of encouragement would also be appreciated! I'll let you know how I do along the way.

House on the Rock

2010-04-04T07:04:00.003-05:00

On our drive over to the Mississippi River, we spent a good part of the day at the House on the Rock in Spring Green. Oh, my. What an adventure.

Alex Jordan built a 14 room Japanese home on a 60 foot chimney of rock in the 1940's. Jordan had a wild and fantastic imagination, a grand vision, and a miriad of unique and eclectic collections. It was absolutely fascinating and surprising ~ every single room! I cannot even begin to describe or list the variety of things you will find as you spend hours just walking through the rambling rooms and buildings. It's amazing.

You will really need to experience it yourself to fully appreciate and understand my amazement!

Spring Break in Wisconsin

2010-04-04T06:48:00.007-05:00

Last week we spent a few days over by the Mississippi River, enjoying the sights and sounds of spring. The views of the River were spectacular, the weather was ideal. We drove along the Great River Road ~ a 3000 mile road all along the Mississippi ~ parks and overlooks are plentiful.

One day we hiked in Wyalusing State Park south of Prairie du Chien. The trails along the ridge overlook the confluence of the Wisconsin River and the Mississippi River. In 1673 Explorer Louis Joliet and Father James Marquette were the first white men to see this area.

Another day we hiked along the highest peak over the Mississippi in Pikes Peak State Park in Iowa. In 1805 Zebulon Pike explored this area of the Louisiana Purchase , scoping out locations for Forts in the area for the US government. We also hiked in Effigy Mounds National Monument, enjoying the various conical, linear, bear and bird mounds. There are 191 of them in his park alone. Lots of interesting history of the people who lived in the area over 1000 years ago.

Along the banks of the River from Rock Island, IL to Wabasha, MN there is a 240,000 acre Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. There are wooded islands, sloughs, and hardwood forests full of birds, small animals, and fish. We saw mink, beaver (complete with lodge), blue heron, osprey, and many bald eagles.

We actually drove up to the National Eagle Center in MN on our way home. It's in a wonderful building in Wabasha, MN. MN is the state with the most eagles in the lower 48 (FL and WI follow close behind). We just missed seeing dozens of eagles sitting on ice flows on the river ~ as late as last week. Most of them are nesting and new eagles should be hatching this week. We did attend a seminar about eagles. They actually feed an eagle as part of the presentation. Angel ate a rabbit, tearing the fur with her beak and eating the meat whole. Very interesting!

One afternoon I convinced Andy to drive out to Postville, IA. I had read a book (Postville: A Clash of Cultures in Heartland America) about the difficulties the city experienced when a large community of Hasidic Jews purchased a slaughterhouse in this predominantly German and Norwegian area in 1987. There have been many difficulties with the company over the years ~ and many changes in the city. Eventually a large influx of Hispanics came for work, many of them illegal immigrants. In 2008 the Federal Government raided the plant. The city sign calls Postville "Hometown of the World". I went to the town library and asked the woman working there, "What is it like to live in Postville now?" Her ancestors helped establish the town and her family has lived there for generations. She is very sad about what has happened since 1987. The town has changed dramatically. For a small rural town, the crime rate is very high...she would not walk the streets at night. People are unhappy, schools have had great problems socially and academically. There is a multicultural center and a Diversity Counsel in town. She thanked me for coming and for asking the question. She didn't have much chance to talk about her views with people locally ~ it was therapeutic for her to be able to share how she felt.

Just cannot get enough of the the grandkids!

2010-03-07T11:56:00.003-06:00

Just recently spent a few days in VA helping Aimee adjust to life with three children and Gary being on the road. Then Andy and I went to CO helping Sarah while she worked all week administering state tests. What fun with 4 active, happy, wonderful grandkids!

It's Official

2010-01-11T22:25:00.006-06:00

In December I turned 62 and filled out the application...today I had a phone call from THE office...answered a few questions...and BINGO, I'm officially on Social Security! Payments start in February. I'm not sure I'm ready for it but when I look at close up pictures of me with the grandkids, I see the wrinkles on my face, and I know I must be. For a while I thought I was using the wrong makeup or too much makeup. Then I thought maybe the wrinkles were there because I have lost weight since April. Alas, I may have been fooling myself. I still have three years until I go on Medicare. I wonder what will be happening to my body by then. Patch, Patch, Patch!

New Years in Colorado

2010-01-10T10:30:00.003-06:00

Bonus! We were able to go from VA to CO to welcome the new year with Sarah, Joel and Anders. How great is that? Anders is all boy ~ busy and adventuresome, fun loving and engaged. He's starting to work on his vocabulary and it was cute to hear his attempts at adding more. He also got two new teeth while we were there. Working around naps can be a challenge but we had great fun playing, eating, reading, and just observing. One night we went with friends to the Zoo Lights display and then home for pizza together. Great fun. The guys watched lots of football and of course we ate well, too. We worked on several home projects and even got Anders settled into his new big boy room upstairs. Andy and I spent a couple of days out in Winter Park skiing in the cold and snow. Baby #2 is scheduled to arrive in July, so another grandchild will join in the fun next Christmas!

Christmas in Virginia

2010-01-10T10:15:00.005-06:00

What a wonderful way to celebrate Christmas ~ with a newborn coming home from the hospital just in time to to join in the celebration! Little Ryan is just adorable, a sweet, easy baby and much loved by his sisters, Faith and Avery. We were out shopping one afternoon and a clerk asked the girls, "What was your favorite Christmas gift?" and without hesitation Faith exclaimed, "My new baby brother!"

Our time in VA centered around caring for Ryan but we managed to get in a few adventures...to Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens for the wonderful Christmas light show, an afternoon at Bass Pro, sledding and making a snowman, baking spritz and cup cakes for Jesus' birthday party. We are so grateful to be able to go and be a part of it all. We flew in on the day of the big snowstorm on the east coast.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-28T13:26:00.001-06:00

Care Givers Forum 2009

2009-11-07T00:42:00.005-06:00

Beautiful Green Lake, Wisconsin welcomed us for the annual Care Givers Forum in October.

Heart Friends Gather in North Carolina

2009-11-07T00:22:00.002-06:00

Another glorious gathering of the Heart Friends...this time in Montreat, North Carolina.

Menominee, MI and Door County, WI

2009-09-17T09:15:00.002-05:00

A collage of beauty and color from sites in Menoninee, MI and Door County, WI.

(Click on any collage to see more detail)

Historic Fayette, Michigan

2009-09-17T08:56:00.002-05:00

Fayette, Michigan in the Upper Peninsula is the farthest north we have gone our our boat. It was a wonderful jewel and a safe haven for boaters. Fall colors were just starting to show and the apples were ripe on the trees. The accommodations are rustic and first come, first serve. There is only space for 7-8 boats with no running water or electricity available. You walk a couple of blocks up the hill to use the restrooms at the visitors center of the State Park...no showers. We walked a mile through the forest to get to the only available restaurant, only to find out they don't take debit or credit cards. So, we had to eat only what we had cash enough to pay. Always an adventure!

"Fayette was once a bustling industrial community that manufactured charcoal pig iron between 1867 and 1891. Fayette offers visitors the unmatched serenity of a Lake Michigan harbor, white cliffs, and verdant forests. This well preserved museum village recalls another time when it was a noisy, dirty company town with an immigrant population that shared daily hardships, joys and sorrows." That's how the brochure describes the Fayette Historic State Park. There are 20 historic buildings including the furnace complex, town hall, historic luxury hotel (in business into the 1940's), company office, workers' homes, and the spacious superintendent's home.

We spent the afternoon enjoying the walking tour and museum exhibits. The next morning I hiked 5-6 miles around the state park enjoying the scenic overlooks, the lush forest, the ruins of the old St. Peter's Church and Cemetery, and the old school site. It was wonderful.

Baileys Harbor in Door County

2009-09-17T08:40:00.003-05:00

Baileys Harbor was our last stop on the trip north. It is on the eastern shore of beautiful Door County. The Yacht Club where we stayed is a couple of miles from town on a pretty Rustic Road. To get around and to have dinner, we used bikes. I explored the area, riding 6-8 miles and hiking 4-5 miles. Great fun on a pretty afternoon.

Lighthouses Along Wisconsin Shores

2009-09-17T08:07:00.004-05:00

Andy and I just got back from our trip north on the White Iris. The weather was fantastic and we are grateful. Unfortunately we did not actually SAIL much at all...most of the trip we had to use the motor. It was great fun in any case with no engine trouble or high seas.

We are getting to know the "signs" along the way north and around Door County...the lighthouses, cans and nuns along the shore, in the harbors, and on the islands. They guide us and warn us...we welcome their help and their beauty.

Manitowoc, Two Rivers, Rawley's Point, Sturgeon Bay, Menominee (MI), Chambers Island, Washington Island, Fayette(MI), Plum Island, Pilot Island, Bailey's Harbor, Cana Island.

Hundreds of ships lay in the depths of Lake Michigan...they have stories of their own to tell. We are happy to have made it safely home, even through Death's Door at the north end of Door County.

Come sail with us!

Early Morning Bike Ride

2009-08-29T20:42:00.004-05:00

I have been doing a lot of biking this summer. Saturday morning I woke up early and decided to take a ride. I really love the trails up in the area where we sail the White Iris. The first six miles was on the Mariner's Trail from Manitowoc to Two Rivers. It's all right on the shore of Lake Michigan and just beautiful. There are several wonderful gardens planted and maintained by gardners from the area. The shoreline is accessable from several rest stops along the way where travelers relax and enjoy a picnic. Many wildflowers and berry bushes crowd along the path and of course there are lots of sea gulls. Historical Markers let you know what's out there and where the sunken ships lie beneath the water. In Two Rivers I hit the streets for a couple of miles, passing the Washington House where ice cream Sundaes were created back in 1881 and then riding along the beaches north of Two Rivers. Right past the kids park I catch the Rawley Point Recreactional Trail which winds along one of Wisconsin's Rustic Roads and then several miles through the forest. This trail is also about 6 miles long and ends up in the Point Beach State Park. There I stop and wander along the beach and enjoy Rawley's Point Lighthouse before heading south again. I linger on the beach at the Two Rivers Pier Light and then head back to Manitowoc to visit the Lighthouse and Pier Light there. The Badger pulls into the harbor after it's four hour trip across the pond from Ludington, MI. I probably went 25-28 miles on my ride...a great way to start the day.

Up the Mast

2009-08-29T16:10:00.002-05:00

Early in the season Andy had some work to do on the top of the mast ~ which meant a trip up on a bosun's chair. Two friends from the dock helped rig the chair and get him started, but to get up to the top, you hoist yourself. Our mast is about 40 feet tall so this was no small feat...and as it turned out, he ended up going up and down twice that morning. What a guy!

On the Pond

2009-08-29T16:03:00.001-05:00

Last weekend Anne and Bill Barber were in the area camping so we went our for dinner Friday night and they joined us on the water on Sunday. It was a pretty day, tho not much wind. We enjoyed catching up and eating lunch.

A friend who has the slip just across from ours offered to take some pictures of the White Iris under sail. So, here she is!

Hagen Family Celebrates

2009-07-10T07:02:00.004-05:00

The Hagen family was all together in Wisconsin for a couple of weeks to celebrate...the 4th of July, Andy and Nancy's 40th Anniversary, enjoying one another.

(Double click on collage to see more detail)

Oma, Oma

2009-06-07T08:28:00.004-05:00

It was a last minute to trip to Virginia to spend some time with the grandkids. They were excited and happy when they picked me up at the airport. All the way home it was "Oma, Oma", each of them wanting my attention. There was so much to share.

From beginning to end, it was a delight...Faith's soccer game, swimming for hours at the pool, a picnic in the park, an afternoon at the Botanical Gardens, a shopping trip to Target, games and puzzles, lunch at Faith's school, reading Madeline stories and seeing Madeline DVDs, bowling on Wii...what a gift. Thanks, Aimee!

Family Fun in VA

2009-04-25T21:00:00.004-05:00

The three cousins (Faith, Avery, and Anders) were together for the first time as we gathered in Virginia the week before Easter. We enjoyed a hike at Belle Isle, a afternoon at Maymont, a train ride at Short Pump, making colored eggs, working in the yard, celebrating Gary's birthday, just hanging out. We are so grateful!

Amish Stampede

2009-04-25T20:28:00.005-05:00

Another wonderful gathering of dear friends in Lancaster County, PA. One of our adventures this year was to take a buggy ride thru the beautiful rolling countryside. It was a grand time, horse hooves clicking along at a slow pace with each of us enjoying the sights and smells along the way. (Double click on pictures to see faces up close and personal)

Free Your Mountain

2009-03-01T15:15:00.002-06:00

While we were in Colorado, we spent some time in the mountains.

The day at Loveland was cold with lots of wind and blowing snow ~ and I wasn't feeling really well...a little altitude sickness, I think.
The two days at Copper were glorious with sunny blue skies and 10 inches of new snow. Tuesday Chris and Jim (from our small group in WI ~ now living in Littleton) came out and spent the day with us. Great fun.

Colorado is being hit with the terrible
Rocky Mountain pine beetle epidemic and many of the trees appear to be dying. It will look a lot different in the future if
most of these trees are gone.

Anders at 6 Months

2009-03-01T15:00:00.002-06:00

We were just in Colorado with Sarah, Joel, and Anders...

Kindness

2009-02-07T19:01:00.005-06:00

Recently I have been reading and thinking about kindness quite a bit. I want to be intentional about growth in character and being more Christlike. I've read several books and have 2-3 more on my coffee table at Cedarly...all about kindness. I had no idea there was so much written about kindness and what that looks like, how that works. Today I had an opportunity to experience kindness...from a stranger and from God himself.

Andy attended the NO REGRETS men's conference at Elmbrook today. He and a friend did a seminar for pastors on Sabbath/Sabbatical. I planned to spend the morning running errands, having a bite to eat, and going to a movie in the early afternoon before meeting Andy at 5:00 for church. Little did I know...

The shopping went well. Only a couple of quick stops needed after a kid's meal at McDonald's...then off to the 1:05 movie at the Majestic. Not! I made the mistake of breaking routine and hung my purse over the back of the chair with my coat on top. I finished eating, gathered up the trash and went to get another cup of Coke. I walked out the door and headed to my next stop...only to discover my purse had been left behind. I turned around and headed back as quickly as possible, but the purse was gone. I asked around among those eating, asked at the check out, and then found the shift manager, Donna. No purse in the lost and found, in the closet, or under the counter...or in any of the trash bins in the bathroom, on the floor or outside the doors. I left my phone number with Donna and headed home to make some phone calls.

All the way home I was praying, asking the Lord to send a kind person to find my purse in a bush, a parking lot, or a trash can.

It's not real easy to get a hold of bankers on the weekend. I did manage to cancel the business card from PRN and our personal card. I was just going to work on the debit card when I had a call from Andy's sister, Carol. She wanted to know if I was okay. She had a phone call from a Milwaukee police officer...he had my purse. Why he chose to call Carol, I do not know. I guess he just picked a number off of my cell phone. Did anyone else get a call? Unfortunately he did not tell Carol which station and there are 7 police stations in Milwaukee. I looked them up on the internet and started calling. Between calls, I got a call from the 3rd District...about 25 miles from home. "Come as soon as you can . It will be at the front desk ~ if you don't make it by 4, it goes in the property room and you can't get it until Monday. It looks like everything is in tact." Some unknown citizen turned it in. It had been found somewhere just outside the McDonald's where I had left it. The officer at the desk had no idea why the unknown citizen turned it in miles away at a Milwaukee station. I'll never know who that kind citizen was.

So, I get back in my car and head toward downtown, turning north at Miller Park. As it turns out, 3rd District isn't a great neighborhood. But, they had my purse, minus gift cards from Applebees and Marcus Theaters, my debit card. and about $25.00 in cash. My grandkid's pictures, my cell phone, my tax exempt cards from stores all over town, my medical ID cards, my grocery cards...all that stuff was there. My recently renewed military ID, my driver's license, my JoAnn's gift card, as well as the MasterCard, Visa, Boston Card, Kohl's card...all there. They took the cash, but left the change AND my house key in the change pocket. Thank you, Lord.

Now the race was on to cancel my debit card...with no charge left in my phone and no phone in the station that will let me call an 800 number. I'm off to Elmbrook Church to find Andy and a phone to use. A couple of greeters offered a phone and found Andy. Using his debit card, I finally reached the office to cancel that card. It's time to go to the Brookfield Police Station to file a report on the theft...just in case any of the card numbers are used any time in the future.

The folks there were helpful and efficient. I made it back to Elmbrook in time for the service at 5. It was an eventful afternoon. But God was kind and got my purse back to me through a kind unknown citizen. I'm grateful and will continue to take more time to be kind toward others.

For now, I'm headed for bed...exhausted.

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T20:03:00.002-06:00

As you can see, we had a wonderful time in Virginia over Christmas ~

opening gifts on Christmas morning, baking cookies and making a gingerbread house, tubing on snow and miniature golfing on the same day, enjoying the water park, playing games and making puzzles.

Walking in a Winter Wonderland Once Again

2008-12-22T20:29:00.005-06:00

The other day I walked from Cedarly to our Condo just after a pretty snowfall.

It was quiet, the sun was shining and the skies were blue.

What a beautiful gift from God.

(Just double click on the collage if you want to see the pictures up close)

Merry Christmas

2008-12-07T20:05:00.017-06:00

Gary, Aimee, Faith, and Avery at home in Virginia
Merry Christmas from our house to yours! Snow is already falling here in Wisconsin, so we think we will have a white Christmas. This year we will join Gary, Aimee, Faith and Avery in Virginia for a week, spending a few days at the Masanutten Resort tubing, snowboarding, sledding, and enjoying the water park.

This fall at Elmbrook Church we had a sermon series/small group study on Philippians called THE CHOICE. It proved to be timely, encouraging, and challenging. The topics included I Choose Confidence, I Choose Joy, I Choose Unity, I Choose Service, I Choose Christ, I Choose Peace, and I Choose Contentment. In these days of political and economic turmoil, who couldn't use a bit of joy, unity, peace, and contentment? We believe that is possible if we only choose Christ. (Last time I checked the sermons were still available to view at http://www.cometothebrook.org/.)

Our year was filled with meaningful ministry at Cedarly, wonderful family gatherings, and opportunities to enjoy God's creation in several states. A big highlight was the addition of Anders Eric to the Jacobson family in August. He's a real sweetheart. We were honored to be a part of his dedication to the Lord in October.

Enjoy some of our pictures and commentary in the 2008 blogs here on our site. We're also including family photos in this blog. And, as always, our home and our hearts are open ~ come see us when you're in the Milwaukee area!

Joel, Sarah, and Anders at home in Colorado

Andy and Nancy welcoming Anders to the family on the day he was born!

Welcome Back to VA

2008-12-06T08:02:00.002-06:00

Welcome back to VA. In October Aimee reminded me that I have never gone from 4th of July to Christmas without seeing the girls...so in November I went out for a long weekend. What fun. One day I spent some time with Faith at her school ~ it took about 40 minutes for her to show me everything in her wonderful kindergarten room. I learned all about the kids at her table and saw all of her artwork on display. I found out how the clip system works and the fact that Faith has never had to move her clip. I saw her cubbie and the birthday board. It was great fun to see she enthusiasm and love for learning.

The weather was not great some of the time we were there, so we played LOTS of cards ~ Go Fish and Crazy Eights were the favorites. We even taught Avery how to play (with some help from Mom). We made tents in the garage, flew a kite at the park, rode bikes, and wrapped Christmas gifts. Faith loves working in the kitchen ~ so we made some fancy ice cream ornaments and some fun apple/peanut butter/marshmallow lips.

With Faith in school a good part of the day, it is fun to have some time alone with Avery. She is easy going and full of fun, tho not at all interested in potty training at this point. We had fun creating some cards to send to Anders, Emma and Ellie (all of her cousins). Avery loves hats ~ including helmets...and she looks cute in them to boot. She keeps up with her sister and they love each other dearly. Avery has a wide vocabulary and surprises you at times with what she comes up with.

One night Aimee and Gary went on a date. We watched Mary Poppins, dancing and singing our way thru the movie. We took one break to eat supper and another to eat our special ice cream ornaments. It was full evening of entertainment!

Anders Dedication

2008-10-31T17:37:00.005-05:00

We just got back from a week in Colorado ~ time with Sarah, Joel and Anders as well as time at the annual CareGivers Forum. It was a beautiful week with great weather. The highlight of the week was the opportunity to participate in the home dedication ceremony for little 8 week old Anders.

CareGivers Forum at Glen Eyrie

2008-10-31T17:25:00.006-05:00

CareGivers Forum was at beautiful Glen Eyrie in Colorado Springs again this year. What a wonderful spot to gather, renew friendships, worship, and enjoy God's incredible creation.

We are serving on the steering committee for the forum and have lead a small group during the conference for several years. Andy served as emcee this year, too. This is an amazing group of people who serve the kingdom of God by serving pastors in a wide variety of ministries. Check it out ~ there is a directory of these ministries and one of them might be just what your pastor needs.

We enjoyed hiking from Glen Eyrie down into the Garden of the Gods one afternoon.

A hike on Saturday took me to the top of the Incline in Manitou Springs ~ it is a challenging climb and unbelieveable views of the Springs. I personally hiked up the hiking trail and partway down the Incline ~ then my thighs starting thumping and I went back to the hiking trail. My legs ached for about 5 days after.

Yoga Toes

2008-10-31T17:22:00.006-05:00

Ever had a problem with your toes? Something the doctor attributes to arthritis or the chiropractor blames on slip on shoes? You might want to try Yoga Toes. It SEEMS to be helping my problem ~ I'll have to give it a bit more time and get back to you though. I've only had them a couple of weeks and it may be wishful thinking on my part.

Heart Friends at the Cabin

2008-09-28T14:37:00.021-05:00

Welcome to the Cabin! Earlier this month the Heart Friends gathered in St. Louis for yet another long weekend of laughter and sharing, eating and playing. In St. Louis we enjoying meeting little Ellie, Paulette's granddaughter who lives just around the corner....and what a doll baby she is. We also explored the quaint old town of St. Charles. Somehow we ALL found places to sleep at Paulette's and then on Saturday morning we packed up two vans and a car

and headed to THE CABIN (definitely, not THE SHACK).

We knew there was some SURPRISE along the way but didn't know what it was until we arrived at the ANIMAL SAFARI.What fun...Danny and Jack went ahead of us and lined up this tram for our drive thru the park. The animals are friendly and love to eat out of your hand, or or pocket or bag. The camel was simply hilarious. There were smiles all around for the entire trip.

One day we spent in Branson ~ some enjoyed shopping while most went to see Yakov Smirnoff. Dinner at Lambert's Cafe, home of the throwed rolls, capped off the day. Time in the hot tub, a picnic lunch on a pontoon boat ride, chatting in the sun on the porch over looking the lake

...it doesn't get any better than that!

The blondes in the group tried to convince the rest that they truly have more fun.

In the end, we know that we all enjoyed the weekend and want to go back to the cabin again some time. Plans are already in the making for a gathering in Lancaster County in the spring.

Wyoming Discovered

2008-09-28T14:10:00.024-05:00

We did some hiking in Big Horn Canyon which is a National Recreation Area on the northern border of Wyoming and southern border of Montana.

Somehow we managed to find a man with a boat who was willing to take us on a tour up the canyon. It was a glorious day with deep blue skies and unbelievable rock formations. This park is a hidden jewel...entrance is $5.00 a day and you camp for free. Check it out on the National Park Service website. I will warn you tho, the town nearby does not have much to offer ~ we couldn't use a credit card at the restaurant or find a place to use a debit card but the people we friendly and helpful!

Right along side Big Horn Canyon is Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Refuge where we saw a dozen or so of the 125 mustangs that live in the refuge.

When you are in the northeast corner of Wyoming coming from South Dakota, a side trip to Devil's Tower National Monument is worth the drive...the Tower comes up out of now where and is just amazing. There is a beautiful one and a half mile hike around the base of the tower.

A drive thru Ten Sleep Canyon just west of Buffalo is also worth the time (it's on the way to Yellowstone and Big Horn Canyon).

Cheyenne was our last stop. We stayed at Warren AFB and enjoyed some of the rich history of the old Army Post, built in 1867 to protect the Union Pacific workers as they built the transcontinental railroad. The parade field on the base has to be half a mile long ~ we saw a picture of the cavalry unit in formation on the parade field and they needed the entire length. The old downtown area of Cheyenne is interesting and beautiful. The colorful boots are found all over the city.

By this time in our journey we had seen so many magnificent sights we could hardly take in any more. God is so creative and generous! We were happy to head south so spend time with Sarah and Joel ~ and wait for the arrival of little Anders.

South Dakota Wonders

2008-09-28T13:45:00.015-05:00

Yikes, I just discovered I never wrote anything about the South Dakota Wonders we experienced this summer. What a beautiful adventure. The Needles Highway winds its way thru the Black Hills National Forest and takes you to Sylvan Lake. Near the lake is the trailhead to hike to the top of Harney Peak, which we did one day. It is in Custer State Park and is the highest point east of the Rocky Mountains and west of Pyrenees Mountains. It was a beautiful day for a hike and the view from the top (7242 feet) was amazing.

Of course we could not miss the incredible Crazy Horse Memorial or the historic Mount Rushmore.

Actually, Mount Rushmore would fit into the fore head of Crazy Horse but the Memorial will not likely be finished in our life time!

The Badlands were our first glimpse of the beauty and wonder of South Dakota...

Ten Chimneys

2008-09-28T13:36:00.003-05:00

The slide show on our blog right now gives a glimpse of the wonderful estate Lynn Fontanne and Alfred Lunt shared for many years. Ten Chimneys is just a few miles from Cedarly in Genesee Depot, WI, open to the public as a world-class house museum and natural resource for theater, arts and arts education. The past two summers I have done most of my volunteer hours working in the gardens on the estate.

Riding and Reading

2008-09-07T11:39:00.002-05:00

On our trip west thru MN, SD, WY, and CO, I did a lot of reading on the road, so I have a few recommendations for you today. One of them is Jerry B. Jenkins new novel, RIVEN. He says, "This is the novel I've always wanted to write and it is unlike anything I've ever written. My hope is that is stays with you long after the final page....If a novelist has a life's work, this is mine." A condemned man with nothing to lose encounters a weary chaplain with nothing to gain. Death and despair are overcome with rebirth and forgiveness...take a look.

Maybe you have read Gary Chapman's book THE FOUR SEASONS OF MARRIAGE. It is a very heplful book in understanding how marriage moves from season to season with the cycle repeating itself many times through the life of a marriage. Gary has joined with Catherine Palmer to write 4 novels set near Camdenton, MO ~ small town America. The couples in this community go through these various seasons, bringing to life the principles of the marriage book. They could be very helpful if you are working with young couples struggling to understand how marriage works.

I rediscovered one of my favorite insightful and creative authors, Ann Tatlock. I'LL WATCH THE MOON and THINGS WE ONCE HELD DEAR are the two I read this go around.

A while back I mentioned a trio of challenging books by Jean Sasson about a princess in Saudi Arabia. This time I read about two more women ~ Mayada in Iraq and Joanna in Kurdistan and their life of hardship and survival under Suddam Hussein. MAYADA, DAUGHTER OF IRAQ and LOVE IN A TORN LAND are both worth your time. Mayada grew up with wealth and royalty but ended up in prison, a target of Saddam's secret police. Joanna helps one understand the chemical attacks, bombings, and hardships in the fight for Kurdish independence.

Andy and I read to one another along the road for the first time. We have heard so much about THE SHACK by William P. Young from guests at Cedarly. So, we bought the book for the library and took it along. There has been a lot of controversey about the book, but we found it intreging and challenging. The book wrestles with the timeless question, "Where is God in a world so filled with unspeakable pain?" There are a few chapters I would to go back to and wrestle thru again.

We also both read John Eldredge's new book, WALKING WITH GOD. More great insights on my struggle for intimacy with God each day. I have a bit more work to do as I interact with John's story and insights in learning to hear God day by day, finding joy and transformation along the journey.

Welcome, Anders Eric

2008-09-07T11:27:00.006-05:00

Anders Eric joined Sarah and Joel early in the morning on 08/28/08 at 1:42 a.m. He was 7 lbs 14 oz and 21".

Oma and Opa loved being in Denver to welcome Anders! What a guy!

See more pictures and get more info on Sarah's blog

http://www.matthew725.blogspot.com/

Upper Room Dedication

2008-08-15T21:05:00.007-05:00

On Sunday, June 22nd, we held an Open House/Dedication for the UPPER ROOM. It took a lot of time and effort in the spring to get it finished and ready, but we are so grateful to have it available for use.

This first picture gives you a glimpse of the stairway up to the room. One of our wonderful volunteers donated this beautiful stained glass window from an old church in the Milwaukee area. He prepared the frame and mounted it in the window space at the bottom on the stairs. It is a fabulous addition as people enter and leave the quiet of the Upper Room.

From this angle you can see how functional this space is for groups...a large table (seats 10-12) near the countertop, sink, and refrigerator and then the comfortable seating for more informal gatherings.

We still need to raise funds to dig a well and install a pump to provide water for the kitchenette and the bathroom in the Upper Room. We would also like to install a gas stove at the far end of the living room space for additonal ambiance and heat in the winter.

On the aftenoon of the celebration, guests placed a rock of remembrance just outside the entrance to the Upper Room as they prayed, thanking God for what He has done in providing such a wonderful place for groups to pray and plan. We cannot describe how much pastors in the area have loved coming to the Upper Room in the past few weeks. Several groups have used it (some a couple of times already). We are also using it as a back up for pastors to use when the Prayer House is full for the day they wanted to come. Resident guests have also spent time up there and enjoyed the quiet, peaceful time with God. Join us in thanking God for each volunteer and each donation that made it possible, and now each pastor who comes...

Something New and Different

2008-08-15T20:47:00.023-05:00

Here's the stairway up to the top of Point Betsie Lighthouse. One lady took one look at the 10 story climb on open stairs and left the tour. Another woman got a little queasy about half way up and wanted to leave the tour but couldn't at that point. I thought it was fun.
Here's a shot of the shipwreck just off of South Manitou Island and the boardwalk I enjoyed so much in Manistee...

The winds and the waves kept us in Frankfort for a couple of days. One morning I biked around a bit...they have a pretty bike path from Frankfort to several other towns in the area. Another afternoon we rented mopeds and cruised the county...riding up to the Pointe Betsie Lighthouse, a pretty country club estate, and around Crystal Lake. It was my first experience riding a moped and I loved it.

We also celebrated our 39th wedding anniversary (8/8/69) while in Frankfort. A guest from Cedarly recommeded THE FUSION, an Asian resturant in town, and it was excellent.

On Sunday morning we attended church at a classic pretty little white 150 year old Congregational Church right down town. As it ends up, we knew the pastor ~ she had been at Cedarly as a guest earlier this year.

Leland is a quaint little town, complete with a 140 year old fishing village...lots of cute shops, galleries, and home made ice cream.

Not far away is the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, including North and South Manitou Islands.

The weekend we were stuck in Manitowoc, the EAA Fly in in Oshkosh was taking place. So on Sunday we took off for the day and went over to check it out. Before and after this weeklong event, we see planes flying thru our area making their way to the show. It was fun to see it in action. Lots of planes on the ground and many of planes taking off to head home. There was a large military display area...Warbirds of America. The plane above is one of the B-25s that flew in the Doolittle Raid on Japan 18 April 1942. Late in the afternoon we enjoyed an airshow with 4 or 5 different aerobatic performers showing off and amazing the crowds.

Here's something different...it was windy and cool on the lake as we sailed from Leland to Arcadia. The only way I found to keep the wind at bay was with clothespins. We actually got some pretty nice sun tanning in, but not this day!
That's all for now.

Sailing on Sabbatical

2008-08-15T20:41:00.016-05:00

Our sailing trip to Michigan was filled with beauty and wonder, fun and good eating, frustration and work, good weather and not so good weather. But all in all it was a wonderful get away and time to begin to relax and separate from the business and busyness of life and ministry at Cedarly.
We left home on Friday, August 1st, hoping to sail to Michigan on Saturday. But alas, it was not to be...engine trouble, a temporary crown thrown overboard by accident, rough waves developing...and we were headed back to the Manitowoc. It was Wednesday by the time we were ready to sail...with some doubts as to whether or not we were supposed to go. In the end, we were glad we went ahead with the trip. Altogether we were ON the boat for 2 weeks...our longest time aboard. We were actually in Michigan 8 days, docking in Manistee, Frankfort, Leland, and Arcadia. We motor-sailed across from Manitowoc to Manistee, MI (about 56 nm) on a pretty sunny warm day. It took 9 hours and a storm developed in the last 1 - 1 1/2 hours. Fortunately it was just a little rain and wind that cleared soon after we docked at the city marina. We have been to Manistee before and I fell in love with the 2 mile board walk along the river from downtown to the beach. The sunsets are magnificent...one of my favorite things about being in Michigan.

One of the things I love best about sailing is watching for lighthouses ~ and visiting them when we can. I find the history of the lighthouses and the ships they served to be facinating. The stories of the lighthouse keepers and their families was often lonely and difficult, but they saw purpose and meaning in their work.

This trip we were able to see several and visit/tour two. The one above is the Pointe Betsie Lighthouse in Benzie County, just north of Frankfort. It is the 2nd most photographed lighthouse in the USA...and I took my share of pictures. The lighthouse was in operation from 1858-1984 (the last manned lighthouse in mainland Michigan).

The lighthouse below is the South Manitou Island Lighthouse and is a part of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It was in operation from 1871-1958 and was key to the shipping route through the Manitou Passage to Chicago. For many years the Island provided a natural harbor for ships needing a safe refuge and it also was a wood fueling site for steamers.

Twice along the way we had some gas leakage into the engine compartment...a bit disconcerting to say the least. Both times, God placed men in sailboats next to us or across from us in the marinas to give Andy sound advice and encouragement...a wonderful provision.

Along the way we spent many hours thinking, reflecting, and reading. We realized later that we really didn't talk that much. It was our own little mini retreat (minus the services of Mike, the chef). Andy read WALKING WITH GOD ~ John Eldredge's newest book. On our road trip, I plan to read it and we will talk about it as we drive.

I read a variety of books (almost one a day). One of the most challenging ones was a biography about Madame Guyon. She was shunned by her mother, given in marriage as a young teenager to a much older wealthy man, abused by her mother-in-law, and persecuted by church leaders. From 1698 to 1702 she lived in solitary confinement in the notorious Bastille (at the same time and place as the legendary prisoner #64389000, the man with the iron mask). In all, she stayed in prison eight years. Then she lived in exile for the rest of her life. Her crime? She believed that anyone could pray to God any time, any where. She wrote a book calaled A SHORT AND VERY EAST METHOD OF PRAYER.

The Manistee North Pierhead Light has been working, providing a fog signal and a light tower, since 1871. This particular one was actually built in 1927. One of the nights we were there, the waves were 3-5 feet ~ the water looked foreboding, fierce, almost angry. The waves crashed against the breakwater and provided quite a show.

We left for home on Thursday, the 14th. It was a 62 nm trip and took us 10 1/2 hours. The water was completely still and like glass when we left Arcadia. By the time we were 15 miles from Manitowoc, the wind and the waves were pounding the White Iris. We are grateful for favorable winds both ways so we could motor-sail and make good time. We were especially grateful for safe passage.

Sabbatical Starts

2008-07-30T17:21:00.009-05:00

Andy and I have been given our 2nd sabbatical since being at Cedarly...one month every three years is just amazing. It comes at a good time for us. The spring and summer have been jam packed ~ full of good and productive and fun things, but we are a bit weary and in need of a break. Thru the winter and spring we had some amazing help finishing up the Upper Room project here at Cedarly. It is a beautiful room and several groups are already committed to using the space, some on a regular basis. We are grateful it is finished. We are praying that God will provide the last $4000.00 to dig a well and put in a pump for a water supply (ie bathroom) out there. The dedication was on Sunday, June 22. We would not have been ready if our wonderful small group hadn't helped us clean the garage, the stairwell, and the room with us They also helped with food after the ceremony. We hope to have some pictures up on the blog before long...no, actually after the sabbatical.

Right after the dedication Faith and Avery came, then Aimee, Gary, Sarah and Joel joined them, then the Hagen clan arrived, and then we had the Ekedahls here one afternoon, too. It was a whirlwind of activity and a very good time of good eating, lots of laughs, fun activities, catching up...

The year at Cedarly started out slowly as far as attendance goes, but since Easter we have been full just about every week...and we will be full until at least Thanksgiving. God continues to encourage us as we see Him at work in pastor's (and spouses) hearts and minds. It is truly amazing what He can do in just 5 days. It's a great ride, but a long stretch.

Unfortunately Andy and I haven't had a lot of time or energy to prepare for this sabbatical. We have some good ideas ~ where to go, things to talk about, books to read together, ideas to consider ~ so that is a start. We'll head out and go for 10-12 days on our sailboat, the WHITE IRIS. We hope to go across the pond from Manitowoc, WI to Manistee, MI. It takes a full day ~ about 65 miles. We are trusting God that the winds and the waves will co-operate. From there we will head north along the coast to the small fishing villages of Frankfort, Leland, Northport and possibly Charlevoix.

Then we plan to take a road trip, ultimately ending up in Colorado just after the arrival of Baby J. Joel is going to take a few days off from work when the baby arrives so they can enjoy some special time bonding as a new family together. So, we will take off, traveling thru southern Minnesota, across South Dakota, and around Wyoming, enjoying the natural wonders along the way. When we get the word that Baby J has arrived, we will still have a few days to make our way to meet him. We are trusting God to work out the details, the safe arrival, and the timing.

I have just finished reading a little book called GIFT FROM THE SEA by Anne Morrow Lindbergh. Have you read it? It was originally published in 1955 and was a "ground-breaking, best-selling work". Now fifty some years later, it is still helpful and insightful. Lindbergh spent two weeks alone in a little cottage on Captiva Island on Florida's Gulf Coast. She shares her meditations on youth and age; love and marriage; peace, solitude and contentment ~ things she thought about and wrote about during her time on the beach picking up shells and reflecting on life. Much of it strikes a cord with me because she talks a lot of time and space for contemplation, quiet, simplicity, and creativity...as we do here at Cedarly.

I do not have any desire to write a book while on this Sabbatical, but I am taking a Journal with me. I hope to reflect on my where I have been and where I am going...consider how I want to grow in my relationships...pursue getting to know God in new and deeper ways. I do not know where else the Spirit will take me. I will have to share that when Sabbatical Ends.

Moms and Dads

2008-07-20T11:48:00.022-05:00

Absolutely Avery

2008-07-20T08:49:00.027-05:00

Avery is absolutely the sweetest little two year old ever. She gets along so well with her big sister and big sister is so good with her. I think Avery seems older than she is because her vocabulary and understanding is great (I'd say advanced but you'd just think I am a doting Oma).

It really was fun and quite easy to have the girls around. This first picture (below) is on the 4th of July just before we had our very own fireworks display here at Cedarly, put on by Uncle Jon from SC. Avery was waving her 2 flags and calling out "America, America"...very cute!

In the late 50's after my Grandpa Severin left a long time job at Rockford Screw Products, he started another company--making little cards to use around the yard (above). Many of them ended up on plantations in South America. My brother and my cousin each have one of these "Yard Bee" cars. Cousin Al brought his to Cedarly the day of our Ekedahl/Severin reunion...and the girls just loved it. They would have spent all afternoon driving around if we had let them. Cedarly was just the right environment to do it.

Avery loved the playground at Frame Park (above). She is not quite as adventuresome climbing or going down slides as Faith is, but she finds ways to have fun. At the Children's Museum she loaded and unloaded her grocery cart endlessly and enjoyed taking calls at the car repair shop.

Avery waited very patiently on the shore (below) while Faith and Opa were out on the kayak. She could hardly wait for her turn ~ her first time out on the water with Opa.

For several days, Avery would not go anywhere without 2-4 of Oma's old necklaces aroun her neck. Here she is on the train at the Zoo ~ ready to go.

Featuring Faith

2008-07-18T16:08:00.025-05:00

Oma had the wonderful opportunity to take care of Faith and Avery for six days (with great help from Aunt Connie and Opa) while Gary and Aimee went to British Columbia for a few days to celebrate their 10th Anniversary and a Marx family wedding. We had such fun. It was my objective to keep them busy, experience new things, and be so tired they would fall into bed at night. It worked and we had an incredible time together. These first couple of pictures are at Frame Park along the Fox River. The girls love playground parks and this was a new one to them...they loved the HUGE sandbox and the HUGE creature living in it!

One day we three went to the Betty Brinn Children's Museum in downtown Milwaukee. We got there at 11:30 and I couldn't get them to stop for lunch until 2:00. By 4:00 we had the place to ourselves and ended up staying until 5:00 when it closed. They were good about staying together, they made friends with other kids, and they tried just about everything. Faith especially like an area where there was a post office, a bank, a grocery store, and a car repair shop. Each area was connected by telelphone, so I would call them from another area and they would be so surprised when they answered the phone.

My sister Connie joined us for the weekend and we went to the Milwaukee Zoo...again we stayed for about 6 hours. It was a beautiful day ~ not too hot. This picture (above, right) was on the train ride around the zoo...a real hit with Faith.

Last year we started a tradition of making spritz cookies together...Christmas in July (plus they are Aimee's favorite so she loves it). This year we made them at 7:30 a.m. Avery was sleeping 11-12 hours a night, so we took advantage of the time alone to make green wreaths and trees.

One afternoon we were able to be together with my brother Jim's 4 grandchildren. There are 5 kids in my family and so far just 6 grandkids...with Baby J on the way. We spent a couple of hours at a friend's pool and got them to pose. They all LOVE the water and took turns doing their favorite jumps and dives off the board...even Avery joined in the fun. Faith had some good form on her jumps and a name for each one.

Another favorite activity is taking out the kayak or canoe with Opa. Faith isn't much help yet, but she doesn't weigh much either. This year they saw three turtles and gathered some pretty water lilies.

This picture is not the best one of Faith, (below) but I was so proud of her, I must include the story. Both Faith and Avery fell asleep in the car several times during our adventures... a little cat nap worked really well. Connie was with us when we discovered this funny pose of Faith out cold.

We could hardly take the pictures we were laughing so hard in the front seat. When we showed the picture to Faith, Connie commented, "You like like an animal but I can't figure out which one." Faith immediately came back with, "A pig with a snout!" At that point she started laughing so hard she couldn't stop. It was encouraging to see her enjoy the joke on herself and enjoy it as much as we had.

1st Official Hagen Family Reunion

2008-07-18T14:36:00.007-05:00

This year Andy and I hosted the 1st official Hagen Family Reunion at Cedarly over the 4th of July. It was a great time with wonderful weather, fabulous food, and lots of fun events...some played golf, many went to the Brewers game, several went out on kayaks or canoes, most played ladder golf and cornhole, and everyone clapped and cheered over Jon's fireworks display brought from SC (well, maybe not Avery who was in the house holding her hands over her ears). What a special treat to have the cousins together again. It doesn't happen very often, but everyone loves it when it does.
We plan to get together AT LEAST every three years, rotating who hosts/plans and where we meet.

Food for Thought

2008-06-19T20:05:00.003-05:00

Time for an update on what I've been reading lately...it's been a season of challenging stories, most of them life stories about real people. They aren't the typical autobiographies like I remember reading in school in the 50's and 60's, but very interesting and enlightening, disturbing and depressing at times. Several are about people in parts of the world where I have never been ~ the Middle East and Africa. Many of the books were recommended by my girls.
These books have been impactful for me, but I have not yet processed how they might affect my life in days to come...that might have to be a blog later on.

A three part series by Jean Sasson (who lived in Saudi Arabia from 1978-1990) gives an insiders view of life among the royals. The story comes from a princess who has a desire to alleviate the suffering of women in her country where women are often ignored by their fathers, sold into marriage to men 4-5 times their age, treated as slaves by their husbands, and murdered or isolated in a small windowless room for the rest of their lives for the slightest transgression. From extravagant shopping trips spending millions in just a few days to camping trips in the dessert complete with Persian rugs, servants, and 25 Mercedes at their disposal, the decadent opulence of the royal family is described in detail. Image your 15 year old daughter with a safe in her bedroom containing over a million dollars worth of jewels. The books are "Princess: a true story of life behind the veil in Saudi Arabia", "Princess Sultana's Daughter's", and "Princess Sultana's Circle". The danger of male dominance and the desperate lives of the women they rule comes to life. The royal women respond in acceptance, minor rebellion, alcohol and drug abuse. In the end, Princess Sultana determines she will never again allow an individual woman to be mistreated.

A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier by Ishmael Beah describes "how wars are fought now ~ by children, traumatized, hopped-up on drugs, and wielding AK-47s. Children have become the soldiers of choice. In the more than fifty violent conflicts going on worldwide, it is estimated that there are some 300,000 child soldiers." As a young boy of, Ishmael fled attacking rebels and wandered about Sierra Leone with other boys his age. Within a year he was picked up by the government army and...well, you need to read the book! I cannot imagine what it was like for him...it was gut-wrenching and unforgettable.

"This is where you'll stay," he said, swinging the door open to reveal our new home: a small bathroom about four feel long and three feet wide....There was a shower stall at one end and a toilet at the other - the room wasn't big enough for sink." But six women of various ages lived in this room for three months, packed in tight and on top of one another, absolutely quiet, silent, because if any one could hear them they would be found and killed. This is the story of Immaculee Ilibagiza...in 1994 her world was ripped apart as the bloody genocide in Rwanda claimed nearly a million lives. In the midst of the killing spree Immaculee discovered the power of prayer and a relationship with God. Amazing...again I cannot imagine what it was like for her...the fear and suffering and loss. "Left to Tell: Discovering God Amidst the Rwandan Holocaust". Read it and weep.

Then there's a four part novel series by Terri Blackstock. (Last Light, Night Light, True Light and Dawn's Light) The story centers around the Banning family in Birmingham, Alabama. An electromagnetic pulse from a star millions of miles away causes electricity on earth to fail ~ without warning. Suddenly planes are dropping out of the skies, millions of cars stop in place, refrigerators shut off, and lights are no more. Think of the implications in such a world wide crisis...people fighting over bicycles they haven't ridden in years, tearing up your newly landscaped front yard to plant food, taking turns guarding your home and your gardens 24 hours a day, hauling water from a pond...with crime running rampant around your upscale suburban neighborhood. The implications are huge. The Bannings are a Christian family and their faith is tested on every front. In the process of surviving they are challenged by the Sermon on the Mount. Instead of hoarding, they decide...you'll have to read it and see for yourself. There are no easy answers.

Last but not least, Nancy Ortberg has come out with her first book called LOOKING FOR GOD: a unexpected journey through tattoos, tofu & pronouns. Nancy has a carefree style of writing and a wonderful storytelling ability. It's different, but effective. I liked it and found it helpful as I strive to see God at work in my life and the world around me day by day. "We get so prescriptive with the spiritual life. We prepackage it, duplicate it, mass-produce it, insist upon it, and brag about it. We make it a formula. As a result, we tend to see God from such a narrow perspective."

Girl Time in Colorado

2008-06-14T20:58:00.010-05:00

What's better than time in Colorado? Time in Colorado with your two daughters!

Aimee, Sarah and I enjoyed a few days away together in early June ~ a first for us since the
girls have been married. I'm hoping we can do it again some time ~ it was so much fun.

Sarah and I picked Aimee up at the airport and we headed out to Summit County. It was cool and rainy the first couple of days but we managed...scrapbooking for much of a day, shopping at the outlet malls, dinner out. One night we watched not just one, but two chick flicks! Catching up on all the latest, remembering days gone by, planning for our family time in Wisconsin in July...conversation flowed easily and non-stop.
The day we headed back to Denver it was a pretty sunny day so we took Loveland Pass up and over the Continental Divide, stopping along the way for some pictures.

Friday night we joined 40 of Sarah friends for a shower in her honor. Everyone had an opportunity to introduce themselves and tell how they knew Sarah. Lots of stories were shared ~ funny, encouraging, and affirming of Sarah as well.
Sarah had requested I make a jean quilt for Baby J out of pieces of jeans from Hagen family members. It was a challenge for me (and for my sewing machine) but it turned out well. It will fit right in with the Cowboy theme in the baby's new room!

Easter in Virginia

2008-05-02T17:00:00.002-05:00

Week at Selah Inn at the Ranch

2008-04-20T16:06:00.003-05:00

I just got back from leading a PRN retreat at our Texas site. It's located off of Route 30 about 100 miles east of Dallas...a beautiful place this time of the year. They have had lots of the rain and the wildflowers are plentiful...several appeared out of no where during the short 6 days I was there. The staff at the Inn is fabulous and friendly plus they serve wonderful meals three times a day like clockwork...all I had to do was show up and enjoy. I tooks lots of walks, explored some in the area, read a lot, and enjoyed quiet time with God.

I am hooked on the slide shows ~ enjoy the latest from Texas!

East Texas in Spring

2008-04-20T16:02:00.001-05:00

Heart Friends March 2008

2008-03-30T10:48:00.003-05:00

Just who are the Heart Friends? A collection of remarkable women who connected during their years at West Point. Over time they have stayed in touch thru phone calls, e-mail and yearly gatherings (now twice a year gatherings). We just enjoyed a fabulous time on the beach in Wilmington, North Carolina. It was a grand time of laughing, sharing, praying, eating, being...and it is precious to each of us.

Right now I am reading John Ortberg's book, EVERYBODY'S NORMAL TILL YOU GET TO KNOW THEM. In the first chapter he makes it clear that we are all weird, slightly irregular, damaged goods...all we like sheep have gone astray.

One of the great marks of maturity is to accept the fact that everybody comes 'as is.' We have been able to do that, and actually enjoy it. Our yearning to attach and connect, to love and be loved, makes that possible. John describes it as the fiercest longing of the soul.

He talks about a research project on relationships called the Alameda County Study that discovered the most isolated people were three times more likely to die than those with strong relational connections.

"People who had bad health habits (such as smoking, poor eating habits, obesity, or alcohol use) but strong social ties lived significantly longer than people who had great health habits but were isolated. In other words, IT IS BETTER TO EAT TWINKIES WITH GOOD FRIENDS THAN TO EAT BROCCOLI ALONE."

So, the Heart Friends gather and hope to live significantly long lives together!

Heart Friends in Wilmington

2008-03-30T10:42:00.002-05:00

Walking in a Winter Wonderland

2008-03-08T14:02:00.008-06:00

We have enjoyed a Winter Wonderland here in Wisconsin since the first part of December. On a bright, crisp, sunny day with blue skies it is really quite pretty. On a gray cloudy bitter cold day, not so much. I walk 3-4 miles (an hour) just about every day ~ until it gets down to zero. I draw the line when it gets below zero!

I started walking soon after Aimee was born at Fort Hood, Texas in 1976. Some of you might remember that when Aimee was 6 weeks old, Andy left for a 6 month tour of duty in Germany. He went again when Aimee was 18 months old. I had ample opportunity to develop a life long habit of walking every day during those two tours. Aimee loved being outside and was comfortable in the little umbroller stroller (I went thru two of them with each of the girls - ran the wheels right off of them).

The chapel above is on the campus of St. John's Northwestern Military Academy in Delafield (junion/senior high prep school). It is a beautful old campus dating back to 1884.The little white chapel below is on the main street in Delafield and is now a Lang Store. You can get a feel for how much snow we have had from the pile in the picture.

Walking with my new camera...

2008-03-08T13:44:00.006-06:00

I enjoy walking around Nashotah House, a theological seminary of the Episcopal Church. It is just about half a mile from Cedarly. The seminary dates back to 1842 and I understand it was an outreach to the Native Americans in this area at one time as well.

This farm is on their property, too

These are shots of Cedarly... the one above is the Carriage House, dating back to the 1880's and the one below is the home at Cedarly which was built in 1910, taken from the lake side. Winter is a fabulous time to be at Cedarly for a week of retreat with the Lord.

Titles and Authors

2008-03-07T16:57:00.004-06:00

Today I drove down to Miller Park to purchase baseball tickets for a Hagen Family Reunion this summer. On the way I listened to a Wisconsin Public Radio talk show. The guest said that statistics show young adults under 35, on average, read one book a year. That's pretty sad ~ and would indicate that most don't read any. Our two daughters and sons in law read a lot, so they would make up for the one book dozens of others are not reading. Me, I read at least a book a week...I enjoy it, generally have the time, and don't always sleep well. You will see in this post, I am not a very creative critic. But, I will offer you a variety of books I have enjoyed so far this year.

One of my goals in 2008 is to read more biographies or at least stories about real people and their experiences, challenges, and how they overcame hardship. I sort of wondered how I would find good ones. Our library here in Delafield is very small and crowded so I generally put books on hold over the Internet so I can just stop by and pick them up. I have been pleasantly surprised at how interesting biographies have come my way ~ recommendations from guests, references to them in blogs, and even a in a Christmas letter. Then, of course, there are my 11 Heart Friends around the country ~ they always have great suggestions. The more I read them, the more I seem to find...one boook leads to another.

QUIET STRENGTH (Tony Dungy)
THE MAN BEHIND NARNIA (C.S. Lewis)
DON'T BET AGAINST ME (Deanna Favre)
THREE CUPS OF TEA (Greg Mortensen)
LEAVING MICROSOFT TO CHANGE THE WORLD (John Woods)

These are the ones I have read so far ~ each one unique and quite different. Each individual facing a wide variety of hard things in their lives and each one with a different sphere of influence. I'm just about to start a 500+ page book called ABUNDANCE ~ a novel of Marie Antoinette. Care to join me?

I can't seem to stay away from novels tho, and have been introduced to three new authors in the new year. Angela Hunt helped Deanna Favre write her story and I decided to read one of Angela's novels. I'm hooked. So far I've read THE NOTE, THE NOVELEST, THE ELEVATOR, and UNCHARTERED. Hunt is very creative ~ there is nothing predicitable, there is no pattern, each one is completely different. I like her ~ can you tell?

Then I read HIDDEN IN TIME and A RIFT IN TIME by Michael Philllips. Wow, they were great. What's the impact on the world in finding Noah's Ark or the Garden of Eden? You, too, can find out. Philllips also wrote a series of books about two young girls, one white and one black, who survive the Civil War all alone ~ with a plantation to run, bills to pay, and maurauders to worry about.

And finally I got around to reading THE KITE RUNNER and A THOUSAND SPLENDID SUNS by Khaled Hosseini. Oh, my...what a learning experience! Sections were hard to read ~ my life is so protected and so comfortable.

Andy's 40th MBI Reunion

2008-03-07T14:48:00.024-06:00

God bless the school that D. L. Moody founded;
Firm may she stand, tho' by foes of truth surrounded!
Riches of grace bestowed may she never squander,
keeping true to God and man her record over yonder.

Glory over yonder, over yonder,
when Jesus comes in glory we shall part no more.
Glory over yonder, over yonder,k
when Jesus comes in glory we shall part no more.

There it is ~ the closest thing we had to a fight song, and sure enough, we sang it multiple times in early February when we went down to Moody for

Founder's Week 2008 AND Andy's 40th Reunion.

We are glad we went...it was fun to see what is happening on the campus at Moody ~ so very different from the way it looked in the late 60's. Students look so young and I'm sure we look so old. Of course, it is always the coldest week of the winter, complete with wind howling and snow falling. There was a very nice gathering and dinner Monday night in the Commons. About 25 were there and it was great to reconnect and remember days together long ago. Tuesday noon is the larger gathering of classes from all times, and then in the afternoon we had a few hours to meet and catch up on each one by going around the circle with each one giving a short (or not so short) summary of 40 years.

The small gathering Andy's class has caused some of us in the Class of '69

to start contacting classmates in order to create interest and energy for

a great gathering next year for our reunion, February 2-3, 2009.

http://mbi1969reunion.wordpress.com

Body Worlds

2008-03-07T14:20:00.006-06:00

What is man that you are mindful of him,

the son of man that you care for him?

You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings

and crowned him with glory and honor.

Psalm 8:4-5

A few weeks ago I went to the Body Worlds exhibition at the Milwaukee Public Museum and found it absolutely amazing. These verses from Psalm 8 were displayed on a large banner in the first exhibit room. I'm not sure I can put into words all that I saw and felt during the 3 hours I was there, but God was on my mind most of the time. Seeing the various parts and systems of the body displayed artfully, purposefully, creatively, and tastefully kept drawing me back to the Creator Himself.

Andy spent the day attending the NO REGRETS men's conference at Elmbrook that day and was surprised at my enthusiasm when I described it to him. I would highly recommend attending if the display comes to your corner of the world.

BABY J

2008-02-09T15:17:00.000-06:00

Christmas Eve our family was together around the table for dinner at Sarah and Joel's home in Colorado. Joel's mom, Rhonda was with us as well. Sarah and Joel's tradition is Kentucky Fried Chicken on Christmas Eve and it tasted pretty good. At some point in the meal Sarah handed each of the adults a wrapped gift ~ a CD cover with a stamped letter printed in the case. When we put all the letters together they spelled BABY J! What a surprise ~ what a wonderful Christmas gift. Sarah and Joel are expecting a little one in August ~ August 21st to be specific.
We are thrilled for them and excited for ourselves ~ our third grandchild is on the way. For the countdown, a picture and more info check out Sarah's blog.

Happy New Year

2008-01-06T01:48:00.001-06:00

SNOW was the order of the day while we were in Colorado over the holidays...and Faith & Avery ate it up!