On the road again...

The "Perfect" Vacuum

2012-01-21T09:54:00.004-05:00

Now, really, you're posting about a vacuum cleaner? If you knew the road I've walked cluttered with "wanta-be" vacuum cleaners you would understand why I'm so estatic about my new appliance!!
Before we moved into our "little" home we were happy with our Oreck but it was just too big. There are no tall closets in our RV so where do you store this tall tool? Therefore we bought a small, basically hand held unit which fit nicely under the bathroom sink. But just "fitting in nicely" doesn't mean it actually worked. Basically that unit simply moved the dirt from one spot another!
Next came a tall, skinny unit that I had to leave by my bed, tripping over every night and morning getting into and out of bed. It performed fairly well but only for about 15-20 minutes at the most. It was rechargable and you must always remember to plug in the battery overnight or you had little "juice". Another negative of this unit was a lack of any attachments, therefore getting into tight corners was impossible, so the dust and dirt simply built up in those areas.
Enough of losers-on to the winner by far: Dyson City DC 26
All three of my children own Dysons and love them but they are big and I knew those Dysons would never fit in a tight space. It wasn't until just recently, while shopping in Bed Bath and Beyond, did I discover this gem. We bought it on the spot and love it! It fits into my clothing closet and does battle with dirt all over the RV, including EVERY nook and cranny, with victory every time. Although invented for apartment owners it is perfect for the RV full-timer!!
The best thing about this vacuum cleaner? My husband enjoys using it.
Reason enough to pay the price!

Hunter's Advice on Retiring Well with The Wife!

2012-01-11T13:36:00.002-05:00

"Put up with her:

unconditional love!"

Advice on "retiring" well with your hubby.

2012-01-05T17:49:00.008-05:00

1. Take up at least one hobby that your hubby loves. Ex.-fishing
You don't have to be good at it. Just spending time with him and becoming interested in what "interests" him brings sparkle to his eyes and obvious delight in his conversation.

2. Allow him extra time to savor his morning coffee. Join him if you like coffee or just hug your cup of tea.

3. Prepare one or more of his favorite foods weekly- like artisan bread, homemade pizza or a boston cream pie.

4. Go to bed together every night, even if you aren't sleepy. It's a great time to talk and snuggle. When he falls asleep just pull out your Nook and read!

5. Stop what you are doing and take a moment to listen to the details of what he has just fixed. He'll feel respected.

6. Try to take a stroll each day holding hands. You'll both feel younger.

7. Compliment his hair cut. Tell him what a young man you married! He'll smile like a grade school boy!

8. Discuss but NEVER argue about political candidates. They're just not worth it!!

9. Make your bed together. It kick-starts the day with cooperation.

10 Above all else memorize and follow the wisdom of Paul when he said, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit but in humility consider others better than yourselves." Philippians 2:3

Wildlife in Florida

2011-12-31T19:14:00.008-05:00

Since Hunter and I have been walking the beaches, biking the trails, & fishing the bay of the beautiful state of Florida we have encountered the following wildlife.

Yes, that "giant" fish was caught by me on a spinner rod. More on taking up my hubby's hobby next blog!

same kind of different as me.

2011-12-24T21:52:00.004-05:00

"Denver Moore and Ron Hall's story is one that moved me to tears. The friendship that forms between these two men at a time when both were in great need is an inspiration to all of us to be more compassionate to everyone we come in contact with. This is truly a wonderful book!" Mrs. Barbara Bush

My sentiments echo those of Barbara Bush. I literally cryed and laughed my way through this gem of a book. Each day, since I have completed it, I find my mind wandering back to some portion of it narrative. The lessons to be learned from it's content are numerous. For me I was inspired to see the homeless in an entirely new light and to ask God to give me His compassion for those less fortunate than myself. I was also challenged to reach out to strangers in a more loving way as He brings the opportunities.

Please go buy a copy of this book and enjoy the roller coaster ride through the emotional ups and downs of this true story.

Oswald Chamber's Wisdom

2011-12-23T13:15:00.003-05:00

In my devotions a few days ago I read the following by Oswald Chambers:

"The goal of faithfulness is not that we will do work for God, but that He will be free to do His work through us. God calls us to His service and places trememdous responsibilities on us. He expects no complaining on our part and offers no explanation on His part. God wants to use us as He used His own Son."

At this Christmas season may you be a vessel God can work through to bring glory to God and his Son Jesus Christ!!

Merry Christ-centered Christmas!!

Scuba Diving at the Vortex

2011-12-19T21:05:00.005-05:00

Florida has a number of naturally occuring springs and many of them are prime spots to scuba dive. Their water temperature is a year round 68 degrees requiring wet suits. Vortex is a spring close to where Hunter and I have been doing volunteer work this past month. The project is over and we had a few free days so decided to check out the springs, especially since the weather was a balmy 75 degrees with plenty of glorious sun.
We were the only divers who decided December 17th was a scuba diving day at Vortex. It was fun to have the spings to ourselves and even though the water was cold we enjoyed the little "adventure". I especially like scuba diving where no boat is needed-no waves-no dramamine is required so I'm not half drugged and actually have all my facilties in tack. What fun!!

Getting everything ready.

Trying to pull on a 7 m wet suit-very hard!

Got it on!

Ready to go under!

Gleaning

2011-12-11T18:01:00.009-05:00

There is a Bible story in the Old Testament about a woman named Ruth, who followed her mother-in-law's instructions to glean grain from the field of Boaz. She was obedient, which eventually led to her marriage to Boaz and "landing" in the lineage of Jesus!

The idea of gleaning never really struck me as it did the other day when I went with two other MMAP ladies to gather pecans. We went after the big machines pick the pecans by shaking the trees then gathering the nuts as they fall. Check out this video for the fascinating process. Our job was to glean what was left on the ground. It was a fun activity on a beautiful late fall day in northern Florida.

I took the little bucket of nuts back to the RV and guess who was coaxed into becoming a "cracker"? Yes, my dear husband.

From the delicious nuts we made homemade butter pecan ice cream. Then I made a egg-less, gluten free, dairy free pie that I thought would probabay be ineatable but I was wrong as evidenced by the photo taken only a few days after baking it. One piece left-and it is mine!

Boys "at play", & a few girls having fun, of course!

2011-11-27T20:16:00.022-05:00

THANKGIVING!

2011-11-22T20:43:00.002-05:00

On November 24th I'm thanking God for:

a loving husband
retirement years full of travel & time together
"6" children
5 grandchildren
a praying mother
2 incredible sisters and their families
a "number" of wonderful friends
being reasonably healthy at 62
and a God who is always faithful!

THANKSGIVING

2011-11-22T20:43:00.000-05:00

MMAP

2011-11-16T12:11:00.003-05:00

As most of you know we live full-time in our motor home. We enjoy spending time sight seeing around the United States and visiting our children, who are scattered all over the globe. But people often ask what else do you do without a house or yard to maintain or local community involvement to fill the days. Our answer is MMAP: Mobile Missionary Assistance Program.
My parents joined this organization in the late 80s and found it to be the highlight of their married life-actively serving the Lord together in their retirement years. Hunter and felt God's calling for us to follow "in their footsteps" as we began contemplating retirement 3 1/2 years ago. Now, with 12 MMAP projects under our belts, we can look back and see God's hand leading us into this ministry and continue to find purpose in serving others.

Currently we are working at Bethlehem Bible Camp near Bonifay, Florida. In December we will return to this same location where it appears Hunter and I will pick up paintbrushes and color the walls of some dorm rooms just completed this month by MMAPers. Oh the joy of serving Jesus-it knows no bounds!!

As we labor for the Lord we are continually reminded of our "retirement" Bible verse:
"Even in their old age they will bear fruit, they will stay fresh and green. They will declare, 'The Lord is just. He is my rock. There is only goodness in Him'" Psalm 92:14-15

"Grandchild Hopping"

2011-10-22T20:09:00.008-04:00

From Italy to New Jersey and now in North Carolina with Aiden and Ella.
Love this life!

Grandson arrives!

2011-10-10T20:45:00.005-04:00

Introducing Keaton Hunter Stall
Arrived September 26, 2011
Weighed in at 7 lbs. 8 oz. & 21" in length

Isn't he adorable???

Biking through Tuscany and Umbria

2011-10-08T15:27:00.020-04:00

How does one accurately describe, in capsulated form, a week's worth of biking through one of Italy's most beautiful and varied landscapes? Photos nor words will do it justice but suffice it to say the trip was spectacular not to mention extremely challenging. Did someone say Tuscany has hills? Most definitely! Thankfully our tandem came equipped with disc brakes which slowed our descent but it took "raw" muscle, more developed by day 7, for the ascents! We rode to and stayed in the towns of Montepulciano, Cortona, Montone, Assisi, and Spoleto. Middle Age and Roman architecture abounded in these quaint villages as well as Italian cuisine and rich wines. We traveled with 8 other bikers and 2 tour guides, who were both knowledgeable and fun. Iron Donkey is the company that sponsored the tour. It was such a memorable experience we plan to take other tours through such countries as Ireland, France, Denmark, Portugal, and maybe even New Zealand. Anyone interested in joining us on a bike tour please let us know. We'd love to share these experiences with others!!

Babysitting in Montegalda, Italy

2011-09-21T04:55:00.014-04:00

While Rebecca and Steve spent 10 days in Tanzania, Hunter and I took care of their two rambunctious little sons: Christian, 4 and Logan, 2. It was a challenging and, I can honestly say, fun time for all! Following are some of the activities we shared together:

Soccer Practice

Reading is fun.

Swimming Lessons

Bubbles!

First day of school.

Fishing

Eating gelato

Bubble Baths

Puzzles

Inventive play

Grandchildren are TRULY one of God's greatest gifts!!

You want what for a snack?

2011-09-15T04:36:00.004-04:00

When your grandson asks for a snack wouldn't you expect him to ask for candy, cookies, or hopefully some fruit or baby carrots? What does my 4 year old grandson ask for? finocchio
He's turning into a TRUE Italian. Eating gnocchi last night for dinner and saying scusi (Italian for excuse me) without realizing what he said, proves it!

More Traveling in Italy (Part 2) The Italian Riviera

2011-09-08T14:58:00.032-04:00

Labor Day week-end found us (Hunter, Rebecca, Steve, Christian, Logan, & myself) "tucked away" in a cozy bed and breakfast located in the hills of the Italian Riviera. Sound wonderful? Well, it was-to a certain extent. Have you ever driven through an area of the country or world for that matter where tree covered mountains and valleys roll on and on like ocean waves in a mild storm and you see actual houses perched atop or nestled in the upper elevations of those mountains? You ask to whomever is listening, "Do people actually live up there in those houses? And how do they get there?" More than once Hunter and I have had that conversation in our travels. This week-end we found the answer to those two questions. Yes, people live up that high, even offering bed and breakfast accommodations and they get there on ridiculously narrow roads!
It is difficult for me to even try and describe the trek we took via our two cars to our bed and breakfast which we had booked for three nights. The drive to the little city where we would be staying was beautiful as we caught our first glimpse of the ocean and the "cliffs" of the Italian Riviera. Rebecca, in the lead car, had specific printed directions to reach our final destination. As we started our ascent up the mountain Hunter and I, following in a rented car, felt certain she was lost, but we faithfully followed. Actually there were moments I refused to look out my window since the drop was hundreds of feet straight down with no guardrail. Most of the time the road was smaller than a normal one-way street. When we met another car, yes there were other "nuts" living up there, one of us had to back up until the road widened enough to allow passage! It took us about 30 minutes of white knuckled stress to arrive at a "parking lot" of sorts. But we weren't there yet! Now we had exactly 172 stone steps to climb, through a small grape orchard, and on up to our destination. Huffing and puffing we finally reached the "top" and were greeted by the hostess who showed us lovely rooms and had wine and juice for us on the veranda which overlooked the valley.
We all agreed it was charming, after getting our "altitude legs". Then the thought ran through my mind, "We have to take that road every day?" Wow-I guess we have no other choice but we sure want to be back here before dark and pray for good weather!
The week-end was delightfully spent taking boat rides, eating, watching the kids on the beach, reading and relaxing while taking in breathe-taking scenery. All went well until the last day/night. We visited Genoa and then had some difficulty with our directions getting out of the city. Being delayed caused the sun to set over us-OK we are going to have to travel that treacherous road in the dark but at least its not-oh no-it IS storming and torrentially raining. Yikes!!
I kid you not when I say that the trip was one of the worst rides of my life-stressful and dangerous. God definitely guided us all the way, considering Steve (in the lead) said he basically couldn't see the road most of the time and had to have Rebecca keep her window down and continually look out to be sure the tires were on the road! We did safely make it to the parking lot and then walked, carrying toddlers up 172 stone steps in the downpour. An experience I NEVER want to duplicate. The week-end was ONE TO REMEMBER!! Check out the photos, which don't begin to share the trip but give you at least a glimpse of our "fun"!

More Traveling in Italy (Part 1)

2011-09-07T15:40:00.010-04:00

Biking in traffic is a skill Hunter and I have honed to "perfection" after 3 years maneuvering the narrow streets and alleys of Beijing, China from 2000-2003. Now we are encountering some similar situations in Italy-not as many people but semis too big for narrow Italian roads, and semis that seem bent on meeting tight work schedules leaving no time for slowly and safely passing two "silly" bikers on one red and blue tandem!

Recently we chose to bike to Cittadella, a medieval walled city in the province of Padua, northern Italy, founded in the thirteenth century as a military outpost of Padua. Getting there was a test of bike against semis. We won, eventually arriving in the city but were exhausted from the 20 mile "battle". Thankfully we could enjoy touring the little city and feast on our first Italian pizza, complete with thin, crispy crust and yummy toppings-one of which was a fried egg?? The return bike trip took us longer since we took a few incorrect turns, adding 10 extra miles! I guess you'd say we are getting our "seats" in shape for our ride through Tuscany the end of September. Fun, Fun, Fun!

Cittadella

The City of Romeo and Juliet

2011-08-29T07:45:00.010-04:00

On August 24th Hunter and I celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary in Verona, Italy-courtesy of our children! They gave us tickets to see the Romeo and Juliet opera in the arena.
This was a once in a lifetime experience. We spent the day on a walking tour throughout the unique city stopping at fountains, churches, Juliet's balcony, the town market and a coffee shop where Hunter had the "best in his life" espresso. After the many sights and our day's exercise we returned to our hotel and donned our evening wear and taxied into town for a lovely meal in an outdoor restaurant. Our first ever opera didn't disappoint and we thoroughly enjoyed the tradition of candlelighting before the performance. Thankfully we knew the story so even though the Italian language was unfamiliar the sets, costuming, and beautiful voices combined to make this a wonderful memory! Never would we have guessed 40 years ago when we said "I do" on a hot August evening in a little country church, we would be celebrating our 40th wedding anniversary in Italy! One can never guess about the future but simply know it may just tuck in some unexpected adventure into the fabric of life.

The arena

The coffee bar

One of many interesting sites

Juliet's balcony

Delicious meal

Ready for the opera

Opening set for Romeo and Juliet

Life's Irritants!

2011-08-26T09:25:00.003-04:00

We spill grape juice on our best white pants. It rains on a day planned for the beach. We hit the car in front of us, a nice fender-bender, as we turn to quiet the screaming kids. Our cell phone blasts at 3:00 a.m. with a wrong number. The teddy bear birthday cake to serve at a birthday party in an hour falls out of the pan and smashes on the floor. Our husband brings a guest home for supper on a night the new casserole recipe burns, our hair is a slight shade of green from visiting a new beautician, and the washing machine over flows onto the family room carpet! Any of these situations sound familiar?

Life’s little irritants can become major volcanoes ready to explode at a moment's notice. I know because I’ve experienced a couple lately. The first “irritant” involved my computer-note no blogs for a while? A couple of weeks ago it simply stopped working-really- this had to happen in Italy? Thankfully, Steve has an employee who is Italian but speaks good English and he knew of a shop which provided “Apple” computer service. We took it in and in less than a week it was returned as good as new, for a slight fee. Yes, I was very happy until a few days later when an entire glass of red wine was accidently spilled on the keyboard! Now I won’t mention who was involved in this incident but suffice it to say it wasn’t me! As of this writing it is still not out of the shop. (I’m composing this blog on Rebecca’s computer.)

OK-irritant number 2. Many of you know that I have had digestive problems for 10+ years. The medical community has not been able to identify the causes. During our visit to the Netherlands I was able to have my blood tested for food intolerances and discovered I have 68 food intolerances-ranging from cow’s milk, including all related dairy products, to wheat and other gluten grains, beef and veal, and some common vegetables and fruits and even a number of spices! Oh, and don’t forget eggs! Wow-quite overwhelming-right? I guess I must prepare for a change in my diet, reading lots of cookbooks and making some new meal plans.

My recent devotional shed light on viewing life’s irritants.
“See not the small trails and vexations of each hour of the day. See the one purpose and plan to which all are leading. If in climbing a mountain you keep your eyes on each stony or difficult place, as you ascend, seeing only that, how weary and profitless your climb!
But if you think of each step as leading to the summit of achievement, from which glories and beauties will open out before you, then your climb will be so different.”
I also need to remember what Christ said: :My GRACE is sufficient for all your needs!

The Netherlands

2011-08-15T12:49:00.019-04:00

"Nederland" is a geographically low-lying country, with about 25% of its area and 21% of its population located below sea level, and 50% of its land lying less than one metre above sea level. Often incorrectly referred to as Holland, (North and South Holland are but two of the twelve provinces.) it borders the North Sea to the north and west, Belgium to the south, and Germany to the east. Hunter and I have Dutch friends who recently opened their home to us and our "traveling tandem" for a week. Their generous hospitality allowed us the privilege of exploring Limburg, a southern province of the Netherlands, via a myriad of bike routes. This country is a bikers gem! Though clouds and chilly weather prevailed our adventuresome spirit spurred us on to back country bike roads proving not all of The Netherlands is flat! Once we mastered the system of bike roads courtesy of the internet and a local map we were "on our way". Yes, we managed to get lost a time or two, but our faithful GPS always pointed home. Next visit we plan to explore the flat lands around Amsterdam and the windmill area, which is in South Holland. In this country there is a never-ending network of paved bike routes tempting our tandem so we'll gladly return!

A day in Venice

2011-08-12T05:01:00.003-04:00

"City of Water", "City of Masks", "City of Bridges", "The Floating City", and "City of Canals" are among the many names stamped over what we call Venice. New York Times once labeled Venice as one of Europe's most romantic cities. To have only a few hours to wander it's streets is akin to taking only a whiff of a hot cinnamon bun and not being able to sink your teeth into it's sugary juices! Yet to smell is still enjoyable.
Rebecca, Steve, Hunter, and I (without the children who spent an "action packed" time in on base daycare) drove to Venice on a Saturday and explored the narrow streets and alleyways of this fascinating city. Check out Rebecca's blog for photos. OHHHH such good memories!

Biking

2011-08-07T08:37:00.014-04:00

Whether it's the first time we master a two-wheeled bike...

or the challenges and excitement of a tandem...

biking can be a life-long source of fun! Since arriving in Italy Hunter and I have taken two morning "trips" around Montegalda, the area near Vicenza, where Rebecca and Steve live. We've visited both a vineyard and an olive grove as well as simply peddle the rolling hills drinking in the amazing scenery. Sunshine and warm breezes have accompanied us along the way as well as being fueled by cappucino and plates of yummy pastries. Thankfully Hunter brought a hand held GPS to help us navigate the narrow roads. Getting "lost" is expected but home is "marked" and we eventually get there. Love the adventure!

Villa, Basilica, & Trattoria near Vicenza, Italy

2011-07-30T09:18:00.017-04:00

In Italy!

2011-07-28T13:44:00.002-04:00

Yesterday arrived safely into the Venice airport, a bit tired after 12+ hours in the air, but ready to greet the Thorpe family. Rebecca met us at the airport and then whisked us to lunch at a quaint Italian restaurant. After some traditional, delicious pasta we picked up the boys at their "school". Wish I would have had the camera to capture the look of shock as Nani and Nano walked into their rooms. It was priceless!!
Rested today while playing with the boys and look forward to venturing out to sight see tomorrow.
Photos posted soon.

Moving North

2011-07-24T13:46:00.004-04:00

Time to say a sad good-bye to Branden, Brooke, Aiden, and Ella and move north to New Jersey. The heat is following us but hopefully it will "break" soon and we will feel the cool breezes of the coast and enjoy a few days with Jacob and Stacia. (Anxious to get a peak at Keaton's nursey!)

Check it out!

2011-07-17T13:15:00.013-04:00

First time to build a fence and that "jack of all trades" husband of mine did a professional job! Way to go!!

Updated photos of grandchildren in North Carolina

2011-07-10T11:20:00.006-04:00

Aiden loves motocycles, especially Papas!

She is growing so fast!

Cute smile!

Brother and sister together-for a few seconds anyway!

Can anything else happen today??

2011-07-01T21:37:00.003-04:00

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trails of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance." James 1:2

I guess God felt we needed to develop some perseverance today because we experienced one trial after another beginning with a broken cab air conditioner leaving us to bubble and boil as the eastern sun streamed into our window. Know that there are NO windows to open so the summer heat just builds as the day progresses!

We get down to 1/8th tank of diesel fuel for lack of stations causing a bit of worry.

Remind us NOT to travel on July 4th week-end because the traffic was terrible and we encountered two major traffic jams by mid-day.

Just before we hit the Smokey Mountains, entering Charleston, West Virginia we had a rather unpleasant surprise as a passing semi-trailer blew his horn getting our attention while pointing to our car trailing behind the RV. When Hunter says, "Nancy, we have a problem." I sit up staight and take notice because generally he is calm, collected, and on the spot solving problems before I'm aware of their existence. We pull to the side of the road-thankfully at the moment there is a wider than normal spot. Hunter jumps out, goes to the back and quickly discovers our heavy duty, top of the line, near indestructable hitch has broken leaving the car to "free wheel" with only the two safety lines to keep it in tow! After taking the apparatus apart and storing the pieces in the rig I get in the car and follow Hunter driving the RV. (I am offering up many words of thanks to the angels watching over us. The hitch broke before the mountains. Halleluah!)

OK, we are safe, the car is not damaged and all is well with the world. We proceed on to our destination, thinking in a few hours we will be at the campsite . Well, not quite right. Another traffic tie up slows us down and then Hunter has to take a quick turn and I'm in the wrong lane so zoom right on past the turn-off. Thankfully, we have cell phones and GPS systems so I'm able to pull over, put in the address and try to "catch up" to Hunter. Now, my garmin is older than the one in the RV so she starts complaining about the directions Hunter had given me so we spend lots of time on the phone. I also need gas so must pull over to refuel. Finally, we do reconnect- at the campsite at 8:30 p.m!

It has been a long, tiring day!
I think our perseverance level has grown. Hope our level is high enough for the time being!

Happy July 4th! Enjoy your family and thank God for our nation and the freedoms we enjoy.

Tuesday 10 (written on Wednesday)

2011-06-29T12:49:00.009-04:00

Since I thoroughly enjoyed Rebecca's blogI thought I would copy the idea-only one day late. Ha!

1. Packing the RV to move can be quite a feat, especially since during our stay in Iowa we have acquired a second tandem bike and a boat, complete with two motors, two folding seats, life jackets and oars! Are we crazy or what?

2. Already missing dear friends. During our stay in Iowa we played cards, ate delicious dinners, enjoyed a "free" bed and breakfast while the RV was in the shop, laughed over lunches, shared ups and downs while walking trails, and worshiped together.

3. Starting a gall bladder "diet" gives new meaning to BORING: no red meat, spices, dairy, gluten, sugars, alcohol, and CHOCOLATE????? Yikes!!

4. Love our new tandem! We will have many adventures with it in Italy, Germany, and Holland

5. Anxious to see and play with the grandchildren. I wear this apron often to remind me that Nani's grandchildren are so incredibly cute-even the one none of us have seen yet-Keaton Hunter Stall due in September!

6. Iowa corn is so incredibly beautiful this time of year. Everywhere you look, outside the city limits, waving fields of bright green showcase this state's pride and joy. Wish I was going to be here to taste those first succulent ears of sweet corn. I realize other states boast of delicious corn but believe me none compares to the peaches and cream grown in Iowa! Growing up on the farm my dad's sweet corn was so big you could not wrap your fingers around the ear and it definitely wouldn't fit on a dinner plate-honestly!

7. Fixing beef burritos for the gang tonight. Hunter loving his last night of good tennis with friends!

8. Bought another two biking jerseys today-matching mens and womans-for our tandem rides in Holland and Italy. I know we are a bit eccentric-matching outfits-really? When you are retired you can pull it off! Everyone thinks we are a strange couple anyway-biking in Europe in our 60s? This trip is on my "bucket list" so can't wait to check it off!!

9.Ready to get back to missionary work with MMAP-probably work in Florida November and December.

10. Love this poem. Good to reread it now and then and put it's principles into practice!

LORD, Help Me Bring Your Peace To All I Meet

where there is hatred, let me bring love
where there is sadness, let me bring joy
where there is darkness, let me bring light
where there is doubt, let me bring faith

Lord help me to not so much seek
to be consoled, as to console
to be understood, as to understand
to be loved, as to love

for it is in giving, that we receive
it is in forgiving, that we are forgiven
it is in dying that we are born again.

Biker Legs

2011-06-10T11:20:00.005-04:00

We love biking-especially on our tandem. Weathermen may predict rain but that doesn't stop true bikers. A bit of thunder and lightening did cause a "layover" under a park's shelter. While there we feasted on God's color palette of green hues splayed across the landscape and enjoyed the sweet smell of spring. After the rain subsided we continued our 25 mile trip. The downside of riding in the rain can be seen in the photos. But we have ridden several days in bright sunshine-notice the biker tan!!

Getting ready to say good-bye for a little while

2011-05-22T13:31:00.003-04:00

Flying back to the Quad Cities in two days and will miss this family but will return in July so "Papa" can help Daddy build a fense for Aiden!

2011-05-18T13:16:00.005-04:00

Proverbs 14:22a
"All hard work brings a profit..." in more ways than one!!

Children are a special gift from God!

The eyes tell it all!

Aiden talks about his new sister.

2011-05-09T14:09:00.014-04:00

My sister, Ella Morgan Stall, arrived on May 7th at 2:03 a.m. weighing in at 8 ib. 9 oz and 21 inches long. Daddy and Mommy are really happy. I'm happy too but it is a little different at our house now these days.

"Wow-is this what was in mommy's tummy??"

"I guess she can stay."

"Nani and I baked Ella a birth-day cake!"

"Nani likes holding Ella, but she also likes holding me, too!"

"Is it my turn to hold her yet?"

"I think I like this big brother stuff."

"My sister is the prettiest little girl on the block. Don't you agree:"

Aiden

2011-05-05T19:11:00.001-04:00

What a joy to be able to spend quality time with my grandchildren! Here are a few glimpses of moments I've shared with Aiden, Branden and Brooke's 22 month old son, while here in North Carolina awaiting the birth of his sister, Ella.

Aiden in the spring of 2011 - make slideshow

I also want to share a cute story. We were taking a wagon ride around the block and I was naming all the parts of creation that God made. I said, "Look, Aiden, God made the birds. He made the trees. Oh, look at the pretty yellow flowers (dandelions, of course) that God made." Aiden then leans down and points to a piece of paper trash in a neighbor's yard and asks-"God made"? I said, "No, God doesn't make trash only people do." Well, wouldn't you know that the neighbor was in his driveway, behind his car, obviously listening. He popped his head up and asked, "Do I have trash in my yard?" I told him he did, thinking he might be a bit frustrated with me that I didn't pick it up, but instead he smiled and said, "It's good to share the truth with your grandson and have a blessed day."

That story illustrates the importance of the verse in Psalms 71:18- "Even when I am old and grey, do not forsake me, O God, until I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come."
It is an awesome responsibility for grandparents to share the truth of God with their grandchildren and you never know who might be listening!!

Thank-you God for giving me that wonderful responsibility!!

Unfolding a "folding" boat

2011-04-27T20:08:00.012-04:00

Except for a plane or train, Hunter and I now have every type of transportation "known" to man. Ha-a bit exaggerated but fun to claim! We have a bus, a car, a motorcycle, a tandem bike, and now a boat! No, we aren't pulling it down the road behind the car but rather on top of the car. It is a porta-bote.

The photos below will give you an idea of how it is constructed. The maiden voyage was made today without a camera but Hunter said it was a success. (I am currently in North Carolina with grandbabies while Hunter "baches" it alone for a month.) I think he will be spending much time on the water fly fishing wherever he can find a suitable lake during out time apart!

Stress, stress, and more stress!

2011-03-31T20:40:00.003-04:00

"You're going to do what? Back down this narrow, curving road? Are you crazy?" I threw these three questions Hunter's way while clinging desperately to the armrests in my seat in our RV, our house on wheels that was perched on a narrow blacktop half-way up a rather steep hill on the grounds of Kentucky Mountain Bible College.
Let me backup a bit in this story so you can have a better view of the situation. Three days previously we had been basking in 85 degree Florida sunshine enjoying time with Tommy. On March 29th, we packed "the gear" and headed north anticipating a pleasant 2 1/2 day drive to Kentucky where we planned to spend most of March volunteering at a Bible College. The first day out was nice but hard rain, heavy traffic, and fog made the second day long and headache producing for both of us. As the third day dawned with more rain and eventually light snow we were a bit disappointed but undaunted as to our final goal-reaching the College and getting settled in for the month. As we approached the driveway for the college we peered up at a winding road that seemed to go nowhere. OK, it takes a certain measure of faith when you are MMAP missionaries and we knew this was one of those times so off we roared up and around the corner arriving at an open area of blacktop where we stopped to ask for directions. We were told there were several places we could choose to park. From previous experience Hunter has learned to check out all possibilities on foot rather that actually drive the rig. While I waited inside the cab off he went with the coordinator to scope out the plots. After a considerable amount of time he returned looking rather concerned. "The college has only grass sites and they are marginal at best.", he reported. But not wanting to "give up yet" he decided to try one recommended, up one of their many winding driveways. (It is not called Kentucky MOUNTAIN Bible College for nothing!) Half-way up we realized there were large tree branches hanging too low which if we continued would slice off our air conditioners. Move to the right, on the grass, and avoid them was the suggestion. Do we dare try? You can guess the results since we weigh 50,000 pounds and the weather had been nothing but rain for days. In we sank! We would still be there if it were not for the incline. Hunter quickly, before the mud sucked us in to our axles, let out the brake and gunned it so we rolled backwards enough to get back on the blacktop. It is at this moment that he said we were going to have to back down the hill.
You already read my retort! Yet there was no other choice so slowly backward we went guided by Hunter's excellent driving skills and the multitude of angels I asked God to provide! At one point Hunter wanted to get out and examine the situation and as he began leaving his seat our vehicle began to roll backward, since he had forgotten to put on the emergency brake. Up to this point I was silent, whispering Phil. 4:6 "Be not anxious.." over and over again. But when we began to "free roll" I freaked! Thankfully Hunter has quick reflexes which he used to good measure and slammed on the brake before we hit a tree or worse. Slowly and eventually we managed to turn the RV around facing the exit and you guessed it, we exited! This is one project we will not participate in now or ever. We ended up in a hotel parking lot, which did have an RV hookup for two nights. With no project this month, even though the weather up north is not balmy we are headed to Iowa and a camping space that is level and solid! God is stretching and growing me through our retirement years in ways I don't always like but He continues to prove Himself faithful!!

Florida and Friends

2011-03-25T14:05:00.004-04:00

For the past 2 weeks Hunter and I have had the joy of "entertaining" two close friends from Germany-Klaus and Rita Brechtel. Although our "home" became a bit crowded we had so much fun! Together we visited Silver Springs, John F. Kennedy Space Center, Cocoa Beach, Salvador Dali art museum in St. Petersburg, Everglades National Park, The north Keys, and Sanibel Island-a whirlwind view of highlights in the state of Florida. In addition, we feasted on local cuisine and played cards well into the night proving that neither time apart nor distance squelch the fire of a lifelong friendship!

Checkout more photos on my facebook!

a few more photos...

2011-03-10T10:16:00.004-05:00

Wonderful memories! Hope to return soon!

Bonaire

2011-03-09T14:30:00.007-05:00

Hunter and I, along with two wonderful friends, spent the last week in February exploring this tropical oasis. We ate delicious food in town, traveled through a VERY RUSTIC national park, played cards, but mostly enjoyed some super shore scuba diving.

Bonaire is a small island located in the southern Caribbean, just north of Venezuela, known for its pioneering role in the preservation of nature, in particular the preservation of the marine environment, and for its excellent scuba diving, snorkeling, and windsurfing, among other things.
Many descriptions and slogans have been written about Bonaire: Best Kept Secret, Unhurried, Unspoiled, Unforgettable; Diver's Paradise; and the list goes on... The fact is that all these statements are true, and then some. Another truth is the statistic that over 55% of arrivals on Bonaire are repeat visitors!
First timers generally have heard about the climate, the water, the sun and what there is to do. When asked, repeat visitors generally say that they did not have enough time to do all they wanted to on their first visit. If it is the third or fourth trip, the answer is basically the same but with this addition "It is the warmth and friendliness of the people" that keeps visitors returning year after year.

Hunter and I definitely plan to return in the future, mainly because of the ability to walk to the shore with dive gear in tow and simply jump in, paddle a few yards and descend to a colorful, fish populated reef below-no boat ride necessary. For someone who gets motion sick on the tilting boat deck shore diving is a dream-no dramamine required!!

Family is SO important!

2011-02-18T12:43:00.004-05:00

Recently I returned from a four day visit with my mom, two of her sister-in-laws, and several male and female cousins. What a joy to reminisce, laughing over "old" memories, and sharing life's highs and lows. God's design for the family structure is incredibly perfect. I feel extremely blessed with my family and pray you also do too. Take some time today to thank our heavenly Father for the creation of family and your part in it!

"Missing" but moving on

2011-02-04T11:45:00.010-05:00

Laughter still echoes in my ears while twinkling eyes and adorable smiles burn in my memory. Oh, I miss them-those three rambunctious grandsons tossing balls in the air, reading stories on my lap, playing duck, duck goose. When will I get to hug them again? Aiden in May and Christian and Logan in September-too far away for sure but that is reality and I must adjust.
The RV moves on from North Carolina to Bonifay, Florida to another three week missionary volunteer project where we will make new friends and share new experiences while serving the Lord in whatever capacity He so directs.
Why He chooses to use the few “skills” of a lowly retired couple, sinners saved by grace, is beyond our understanding but we are thankful and enjoy His unconditional love daily!

Out of the mouths of babes.....

2011-01-23T13:00:00.006-05:00

I have had the priviledge of spending several weeks helping Rebecca with her boys (Christian and Logan), while she has prepared for their move to Italy. When you spend quality time with your grandchildren you often have the opportunity to hear the most wonderful "words". Following are four such occasions that I don't want to forget.

1.One morning I took Christian, who is 3 and Logan, who is 1 1/2, to an indoor play area. Christian wanted to ride on a particular toy which was being occupied by a little girl. I explained he would have to wait his turn so he quietly sat on a chair then looked up at me with a serious expression and said: "This is patience, Nani." (Wow-if only more adults would learn that concept!)

2. On another morning's outing I took the boys to a mall that featured a play area with climbing toys. It was already populated by a large group of pre-school children. Christian wanted to play with the kids so started following a little girl around. She quickly turned around and quite abruply yelled "NO" in his face. He quietly walked over to me, with his big blue-green eyes filling with tears, and said: "I am going to look for someone nice to play with because I am a nice boy!" (Of course, I agreed!)

3. Almost every night I lay in bed for a few minutes with Christian and tell him Bible stories and we sing songs together. One night I was singing the song, "Jesus Loves the Little Children". The second verse says that Jesus died for all the children. While I was singing it Christian interrupted me to state that "Jesus died on the cross". The third verse says that Jesus lives for all the children. He interrupted me again to state that "Jesus went to heaven and when I die I'm going to go to heaven to be with him". Then he asked, "Right? Nani" (Seminary theology from a three year old!)

4. The last day in Columbus Rebecca, Steve, the boys and myself were staying at a hotel in order to clean the house and because all of their belongings had been packed, shipped, and on their way to Italy. I was babysitting the boys for a time so Rebecca and Steve could complete the house details. The boys and I had just run the halls, rode on luggage carts, climbed stairs, and jumped on beds for an hour. I said it was time for a snack break. We sat on the floor with paper towels as plates and three baby carrots each to eat. As I began munching on my first carrot, Logan looked up at me, put his two little hands together and said (at 18 months old) "Amen" (A lesson well taught-thank God for everything at all times-even three little baby carrots!)

Stuck in an elevator

2011-01-19T20:02:00.006-05:00

Know what it is like to be stuck in an elevator with a 1 1/2 year old, a 3 year old and 13 pre-schoolers, along with about half a dozen nervous adults? CRAZY! Thankfully it was a mere 15 minutes, which seemed like a couple of hours. Rebecca and I were spending the morning and lunch time at the Columbus Children's Museum. As the crowds amassed around noon we were done and ready to leave so we stepped into the glass elevator to descend to the main floor when the elevator suddenly stopped between floors. Claustraphobia doesn't set in as quickly when you can see "through the walls and the floor". Mothers outside the elevator were pulling out their cameras and taking quick shots as we all waved and contacted the front desk via the intercom emergency button. A pre-school teacher pulled out her iphone to entertain a few wiggling bodies with games. Rebecca followed suit with her new ipodtouch so Christian was immediately mesmerized. Logan, always the little blonde Dennis the Menace, refused to leave the "button" area, trying to help the situation?? Well, we all cheered quite loudly as the technicians got us moving again and Rebecca and I exited the museum thinking we were extremely fortunate our "stay" in the elevator was short!

Hope your own "inconveniences" this week are brief!

A Super Christmas Gift!

2011-01-11T18:44:00.007-05:00

I love to read! Among the list of fiction genres I favor are thrillers, action/adventure, historical, fantasy and once in a while a good romance. Generally I gravitate to those with Christian themes, especially stories with spiritual nuggets imbedded in the narrative that cause me to search my soul and connect with God. It's fun "escaping" to another world where I can walk through a day with a pioneer wife, or breathlessly follow a thief into a deserted building, or watch an Episcopal priest minister to his flock. Evenings often find me tucked in my king-sized bed turning the pages of my current story while Hunter plays computer games and searches the net. On nights when I can't immediately fall asleep I grab a book for a while until the words blur. Thankfully, my dear husband for years has been willing to contend with the overhead lights still blazing while he easily falls asleep. Even in the middle of the night, when I awake, I often grab the book and use a night light to continue the saga until I'm weary and can sleep once again. The problem has always been finding the perfect night light. I've tried ones attached to the binding, slipped between the pages, even ones attached to my head, like a minor's spot light. Nothing seemed to be adequate until I received my NOOK! Now I can read in the middle of the night with the ease of pushing a button and scroll from page to page. Since the Nook is backlit no night light is required! I can also download a world of novels, as well as colorful audio children's books that can entertain my grandchildren. In addition, I can read various newspapers or other magazines and even search the net, if I have internet access. I'm discovering that my new colorNook is an exciting adventure in reading. It even has other "perks" I have yet to explore. Hunter chose the perfect gift for me this year. Thanks dear!

Family photos

2011-01-06T20:15:00.009-05:00

Let the following "quote" challenge you to live a positive life in 2011:

"Don't worry about getting it done. Just get it done.

Don't complain about what has gone wrong. Just do whatever
is necessary to make it right.

Your time and energy are too precious and too powerful to
waste on things that will just bring you down. Instead of
bringing yourself down, lift the whole world up.

Decide to live life on your own terms and make those terms
exceedingly positive. Choose to spend each priceless moment
in the service of your highest values. (For me it is in the service
of the Lord!)

Whatever the situation, you get to decide how you will be.
So always direct your energy to where it will bring new
richness to your world.

Take everything in stride, and respond with your own unique,
positive perspective. Live on the highest level you can
envision, and cheerfully encourage everyone else to come
along."

Ralph Marston

The Good, The Bad, The Ugly of December 2010

2011-01-02T20:41:00.003-05:00

THE GOOD:
-spending 10 days, from Dec. 9-19, with my mom and two sisters in Minneapolis laughing, shopping, going to a play, & making Christmas candy
-receiving wonderful Christmas cards from dear friends
-buying presents for family
-visiting with Tommy, Hunter's brother, in Florida
-traveling to St. Augustine, Florida and sharing a house on the beach with our three grown children, their spouses, and three active grandsons from Christmas Eve to New Year's Day. We walked the beach gathering seashells, made sand castles, built & eventually destroyed a gingerbread house, played cards and a trivia game, ate, spent an afternoon competing for the Stall trophy in a miniature golf game, ate some more, solved a murder mystery in costume, visited a playground with an antique carousel that the grandsons loved, and ate yet more! (family photo coming)

THE BAD:
-experienced the Minneapolis 16 inch snow storm and below zero wind chills!
-colder than normal temps in Florida requiring winter wear while walking the beach the first three days of our visit

THE UGLY:
-two days in the hospital, Dec. 23rd and 24th, with a bowel obstruction which was cleared BUT medication triggered 30 hours of violent nausea and vomiting & a 10 pound weight loss

Now I'm looking forward to God's blessings in 2011: anticipating new MMAP projects in January and February, a scuba trip to Bonaire the end of February, touring Florida with our German friends in March, two more MMAP projects in April and May, welcoming a granddaughter into the world in May, spending the summer in the Quad Cities and the fall in Italy and wrapping up the year somewhere on the east coast.

Praying your new year is filled with meaningful activities keeping you busy and friends & family keeping you happy!

"Walking in the truth"

2010-12-04T14:42:00.003-05:00

Christmas is a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, God's Son. In scripture he is often referred to as "the truth". "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6
As I was reading in 3 John this morning I came across the following verse: "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth." The apostle John was referring here to his "spiritual children", those he had led to the Lord on his missionary journeys. Today that verse filled me with great pleasure as I reflected on the fact that all my children, including my son-in-law and two daughters-in-law are "walking in the truth". There is no greater inheritance that Hunter and I can pass on to our children and grand-children than knowledge of "the truth". Each time I am with our grandchildren I make it a point to tell them God loves them, relating exciting Bible stories before bed and singing Sunday School songs in the rocking chair. I've even gone "high tech" by sitting them on my lap with the computer and sharing Christian DVDs together.
I encourage each grandparent out there to take time to share "the truth" with your grandchildren this holiday.

Fun with Aiden

2010-11-23T13:38:00.005-05:00

Hallel Psalms

2010-11-19T17:10:00.002-05:00

Psalms 113-118 have been labeled the Hallel Psalms, especially when read as a unit. These psalms are essentially expressions of thanksgiving and joy for divine redemption. What is redemption? It's being saved or redeemed from sin. As we approach the Thanksgiving season what better way to prepare our hearts to join with friends and family in thanking God for His gift of redemption than to read Psalms 113-118 daily, filling our hearts with praise.
Around the Thanksgiving table, next Thursday, Americans will verbalize why they are thankful. Is their anything more valuable than our salvation? Let's thank him daily for this precious gift, given to us through his son, Jesus Christ.
"Praise the Lord." Ps. 113:1

Quick update

2010-11-04T21:56:00.004-04:00

On the go once more:
-Buzzed through Columbus, Ohio to give the grandsons a quck kiss and hi and bye
-Arrived in the Quad Cities where Hunter jumped into a car with buddy Bob and journeyed north to stalk grown "Bambies"
-Shopping, lunch dates, dr. appointment, hair appointment, talking with girlfriends are Nancy's agenda, as well as traveling 4 hours north to visit a friend and 2 hours west to attend a funeral
-Popping in the car next Tuesday for a return trip through Columbus for another quick hi and bye with grandsons, arriving in New Jersey for an overnight
-Packing up the RV and heading south to Branden's warmer climate. Hurray!

Retirment is exhausting!!!!

New York-New York

2010-10-24T21:13:00.003-04:00

A day of sunshine, theatre, walking, eating, watching, laughing in "The Big Apple!

A telephone number

2010-10-19T08:04:00.003-04:00

Have you called God today? Here is his telephone number: Jeremiah 33:3
"Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know."

10 "things" I am doing

2010-10-18T14:51:00.003-04:00

No grandchildren to entertain so what am I doing in Atlantic City, New Jersey?

1. Baking "Chocolate sin" cookies and homemade biscuits

2. Fixing two lasagnes: sausage and vegetarian

3. Cooking pie pumpkins in preparation for seasonal pumpkin pie

4. Grocery shopping at new markets with Stacia

5. Verbally encouraging the ceramic tile kitchen floor project underway by Jake and Hunter

6. Attending a special "kid's " baptism service where Stacia was the "MC"

7. Going with Jake and Stacia to Shore Fellowship, their church, on Sunday to worship

8. Tagging along with Jake and Stacia to their small group and entering into a lively discussion of Fear.

9. Faithfully working the body at a local Curves

10. Marveling at the stunning fall foliage gracing the roads and the campground while planning a trip into New York City in the next couple of weeks
Any ideas from the blogging community on what to see, where to go, and what to eat let me know!!

Memories of Ohio

2010-10-14T09:36:00.009-04:00

The RV nestles among fall-colored trees near Atlantic City, New Jersey. While I gaze out my window lazily planning my day's events I remember the active toddlers in Ohio recently "left behind" as we now enjoy the company of our eldest son, Jacob and his lovely wife, Stacia.
Here are a few of my thoughts in pictures:

Helping Nani clean the house.

Not to be outdone by brother!

Fun in the backyard.

Nano joins the fun!

Swimming in October?

Playing hide and seek with Nani!

Grandchildren are INDEED one of God's greatest blessings!!

A precious time!

2010-10-05T20:36:00.005-04:00

One of the most precious times of my day is when I lay in bed at night with my three year old grandson, Christian, and listen to what he is learning in his Sunday School class, from his mother, and even from his grandmother.

His first Bible memory verse:

"God saw everything he made and it was good." Genesis 1:31

The first song he has learned to sing from beginning to end:

"Jesus loves the little children,
all the children of the world,
red and yellow, black and white,
they are precious in his sight.
Jesus loves the little children of the world."

His comments about Jesus:

He is mighty and strong.
He lives in my heart.

The recent song Nani and Christian sing together everynight:

"Only a Boy Named David..."

God is so faithful to allow me to experience Psalms 71:18
"Even when I am old and grey, do not forsake me, O Lord God, til I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come."

What's in the can?-and other odds & ends

2010-09-24T09:40:00.013-04:00

We are wrapping up our project in Oregonia, Ohio. One of our final activities was hosting a "milkcan" supper.
As adult children we inherit not only qualities but also "things" from our parents when they pass on. One of the "things" that my Dad passed on was a 5 gallon milkcan. In fact he made sure he had 3 of them to pass on to his 3 daughters. What is so special about a milkcan? Besides the fact that it carries with it fond memories of my Dad, it is the cooking vessel for a delicious meal to feed 10 or more hungry people. You layer sweet corn, potatoes, carrots, onions, cabbage, and kielbasa sausage in the can then cover with a gallon of warm water. Next the can is put over a hot flame and brought to a boil, let to steam for 30 minutes, then drained. The contents are poured into waiting bowls and everyone digs in! What yummy fun!

Hard at work!

Finished product!

It is a bit sad to leave King's Domain, where we became better aquainted with new friends, built a deck, walked through deer "infested" woods, rode a fantastic bike trail, and in general saw God's hand everywhere. But we set our sights now on many weeks enjoying our children and grandchildren traveling from Ohio to New Jersey and on to North Carolina. Eastward ho!!!

A day on the soccer field

2010-09-13T20:26:00.004-04:00

Check out the link below for the slide show. I couldn't get the code to put it on my blog. Probably a "user" error!! Ha!

http://www.slide.com/r/AvVXIQIo5z9GeKh-TTJcnoNBKOqe7vbj?previous_view=lt_embedded_url

"King's Domain" and beyond

2010-09-11T02:52:00.002-04:00

Oregonia, Ohio, is the "home" of King's Domain Camp and Conference Retreat Center.
Currently Hunter and I are located there on a MMAP, (Mobile Missionary Assistance Program) project. There are three couples working, with the men constructing a deck adjacent to the office building and the women doing various and asundry tasks, such as weeding a very rocky flower bed and shoveling mud away from some boards which we will paint next week. The location is beautiful, but what camp isn't? Unfortunately, or some would say fortunately, our rig is squeezed into a tiny spot with overhanging branches preventing any TV reception and poor, at best, internet connection. At times I want to complain and probably do, just ask my husband, but I try to remember we are in the class of "missionaries" and that often equates with sacrifice. So instead of technology filled free time we climb aboard the tandem and click off 30 miles on a bike trail not more than 1/2 mile from the camp which runs adjacent to a lazy river.
Week-ends are and will continue to be spent in Columbus Ohio, just an hour ride north-east where we will entertain two very active grandsons. Tomorrow I will report on Christian's soccer game-can't wait to cheer him on!!!

A biking "adventure"

2010-09-01T20:08:00.007-04:00

After a fantastic family reunion (check out Rebecca's blog for wonderful photos besides just the one above), we have motored over to Wisconsin and spent the last week enjoying the quiet, cool evenings listening to the Canadian geese and wild cranes on Blue Lake, where we are camping. Most of our time we have biked, explored little towns, and relaxed after our busy week with the family. I'd like to share one especially fun bike outing. On my "bucket list" of to-dos before I "kick the buchet" is to tandem bike Ireland carrying all our gear with us. As a dry run Hunter suggested we try this on the Elroy-Sparta bike trail in this area. It is a 34 mile old railroad bed that has been converted to a crushed limestone trail suited well for biking. Since it was a train bed it only has 3 percent grades of up and down so without tough hills the riding is very enjoyable. This particular trail has three long, DARK, tunnels, which add a bit of mystery and excitement to the ride.
On Monday morning we packed our gear (change of clothes for the evening and toiletries) into a set of paniers (bags made to fit on a bike rack), loaded Hunter's backpack with snacks and our lunch for the first day, filled the water bottles and drove to the trail head. Could we have any better weather with temps hovering around the mid 80s, a gentle but not head breeze, and wispy clouds occationally blocking the sunsrays? We leasurely peddled along until we came to the first tunnel. Oh dear-we forgot a flashlight! Oh well, by squinting we could just make out the other end so we ventured into the dark and damp tunnel arriving quite happily at the entrance. This procedure we duplicated at the second tunnel but when we reached the third tunnel, finding it over 3/4 mile in length there was NO way we could see ANYTHING through the thick black interior. What to do? Wait for someone else and "piggy back" through with them was Hunter's suggestion-a good one if there were others actually riding the trail. In season this would have worked but out of season-a no go. Therefore Hunter had to admit my suggestion was our only option-backtrack 3 miles to Norwalk where we bought a flashlight then retrace the miles to the tunnel's entrance. That flashlight was worth its weight in gold for sure as we slowly walked through the inky interior. Emerging on the other side we climbed onto the bike once again and finished our day's ride by arriving in Sparta, Illinois, a quaint little town with friendly people.
We found our way to Strawberry Lace.It is a Bed and Breakfast treasure nestled in a small Wisconsin town. With Victorian grace and elegance the home is a feast for the eyes, the beautifully decorated bedrooms and comfy beds a welcome rest for the weary muscles, and the breakfast-oh the breakfast-was a four course gourmet meal fit for royalty-even royalty in biking shorts savored each morsel. The proprietors were extremely hospitable and we vowed to return with friends next year.
On the day of our return ride the skies opened like a well-oiled zipper and showered us with a steady downpour for the entire ride, complete with a background serenade of thunder and lightning. The tunnels became a welcome respite, although a bit cold. It is amazing how little time you spend snacking and resting when you are soaked to the skin. You just keep peddling. The car was a welcome sight and the showers in the trailhead restroom were a special treat. Who cares if you have any towels-just washing off the first layer of mud lifts your spirits.
Hope I haven't discouraged anyone from an overnight bike trip. We will do it again in a heartbeat!

Fun in the sun!!

2010-08-16T23:14:00.001-04:00

Pickleball?

2010-08-08T22:00:00.003-04:00

Hunter and I just learned an awesome game called pickleball. My dear husband calls it "old man's tennis". I call it fun! It is played on a tennis or badmitten court with "amended" lines, a small paddle, and a whiffle-type ball. Rules are similar to ping pong and its played with 2 or 4 people.
For me, it brings back memories of competitive racquetball games, but at a slower pace, one which spares the knees or for that matter the rest of the body from bruises while hitting walls or being hit by the flying hard rubber racqeut ball.
The game received it's name from the co-inventor's dog, called Pickles, a family cocker spaniel who would case stray balls and then hide in the bushes.
We've played twice last week and have another morning already scheduled for the courts. Hopefully, we will find more "young seniors" who want to play on our travels. I imagine Florida and Arizona will have LOTS of possible opponents. Ha!

Back in Iowa!

2010-07-30T17:01:00.002-04:00

Just arrived into the Quad Cities and set up the RV in rain and humidity. Yup-this IS Iowa in the summer! We already miss the mountains!!!!

Hiking in snow on July 25th?

2010-07-23T23:07:00.007-04:00

Yes, that is exactly what we did today-hiked in snow on July 25th in Glacier National Park and what a great day! This hike, to Hidden Lake, was 3 miles of rocks, snow, and switchbacks galore as went up and over a ridge to descend into the valley which nestled a "mirror glass" crystal lake. There are moments when it becomes necessary to challenge our bodies and push a bit closer to the limit. As I looked over the ridge down to the lake I knew this was such a moment for me. What a rush to reach the lake and then to ascend and return to the car after 6 miles of hiking, feeling elated and greatful that God continues to bless us with health.
There is no place like Glacier!!

Butte to Hungry Horse, Montana

2010-07-20T20:56:00.011-04:00

Be careful how you pronounce that city name-Butte! I am constantly correcting my dear husband who loves to joke about this city since it is the hometown of one of his best friends. We did enjoy visiting a mineral mine and eating one of Joe's pasties-a type of corn beef and hash "calzone" and riding our bike on a converted railroad bed.
Now on to Hungry Horse: gateway to Glacier National Park. Hungry Horse is but a "blimp on the screen" but has a lovely campground able to accommodate our moving house complete with shade trees and large pull through lots. It is our home base for this week of exploring the park. The first two days we hiked the Avalanche Lake Trail with magnificent views of creek, lake, and waterfalls, drove the Going-to-the-Sun road and hiked to St. Mary's and Victoria Falls as well as take a boat ride in order to hike to the Upper Two Medicine Lake.
Today our tandem was calling so we checked out a short bike trail in the park and ventured into the various campgrounds and other paved roads. Tomorrow we plan to go deeper into some "uncharted" sections of the park with our bike, probably having to maneuver on unpaved roads. On Friday I want to hike Logan's Pass, which still has a good dusting of snow and maybe Hunter will actually try some fishing in the park on Saturday before we break camp on Sunday and start the trek to Iowa.
Glacier National Park is one of God's prize art works!

P.S. Here's to anyone who might have ever lived in Montana:
"You know you are in Montana:
1 If you keep your snow tires on until June.
2.If you are passed when driving 75.
3.If the rodeo is the social event of the year.
4.If pasties are in restaurants and not girlie shows.
5.If the pickup trucks all have two guns and two big dogs.
6.If you'd like to live there.
P.S.S.
Did you ever see a miner carry a purse? Well, this one does!! Isn't he cute?

It all began on the Lazy L & B

2010-07-10T23:11:00.005-04:00

It was the spring of 1970 and I was just completing my second year of college when I received a phone call from my aunt Leota asking me if I'd be interested in coming to work for her in the summer at a new dude ranch they had recently purchased outside of Dubois, Wyoming. My job description would involve cooking and general preparations for guests as well as helping with the horse operation and leading trail rides into the surrounding mountains and valleys. Although I had very little experience in any of these areas I quickly accepted the offer with visions of cowboys, saddles, and campfires under the stars. When finals were complete I jumped into a pickup with my aunt and off we rumbled over many a rough road before we arrived on the top of a ridge looking down onto the new ranch. My first glimpse took my breath away; not only for the beauty of red cliffs kissed by the afternoon sun, or the birch trees clustered along the winding Wind River Valley with rustic, log cabins nestled in their branches but also the view of a treacherous road we were about to travel in order to reach the valley floor. Oh, this summer is going to be a continual adventure I thought as I sat clinging with white knuckles to the rattling door handle as my aunt expertly manuvered the rock strewn narrow path.
First impressions are lasting and I'll never forget that site nor the days of serving "chow" to laughing boys during 6 weeks of boy's ranch, riding my horse, "Boy", up narrow ravines leading 20 or more kids and adults to the upper ranch, barrel riding in the corral, frying pancakes & bacon over an open fire and many other life-changing events on the ranch.
Here I am but a mere 40 years later sitting on a horse riding once again with my aunt, 86 years "young", through the same ravines, fording the same Wind River, climbing the same hills and my mind returns to those happy days just described. I had forgotten the sweet smell of a leather saddle and the rocking chair gait of the horse's rhythm I so loved. Oh to be 20 again. We can't go back yet God allows us to remember and enjoy and be so greatful for past experiences that shape our lives. It was on Leota's ranch I learned to cook, to ride a horse, to adore children, to work hard, and to love God's creation.
There is a memory verse found in 1 Samuel 12:24 that comes to mind today: "But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you." He has indeed done great things for me and one of those is to allow me to return to Wyoming and ride a horse through the Wind River Valley and reminisce with my Aunt Leota.

"Build-A-Bear" Really??

2010-07-07T21:24:00.004-04:00

Did you ever pass one of those stores in a mall called "Build-A-Bear" and think what a gimmick! Can that actually be fun for any kid, especially active little boys? Well, I am here to tell you that YES it is a fun time for little boys, especially at 2 1/2, and maybe even more fun for the parents. When the child is asked to kiss the little heart and press it inside their chosen stuffed animal your heart just melts as you watch their serious response. Watch the slide show below and you might just understand why Nani loved the event!

Grandchildren are to LOVE!

2010-06-30T17:36:00.020-04:00

(Time in North Carolina with the three grandsons.)
AIDEN:

"It's my first birthday!"

"Love my chocolate birthday cake!"

"Balloons for me?"

"Let's swim!"

"Playing with my cousin in my new sandbox. Does the sand taste good, Logan?"
LOGAN:

"I'm not sure but it's worth a try."

"My cousin has a cool new swimming pool."

"This is fun!"

"Hey, look at me. Standing all by myself!"

"Can I play?"
CHRISTIAN:

"I'm the big boy here but I like swimming, too!"

"Watch Shamu dive."

"OK. Let me at that sandbox and I'll show you little guys how it's done!"

"Enough with the little kids. Time to show my stuff! I'm a left handed batter. Watch out "Majors". Here I come!"

Springtime in the Rockies

2010-06-06T19:29:00.001-04:00

Psalms 121:1-2

2010-05-30T17:36:00.007-04:00

"I lift my eyes to the hills-where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth."

Just as the city of Estes Park is surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains and joy can be found in spendng time exploring them, I am surrounded by God and find eternal joy in exploring His Word and spending time in daily fellowship with the creator of these mountains!

Guess where we are now??

2010-05-26T11:58:00.003-04:00

If you guessed the rocky mountains, you are absolutely correct. We are parked at Elk Meadow RV Resort in the town of Estes Park, Colorado-just a stone's throw from the entrance to the national park. This is our third day and we will be here until June 7th. After the high winds and snow we experienced on Monday we began to question our plans. But today with the sunshine and predicted 70 degree temps we are happy to be here and ready to take our first hike into the mountains.

April 19, 1995

2010-05-20T21:39:00.008-04:00

Between 9:01 a.m. and 9:03 a.m. on April 19, 1995, Oklahoma City stood still as an act of incredible violence rocked it's core destroying the lives of 168, 19 of which were children, and permanently altering the lives of many hundreds of people. The story is told in a remarkable manner as you quietly walk through the Oklahoma City National Museum. Stepping off the elevator on the third floor you embark on a step by step reenactment of that fateful day. A still heaviness rests on your shoulders as you view items found in the debris, from a woman's wristwatch to a child's shoe. Reverently walking through the "photo gallery" of those killed in the blast tears form in your eyes and no words are spoken. After spending over an hour in the museum you are further impacted by the outdoor symbolic memorial. From the Memorial Overlook you can take in such sites as The Gates of Time, Reflecting Pool, and the spectacular Survivor Tree. Yet what gripped me the most was the Field of Empty Chairs, each of the 168 symbolizing a life lost, with smaller chairs representing the 19 children killed-children who never had a chance to grow up, to go on their first date, to get their driver's license, to turn 21, to get married, to raise a family, to LIVE! It all seems so wrong, so tragic, so heartbreaking. Why? I know there is no answer to that question. Evil exists and Satan loves to destroy. So where was God? I believe God was there in the midst of the chaos. He was there with the fire men, the ambulance workers, the churches that opened their doors, the people who flooded the city with volunteer help, the prayers of relatives, friends, and strangers all around the world. He was there carrying grief and giving comfort only those who experienced it can fully understand. In the city of Oklahoma many could atest to the truth of 2 Corinthians 1:3-4.
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in our tribulations, that we may be able to comfort those who are in trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God."

Getting ready to leave

2010-05-14T20:21:00.009-04:00

Tomorrow we fly out of Utila and return to the states. I won't miss the noseeums, rough seas, or ear infections but the warm sunshine, swaying coconut trees, authentic food, scuba fun, fishing(Hunter's love),kayaking and scooter fun will be memories we will relive often. Check out a few photos below.

Paddling through the mangroves

2010-05-11T16:35:00.008-04:00

If you caught my last blog you read that I was nervous about my first night boat dive. Well, I did it and didn't get swept off course but it wasn't my favorite dive, probably because I had too many sensory imputs flowing through my head that I couldn't really concentrate on what was in front of my dive flashlight. The last 15 minutes were the worst. We were in shallower water with a great deal of surge. For someone dependent on dramamine to ward off seasickness this is the worst possible scenario. I managed to make it back into the boat before I "lost it"-thankfully. Hunter and I are not diving today because I need time for my sinus/ears to clear and for my body to enjoy a "dramamine free" day!
We "tackled" another adventure this morning-paddling through the mangroves to the other side of the island. Covered with both 70+ sunscreen and Off, sporting a jug of water and the camera, we borrowed one of the resort's sea kayaks and set off to find the mangrove channel we had heard was a "secret" natural treasure of this island.
It didn't take us but 20 minutes to locate the mouth of the channel so we paddled on. We knew it eventually emptied into the ocean on the north side of the island. It was a beautiful trip, quiet and peaceful, the mangroves often forming a canopy over our heads. Since the island is said to be 3 miles in width we assumed that was the distance we had to paddle. As we got closer to the north side we could hear the waves breaking on the shore and when we caught our first glimpse of the shimmering blue water it was a thrill. Oh, we do love our adventures!

Reflections on a week in "paradise"

2010-05-07T19:36:00.005-04:00

After 8 days on the island of Utila I walked along the beach early this evening watching the coconut trees swaying in the gentle breeze and listening to the waves lap the shore and relected on our time here, thusfar. Here are some of my thoughts:

-greeting 1 foot iguanas crossing my path to breakfast every morning
-being startled by hand-sized crabs burrowing holes adjacent to our front steps
-finding myself more relaxed at 60 feet under the water and gaining confidence each dive
-joyful that I've had NO sea-sickness
-enjoying blue skies, little current, calm seas
-drinking coconut water on the rocks and eating tortillas hot off the griddle
-finding blessings everywhere, even in an ear infection forcing a three-day hiatus from diving giving me more quality time memorizing scripture and meditating
-reading two fantastic novels discovered in an upstairs used book library
-riding behind Hunter on a moped around the island, getting lost, and almost arrested after driving on the airport runway,(by mistake mind you)
-doing daily battle with "no-see-ums" (Yes, that is a biting insect's name and they are a cousin to the sand flea)(Although covered in bites I'm not giving up, just putting on MORE deet!!)
-nervously awaiting tomorrow night's dive-my first one from a boat in the dark! I've checked and double checked my flashlights and won't let Hunter out of my sight!

Utila-here we come!

2010-04-30T11:35:00.003-04:00

A new swim suit and a pedicure.

I'm officially ready for our vacation to Utila, an island off the coast of Honduras. Tomorrow we leave. Hurray!

The Making of a Tire Cover

2010-04-27T20:59:00.010-04:00

My daughter-in-law, Stacia, is taking a sewing class and I love reading her blog about her new hobby documenting what she is creating with the sewing machine. So I thought I would "document" a sewing project Hunter and I recently worked on together.
Since our RV has very large and expensive tires it is to our benefit to protect them from drying out in the hot summer sun, therefore covers are a must. Unfortunately, as many of you have experienced after purchasing retail products, today's quality control departments are asleep! When we bought our RV two years ago we purchased 6 covers and now, as you can see from the photo, they are torn and quite unsightly. The question we asked ourselves is "Could we make ones better?" Why not try.
Using a process Hunter calls reverse engineering we carefully cut apart an old one, measured and determined an approximate yardage, and headed for JoAnn Fabrics. They had exactly the marine vinyl we wanted so we bought enough for one cover-a prototype. Our success has spurred us on to buy more material and complete the remaining five covers. We are not only proud of our accomplishment but had a great time working together. Retirement is fun!

Balance-week 2 comments

2010-04-24T16:33:00.005-04:00

On Aprl 12th I commented on Pastor Michael Fletcher's recent sermon series:Balance.
The second sermon in this series was even more convicting and challenging than the first. He threw out the question: "Why are you working?" then followed it with four Biblical answers to that poignant question.

1) Work to provide the necessities of life
2) Work to fulfill one's calling from the Lord
3) Work to minister to others
4) Work to secure the ability to enjoy life with those you love

There was more "meat" in the message but the ending was where my thoughts settled.

He concluded the day's lesson with 7 practical applications that hit home to me and I hope they will for you.

1. Remember that you are called and created for a purpose.
2. Therefore view work as a ministry.
3. Fight to keep Godly priorities in order: God, family, then work.
4. Unplug occasionally-feel free to "go dark" once in a while.
5. Remember why you are working (referring to the list above).
6. Take vacations/breaks.
7. Simplify your life-cut the clutter.

If you feel like this: check out Michael's message, maybe it will help. mannachurch.org

Back in Mississippi

2010-04-20T15:18:00.011-04:00

After a 12 hour straight drive from North Carolina to Waynesboro, Mississippi I am home, back with my loving hubby. We are completing the MMAP project this Thursday and will then head to Houston, Texas on Friday. I had a wonderful time helping Branden and his family move into their new home.

3 Questions

2010-04-12T12:29:00.004-04:00

Sunday I attended Manna Church in Fayetteville, North Carolina, while visiting my son and his family. I love this church and find the messages very convicting. Pastor Michael Fletcher is starting a series of sermons titled Balance; enjoying life under pressure. I came away from the message with the three questions he posed for each of us to ponder concerning the activities in our lives.

1. Will it last?

2. Is it being done for the right reasons, (motive)?

3. Does it enhance your life or the life of others?

Think about these this week!

If you'd like to follow this series of messages or any others recently given at Manna, (the series on marriage is EXCELLENT!) go to www.mannachurch.org then click on online sermons and click video. Technology is great! I love having access to the messages via my computer.

Mississippi: Here we come!

2010-04-05T11:18:00.004-04:00

Hunter and I are now in Waynesboro, Mississippi working at the camp listed above. Or should I just say Hunter since I am off and "running" again for 2-3 weeks. This time I will be in North Carolina helping Branden and Brooke move into a new home they recently purchased in Fayetteville. Hopefully my main job will be babysitting Aiden while they fill and move boxes. Ha! Hunter will be "baching" it again. There is good fishing nearby so he is happy and will definitely keep busy.

Family Fun!

2010-03-19T20:15:00.007-04:00

After a long day of parks, backyard sandbox adventures, and homemade Friday night pizza the day ends with some family fun.

Spring Fever Remedy

2010-03-13T16:30:00.002-05:00

A beautiful day at the park chases those "winter blues" away.

My "new" addiction

2010-03-04T13:02:00.005-05:00

I no longer can go to Meijers Grocery/Department store to buy groceries. Like an alcoholic in a liquor store or a gambler in a casino I am drawn to my weakness like a high powered magnet and can't seem to resist. What's my weakness you ask? Buying Schleich animals for my grandsons! They were rated as the #1 toy for 2009 by the Today Show, (if that source means anything to you-ha!). Yet, after watching my eldest grandson play with them constantly I would agree with their assessment. I truly believe we could take away all of Christian's other toys and he wouldn't mind as long as he still had his animals. The variety of animals they manufacture is amazing and the detail and quality of each animal exceeds most of today's toys. Fortunately or unfortunately for an addict like me they usually cost less than $5.00 each making them an "easy buy". Since I am staying with Rebecca now I have taken a number of photos of Christian and Logan and generally the animals are in the pictures somewhere. Oh, by the way, these animals are easy to mail, hence Aiden has a good collection already in progress!
All you grandparents out there-be warned!! If you pass by a bin of Schleich animals check them out and you too may become hooked!!

Where are they?

2010-02-28T14:06:00.006-05:00

The RV is parked in Georgia but empty. The Scion is no where to be found. The question is-Where are Nano and Nani? They are on separate trips to visit children and grandchildren. Nano (alias Hunter) is in North Carolina spending a long week-end with Branden, Brooke, and adorable Aiden watching as his grandson pulls himself up to a standing position and learns to clap. Nani (alias Nancy) is spending a month in Columbus, Ohio helping with two more grandchildren and stepping in to babysit while Rebecca gets some much needed rest. She is also baking bread, changing dirty diapers, chasing a toddler in the snow, giving baths to splashing little boys, and trying to fish a fingernail file out of the DVD slot of her new computer! On the last task she was unsuccessful and had to call on the assistance of the local Apple Store. Thankfully it was still under warranty so the new optical drive was installed free. Now she takes more precautions as she lifts Christian up on her lap to watch Starfall, a free internet site for toddlers. Oh, the lessons we learn and the fun we have as grandparents!!

Here's hoping NEVER to see this again!

2010-02-13T16:02:00.003-05:00

Snow and an RV just do not mix!!
We went south to get out of this mess. Not far enough south, I guess. Next January and February we are heading for the Florida Keys!!!

Joy?

2010-02-10T20:21:00.007-05:00

My current Bible memory verse is "stretching" me.
James 1:2-3
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you face trials of many kinds for the testing of your faith develops perseverance."
I am to experience joy when it continues to rain and we have another leak in the roof (fixed only a year ago)?
I am to experience joy when my stomach feels "onfire" for no apparent reason?
I am to experience joy when it is 25 degrees outside and we thought we were going south for the winter?
I am to experience joy when the arthritis in my right hand is so painful I can't write with a pen, use the scissors, or hold my curling brush?
I am to experience joy when I can't get on the internet and the TV reception cuts off?

The answer to each question is a resounding YES. This is possible only as I sit daily under the refreshing waterfall of the Holy Spirit. He is teaching me to persevere and to look at life with the "cup at least half full".

Check out two more verses that follow this same theme:
Romans 12:12 and 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Be filled with joy today!!

From one state to another

2010-02-06T18:24:00.004-05:00

This past week we left Starke, Florida (Montgomery Camp) with its lovely woods and peaceful lake, and have landed in Flovilla, Georgia where it is cold and no visible lake or pretty woods. So far, I am not impressed BUT I must remember God sends us where He wants us to serve Him. We are in his hands even here in rainy, dreary Indian Springs Holiness Camp.
I am reminded of a Bible verse in Philippians 2:14-16. "Do everything without COMPLAINING or arguing so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and perverse generation where you shine like stars in the universe holding out the word of life."
OK! So what are the positives of our current location?-good TV reception for abc so I can watch the upcoming episodes of Lost-and good reception on Fox so I can catch some of the American Idol telecasts-internet access from our RV, weak but can read my mail (sometimes)-within driving distance of a big city-ATLANTA, where we plan to go to the biggest aquarium in the world, check out the Coca-Cola headquarters and shop in the underground. So all in all it is a good location.
Tomorrow we learn more details about the project. Hopefully, there will be service opportunities for the women as well as the men but if not God will direct my time and efforts.
Oh and one more perk-a Curves just around the corner!

Granny Mae

2010-01-21T14:10:00.003-05:00

The bike rolled slowly along covering every corner of the parking lot pushed by an elderly lady who had to be in his 80s. Early every morning she is seen picking up change, every dime, nickel, and penny people drop to and from the grocery store and other establishments in the mall. Why? Is she propelled by hunger, greed, boredom? Logical conclusions but the answer is a resounding NO. She collects change to roll and deposit in the bank eventually sending it to her daughter who is a missionary in Africa. From a distance I watched her one day while exercising at Curves and after inquiring about her I learned the details I just shared. Now, I wanted very much to actually talk to her myself so that became one of my prayer items each day. "Lord, if You will, please help me have an opportunity to talk with the 'bicycle lady' ". Know for sure that He always answers, sometimes in surprising ways!
Two days after I made this specific request I came face to face with the 'bicycle lady' as I came out of the grocery story. I quickly introduced myself and we began a delightful conversation. She said people call her Granny Mae and yes, indeed, she was picking up dropped change for her daughter. Various people now and then donate to her cause, so added to her change she is able to send $400 a month to the mission field!!
I was humbled as I listened to her impassioned story and felt the love she had for missionaries. It was a privilege to share my sister's story of mission work in Tanzania and to add a little bit to her mission 'project'. Driving away from Granny Mae I asked myself the question: What would I be willing to do to raise money for missionaries? I need to spend some serious time thinking about my answer and then putting the answer into action!

"Fast" Exercise On The Run

2010-01-12T15:51:00.004-05:00

I've just discovered the answer to one of life's questions (or at least one of MY recent life questions): How can you stay in shape living full time in an RV traveling to new places about every month? Of course there is race walking, hiking, and occasional biking and scuba diving but on a regular basis there is no weight program or fitness center which will accept "gypsies". How about a women's club that is 30 minutes of heart pounding, weight bearing, fast paced fun? CURVES
I learned I can sign up for just a month so I've been going every morning and loving it. Now when we move to our next spot I will search out a local Curves and hopefully they, like the one in Keystone, Florida will allow me access to their facility a month at a time. Check it out if you are looking for some good, quick exercise.
Keeping my body in shape physically honors God and that is my goal for 2010.

Therefore I have chosen the following verses to keep foremost in my mind this year.

1. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, who you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.

2. Romans 12:1-2
Therefore, I urge you brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God-this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Spiritual Growth "tips" for 2010

2010-01-08T11:07:00.002-05:00

1. Repent daily! (Matthew 3:2)

2. Get caught serving! (Matthew 25:14-30)

3. Be quick to forgive! (Matthew 18:23-32

4. Never let the sun go down on your anger! (Ephesians 4::25-27)

5. Pray always! (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

6. Give thanks in ALL circumstances! (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

7. Be generous to the poor! (Luke 12:33-34)

8. Remember, no matter what, that God is faithful! (1 Corinthians 10:12-13)

9. Link your life with other believers! (1 Corinthians 12:12-27)

(Taken from the book: Praying the Names of Jesus by Ann Spangler

Some more photos & a video

2010-01-02T15:28:00.005-05:00

Logan is definitely a blue-eyed blonde!!

Snowman "Bob Thorpe" was such fun to build!

Aiden is "on the move"!

Love this photos!

2009-12-28T16:13:00.006-05:00

Aiden's dedication:

Guess who we are visiting now?

2009-12-26T20:37:00.004-05:00

The Faces of Africa through the Eyes of Three Sisters and a “Bebe”! (Part 4)

2009-12-21T16:13:00.004-05:00

Mid-week shopping at Arusha’s markets appeals to everyone. T-shillings are counted and the Toyota cruiser, driven by Jane Ann, bumps its way into town. Market stalls display African crafts galore. Bargaining is the rule. Gratefully a fellow missionary friend of Jane Anns, fluent in Swahili, accompanies the ladies and the sisters walk away with varieties of treasure. The Cultural Center in Arusha, boasting engaging art, is a final stop before returning home.

“Where are the giraffes? “is the question of the next day. Since these magnificent creatures are no longer in the crater the sisters have not yet seen this African “icon”. Ron shares a solution-anyone for Arusha National Park? Although rain prevails, the day is rich with giraffe after giraffe lazily “grazing” the tall trees and seemingly quite willing to pose for a photo shoot.

Graduation Day! One of the ministries of CMF is to train willing African couples, from the bush (country) areas around Arusha, to witness for Christ in their villages. They spend 12 weeks on the compound taking classes in “Farming God’s Way”, health issues, evangelizing, marriage and parenting, and literacy. When they complete these courses the teachers/missionaries hold an official graduation ceremony complete with diplomas, speeches, skits, tribal songs and dances, and an African feast. Marlene, Nancy, and Rozella (Mom) are thrilled to be in the audience to witness and participate, via serving food, at this event. As stories are shared of the persecution these courageous Christians encounter out in the bush areas of Africa, “battling” witch doctors and other strange beliefs, we feel as though we are in the presence of the first disciples chosen by Christ sent forth into a hostile world. Prayers are sent upward for protection, courage, and opportunities to show Christ’s love through the knowledge the students have gained while living and learning at the CMF compound.

Has this day arrived already? The return flight to the states is not until evening so the family drives to a coffee plantation to bring home fresh beans, lunch is served at a nature preserve , where injured wild animals are nursed back to health, and a final cup of African chai is savored at a hotel near the airport boasting a view of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Unfortunately the grand mountain is cloud covered but nevertheless a magnificent sight. Hugs and tears are shared as good-byes are said amidst reminders of the family gathering in August of 2010. As the jet lifts off and tired eyes close dreams are peppered with wild animals, bright eyes on brown faces, and a sister and brother-in-law who are serving Christ in a poor but beautiful land.

African quotes to remember:
“There is no hurry in Africa.” If only those in America would take this to heart we’d need fewer drugs!!
“If you educate a man you simply educate an individual, but if you educate a woman you educate a nation.” My personal favorite!

The Faces of Africa through the Eyes of Three Sisters and a “Bebe”! (Part 3)

2009-12-20T15:43:00.003-05:00

Monday morning Marlene and Nancy (the two sisters), along with Mom(the Bebe-Swahili for Grandma), busy themselves unpacking three suitcases full of toys, games, craft supplies brought along to give to the preschool children on the CMF compound. Lack of necessary teaching tools ,so readily available in the states, is an ongoing problem in Africa. It was thrilling to share what others had given the sisters to bring to supply the classroom for use by the teacher in educating the adorable children. Eyes sparkle, and laughter bubbles throughout the classroom as Marlene and Nancy play with the pre-schoolers. Dancing and singing erupt as a talented little girl picks up a drum and the children demonstrate their practiced skills even reciting the entire 23rd Psalm & John 3:16 in Swahili. Smiles abound and warm handshakes are offered as the sisters leave the school and prepare to embark on their next adventure-an African safari!
Bags are packed, guide arrives, Ron is bid farewell, and the three sisters and “a bebe” travel north to the Ngorongoro crater/conservation area via an evening stop-over at a lovely hideaway offering a cool dip in a pool and delicious food served on linen graced tables. The morning dawns early with chirping birds and excitement as everyone climbs aboard the safari jeep. First on the “docket” is an amazing glimpse into the world of the Maasai tribe, with their village nestled on the floor of the crater grazing their cows among the water buffalo. Words can’t adequately capture the experience of bright colors, swaying bodies and rythmic sounds that surround us as the tribe performs their welcome song and dance. Two English speaking tribal members guide us into a “boma”( hut), and share details of life as a Maasai, including the reality of warm blood/milk “beverages” and cows as bed partners. Cameras click, hand-made jewelry is purchased, and finally the sisters and mother climb into the jeep moving into a spectacular day of viewing a menagerie of animals, including the African 5- elephants, water buffalo, rhino, hippo, and lion-thrilling! In addition warthogs, zebra, wildebeest, baboons, hyena, and gazelles, not to mention flamingos, eagles, pelicans, and a huge variety of cranes lift their heads seemingly quite uninterested in the jeep of gawking passengers. Sun sets as we return to the CMF compound chattering about the day’s events.

The Faces of Africa through the Eyes of Three Sisters and a “Bebe”! (Part 2)

2009-12-19T12:33:00.004-05:00

Jane Ann and Ron have become quite proficient in Swahili and begin to teach us a few phrases to communicate with their African staff and others we might meet. Habari is the general greeting, similar to hello or good morning. Asante, which was found to be most useful , means thank-you. The third phrase the two visiting sisters and mom tried to remember was Marahaba, a respectful response to Shikamo, which is a common greeting to your elder, a title fitting all three!

A Thanksgiving meal is prepared by some of the missionary families the day after Thanksgiving and Jane Ann, Ron, and her family are all invited. The mom and three sisters thoroughly enjoy baking pies together in Jane Ann’s somewhat sparce but quite adequate kitchen and taking them along to add to the feast. While there a gentle rain produces an African rainbow bringing even the football fanatics outside.

Mount Meru, seen from Jane Ann’s kitchen window, is an active stratovolcano. It is 14,980 feet tall and is the fifth highest mountain in Africa. On Saturday morning everyone jumps into the Landcruiser and Ron confidantly steers upwards into this mountain over rocky hazardous roads. On the journey new sights flood the view of the two visiting sisters and mother. There are women balancing water pots on their heads, children (seemingly no more than 5 years old) herding groups of cattle and goats, field workers cutting grass for their cattle with their foreboding machetes, called pangas. As the truck travels upward the forested slopes appear in sharp contrast to the plain area in which CMF is located. During the ascent the trees are constantly being scanned for any signs of Colobus monkeys. Marlene, the middle sister, is the first to notice the “black and white” monkeys in an outcropping of dense trees just off the road. The first photo opt of animals in Africa brings everyone out of the Toyota.
The next stop is the intended destination-the humble home of Spora & Julius Sosi, Africans of the Maasi tribe, dear friends of Jane Ann & Ron. They are extremely hospitable offering steaming mugs of ugi, an African porridge made from milk and ground grains. This is followed by a delicious rice and beef dish ending with chai, black tea brewed in hot milk and sugar. Conversation is easy and comfortable since Julius, a pastor of several churches, speaks excellent English. After the meal we take a little guided tour around their acreage sporting a garden and pasture area for cows. As the truck pulls away we all comment on the delightful experience!

The Faces of Africa through the Eyes of Three Sisters and a “Bebe”! (Part 1)

2009-12-18T11:54:00.010-05:00

The plane lifts off rising slowly through the late afternoon clouds hovering over a chilly Minneapolis skyline. Two sisters and their mother hold hands and offer up a prayer to their Lord for a safe flight. Sitting in adjacent seats they begin to peruse the flight magazine to determine their choice of inflight movies and discuss how they will “wile away the time” on their 18 hours of flying before they touch down on the continent of Africa. Plans for this vacation to visit their other sister and her husband, who are missionaries with Chrisitian Missionary Fellowship, have been a long time “in the making”. A surreal feeling now courses through their veins as they each check and recheck their “to do” lists and realize they are actually on their way!
After a layover in Amsterdam their plane begins it’s descent into the Kilimanjaro airport around 9:30 p.m. on Wednesday evening, November 25th. Somewhere along the route they have lost a day, but who cares as they groggily gather belongings and head for the baggage claim praying all six bags arrived. Thankfully, the luggage is identified making its way around the designated carrousel and quickly they load it on a cart and head for the exit. Jane Ann, the youngest sister and Ron her husband are anxiously awaiting their appearance. The reunion is sweet and bags are loaded into a four-wheel drive Toyota Landcruiser for a 1 ½ hour drive to the outskirts of Arusha. It is during this trip that the two sisters begin to realize why a sturdy four-wheel drive vehicle is necessary in order to actually live in this country. The roads are, according to American standards, impassable, full of giant ruts and small boulders, (yes I DID say boulders), since the term rocks just doesn’t seem to fit! After a jarring ride the crew arrives at the CMF 8 acres, where Jane Ann and Ron live and work along with two other missionary families and several native African staff. The guest house is called a rondaval and proves to be a spacious, comfortable abode for the 10 day visit. Especially appreciated are the mosquito-netted beds!

Thanksgiving Day is spent touring the missionary compound, enjoying meals together, and a quick sight-seeing trip into Arusha where markets are explored and a shuka purchased. A shuka is the outside, colorful garment worn by the Maasai tribe.

Following are some photos of Jane Anns home and the Christian Missionary Fellowship compound where they live and work.

Moving on once again!

2009-11-15T15:17:00.006-05:00

Tomorrow, early morning, I climb back into my little Scion, put in a book tape and head towards the Quad Cities where my loving husband will be waiting. It will be a tearful goodbye to two adorable little grandsons, and their wonderful parents, of course! I'll take with me some cute "memories"!