Several days ago my heart was once again tugged homeward. I received word that a friend and former colleague had passed from this life to her reward in heaven. Dale Ballard-Howland, or Ms. Dale, as she was affectionately called, was a very private person who wanted nothing said or done at her passing. But, how can those of us who had grown to love her and appreciate the person she was not say something?
Dale's son Lydan and my son John were very good friends, but I did not become personally acquainted with Dale until the Christmas after John was re-located to heaven. She and Lydan brought a gift by. I still have and treasure that gift. Her thoughtfulness was my introduction to the woman I came to know.
Ms. Dale was the "cafeteria lady." The one who counted students, collected money, kept the books, and kept the students "in-line." Many have told me she was strict but very fair. She didn't want anyone behaving in an un-lady like or un-gentlemanly manner. She learned all their names, but insisted on calling them endearing nicknames. If a student needed extra portions, Dale saw to it that he/she got them. If a student had no lunch money, Dale bought his or her lunch. No child went hungry with Ms. Dale around.
But, her kindness was not limited to the lunch room. Some students wanted to start an afterschool soccer team, so Dale bought the jerseys. A teacher needed a walker after breaking a bone in her leg, so Dale brought one that had been used by her son as he battled cancer. She donated books to the library, helped students with sponsorships, and became a source of encouragement to me and many other teachers. Her smile was infectious! And, it will be greatly missed.
To the precious lady who came to me with a gift that will forever be treasured and the friend she became, I say so long dear, dear lady. You will be missed by all who knew you. Just be cautious as you walk those streets of gold; Lydan and John are probably still up to some of their old pranks. :-)
Sunday, October 6, 2013
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Chris Kyle's American Sniper
I bought this book a couple of months ago, and put it on top of my to read stack. I have changed my reading to non-fiction this past year, and there are many I feel a need to read. This particular book intrigued me from the first mention of it, and became more of an intrigue when I heard Chris Kyle being interviewed, and then mourned with many at his untimely death.
I took the book with me as reading material for my flight to and from Oregon last month. I started reading as soon as we reached our flying altitude and read until we landed. I laughed and gasped my way through the first chapters, often sharing some of the lighter, more comical parts (and there were many) with Claudette. I am not sure what the other passengers might have thought of this grandmother reading a book of this nature, but I enjoyed it on many levels.
I saw in Chris the attitude my son Jason has. I could see Jason's face in many of the scenarios described by Chris and felt that maybe, just maybe I was getting an insight into what Jas had experienced at times.
War is not fun and games. Lives are changed, good people are hurt and most civilians haven't a clue. I guess this is what troubles me the most. I was raised an army brat (air force actually) and military is in my blood. Maybe that is why I feel the need to defend our young men and women who choose to enlist. My brothers were military, and I tried to join at seventeen, but the military said, "Come back when you turn eighteen." By then I had met my husband and my plans changed. I have often wondered- what if...
Getting back to the book. There is a certain man in the U.S. who is suing the family of Chris Kyle for something written in the book. My take on that is had he not opened his mouth, no one would know who Run-a-way is. You, sir, should be ashamed.
I do not like some of the words used in the writing of this book. But, I am not this man's judge. Would I say anything similar under the same circumstances? Maybe. This book does bring to light some of the horrors our service men and women have endured for years. The trauma that surrounds them on a daily basis is mind boggling. They deserve all the love, honor, and respect possible, as they return home.
I continued reading on our return flight and found every chapter gripping. I found his style quite relaxed, even though he was dealing with a very troubling subject: the shooting of more than 150 (confirmed) bad guys.
I can not say it is an easy read because nothing about war is easy, but I can say it is a remarkable read. I think many of you will find it this way, too.
I took the book with me as reading material for my flight to and from Oregon last month. I started reading as soon as we reached our flying altitude and read until we landed. I laughed and gasped my way through the first chapters, often sharing some of the lighter, more comical parts (and there were many) with Claudette. I am not sure what the other passengers might have thought of this grandmother reading a book of this nature, but I enjoyed it on many levels.
I saw in Chris the attitude my son Jason has. I could see Jason's face in many of the scenarios described by Chris and felt that maybe, just maybe I was getting an insight into what Jas had experienced at times.
War is not fun and games. Lives are changed, good people are hurt and most civilians haven't a clue. I guess this is what troubles me the most. I was raised an army brat (air force actually) and military is in my blood. Maybe that is why I feel the need to defend our young men and women who choose to enlist. My brothers were military, and I tried to join at seventeen, but the military said, "Come back when you turn eighteen." By then I had met my husband and my plans changed. I have often wondered- what if...
Getting back to the book. There is a certain man in the U.S. who is suing the family of Chris Kyle for something written in the book. My take on that is had he not opened his mouth, no one would know who Run-a-way is. You, sir, should be ashamed.
I do not like some of the words used in the writing of this book. But, I am not this man's judge. Would I say anything similar under the same circumstances? Maybe. This book does bring to light some of the horrors our service men and women have endured for years. The trauma that surrounds them on a daily basis is mind boggling. They deserve all the love, honor, and respect possible, as they return home.
I continued reading on our return flight and found every chapter gripping. I found his style quite relaxed, even though he was dealing with a very troubling subject: the shooting of more than 150 (confirmed) bad guys.
I can not say it is an easy read because nothing about war is easy, but I can say it is a remarkable read. I think many of you will find it this way, too.
Saturday, August 17, 2013
Grandma Camp 2013
Due to an out of town trip planned by Chrystal and her family, Little Miss (aka Madison) would not be able to attend one of the planned camps at day care for the entire time, so I volunteered to have her come to Camp Grandma for the three days Chrys would be at work. Okay, I do know that a five year old is quite capable of being a hand full, but how rough could it be? I had already had seven of my own hit that remarkable age. Should be a piece of cake. :-) I set out the weekend before looking for crafts fit for this little lady. Finding several, I hid them so that they would be a surprise and waited for Monday morning.
Bright and early Monday morning Chrys brought Little Miss by and Grandma Camp began! First thing on the agenda was making sweets for the week. I had settled on oatmeal cookies because they were healthy, or at least they sounded healthy. :-) I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set them out in the order of use and put Little Miss on a stool so that she could reach the mixing bowl. Now, Little Miss is an independent little lady, so she insisted on doing the measurements and cracking the eggs. This grandma was really impressed with her willingness to listen and do exactly as I told her. While cracking one of the eggs, she had a huge grin and said, "Mom would never let me do this." "Why?" I asked. She just shrugged and said, "I don't know; she just don't." Guess I will have ask her mother why!
Her shear happiness made this grandma's heart swell. We decided to make oatmeal bars, so we divided the dough into three parts and added raisins to one third, pecans to one third, and left the remainder plain. I placed these parts next to each other in a 9x13 backing pan and put it into the oven. While waiting for it to bake, we played school. This little one is a mean teacher! Not anything like her grandma was. :-) But, she enjoys it, so I allow her to crack the whip, so to speak.
After taking the pan out of the oven, we headed for the trails. She had arrived with her workout clothes on, so we were going to do some walking. Getting onto the trails we saw a stick that resembled a snake and she was quite reluctant to continue. I had to prove to her that it was indeed a stick. :-) We started walking and I seriously thought she would want to walk a short distance and then turn back, but this little eager beaver was ready for some serious walking. She loved the little bridges and the creek that ran along side the trail. We would stop and examine various plants and discuss the animal tracks in the cement. When we came to the area that runs beneath 183 she was absolutely stunned. How did they put the trail under the highway and why had she never seen it before? Did Mom know it was here? We continued walking. When we had gone to the .75 mile marker I said we needed to head back, but she wanted to go a little further. At the mile marker I told her we better head back, and her response was, "Let's run!" Run??? I told her that I had never run, and that walking was just fine, but she insisted on running to the next sign. I told her she could and I would watch! She did! Running from one spot to the next became her little game, and I followed at a quick walk!
I am so thankful for bottled water! She probably ran for a quarter of a mile, starting at one spot and running to the next and stopping to wait for the grandma. She loved it. She is definitely her mother's daughter. :-)
By the time we made it back to the freeway area, she was worn out. She asked to sit for a minute on the bench.
We FINALLY made it back to the car and headed to McDonald's for lunch. We ordered takeout and headed home to cool off and eat. She was really hungry and was finished in no time. She had an oatmeal bar for dessert.
Now, it was time for our second activity. I had a vase and acrylic paints, plus shells and glue. She would be making a vase for her mom. Isn't it amazing how little eyes can light up. Wow! A real glass vase and she could paint it. Yep, I could see the pride in her eyes.
This little project took some time and she was quite serious about it. We placed the painted vase outside on the deck table and went inside for some milk and another oatmeal bar. I gave her a glass glass and her eyes lit up again. Mom never lets me use a real glass! Hey, this is grandma's house, remember. I gave her a magic straw that turns regular milk into chocolate milk with only an additional 17 calories, and Little Miss was one happy camper! We laughed and joked as she ate her snack, and I told her stories about how the Lord has helped grandma so many times. She kept saying, "Tell me another story grandma."
Finally, grandma ran out of stories and we brought the vase back in and started gluing the shells onto it. She started off making a smiley face and went from there. She would choose the shell and tell me where to put the glue, and then she would place the shell. Team work! She was very pleased with her finished project, and I hope her mother enjoys the vase on which she labored so intently.
For the rest of the afternoon we watched a couple of Max and Ruby shows. Mom came around 4:30 and Little Miss was so proud of the things she had made. We had a plate of oatmeal bars ready to take home and her vase was ready for mom's approval. One happy little lady, one tired grandma, and one day of Grandma Camp had come to a close. :-)
Next, it was time for some blue berries and magic milk! While she ate her berries, I broke up bread to take to the Y to feed the ducks. She was really looking forward to doing this! :-) We left the house around 11:00 and headed for the Y. (This is also where the trails begin, but she was in no mood to walk today. :-) ) As we got out of the car, I noticed that the ducks were sitting on top of the little amphitheater. We crossed the parking lot and headed towards them, and they saw the bag of bread crumbs, or they just really liked us. Whichever! Anyway, they started a fast waddle toward us and Madison let out a scream. I started laughing and told her to throw some food. She threw one piece and the ducks swarmed, which caused another scream. I said, "Throw a hand full Madison. The ducks won't hurt you; they just want food." By then she was trying to hide behind me and squirm her way beneath my arms; I was laughing, and the ducks were quacking like mad. I kept reassuring her that they would not hurt her, and eventually she calmed down a little. Once the bread was gone, the ducks left us high and dry!
We walked to the little pier to say good-bye as they swam off before walking back to the car.
I asked the little one where she would like to get lunch, and she giggled and said McDonald's. So, off we went: another kid's meal and salad for grandma. The only problem we had was that she received the same Smurf as she had the day before. Not good! :-(
After lunch, we began our next craft. This one was making some tiered rings, ten of them. She really got into the stacking and the colors. Hopefully, she enjoyed this too.
With those done we had a little more magic milk and a cookie while watching Max and Ruby and waiting for Mom.
Day two of Grandma Camp was nearing its end, and the little one seemed to be very pleased with her day.
Bright and early Monday morning Chrys brought Little Miss by and Grandma Camp began! First thing on the agenda was making sweets for the week. I had settled on oatmeal cookies because they were healthy, or at least they sounded healthy. :-) I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set them out in the order of use and put Little Miss on a stool so that she could reach the mixing bowl. Now, Little Miss is an independent little lady, so she insisted on doing the measurements and cracking the eggs. This grandma was really impressed with her willingness to listen and do exactly as I told her. While cracking one of the eggs, she had a huge grin and said, "Mom would never let me do this." "Why?" I asked. She just shrugged and said, "I don't know; she just don't." Guess I will have ask her mother why!
Her shear happiness made this grandma's heart swell. We decided to make oatmeal bars, so we divided the dough into three parts and added raisins to one third, pecans to one third, and left the remainder plain. I placed these parts next to each other in a 9x13 backing pan and put it into the oven. While waiting for it to bake, we played school. This little one is a mean teacher! Not anything like her grandma was. :-) But, she enjoys it, so I allow her to crack the whip, so to speak.
After taking the pan out of the oven, we headed for the trails. She had arrived with her workout clothes on, so we were going to do some walking. Getting onto the trails we saw a stick that resembled a snake and she was quite reluctant to continue. I had to prove to her that it was indeed a stick. :-) We started walking and I seriously thought she would want to walk a short distance and then turn back, but this little eager beaver was ready for some serious walking. She loved the little bridges and the creek that ran along side the trail. We would stop and examine various plants and discuss the animal tracks in the cement. When we came to the area that runs beneath 183 she was absolutely stunned. How did they put the trail under the highway and why had she never seen it before? Did Mom know it was here? We continued walking. When we had gone to the .75 mile marker I said we needed to head back, but she wanted to go a little further. At the mile marker I told her we better head back, and her response was, "Let's run!" Run??? I told her that I had never run, and that walking was just fine, but she insisted on running to the next sign. I told her she could and I would watch! She did! Running from one spot to the next became her little game, and I followed at a quick walk!
I am so thankful for bottled water! She probably ran for a quarter of a mile, starting at one spot and running to the next and stopping to wait for the grandma. She loved it. She is definitely her mother's daughter. :-)
By the time we made it back to the freeway area, she was worn out. She asked to sit for a minute on the bench.
Poor baby, she is really tired.We FINALLY made it back to the car and headed to McDonald's for lunch. We ordered takeout and headed home to cool off and eat. She was really hungry and was finished in no time. She had an oatmeal bar for dessert.
Now, it was time for our second activity. I had a vase and acrylic paints, plus shells and glue. She would be making a vase for her mom. Isn't it amazing how little eyes can light up. Wow! A real glass vase and she could paint it. Yep, I could see the pride in her eyes.
Finally, grandma ran out of stories and we brought the vase back in and started gluing the shells onto it. She started off making a smiley face and went from there. She would choose the shell and tell me where to put the glue, and then she would place the shell. Team work! She was very pleased with her finished project, and I hope her mother enjoys the vase on which she labored so intently.
For the rest of the afternoon we watched a couple of Max and Ruby shows. Mom came around 4:30 and Little Miss was so proud of the things she had made. We had a plate of oatmeal bars ready to take home and her vase was ready for mom's approval. One happy little lady, one tired grandma, and one day of Grandma Camp had come to a close. :-)
Day 2, Tuesday
This day started bright and early. I had to have the vacuuming done prior to my little guest arriving, and I always spend some time reading my bible. Little Miss arrived about 8:30. Daddy dropped her off on his way to work. This morning we needed to feed the birds before we did anything. Little Miss loves doing this and has for a couple of years. She gets a little irritated when a squirrel comes and sits his fat self down in the middle of the feeder. But, hey, it needs to eat too.
After we got the birds fed, we came inside to work on her first project. This was a dinosaur terrarium. Yep, it even came with its own little dinosaur. We put in the soil, added the lava trail, set up the larger lava rocks, placed the dinosaur and the fossil before planting the seeds. One plant was a hydro plant that needed to be put into its little cup of water, so we did that, and started adding the special soil for the seeds. We planted dinosaur vegetation, tree, and one other (can't recall it) and put the top on. One proud little lady!
Next, it was time for some blue berries and magic milk! While she ate her berries, I broke up bread to take to the Y to feed the ducks. She was really looking forward to doing this! :-) We left the house around 11:00 and headed for the Y. (This is also where the trails begin, but she was in no mood to walk today. :-) ) As we got out of the car, I noticed that the ducks were sitting on top of the little amphitheater. We crossed the parking lot and headed towards them, and they saw the bag of bread crumbs, or they just really liked us. Whichever! Anyway, they started a fast waddle toward us and Madison let out a scream. I started laughing and told her to throw some food. She threw one piece and the ducks swarmed, which caused another scream. I said, "Throw a hand full Madison. The ducks won't hurt you; they just want food." By then she was trying to hide behind me and squirm her way beneath my arms; I was laughing, and the ducks were quacking like mad. I kept reassuring her that they would not hurt her, and eventually she calmed down a little. Once the bread was gone, the ducks left us high and dry!
We walked to the little pier to say good-bye as they swam off before walking back to the car.
I asked the little one where she would like to get lunch, and she giggled and said McDonald's. So, off we went: another kid's meal and salad for grandma. The only problem we had was that she received the same Smurf as she had the day before. Not good! :-(
After lunch, we began our next craft. This one was making some tiered rings, ten of them. She really got into the stacking and the colors. Hopefully, she enjoyed this too.
With those done we had a little more magic milk and a cookie while watching Max and Ruby and waiting for Mom.
Day two of Grandma Camp was nearing its end, and the little one seemed to be very pleased with her day.
Day 3, Thursday
Day three started early for this grandma because I like to have the floors done before Little Miss shows up. We had a special project to do this morning, and everything had to be clean before we started. Chrystal and Madison arrived a little after nine, and Madison had a big grin on her face. She told her Mom that we were going to go buy her a birthday present, and then she looked at me, and nearly winked. The little stinker!!!
Our first project was to make her Mom's birthday cake. I set out the things we would need, placed the stool for her to stand on, and we began the task. Madison did it all. She poured the mix, broke the eggs, added the oil and water while this grandma looked on. When I put the mixer in her hand, she lit up like a light. She really gets into the cooking. :-)
I helped her pour the batter into the pans, and I put them in the oven to cook. While they cooked we played school again. She is one serious task master!
Once the cakes came out of the oven and were placed on the racks, we headed out to feed the ducks again. This time we had about four times as many bread crumbs!! Yep, those ducks were in for a treat! Walking across the parking lot I noticed that the ducks were not in either of their usual places, and I was a little worried that we would not find them, but I heard one and then another and saw them swimming towards us from the middle of the lake. "Look Madison, they see you! Get the bread ready." This time she stood in front of me and started throwing the crumbs. We were, again, surrounded by ducks, but Little Miss was having a good time. We saw one with a broken wing and several small ones, and she asked if she could pet them. I told her she could try, but they may not let her, and they didn't. :-(
Once more we left the Y and headed for lunch. We went to a different McDonald's and as we were waiting to order, Madison asked me to tell the lady that she did not want the Smurf Clumsy. I did, and when we got to the window to pay, the clerk handed me two Smurfs, neither of which were Clumsy. Talk about one happy little lady!!! And, to top it off, the Smurf in her meal was not Clumsy either.
After lunch we started decorating Mom's cake. Again, little miss independent, did it all. She frosted the cake ( and licked some), she wrote the Happy Birthday Mom, she added a few little frosting flowers, and stuck in the candles.
It is a cake any mother would love! Madison was so proud. We boxed it up and wrapped it like a gift. Mom would be really surprised! Little Miss was simply delighted.
Our next craft was the making of an ornament. This one was a little tedious and time consuming, and we were not able to finish it. But, next time!!!
Mom arrived a little after four, and my little camper played a trick on her mom. She hid in my bathroom and had me tell her mom she wasn't there. She simply loves playing tricks! I think she had a good three days. I know I did. I heard earlier today that the cake made it to Padre and Mom loved it! Grandma Camp 2013 has come and gone, and hopefully, memories were made. I know I will not forget it!
Monday, July 8, 2013
Above and Beyond the Call of Duty-A Birthday Party
Our little firefighter turned 3 this past week end, and he was surprised with a tour of Fire Station 1 in Leander. He has been infatuated with Fire Man Sam for quite some time, and he really loves anything associated with firemen.
We arrived at the fire station a little before 2pm and met the firefighters, and Little Guy was able to have a private tour of the station and trucks! He was one happy camper!
Personally, I could not get over the friendliness and patience of the men and women of Fire House 1.
They made Little Guy (Domenick) their priority and he was thrilled. I wish I could remember all of their names because they were all wonderful and very professional in their mannerisms. I do remember two, possibly three if one of the young ladies is named Heather, and I will give you their names as needed. Once all the party attendees were front and center, we went into the station to listen as one beautiful young firefighter explained the need to know one's name and address and what to do should there be a house fire.
With that being done we headed out to the bay. Here the kids were shown the hoses, and they were explained to them. Now, I am not sure what the little ones thought of this, but I was interested.
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Finally, the time they were all waiting for--the actual getting into the trucks! I have never seen a happier set of children. I felt a little jealous! :-)
It was time to leave and head to the house of the littlest firefighter and get into some serious birthday fun!
The cake was almost too pretty to cut into, but cut Chrystal did, after the candles were blown out!
Our little firefighter had a wonderful day! He had quite the birthday party, and felt really proud of his firefighter's uniform. May God bless him and the real firefighters always!
We arrived at the fire station a little before 2pm and met the firefighters, and Little Guy was able to have a private tour of the station and trucks! He was one happy camper!
Personally, I could not get over the friendliness and patience of the men and women of Fire House 1.
They made Little Guy (Domenick) their priority and he was thrilled. I wish I could remember all of their names because they were all wonderful and very professional in their mannerisms. I do remember two, possibly three if one of the young ladies is named Heather, and I will give you their names as needed. Once all the party attendees were front and center, we went into the station to listen as one beautiful young firefighter explained the need to know one's name and address and what to do should there be a house fire.
These little ones aged 3 to 6 had more questions than a final quiz. But, the patience of the fire fighter never faltered. She answered every question positively, even the one about not being able to get out of the house. Poor Jack, he was really concerned about being found. :-) Next came the lesson in drop and roll!
This was fun to watch as the little ones really got into it. If you notice the fireman in the corner, it was his birthday too. His name is Will.
It was time for Tony to show the kids how the firefighters put on their gear. He started with the boots and pants and allowed them to feel the material. Afterwards came his hood.
Next his jacket and then some tears. One of the little ones became frightened (possibly too much Halloween) so she had to step outside with mom. Tony continued with his gear. The kids were amazed! One parent asked how long it took when needed for an emergency, and we were told it had to be done in 60 seconds.
With that being done we headed out to the bay. Here the kids were shown the hoses, and they were explained to them. Now, I am not sure what the little ones thought of this, but I was interested.
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Finally, the time they were all waiting for--the actual getting into the trucks! I have never seen a happier set of children. I felt a little jealous! :-)
We had been told earlier that incase of an emergency, we would be left, and we were asked to not eat all of their food nor make off with any of the trucks that were left. :-) And, as we were preparing to leave, an emergency call came in for the first responder...
It was time to leave and head to the house of the littlest firefighter and get into some serious birthday fun!
The little ones lined up according to size and began the chore of destroying the piñata. They each had two turns and some damage was done, but cousin Kyle got the last shot and he brought it home!!!
The little ones had bags to fill, but they were so easy going. I guess the pushing and shoving and need to grab it all comes at a later age. For today, these little ones were just happy to get some and not become selfish. This is a good lesson for all of us.
Our little firefighter had a wonderful day! He had quite the birthday party, and felt really proud of his firefighter's uniform. May God bless him and the real firefighters always!
Saturday, June 22, 2013
Man of Steel
Okay, I have to admit that I did something I said I would not do. I went to see the movie Man of Steel. My initial reason for not wanting to see it was I did not want my girlhood memories of Superman crushed. I wanted to remember the comic books and the old movies without having something mess with the memories, and I do not like action movies, especially in 3D. However, I had heard some good reviews on KLOVE and how there were Christian overtones, so when Lynn suggested a movie, I said, "Why not."
I do like Russell Crowe, don't really care for Kevin Costner, and had never seen the actor who plays the lead role, so I figured it had a 50/50 chance of being okay. :-) The beginning brought to mind the fighting of the angels before the devil and his followers were kicked out of heaven. I was glued... The killing of the dad by this cruel, vindictive man and his being sentenced to outer darkness was note-worthy. The baby being sent to earth with only the father's spirit was another reminder of what our Lord did for us. No, this movie was not the story of Christ, but it certainly had some similarities I would not have expected from Hollywood.
The flashbacks throughout the movie were phenomenal, as they told the story of a young boy wrestling with the power that was within him. His being found by an earthly family that sheltered and protected him until his time had come is another very real similarity. His desire that none should parish is also significant.
After the movie, I was reminded that we should always have faith that good will ultimately win. As Christians, we have read the back of the book, we know! So, why do we worry and struggle? Why are we not the absolute happiest people on the planet? Do we truly believe that God is in total control of our lives and the world around us? We do not need to wait for heaven to experience the Joy that faith in God can bring. We just have to be open to it. Accept it. Live it.
I definitely give this movie two thumbs up!!!
I do like Russell Crowe, don't really care for Kevin Costner, and had never seen the actor who plays the lead role, so I figured it had a 50/50 chance of being okay. :-) The beginning brought to mind the fighting of the angels before the devil and his followers were kicked out of heaven. I was glued... The killing of the dad by this cruel, vindictive man and his being sentenced to outer darkness was note-worthy. The baby being sent to earth with only the father's spirit was another reminder of what our Lord did for us. No, this movie was not the story of Christ, but it certainly had some similarities I would not have expected from Hollywood.
The flashbacks throughout the movie were phenomenal, as they told the story of a young boy wrestling with the power that was within him. His being found by an earthly family that sheltered and protected him until his time had come is another very real similarity. His desire that none should parish is also significant.
After the movie, I was reminded that we should always have faith that good will ultimately win. As Christians, we have read the back of the book, we know! So, why do we worry and struggle? Why are we not the absolute happiest people on the planet? Do we truly believe that God is in total control of our lives and the world around us? We do not need to wait for heaven to experience the Joy that faith in God can bring. We just have to be open to it. Accept it. Live it.
I definitely give this movie two thumbs up!!!
Friday, June 21, 2013
The Road Less Traveled
Today, around noon, I decided to take a walk along the Brushy Creek Trails my daughter has been telling me to check out. I know, I know, noon is not the time to be walking in the hot Texas sun, but I think it is important to sweat while walking! I want to get the full affect and benefit from my walking. LOL
The first thing I did, after parking, was to walk up this knoll near the bathroom/picnic area and look out over the small lake near-by. The breeze blowing across the water was cool and the ducks and other water fowl resting beneath the tree were refreshing to the eyes. It really was a pretty sight.
Walking down the back side of the knoll, I met a young woman and her little daughter, and I asked if she came often. She said she used to do a lot of walking/running on the trails when her daughter was younger and in a stroller, but she doesn't come much anymore, except to bring her children to the camps in the summer. I asked how far the trails went and she laughed and told me I could walk all the way to Round Rock if I wanted to. Nope, I said, not exactly what I had in mind. She went on to tell me of a fear she had of running into a mountain lion while out running in the early mornings. WHAT??? She could have talked all day and kept that tidbit if information to herself. I thanked her for her information (sic) and started off down the trail.
After walking just a few minutes, I saw highway 183 overhead and wondered why I had never noticed the trails below. I continued my journey.
There is a tremendous amount of vegetation along this trail, and this helps, especially with the fierceness of the Central Texas noon day sun. I came across a place that had tracks in the concrete that definitely looked like large cat tracks. They went straight across the concrete toward the creek. A little further up, there were return tracks. hmmmmmmm I continued walking and came across large bird tracks leading across the concrete toward the same creek, and, yes, they came back. Whew! It wasn't breakfast for that cat!!! These tracks reminded me of the hand prints students used to put into wet cement. About 3/4 of a mile along the trail I found this:
The Road Less Traveled. And I took it!!!
I definitely had some reservations about taking this trail because of the cat tracks and thoughts of rattle snakes (left over from the ranch), but I felt like I would be missing out on a real treat if I did not venture up that tail. Nothing ventured, nothing gained! Right? So, off the broadway I went. The rocky trail led up the hill and I followed it. Of course, I was looking for signs of snakes... It was really pretty and I rather enjoyed the climb. When I am out like this, I can not help but think of the Creator who knew I would one day stroll through here and enjoy what He had made. It is like a gift just for me!
I laughed when I saw this because it is definitely cactus, but the little tree near it looks like it is a small Christmas tree. Only in Texas...
Turning back, I went back down to the broadway and continued on my walk. I saw several people, but not many, and I was thankful for that. I enjoy walking and looking and not needing to worry about running into loud, boisterous individuals. It was not only beautiful; it was serene.
I came across another trail and, yep, I took it too.
Awww, life is good!
Eventually, I turned around and found my way back to the broadway and continued for awhile, before turning back towards my starting point. Walking back I walked on the right and was able to enjoy sights I did not see on my way out. The creek is visible in many, many places and is very inviting. No, I didn't venture into it... Could have been a real treat, though. :-)
Walking back did not take as long as walking out, but then I was not "exploring" the land around me, and most of it was on more of a downward slope. I came to a spot I did not notice on my way earlier that I thought was very nice. I wanted a picture of it too, and did not know which side of the walk I wanted to use to take the picture, so I turned to go to the other side and nearly got hit by a bicyclist! Man, I was I embarrassed! He was pleasant enough, but I felt like and idiot. Note to self: never turn to walk to the other side without looking both ways. LOL
The Waterfall
The hour I spent walking that trail was the highlight of my day. It never ceases to amaze me that we are surrounded by beautiful things for which to praise God. I also learned a few things on the walk:
One doesn't need to be a member of a gym to workout.
Look both ways before crossing the trail.
There are a number of places to secure keys and a cell phone when one does not have pockets.
My old tennis shoes need to be replaced.
Water is always a must.
Maybe there really is a Big Bird.
This walk would be wonderful with a male friend.
Does anyone know an old man, in walking condition, that would like to take this walk with me? :-) I would like to have someone to hide behind should there be a mountain lion...
Remember, always, that there is a God and He does care.
Share this, if you care to do so.
The first thing I did, after parking, was to walk up this knoll near the bathroom/picnic area and look out over the small lake near-by. The breeze blowing across the water was cool and the ducks and other water fowl resting beneath the tree were refreshing to the eyes. It really was a pretty sight.
Walking down the back side of the knoll, I met a young woman and her little daughter, and I asked if she came often. She said she used to do a lot of walking/running on the trails when her daughter was younger and in a stroller, but she doesn't come much anymore, except to bring her children to the camps in the summer. I asked how far the trails went and she laughed and told me I could walk all the way to Round Rock if I wanted to. Nope, I said, not exactly what I had in mind. She went on to tell me of a fear she had of running into a mountain lion while out running in the early mornings. WHAT??? She could have talked all day and kept that tidbit if information to herself. I thanked her for her information (sic) and started off down the trail.
After walking just a few minutes, I saw highway 183 overhead and wondered why I had never noticed the trails below. I continued my journey.
There is a tremendous amount of vegetation along this trail, and this helps, especially with the fierceness of the Central Texas noon day sun. I came across a place that had tracks in the concrete that definitely looked like large cat tracks. They went straight across the concrete toward the creek. A little further up, there were return tracks. hmmmmmmm I continued walking and came across large bird tracks leading across the concrete toward the same creek, and, yes, they came back. Whew! It wasn't breakfast for that cat!!! These tracks reminded me of the hand prints students used to put into wet cement. About 3/4 of a mile along the trail I found this:
I definitely had some reservations about taking this trail because of the cat tracks and thoughts of rattle snakes (left over from the ranch), but I felt like I would be missing out on a real treat if I did not venture up that tail. Nothing ventured, nothing gained! Right? So, off the broadway I went. The rocky trail led up the hill and I followed it. Of course, I was looking for signs of snakes... It was really pretty and I rather enjoyed the climb. When I am out like this, I can not help but think of the Creator who knew I would one day stroll through here and enjoy what He had made. It is like a gift just for me!
Turning back, I went back down to the broadway and continued on my walk. I saw several people, but not many, and I was thankful for that. I enjoy walking and looking and not needing to worry about running into loud, boisterous individuals. It was not only beautiful; it was serene.
I came across another trail and, yep, I took it too.
Eventually, I turned around and found my way back to the broadway and continued for awhile, before turning back towards my starting point. Walking back I walked on the right and was able to enjoy sights I did not see on my way out. The creek is visible in many, many places and is very inviting. No, I didn't venture into it... Could have been a real treat, though. :-)
Walking back did not take as long as walking out, but then I was not "exploring" the land around me, and most of it was on more of a downward slope. I came to a spot I did not notice on my way earlier that I thought was very nice. I wanted a picture of it too, and did not know which side of the walk I wanted to use to take the picture, so I turned to go to the other side and nearly got hit by a bicyclist! Man, I was I embarrassed! He was pleasant enough, but I felt like and idiot. Note to self: never turn to walk to the other side without looking both ways. LOL
The hour I spent walking that trail was the highlight of my day. It never ceases to amaze me that we are surrounded by beautiful things for which to praise God. I also learned a few things on the walk:
One doesn't need to be a member of a gym to workout.
Look both ways before crossing the trail.
There are a number of places to secure keys and a cell phone when one does not have pockets.
My old tennis shoes need to be replaced.
Water is always a must.
Maybe there really is a Big Bird.
This walk would be wonderful with a male friend.
Does anyone know an old man, in walking condition, that would like to take this walk with me? :-) I would like to have someone to hide behind should there be a mountain lion...
Remember, always, that there is a God and He does care.
Share this, if you care to do so.
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Musings : Beyond the Fences
Musings : Beyond the Fences: This past weekend I traveled to deep South Texas to visit my son and his wife on the ranch they now call home. I was totally blown away by ...
Beyond the Fences
This past weekend I traveled to deep South Texas to visit my son and his wife on the ranch they now call home. I was totally blown away by the incredible lessons in life I learned while there, and the new found admiration I have for all those who live, work, and possibly die beyond the fences.
If you have traveled south of San Antonio or Corpus, you have seen the fences. It does not matter which road you choose to travel, be it 281, 77, or 16, the fences are there. Lining these fences is what appears to be an impenetrable row of brush and mesquite trees. You might catch a glimpse of cactus, too. But, can you see beyond to the life that is abundant in the midst of all that clutter? I couldn't...
I left home around 2:00p.m. and headed south, going through Austin and San Antonio and hoping the slow traffic would not follow me the entire way. The trip took about five and a half hours, and I was really glad when I could call and tell Jason I was at the appointed turn-off. I really do not like driving into new territory and feeling lost in the middle of no where. He told me how to find the gate and said he would meet me there. Once inside the gate, the world around me took on a whole new meaning. Truly, I never expected to see so much life in the middle of all that brush! We drove about 3 or 4 miles and along the way I saw cattle, deer, javalina, and turkeys. Not bad for the first few minutes on the ranch... Jason led the way and we stopped in a clearing that opened up a place of much activity and human presence. Beyond the fences and brush line, life became real.
We stopped at Jason's temporary home (his permanent is being build), and gathered suit cases and cups and headed inside. I felt safe and secure. After dropping off the bags and giving hugs, we headed back outside to sit around the barbeque pit and talk and become acquainted with nature. I was totally amazed as deer came near to eat corn and bat their beautiful eyes. A couple of the females decided that they were going to show off, and they stood on their hind legs and slapped one another with their front paws. Laughing, I thought of the spats my sons used to get caught up in... I learned that there is no killing done on this ranch of any of the wild life, unless a worker or the property of one of the workers is threatened. Now, I enjoy venison and turkey, but I was glad that these would not produce that food. I want my meat to come from the grocery store. :-)
We sat there for hours talking and listening to the various evening sounds: dogs barking, horses neighing, cattle moaning, peacocks squealing, birds chirping, coyotes howling, and the intermittent quiet. Yes, real quiet! I went to bed totally exhausted but more relaxed than I had been in months.
Sunday morning came awfully early, but quite welcome. Jason is an early riser and loves his morning coffee, so the smell of coffee is the alarm for me on this early Sunday morning. We had coffee outside and watched as the morning began to stir the animals. Of course the deer and turkeys came around for their breakfast, but a new group made its appearance-- a covey of quails, bobwhite quail to be exact. Before breakfast we took off for the barn area. I saw a mare and her colt, and some orphaned calves. Playing with one of the calves was the highlight of that morning. He was just wanting some loving and perhaps a bottle. :-) While playing with this little one we spotted the female peacock nesting on the large pile of hay. She is solid white. A pretty sight, but her male counter-parts are truly beautiful. We left there and headed for the bunk houses. I was able to meet one of the cowboys because he had not gone home for the week end. I will call him Tacho for the purpose of this blog. Tacho has lived and worked on the ranch most of his life. He knows no other life and probably doesn't care to know anything else. A nice man, a gentle man.
I was shown the cowboys dinning room and kitchen. Okay, here I have to admit to a little shock. It was the cleanest kitchen I have seen. This cowboys' kitchen was gleaming stainless. The eating area and the TV area were also clean and very neat. Not what one who has watched the roughness of the cowboys on the big screen and TV might be led to expect! In fact, the entire ranch, thousands of acres, is clean.
Leaving there we ran into another man who does weekend work for the ranch. He had brought his young sons with him. He loved his smart phone and began to tell stories of its use. We all laughed as he told his stories and his last line was "I could perform surgery, if I had my phone. It gives me directions for everything."
We headed back to get breakfast before heading out to find some ruins deep within the ranch. So far, the morning was great.
We got into the truck and started out...
This ranch has dirt roads, cliche roads, and possible roads. It is crisscrossed with roads. I was very thankful for Jason's military training and experience because I knew he would not get lost. We hadn't driven far when I knew that I could not find my way back. Everything looked the same to me. Brush and mesquite trees do not change... But, Jason and Gig knew where we were headed and how to get there. The rest of the day was spent going from one area to another that had been home to someone in the past. Some 'ruins' were from a much earlier time, and then other places were from the possible 50s. Another place was probably 10-15 years old and the story of a possible suicide here was daunting. To realize that there was life within the fences, lives lived in simple traditions on land that can be cruel and deadly gave me a new respect for the ranchers of times when life was extremely difficult. There is a lot of history on this land--ghosts of times past longing to be revealed. We drove for hours and walked, as well. I saw a few things that made me proud to live in a state that strong men and women have helped to develop. The real strength is found in our ranchers and farmers, not in our modern cities with the fancier life styles. There are wells and cisterns, some modern--many not. I saw areas where this water is made available to the cattle and other animals. Certainly a question I have had for many years: How do the animals drink when we go through dry spells? I found my answer. Toward evening we headed back. I don't know how many gates we went through, how to find them again, or where all the roads end. What I do know is that there is life beyond the fences. Of course, there is death too, but the caracaras take care of it.
We once again sat outside to watch the animals wonder in for their evening feed. I could sit there for hours and gaze at the mingling of God's creation. There is one particular beetle that caught my attention that has me puzzled. It is called the dung beetle. This little beetle cleans the area of any excrement left by the animals. All animals. They attack the pile of dung and begin rolling away their find until nothing is left. So, where do they take it? What do they do with it once they get where they are going? Do I really want to know? As I have said, the ranch is clean! When the Lord realized the use of this great land, He knew exactly what type of bugs to send. :-)
We called it a day after watching a few reruns of Duck Dynasty... A fitting end to a fantastic day.
Monday came way too early. Leaving the ranch was the last thing I wanted to do. I wanted to see more and learn more about the area. Driving out a herd of about 20 white Brahmas came to say good-bye. I had to stop and watch. Leaving the gate I had entered on Saturday, I said a sad farewell to Jason and Gig, and headed north, but I had a better perspective of life beyond the fences I saw hugging the road. A fondness for the roughness and the men who tame it.
If you have traveled south of San Antonio or Corpus, you have seen the fences. It does not matter which road you choose to travel, be it 281, 77, or 16, the fences are there. Lining these fences is what appears to be an impenetrable row of brush and mesquite trees. You might catch a glimpse of cactus, too. But, can you see beyond to the life that is abundant in the midst of all that clutter? I couldn't...
I left home around 2:00p.m. and headed south, going through Austin and San Antonio and hoping the slow traffic would not follow me the entire way. The trip took about five and a half hours, and I was really glad when I could call and tell Jason I was at the appointed turn-off. I really do not like driving into new territory and feeling lost in the middle of no where. He told me how to find the gate and said he would meet me there. Once inside the gate, the world around me took on a whole new meaning. Truly, I never expected to see so much life in the middle of all that brush! We drove about 3 or 4 miles and along the way I saw cattle, deer, javalina, and turkeys. Not bad for the first few minutes on the ranch... Jason led the way and we stopped in a clearing that opened up a place of much activity and human presence. Beyond the fences and brush line, life became real.
We stopped at Jason's temporary home (his permanent is being build), and gathered suit cases and cups and headed inside. I felt safe and secure. After dropping off the bags and giving hugs, we headed back outside to sit around the barbeque pit and talk and become acquainted with nature. I was totally amazed as deer came near to eat corn and bat their beautiful eyes. A couple of the females decided that they were going to show off, and they stood on their hind legs and slapped one another with their front paws. Laughing, I thought of the spats my sons used to get caught up in... I learned that there is no killing done on this ranch of any of the wild life, unless a worker or the property of one of the workers is threatened. Now, I enjoy venison and turkey, but I was glad that these would not produce that food. I want my meat to come from the grocery store. :-)
We sat there for hours talking and listening to the various evening sounds: dogs barking, horses neighing, cattle moaning, peacocks squealing, birds chirping, coyotes howling, and the intermittent quiet. Yes, real quiet! I went to bed totally exhausted but more relaxed than I had been in months.
Sunday morning came awfully early, but quite welcome. Jason is an early riser and loves his morning coffee, so the smell of coffee is the alarm for me on this early Sunday morning. We had coffee outside and watched as the morning began to stir the animals. Of course the deer and turkeys came around for their breakfast, but a new group made its appearance-- a covey of quails, bobwhite quail to be exact. Before breakfast we took off for the barn area. I saw a mare and her colt, and some orphaned calves. Playing with one of the calves was the highlight of that morning. He was just wanting some loving and perhaps a bottle. :-) While playing with this little one we spotted the female peacock nesting on the large pile of hay. She is solid white. A pretty sight, but her male counter-parts are truly beautiful. We left there and headed for the bunk houses. I was able to meet one of the cowboys because he had not gone home for the week end. I will call him Tacho for the purpose of this blog. Tacho has lived and worked on the ranch most of his life. He knows no other life and probably doesn't care to know anything else. A nice man, a gentle man.
I was shown the cowboys dinning room and kitchen. Okay, here I have to admit to a little shock. It was the cleanest kitchen I have seen. This cowboys' kitchen was gleaming stainless. The eating area and the TV area were also clean and very neat. Not what one who has watched the roughness of the cowboys on the big screen and TV might be led to expect! In fact, the entire ranch, thousands of acres, is clean.
Leaving there we ran into another man who does weekend work for the ranch. He had brought his young sons with him. He loved his smart phone and began to tell stories of its use. We all laughed as he told his stories and his last line was "I could perform surgery, if I had my phone. It gives me directions for everything."
We headed back to get breakfast before heading out to find some ruins deep within the ranch. So far, the morning was great.
We got into the truck and started out...
This ranch has dirt roads, cliche roads, and possible roads. It is crisscrossed with roads. I was very thankful for Jason's military training and experience because I knew he would not get lost. We hadn't driven far when I knew that I could not find my way back. Everything looked the same to me. Brush and mesquite trees do not change... But, Jason and Gig knew where we were headed and how to get there. The rest of the day was spent going from one area to another that had been home to someone in the past. Some 'ruins' were from a much earlier time, and then other places were from the possible 50s. Another place was probably 10-15 years old and the story of a possible suicide here was daunting. To realize that there was life within the fences, lives lived in simple traditions on land that can be cruel and deadly gave me a new respect for the ranchers of times when life was extremely difficult. There is a lot of history on this land--ghosts of times past longing to be revealed. We drove for hours and walked, as well. I saw a few things that made me proud to live in a state that strong men and women have helped to develop. The real strength is found in our ranchers and farmers, not in our modern cities with the fancier life styles. There are wells and cisterns, some modern--many not. I saw areas where this water is made available to the cattle and other animals. Certainly a question I have had for many years: How do the animals drink when we go through dry spells? I found my answer. Toward evening we headed back. I don't know how many gates we went through, how to find them again, or where all the roads end. What I do know is that there is life beyond the fences. Of course, there is death too, but the caracaras take care of it.
We once again sat outside to watch the animals wonder in for their evening feed. I could sit there for hours and gaze at the mingling of God's creation. There is one particular beetle that caught my attention that has me puzzled. It is called the dung beetle. This little beetle cleans the area of any excrement left by the animals. All animals. They attack the pile of dung and begin rolling away their find until nothing is left. So, where do they take it? What do they do with it once they get where they are going? Do I really want to know? As I have said, the ranch is clean! When the Lord realized the use of this great land, He knew exactly what type of bugs to send. :-)
We called it a day after watching a few reruns of Duck Dynasty... A fitting end to a fantastic day.
Monday came way too early. Leaving the ranch was the last thing I wanted to do. I wanted to see more and learn more about the area. Driving out a herd of about 20 white Brahmas came to say good-bye. I had to stop and watch. Leaving the gate I had entered on Saturday, I said a sad farewell to Jason and Gig, and headed north, but I had a better perspective of life beyond the fences I saw hugging the road. A fondness for the roughness and the men who tame it.
Friday, February 22, 2013
He Needed Me/A Song and a Message
Some months back, a friend of mine prepared and gave me some cds that contained songs from the past. We definitely share a love for the old tunes! One of the cds contained some of Anne Murray's all time best. One of these is You Needed Me, recoreded in 1978. This particular song was a favorite then and, hearing it now, it has taken on a whole new meaning. I cried the first time I played it a few months ago because it was no longer a love song between a man and a woman; it had become a love song between my God and me.
I cried a tear, you wiped it dry
I was confused, you cleared my mind
I can not count the number of tears I have cried: tears of sadness and tears of joy. As a young child I cried for the dad I never knew, for the brothers who were raised by relatives, for the abuse my mother received from my step-father, and for the rejection I felt. I cried at the birth of each of my children... tears of shear joy!
Growing up was most difficult. I was looking for a God I knew existed, but I did not know where to find Him. I felt so unworthy. Surely something was not right with me or I would have had what others seemed to have had: a God they could worship. I was so confused... why could I not share in this ultimate relationship?
I sold my soul, you bought it back for me
And held me up and gave me dignity
Somehow you needed me
I made so many mistakes along the path of life. I seemed to compound mistakes without thinking. And then one day, He found me, right in the midst of the most troublesome time of my life. He found me and He needed me. I couldn't contain the joy! That was in December of 1974.
You gave me strength to stand alone again
To face the world out on my own again
You put me high upon a pedestal
So high that I could almost see eternity
You needed me, you needed me
Life
did not become rosy and without pain, but it did become amazing. The Lord had
found me in the midst of a dark time and gave me light. He loved me. He held me
up. He became my rock. As the years passed, there were fantastic moments when
all seemed well and there were times when darkness swallowed me, but He was
there.
And I can't believe it's true
I needed You and You were there
And I'll never leave; why should I leave?
I'd be a fool 'cause I finally found someone who cares.
The
God who created the universe loves me... When I thought I could not continue,
He was there.
You
held my hand when it was cold
When
I was lost you took me homeYou gave me hope when I was at the end
And turned my lies back into truth again
You even called me "friend"
Friend,
a person with whom to walk: I needed that and still do. I do not fear that this
friend will turn His back. This friend sticks closer than a brother. He truly
gives me hope!
You
gave me strength to stand alone again
Several
times in my life I have been faced with uncertainty; and, each time, He has
given me more strength than I thought possible...
To
face the world out on my own again
When
all hope seemed gone and darkness filled my days, He was there. The deaths of
my sons, becoming a single parent, and seeing the near destruction of another
son nearly crushed all hope, but He gave me strength.
You
put me high upon a pedestal
So
high that I could almost see eternity
You
needed me, You needed me.
You
needed me, You needed me
I
wish I could tell the whys, but I must rest in His Word. He is busy with a
transformation and, in the end, I will be, truly, His friend. He showed me in a
dream, years ago, the answers to my whys, but upon awakening, all I could
remember is that I knew... A friend has said that it was a blessing to have the
memory of reasons why erased, and I believe that this is true. It is enough to
know He needed me, and He was there.
I
hope you will listen and enjoy.
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