Tharseo

something new

2009-06-14T08:59:00.002-06:00

It's great to have one daughter in the city with me, but I miss the other 2 who are in White, Rock, BC. and Edmonton, AB. To bridge the miles this summer, we're going to try something together that I'm really looking forward to. We're joining the online study group for "Me, myself and Lies" by Jennifer Rothschild. The neat thing is that she wrote the material, but Beth Moore is going to 'teach' it online. All we do is log onto her blogspot www.livingproofministries.blogspot.com every Tuesday morning for the teaching, do our workbook homework and then we're going to try emailing our thoughts to each other and continue the dialogue that way. It all starts June 23 and there will be 4 blog posts throughout the summer - every other week until August 4. I'm really looking forward to the study itself and what God will teach me, doing it with my girls and checking out the whole online thing. I'll keep you posted on how it's going. I had a hard time finding workbooks - finally found a store in Canada that had some after calling about 10 places.

Could I do it?

2009-04-27T12:34:00.002-06:00

I've been wondering about beginning work on a Master's program. The longer I do what I do, the more I realize how much more I need to know. I enjoy studying and learning - just not sure of the work load and assignments to finish for this old brain and to do while I'm still employed full time. Anyhow, just thinking and checking with universities around North America. If you've got any advice for this old woman, I'm all ears!

A mother's thoughts

2009-03-25T22:03:00.002-06:00

Our son and his wife are on a missions trip to Haiti. Here's their blog http://haititeam3.spaces.live.com/ They are youth pastors and have taken some of their youth to this island to make a difference. The stories are amazing. I can't help but think back to when our son was one of those youth. He wasn't so sure back then of what he believed and what he thought of the church. But because of loving people in our church, because of many who prayed, and mostly because of God's grace, he came to understand who Christ is to him. And now....all these years later, here he is leading kids, some like he was. He loves them, prays for them and longs for them to embrace a godly life of loving others and walking by faith. What more could a mother want?

just bein' a gramma

2009-03-17T23:05:00.003-06:00

couldn't resist

2009-03-15T16:55:00.005-06:00

Our grandson is the smartest 19 month old! He dribbles balls, plays and rocks on with his guitar. Here's some proof.

Our grandson the musician

2009-03-12T13:17:00.002-06:00

He's already playing the guitar!

Counting the days

2009-03-07T21:59:00.003-06:00

Only 6 more days until our grandson comes to stay for a week! Jaxton and Shay fly in next Friday. Shay heads back to Surrey the next day to leave with Aaron on a trip to Haiti with their youth. So, we'll see how us old fogies do at keeping up with this almost 2 year old. Fun times ahead.

The gift of solitude

2009-03-05T13:57:00.003-06:00

I had the wonderful privilege of 3 days to myself in Phoenix. Nothing but quiet, warm sunshine, and time. It was so well worth it. I sat by the pool with Bible, books, journal and pen - no one else in sight. I have decisions to make, but chose this time to just focus on being and listening - no agenda and no pressure to make the decisions. If you're like me, it takes time to quiet yourself from all the hustle of life. Being still and knowing the I AM is not something that comes naturally - at least at first. I know it is a life long process of learning.

My "Take a Break" friends

2009-01-11T18:06:00.002-06:00

I have a monthly dinner date - well, next time it's going to be breakfast - with 3 other women. We were randomly selected to be in this group and I think God knew what he was doing when he brought us together. We're all roughly the same age with kids around the same age. I'm the only married one - the rest are widowed or divorced. That's one of the things I like about this group. Typically singles are the odd ones out, but this time it's me that's in the minority. I love the different perspective that gives me. We're all at different places in our spiritual journeys as well, which I also like. It's neat to here how and where God is at work in and around each of us. Often our discussion revolves around a book we've read - great to hear what the other's think. I'm learning much from each of them and look forward to these few hours together every month.

Things I'm trying to figure out

2008-12-02T08:21:00.002-06:00

I read a few great books on vacation - some of these have really got me thinking. I read Irresistable Revolution by Shane Claiborne. Then I read Same Kind of Different as Me. Both of these books have got me wondering if I'm really making the kind of difference in the world that I want to make. Then on Saturday night that week in Florida, we went to Discovery Church where the pastor spoke on compassion - more thought provoking stuff. It's a tough one to understand, as I feel like I've been following and doing what God wants me to do, but I think now he's asking for more - more of me - more willingness on my part to give up the comforts I love. I'm not sure where this will take me. I suggested to Doug that maybe we should sell our home we love and move into North Central - the least desirable neighborhood in Regina. I'm not sure how realistic that would be considering how much we're away from home - I think having a home that's lived in there might be important, but who knows? Anyhow, I continue to ponder and ask God to get through my thick head what changes he does want me to make. He's never let me down in this department yet, so I'll keep listening and figuring out where he's pointing me.

Why this was a great vacation

2008-11-17T11:19:00.005-06:00

We just spent a week in Florida - flying back to Calgary tonight and then Regina tomorrow night. Here's what I loved!

an uninterrupted week with my husband all to myself - he spoiled me rotten
no schedules and deadlines
time to read books - I read 4 - more about that later
a beautiful condo
the jacuzzi bathtub
the great pool and hot tub
warm weather - 92 degrees F many days
lots to explore
the airboat ride through the Everglades
the alligators
the bald eagles we saw a few times (did you know that Florida is second only to Alaska for Bald Eagles?)
lots of cool birds
wild boars
the Kennedy Space Centre
the evening at Universal Studios watching the Blue Man Group
no cooking
A big variety of restaurants
the little gecko/lizards all over - outside only, not in the condo!
great shopping options
got lots of Christmas shopping done
Discovery Church on Saturday night - great service

We should write a book!

2008-11-06T22:39:00.002-06:00

This job has meant many interesting travel stories. We're in the middle of another one.....sitting in Regina airport waiting for our plane to head to Calgary. Our plane is in Winnipeg in the middle of a snowstorm apparently. We're already 2 hours late - we'll see when we actually leave. At least I picked up a free signal in the airport from somewhere and can 'blog' about it.

We're off to the opening of Ambrose University where Doug has Board of Governor meetings. I'll be hanging out with Dad, cleaning the house and doing laundry I'm pretty sure. However, he's doing the honors at the ribbon cutting ceremony on Sunday and praying the prayer of dedication - a great honor for him. We'll pray him through it, as his emotions are still pretty raw. I think the ribbon cutting is taking place in the "Sylvester Atrium". The last time I was in that space, my Mom was with us and it was half finished. It will be an emotional weekend for all of us I think.

Amazing night!

2008-11-03T23:02:00.004-06:00

What a delight to be part of the special birthing of a new, baby church on a cold, rainy night in northern Saskatchewan. God is a god of redemption and this was proven true once again tonight as this meeting took place on the former site of a residential school with the new pastor once a student in the school. Another neat component is that our First Nations church in Prince Albert has helped this church in the birthing process. The new church - at Montreal Lake Reserve - is already thinking of where they'd like to plant another First Nations church. I was privileged to meet First Nations people who are new in Christ with wonderful stories of God's redeeming grace in their lives. There is no greater privilege than to see the unfolding of God's plan to build his church.

Back again

2008-06-22T18:29:00.006-06:00

Mom's new mode of transportation over the Bow River

Father's Day with Blaine, Dad and Doug in Calgary

Camping at Sylvan Lake with the kids

Trip to Banff on June 2

Seems like forever since I've logged on to blog. Life has held lots of trips to Calgary and lots of catching up in between. Along the way I've squeezed in some ministry trips with Doug too. Right now I'm in the Winnipeg airport waiting to head home, sweet home.

For those of you who keep up with me this way and are wondering about Mom - she has good days and not so good days. This weekend is not a good one again. She had a week off chemo 2 weeks ago which was great, but went back to it last Thursday, so she's had a rough weekend. God continues to bless her with his grace and she is ever positive and ever full of gratitude.

My prayer is that she'll stay stable while we're gone to Assembly in Ottawa next week and then the week after we're holidaying in Ontario with family.

The Cancer Journey

2008-05-05T12:58:00.002-06:00

The last 3 months have been a challenging journey with Mom's cancer diagnosis. We're learning lots about cancer, treatments, doctors, nurses, the Canadian medical system, ourselves and God. Mom's attitude is one of gratitude and simple trust - quite amazing! She has only words of praise for and to the caregivers at the Tom Baker Cancer Clinic in Calgary. I read to her Danny and Vera Kuranji's book about life in Serbia, and every week we pass the time together in the chemo ward, she speaks of how blessed we are in this country to have this available to us when 3/4 of the world does not. Each day she chooses to thank God for his goodness, faithfulness and grace and remind herself of his everlasting love for her and all of us. That's not to say that there are never tears. They come mostly at the thought of leaving Dad and her concern that he'll be OK, but they come rarely. When I'm in Calgary I'm part of their morning habit of after breafast reading the Word and praying. These are precious times, as we personalize God's promises for the day and pray for all our family - every child, inlaw and grandchild gets mentioned and also the needs of others, int'l workers and global needs, as well as churches in our District that have needs and any of my ministry concerns.
We're never sure of what a day will bring about in terms of Mom's health, but we're on the journey together, hand in hand with the Lord!

I was deeply blessed by the women's leaders of the Saskatoon network on Saturday. I was there for a day of training and at the end of the day, they gathered around me, laid hands on and prayed for me and for my parents. What encouraging words, what love and support - truly what I needed! God does indeed know our needs and is wonderfully able to meet them.

More pictures from Karmyn and Brock's camera

2008-04-02T00:06:00.012-06:00

Some of these pictures are from our visit to The Living Desert.

Holiday in Palm Springs

2008-04-01T23:32:00.010-06:00

What a wonderful gift to be here in this beautiful place with our family! The weather is great, the house we rented is super & our kids and grandson are balm to my soul. The time is going by too quickly!

Happy Birthday to my man

2008-03-15T21:58:00.003-06:00

My Douglas is going to be 54 tomorrow. I'm blessed to call him mine!

precious to God

2008-03-01T17:35:00.004-06:00

one of those leap off the page moments when you're reading God's Word......

Daniel 10:18,19 Then the one who looked like a man touched me again, and I felt my strength returning. "Don't be afraid," he said, "for you are very precious to God. Peace! Be encouraged! Be strong!"

In all the uncertainties of mom's cancer diagnosis, how sweet of Jesus to give me these words. Even though they were written thousands of years ago to Daniel, the unchanging Son of Man stands ready to touch me with the truth of who he is and who I am - precious to him! I am encouraged.

God's providential provision

2008-02-21T13:52:00.011-06:00

We LOVED seeing all our kids in Edmonton, even though it was -44 the whole weekend! Brock and Karmyn were wonderful hosts. Of course, the center of attention all weekend was Jaxton. He was such a joy in the middle of our sad news about my mom's cancer diagnosis. God was so good to us to time this family get together just a day after mom's news. I was then able to head right to Calgary following this time with our kids, so I could be with Mom and Dad for a few days. We're experiencing the truth that God's strength is made perfect in our weakness!

The Top 3

2008-02-06T18:59:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago I sent out a mass email to women across Canada on a quest to find the top 3 issues facing women today. It was very interesting reading the responses. The top 3 are:

1. Balance which includes managing time and setting priorities. If lives are out of balance, stress, loneliness, fatigue and other issues result.

2. Self-esteem issues fell into 2nd place. Learning to accept ourselves as God made us to be or seeing ourselves as God sees us is challenging for many.

3. Relationships followed in third. Is it possible to have authentic relationships in our world? How do we deal with offenses and conflict?

Other issues that surfaced were purpose (which I really think affects the first 2 issues); health; finances; family; gender discrimination; materialism; abuse; career

Thanks to all who contributed VERY well thought out responses. When I get time, I'm planning on compiling the actual comments and that document will be available to any who would like it.

makes me grateful, humble, motivated

2008-01-25T10:04:00.000-06:00

Doug and I watched a thought-provoking movie on Sunday night, recommended to us by Karmyn and Brock - God Grew Tired of Us. It's the story of "the lost boys" of Sudan. The film follows the lives of a few of these Sudanese children as they escaped the atrocities of the war in the country, by walking to Ethiopia and then down to Kenya. We're talking over 1000 miles! These were children from 'barely walking' age to young teens. They were taken in by a refugee camp. The US government randomly chose a few of them to be resettled in the states and the story takes you on their journey from living in the camp to settling into major US cities with all the HUGE cultural, physical, emotional, mental, language adjustments that entails. This is a 'docufilm' and so there are no actors - just real, live people.
Why am I grateful? - we have SO MUCH in North America - too much, but nevertheless I am grateful to live in a country where health care is accessible; food is in rich supply, shelter is more than comfortable; employment is more than adequate to supply my daily needs; freedom to choose and live is a given!
Why am I humble? - I did NOTHING to deserve all I have. Why was I chosen to be born into the family, culture, country that I was? Why do others live with huge challenges just to stay alive? All in God's sovereign plan! What I do with what I was given is what matters.
Why am I motivated? Stories like these push me towards global awareness and global action more and more. My living choices, my financial choices, my day to day actions MUST reflect God's global heart.

The Shack

2008-01-14T00:13:00.000-06:00

You've got to read The Shack - I polished it off in a day, as I couldn't put it down. I'd love to know what everyone else thinks of it. Let me know if you've read it.

Good books

2008-01-11T12:02:00.000-06:00

I've just finished reading John Ortberg's newest book, "When the Game is Over, It All Goes Back in the Box". It was a good read and I loved his analogy - comparing how we play the game of life to a playing a board game. Ortberg always makes me think, which is a good thing.

I just enjoyed a visit with my brother Blaine and he is RAVING about a book I MUST read. It's written by a fellow I was in Bible College with, so that makes it even more appealing. It's called The Shack and the author is William P. Young. I knew him as Paul. So, I'm out to buy it today. I just checked the reviews and it is compelling. Eugene Petersen tags it as the "Pilgrim's Progress" of our century. That's quite an endorsement from a man of his literary stature.

I've also got The Irresistable Revolution on my shelf - actually - it's not on my shelf because my husband stole it to read. My kids have insisted I read it. I love it when they insist I read a book, since it helps me know and understand their world better. Doug's comments so far are "very good".

Back at it

2008-01-11T11:54:00.000-06:00

After taking 4 days on a computer fast last week, I'm back at not only work, but also my blog. The fast was good - extra time suddenly available because the computer was off. That meant more time for reading, study, prayer and of course getting the house back in shape after Christmas. Pretty amazing how a simple thing like turning off the computer can change the look of your day. It was challenging at some points not to peak at email- my work seems to always be pushing at the corners of my mind. But, guess what...the work is still there and I'm better for these days of quiet. Solitude is necessary for reflection and even though computers are quiet, it's not solitude with many voices coming to you through that little machine. I've got to book another few days of computer quiet soon.

Post Christmas Christmas

2008-01-01T14:53:00.000-06:00

We miss you Aaron, Shay and Jaxton!

Christmas Dinner on Dec. 29

Gerrard Christmas breakfast in Regina (after the fact)

Kristie, Brooklyn, Gramma S and Gramma Enns

Christmas day in Calgary with nephews James and Adam

Christmas memories

2008-01-01T14:33:00.000-06:00

Christmas Day at Blaine and Shelly's

Christmas Eve at Gramma and Grampa's

Friends for 33 years!

2007-12-22T00:09:00.000-06:00

My dear friend Lori has moved back to Regina. Our lives have intersected in very interesting ways over 33 years. She blesses me with her warm heart, engaging humor and wonderful hospitality always! Her sweet daughter is lots like her Mom.

no more green

2007-12-21T21:58:00.000-06:00

The painting is finally done! Yippee and thanks to a wonderful husband who went above and beyond the call of duty with all the work involved. Goodbye green - hello "wilmington tan". Just in time for Christmas.

Team

2007-12-18T08:24:00.000-06:00

I thoroughly enjoy working on and with a team. I've worked with many over the years. The team I currently am enjoying is the District Women's Leadership Team. Even though there is diversity in style and personality, we move forward with unity and fun! I'm grateful each day for the joy this group gives me and for what's being accomplished across our district and around the world thanks to these women. God is good!

Melody - a gift!

2007-12-12T08:49:00.000-06:00

Some of you know the story of my quest for an International Project Coordinator. God blessed me with the gift of Melody! She's done an excellent job of pulling off this huge mandate - an international, annual project for women across Canada to get involved with. This year has been Serbia - the Time is Now. www.serbiathetimeisnow.ca I just met Mel in Edmonton to make plans for the coming year's project - we'll be in the Desert Sands area of the world. Thanks Mel, for your servant and global heart! You bless me each time we meet.

Edmonton

2007-12-12T08:26:00.000-06:00

It was a privilege to be with our kids, Karmyn and Brock, in Edmonton last week - yes, another National Women's trip with this side benefit. We're enjoying supper at their favorite restaurant. The ice sculptures are in front of the Alberta Legislature where we listened to some musical groups - an Edmonton Christmas tradition. Thanks for all your kindness K & B!

Staff Party

2007-12-02T14:33:00.000-06:00

We're so privileged to work with some WONDERFUL, GIFTED people. We had a fun time celebrating Christmas with them all yesterday. We travelled together to Caronport's Christmas production which was excellent. Then, we were off to supper at the Cordova Bistro in Moose Jaw and back to the Ellergodt's for dessert, the annual, wacky gift exchange - I must go buy that Michael Buble CD! - and good visiting. Merry Christmas friends!

One of the perks

2007-11-29T14:02:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas sweet boy!

These bumbo seats are great!

Grampa's boy!

This year he's got baby Jesus in his mouth. Next year he'll play with the set!

I'm in BC now for a meeting tomorrow morning related to Women's Ministries. The great side benefit and one of the "perks" of my job, is that it does take me to places where my kids live. So, we get to love up our grandson and see our kids. Jaxton is delightful, cooing and babbling lots, oodles of smiles and great entertainment. He LOVES his jolly jumper and it's so fun to watch him dancing around in it. He continues to be the most contented baby.

My human mind doesn't understand

2007-11-22T18:07:00.000-06:00

Tonight I'm leaving soon for a friend's baby shower. She and her husband have a healthy, beautiful baby girl. I just got an email from another friend telling me of the safe arrival of their grandson, Isaac. All such wonderful news with much cause for celebrating. I'm contemplating all of this in light of the very sad news I received 2 nights ago about the death at birth of a dear friend's granddaughter. I must confess I don't understand how the Lord decides who lives and who doesn't, why some families are celebrating tonight and some are mourning. All I know is that the Lord gives and the Lord takes away.....Blessed be the name of the Lord!

Choosing Worship

2007-11-17T10:27:00.000-06:00

Happy are those who hear the joyful call to worship since they walk in the light of your presence.
They rejoice all day long in your wonderful reputation. They exult in your righteousness.
You are their glorious strength.
It pleases you to make us strong.
Psalm 89:15-17 NLT

Today I choose worship in :

a quiet house - another weekend alone
the nuisance of the kids' house not being rented yet
it seems there's more work to do than time to do it

the gift of deep friendships
the beauty of fresh snow
the aliveness of God's Word to my heart

and

this may sound silly, but God responds even to our silly desires......I've been trying to find the movie Memphis Belle - a war time movie I like to watch around Remembrance Day. I especially wanted to see it this year because we toured a wartime, plane museum this summer and the movie highlights an air crew on the same plane we saw in the museum.. No video stores seem to carry it any longer. Last night I flipped on the TV and guess what was on? Memphis Belle. He gives us our silly desires too!

Making memories

2007-11-14T00:17:00.000-06:00

We had a great time in Branson, Missouri with my folks. We stayed in a great place, enjoyed some good shows and had fun with Mom and Dad. The weather was fantastic for November for this prairie girl. Branson draws lots of seniors, so we felt like the youngest there, but we're not all that far off the senior designation ourselves! Maybe when Doug is done "DS-ing" he'll lead tours to Branson!

Party #3!

2007-11-12T00:28:00.000-06:00

And the parties keep on coming....My 2 daughters and husbands rolled out the celebrations too. I am blessed!

Party #2

2007-11-12T00:11:00.001-06:00

Here's my brother Blaine's 50th birthday bash. A great time was had by all. He's a great brother and was a great sport! So nice to have all 4 of us together with our spouses and Mom and Dad.

Party #1

2007-11-03T10:41:00.000-06:00

We celebrated my Dad's retirement and my folks' 75th birthdays last night. All my brothers and many of their kids were able to be there, along with 2 of our kids and their spouses. Mom and Dad related some neat stories of how they came to faith, how they spent Christmas as kids, what life was like in the 30's and 40's, along with some great miracle answers to prayer in their early years in ministry. Of course, we did plenty of laughing too, as "Herbert" - an old friend - showed up! Dallas was truly in vintage form.

Too cute for words

2007-11-02T23:40:00.001-06:00

Jax's friend Bly

Jax's first Hallowe'en

Certified

2007-10-30T14:18:00.000-06:00

It's great to finally be "on the map" on the Life Purpose Coaching Center's website. Check out www.lifepurposecoachingcenters.com After completing Level I's requirements, I'm now certified with this organization. (I'm especially grateful, because they somehow lost all my homework, but it resurfaced after a hunt!) The coaching process looks like this: You read Pathway to Purpose by Dr. Katie Brazelton and then you work through "Conversations on Purpose" with a coach. The "Conversations" book is 10 guided conversations that will point you towards knowing and living out your life's purpose. Coaching is not counselling. Counselling often revolves around your past and how that's affecting your present. Coaching revolves around your future - the steps you can take to move ahead in whatever area you need to move ahead in.
I hope to move onto Level II - Women's Ministry Consulting - in the New Year.
If any of you are interested in finding out more about these materials or working with a coach, I'd be happy to chat more.

Yippee!!

2007-10-25T10:33:00.000-06:00

Our youngest daughter Lauryl and her husband Tyler bought a house in Regina! They're not moving until next year, so hopefully we'll get it rented soon. Can't believe I'd ever have kids living close to us.

Crazy Week

2007-10-25T10:30:00.000-06:00

This has been one of those weeks! Pastor's Wives' Retreat planning meeting; Ordaining council for supper; Presenting Int'l Project tonight at my church; leave for Outlook to teach 3 seminars to SK West Network women. All this after returning from a crazy previous week in Ontario and Quebec. Next week is better - I hope. Sometimes our schedule just has to happen like this, even if it's not my first choice. "As our days, so shall our strength be"! Thankfully, God promises to show up when we're weak.

More good music

2007-10-19T08:16:00.000-06:00

I love good music and I have a great appreciation for upcoming musicians. I'm listening to another new CD just released. Keith Kitchen - a young pastor in our District - has got his CD's out now. He spent all summer in BC recording with the likes of Carolyn Arends and other music greats. It's called Broomtree. Another one I highly recommend.

Memories abound in Kingston

2007-10-14T20:35:00.001-06:00

Bayridge Alliance in their new location.

The kids' school - Collin's Bay.

We journeyed today down from Quebec City to Toronto, where we both begin meetings tomorrow. Enroute we stopped in Kingston, where we used to pastor and saw some familiar sights of homes we lived in, the church we pastored and some of the beauty we lived in, like this lock at Kingston Mills on the Rideau Canal.

Women's Ministries in Quebec

2007-10-14T20:25:00.000-06:00

It was my privilege to briefly speak (through an interpreter) to a small gathering of Quebecois women. I had a wonderful chat with Natalie - the young leader at St. Foy. They face many challenges, but they are not unlike other groups across Canada. Busy, over extended women everywhere!

I had lunch with Diane Gendron, the District Director in the St. Lawrence. She's the one in pink. The older women with Diane (in pink) are 2 of the oldest believers at Alliance Churches in the province. Madame Savard (on the right) was nanny to my niece and nephew when Blaine and Shelly were in language study at Laval University many years ago.

The other picture with Diane is of the leader at Dubourger (sp?) and St. Foy.

Ferry ride sights to Levis

2007-10-14T20:13:00.000-06:00

Quebec City in October

2007-10-11T19:41:00.000-06:00

These are all from the L'isle d'orleans - an island in the St.Lawrence which is full of small villages churches and farms. These stone houses with bright red metal roofs - great for the heavy snowfalls they get - are quite typical. We ate dinner at this highly recommended restaurant which was originally an old flour mill dating back to the 1700's. It was charming, the food was superb and the service was excellent. I loved the presentation as much as the food itself. The pile of pumpkins was outside the fruit stand where I bought some maple syrup.

This misty picture is of the creperie where we had lunch in the old city. It was pouring rain all day and we managed to get a parking spot right in front of the restaurant, which for the old city, is quite remarkable. Well, Doug popped the 2oonie into the meter, but it wouldn't register. We took a chance on not getting a ticket, because it was such a miserable day, but unfortunately, the rain didn't deter the meter man! We called the # on the ticket and explained, so we now have to write a letter to plead our case. Let's hope Quebec is kind to its tourists!

These pictures are of the National Assembly and also the chapel that is now part of the Museum of French America which we toured this morning.

Sweet Jaxton!

2007-10-10T20:40:00.000-06:00

We're in Ontario and I should be talking about that, but we just got these new pictures of Jaxton, so I had to show him off!

Thanksgiving weekend

2007-10-04T08:19:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all my friends who read this blog! Along with so many things, I'm grateful for each of you. Hope you enjoy every bite of turkey and pumpkin pie.

I'm blessed - we get to see 2 sets of our kids this weekend. Not bad! We saw them in September and now again in October. Karmyn is flying into Regina tonight. She's driving with me to Winnipeg tomorrow morning where I'll drop her off at her inlaws. Brock is already there, so I'll see him briefly. They're spending time with the Tylers.
Then, Saturday a.m. I head to Wpg airport to pick up my husband (he's been in Atlanta) and Tyler, Lauryl's husband (he's flying in from Calgary). We all head out to Morden - where Lauryl already is - for Ali Kneeshaw's wedding. Kneeshaws are good friends from Morden days. We'll travel home with L&T on Sunday night and have Thanksgiving with the kids on Monday. They fly home that night. It'll be a full, busy weekend, but a great one. Our friends, the Mcleods are joining us for Thanksgiving dinner too. I love it when my table is full of family and friends.

Look what we're missing!

2007-09-30T16:12:00.000-06:00

God & me day

2007-09-29T08:42:00.000-06:00

Fall has arrived and along with beautiful colors and cooler temperatures, it brings back our crazy schedule. Doug is gone more than he's home and this year I'm almost as bad. As I write this, I'm in a hotel room yet again. Thursday I was home and had carved out the day to spend with God, my Bible, journal and study guide by Anne Graham Lotz http://www.annegrahamlotz.com called "I Saw the Lord". It's her newest out and focuses on some Bible characters and their quest for what she calls personal revival. Great stuff! I chose Nehemiah to look at in depth. I've been using Anne's study questions for all my Bible study lately. They are: What are the facts of the passage? What are the lessons to be learned? What is God saying to me? What am I going to do about it? Anyhow, back to Nehemiah....here's a few stand out things I was reminded of again.

1. Burden is the first step to vision.
2. Prayer for us is to learn God's burden for the situation. The greater the challenge the greater the prayer.
3. "Just do it" from the old Nike ad - even when the way is full of hard things.

It was great to revisit and recommit to my own personal vision/purpose of coming alongside women's ministry leaders and pastor's wives to love them, listen to them, encourage them, equip them and empower them to be and do all God wants for them. It's been a tough number of months in one of my roles, so this recommitment to my vision was good.

I also commited to carving out regular "God & me" days and wrote them on my calendar - even in the middle of our crazy schedule.

And like Nehemiah, I'm going to "just do it" - no matter the cost!

These "God & me" times are always great for realignment with Him.

Are we making a difference?

2007-09-25T23:12:00.000-06:00

Maybe twice a month, when Doug's not home yet, I'll catch a few minutes of Oprah as I'm getting supper ready. I couldn't believe my ears today as she was talking about women and erotica -the new word for pornography and open marriages - couples that agree to have multiple partners. Oprah seemed to pride herself in being open minded about these "new approaches" to women's sexuality. Of course she had "specialists" on to support these 'new' ideas. I think it was something I was supposed to see as I've been contemplating the role of women's ministries in the lives of average Canadian women. Hopefully women using 'erotica' and open marriages are not the average, but nevertheless they are happening with the encouragement of influencers to be open minded to this unbiblical and unhealthy way of living. As women's leaders, are we aware of what's being touted as normal and good in our world? How much are the women in our churches being influenced by this? Are the women in our churches being equipped to not only make godly choices for themselves, but also to influence their own corner of the world by lovingly living out the reality of their faith? How do we respond to this tolerant behaviour? Are women's minstries really making a difference? I sure don't have all the answers, but we HAVE to be asking ourselves these questions!

Reflections on a treadmill

2007-09-23T12:21:00.000-06:00

I've been wanting to increase my workout on my treadmill, but haven't figured out how to add more time on it in my already full days. So, I've been increasing the incline, making for a harder workout, if not longer. Some days the time speeds by as I'm deep in thought problem solving or thinking about what's ahead in my day. Other days my legs feel like lead and each minute seems to crawl by. On those days what helps - I'm slowly discovering - is not to focus on how slowly the time is moving ahead on my read out or how tired my body feels, but to think about what I'm accomplishing, keeping my goal in sight of better health and more energy.
This morning around mile 1, I reflected that this whole thing is lots like running the race of life and then sure enough the message at church today was keeping our focus on the "God who is bigger" rather than on the tough things we're facing. If my eyes are on God and the work he's accomplishing in my character, then my focus is not so much on the gorry details of the tough things. Maybe I'll inch that incline up even higher tomorrow!

Anita Renfroe

2007-09-21T22:26:00.000-06:00

We bought a new resource for women's ministries at work and it arrived 2 days ago. Heather and I previewed it yesterday and laughed ourselves silly! She does a number of routines on motherhood on this particular DVD. Everything from prenatal visits, to delivery to nursing. I'll be checking out the other DVD's she has available.http://anitarenfroe.com/

Psalm 42

2007-09-19T19:46:00.000-06:00

The last 2 days have been full of challenges! Things aren't going how I'd like them to go with some of my ministry. However, I'm so glad that God has been faithfully giving me what I need from his word to make it through these days. I feel like David is reminding himself, in spite of his unpleasant circumstances, to focus on God. He's boiled it down to a choice - either focus on the tough stuff or focus on the God who can get you through the tough stuff! I choose to focus on God!

"Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Saviour and my God."

Ontario Happenings

2007-09-15T20:05:00.000-06:00

We've been in Burlington, Ontario since Wednesday. I went to Grade 13 here and was married when our family lived here, so it's lots like coming home, even though we've been gone from here for many years. Doug's family lives here and in the area still. We'll be enjoying lunch with them all tomorrow before we fly home. Here's the house we lived in when I was married and here's my high school - Grade 13.

Doug was in DS meetings from Wednesday evening until yesterday. The other DS wives joined everyone yesterday. I spent the day yesterday with 2 of my District Directors and today all the DS's and most of the wives travelled to Niagara Falls, Niagara on the Lake and then up to Milton where Central's DS - Ron Bonar - lives for supper and the evening. It was a day well spent, since we told lots of stories, laughed lots and got to know each other better - the women at least. Of course, the men all know each other well. Lise Pearson - from Quebec - did not join us as they're still settling their children into life in Montreal. Jennifer Bonar didn't join us until we returned to their lovely home tonight.

We rode the Funicular up the escarpment from the Falls to have lunch in the Keg in the huge Embassy Hotel - it had a spectacular view of the Niagara River and Falls.

Niagara on the Lake was as beautiful as ever, but I didn't take pictures. We stopped for coffee and peach pie on main street.

A Sad Goodbye

2007-09-11T19:44:00.000-06:00

We said goodbye to our son, wife and grandson today. They've been at Shay's home until now and left tonight for home. It was sad saying goodbye to Jaxton - he's changed this week already! We're not sure when we'll get to see him again.

Telephone Day and other things

2007-09-11T17:28:00.001-06:00

I can't believe where the day has gone! I spent pretty much the whole day on the phone, but it was at least productive. God was evident in all of them. One call has been long awaited for and reminds me that God is at work even when we don't see the immediate evidence - something I know, but am not always good at applying.
One of my calls was with my coach. We've been developing a great relationship via our weekly phone calls. For someone who I've never met in person, I'd say she knows a whole lot more about me than most. I'm so grateful God has placed her in my life and look forward to our on going friendship and the learning I do through her. The whole coaching thing came about as a prerequisite for my own coaching training that I've now completed. I know this whole coaching thing is a bit of a buzz word right now, but when you connect with the right person, it's very worthwhile. Once again it proves that God knows what I need better than I do!

Renewing old friendships

2007-09-09T21:17:00.000-06:00

We had a great time yesterday renewing our friendship with Bruce McLeod and 2 of his kids, Grant and Matthew. Bruce and Lori are in the process of moving back to Regina, after 5 years away in Brandon, MB and Listowel, ON. Bruce has been transferred back to Regina with Farm Credit Corporation. Lori and I have known each other since we were teenagers. Then, when we pastored in Kingston, ON in the 80's she, along with hubby Bruce and baby Hope moved to Kingston and attended our church. We've kept in touch through the years with many visits to their home in Regina and our yearly rendezvous at Manitoba's Family Camp.
They have a home just minutes away from ours, so we're looking forward to good times with them.

Rivalry in the house!

2007-09-05T16:23:00.000-06:00

Aaron loves the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and Shay loves the Saskatchewan Roughriders! That meant this last Sunday's football game was interesting in our house. 5 actually went to the game. (Gramma got to stay home and babysit Jaxton!) We had a consolation/celebration barbeque that night! Notice the jersey on Jaxton - a signed one from Matt Domingas no less. Shay teaches the son of someone - can't remember the name who is involved in football somehow that is friends with Eric Tillman, so thus the jersey.

Our Kids Treat

2007-09-05T16:10:00.000-06:00

As I've told you earlier on my blog, we celebrated our 30th wedding anniversary in August. Our kids surprised us this weekend by shooing us out of the kitchen, cooking supper for us and then putting on a "program" for us which included a funny video Aaron created about the 2 of us; a song written and performed by Karmyn and Brock about us; and a great acrostic and game put together by Lauryl and Tyler that we had much fun with. We felt honored and loved and stuffed by the end of the evening. They also gave us the set of Planet Earth DVD's which we've enjoyed off and on all weekend.

Office baby shower

2007-09-04T20:13:00.000-06:00

Our dear office staff put on a great baby shower for Jaxton - it was so thoughtful of them. He received some great gifts. Jaxton's Aunt Karmyn painted the picture for his nursery.

A Mother's Delight!

2007-09-04T16:34:00.000-06:00

It's been a whirlwind of fun with all our kids and their spouses home and of course our sweet grandson. We arrived back in Regina on Thursday and the rest of the gang came the next day. Of course, Jaxton was the main source of entertainment. How can a 9 lb little boy keep 8 adults occupied and entertained? Except between midnite and 8 a.m. I don't think he was left unheld for a minute! We also managed our family badminton tournament with Aaron and Shay champions for this go round.

I'm having computer trouble these days, so check back for more pics soon.

Sunday in Surrey

2007-08-26T23:17:00.001-06:00

Sunday began by going to Surrey Alliance Church. We saw Jaxton's good buddy, Bly, who was born 7 weeks to the day before Jax. Pastor Ric gave a great message on the body of Christ and we shared the Lord's Supper together. We ordered in from Noodle Island - one of Aaron and Shay's favorite eating places just up the street from them. It's Vietnamese food and very good. Shay and I had hair cuts while Grampa babysat - he's getting good at this! After a short rest, we headed out to Dallas and Donna's - about 20 minutes away in Aldergrove. We had a great supper and visit with all of them minus Lee-Ann who is away in Mexico on a missions trip. Jason is off to Ambrose College in Calgary next weekend, while his girlfriend Bethany heads back to Trinity Western. While Gramma held Jaxton, everyone else played Boggle - all trying to beat out Doug who still reigns as Captain Boggle! Even Katelyn did a great job! We met Dakota - Ginger's puppy that Dallas and Donna will now keep to breed and her new "boyfriend" that D&D were dogsitting for the weekend. Riley is the white lab and Dakota is the golden one. All in all a full and good day. And of course, one more picture of Jaxton and Mommy!

3 more sleeps until Aaron's home

2007-08-25T21:17:00.001-06:00

I don't know where the days are going, as apart from holding Jaxton, we're not doing a whole lot! I baked some cookies and muffins for the kids and Shay and I made a fast trip to the mall while Grampa babysat. Both baby and Grampa did fine! Aaron is back in a few days, so we're all looking forward to seeing him.

Check out Jax's shirt and shorts. One of many purchases at Carter's kids' store in the states.

Aaron's birthday without the birthday boy

2007-08-25T01:15:00.000-06:00

Here we are in Surrey - home of Aaron, Shay and Jaxton - on Aaron's 28th birthday! Our first born. He spent the day in Haiti with his youth group and we had a wonderful supper with his Lead Pastor and family - Ric and Corinne Strangway, Ashlin, Ethan and Avery. We're so pleased that our kids can learn from great people like the Strangways. They're made of quality stuff and model such ministry hearts. They also kindly share their gift of hospitality with us every time we come.

Couldn't resist

2007-08-24T17:21:00.000-06:00

Another walk today in this great sunshine and more cuteness! Our daughter-in-law Shay is a great mom!

Day 2 with our grandson!

2007-08-23T22:15:00.000-06:00

He's one happy little guy. I think he looks like Shay although with certain expressions I see Aaron. I took him on a short walk today - sure is a great stroller - a far cry from what his father was pushed around in. I love the picture of his cute, long, frog -like legs!

That's grampa's hand with the ice cream cone - thankfully Jaxton was sleeping and didn't give in to the temptation!

Here he is!

2007-08-23T12:02:00.001-06:00

One adorable little boy!!! Stay tuned for more when he's awake.

Tomorrow is Jaxton day!

2007-08-21T22:22:00.000-06:00

We said goodbye to Lincoln City, OR and starting making our way north along Hiway 101. First stop was the Tillamook Cheese Factory. Pictures weren't great because of the glass, but it was most interesting to watch them make cheese. They're also famous for their icecream, so what you're seeing is their sampler bowl of 3 flavors - Tillamook Mudslide, Marionberry Pie and Mountain Huckleberry & just so you know, all were excellent! As we continued north, the next stop was Cannon Beach. We walked on the beach and made it almost to Haystack rock - their famous landmark. They have a street full of quaint shops, so I had a quick 15 minute look. Seaside was the next stop on the tour - although I should say it was a moving tour, as we didn't get out of the car here. The long promenade dividing the beach from the town looked inviting though. Then we stopped at Astoria's Columbia River Museum - that was definitely worth it! Fascinating stuff on the boats and the coast guard - their training spot in the US because of the difficult conditions that exist at the mouth of the Columbia - they make 300-400 rescues/year! We said good bye to Oregon, but I hope we can go back some day.

We're now in Everett, WA - just north of Seattle. Tomorrow is Jaxton day!!

Rainy 30th anniversary day on the Oregon coast

2007-08-20T21:45:00.001-06:00

Today is our 30th anniversary! We can't believe it's been that long. God has richly blessed us and we feel like His loved and spoiled kids for sure. It has rained and been foggy all day, but we didn't let that stop us from exploring. We headed south to Depoe Bay right after breakfast where we saw whales spouting from the shoreline. That's also the world's smallest harbor and we took the picture of the fishing boat heading into it. We veered off the hiway for a piece and stopped at some other cool spots - Devil's punchbowl, which you see in the pictures, was carved out by the tides when they come in - also saw more whales spouting there. Then we headed further south to Newport and walked along Nye Beach where we're standing with my dripping, straight hair. After rinsing off my sandy feet, we headed to the harborfront in this city. There's a winding street with old houses, stores, and restaurants. We ate at the famous Mo's - made famous for their world renown chowder. I'm not a chowder lover, but this stuff was excellent. It was right on the water, so we watched all sorts of boats come in and Doug spotted a sea lion. Afterwards, we watched on the pier as a fellow loaded his crab cage - not sure if that's what you call it, but he loaded it with chicken wrapped with bacon, dropped it into the ocean and then we waited for 15 minutes and sure enough - he pulled it up and out came some crabs.

We headed back to Lincoln City where we decided to do some outlet mall shopping to stay out of the continuing, misty rain. I seem to gravitate to the baby stores these days! Then, because we loved Mo's so much at lunch, we headed to the Mo's in Lincoln City and enjoyed more fish and another GREAT place to watch the ocean - we weren't disappointed, since we got to see seals playing out in the water all meal long! Pretty great way to spend our day. We'll be checking out the hot tub shortly!

Aaron's safe in Haiti

2007-08-19T22:45:00.000-06:00

With all the media coverage on the hurricane in the caribbean, we're so grateful that Aaron and his youth team are safe in Haiti. They had heavy rain, but they were safe and sound in their host's home. You can check out his blog at www.haiti2007.spaces.live.com if you're interested. God is doing some great things for this group already! Shay is holding the fort at home with our sweet Jaxton. Only 3 more sleeps and we get to see him!!

God's beautiful creation!

2007-08-19T22:24:00.000-06:00

Wow - quite a day! Left Yakima, WA for Portland and the coast this a.m. The Columbia gorge was beautiful, especially when we got off the interstate for about 15 miles and went along the scenic route. This is where we stopped at the waterfalls - Horsetail and Multnomah - gorgeous stuff! Then we hit Portland and after a few wrong turns, found Powell's Books where we browsed for an hour - it's HUGE! Doug found a bargain book - trains of course! Then we tried to stop at the open air market, but could not find a parking spot, so continued on to the Hawthorne district for lunch at Palio's coffeeshop. I loved it and the area. Check out the pics of us in front - I could live in that area of wonderful old homes and quiet, tree lined streets - the stuff of reflective walks and chats with neighbours. Then, we backtracked and went through Washington Park - pretty amazing, high up park in the city. We stopped at the rose garden of thousands of varieties of roses - my favorite flower, so I loved it. Then, we left the city for the winding road down to the coast. We arrived in Lincoln City early evening, found our hotel and headed out for a Mexican food supper - my husband indulged me. The hotel is great - thank you airmiles! Did a short walk on an ocean boardwalk before dark. Check out the tsunami warning in the hotel room!

Holiday report

2007-08-18T22:49:00.000-06:00

Brock was trying to stay awake for the long journey back to Edmonton!

Dinner at Lauryl and Tyler's - she's a great cook!

Can you see Doug up in the bomber?

We're in Yakima tonight enroute to the Oregon coast. We've had some fun times with family in Calgary (while in Calgary, we also had a quick coffee with our dear friends Garth and Monica and Richard and Merinda, originally from Morden and now in SE Asia and Africa) and down to Nanton to see the train and air museums, then rendezvousing with Karmyn and Brock and then with Dallas and Donna. Tomorrow we're hitting Portland where we'll visit Powell's Bookstore - the largest bookstore in the world; Palio's coffee shop - made famous by Don Miller and then move on to Lincoln City on the coast. We'll make that our headquarters for a few days while we scout around to enjoy the rugged beauty of the coastline.

Holiday reading list

2007-08-15T23:17:00.000-06:00

Holidays have just begun. One of my favorite things about holidays is extended reading times. My book bag consists of Good to Great by Jim Collins; Tough Choices by Carly Fiorini - she was at the Leadership Summit this year; Nelson Mandela's autobiography; Truth to Tell by Leslie Newbiggin and The Road by Cormac McCArthy. Not sure how far I'll get with all of them. I'm half done Tough Choices - great story and leadership principles. I can see why Hybels has all his senior leadership work through this book. About one third done the Mandela story - also good stuff.

1 week old Jaxton

2007-08-12T00:12:00.000-06:00

Couldn't resist showing off Jaxton at 1 week! Only 11 more days to go until we see him!

Rest of Summit and my GREAT team!

2007-08-11T19:19:00.000-06:00

Well, Summit just kept getting better and better! Colin Powell was super as was Richard Curtis - British film producer/screen writer who's done Nottinghill, etc. but also has raised $$$$ for the poor around the world. Of course, John Ortberg never disappoints and Jimmy Carter was inspiring too. Good stuff to continue to mull over and pray how God wants me to use it in my own leadership experiences. If you've never been, you must try it next year. Always on this weekend in August.

I told you about my wonderful team. Here they are - enjoying some fun at a supper break. The other picture is all the Alliance people from our District taking in Summit in Saskatoon. It was held at Lakeview Free Methodist church - great facility!

Summit in Saskatoon

2007-08-09T22:48:00.000-06:00

I drove up to Saskatoon yesterday and Doug flew in last night from Toronto. We're here to take in the Willowcreek Leadership Summit and I also have District Women's Leadership Team meetings. It's been a long, but most beneficial day. I left our hotel room at 8 this morning and just got back minutes ago.
I have a wonderful team of women who lead and facilitate their networks with skill, passion and effectiveness. They each bring their own flavor and personality to their networks and to our team - I love it! And on top of all that, we have a hoot together. Doing ministry together with people you like hanging out with is the best!
Summit is good as always. I especially enjoyed Carly I can't remember her last name - was the CEO of Hewlett Packard. She was great. I bought her book Tough Choices and will enjoy that on holidays. Marcus Buckingham was back - he's good too - I've heard him a number of times. All good stuff. Just the hard work of application!

Keep these coming Aaron!

2007-08-06T22:46:00.000-06:00

I just can't resist showing Jax off!! Thanks for indulging this first time gramma!!

Cypress Hills Weekend

2007-08-06T21:07:00.000-06:00

We had a great weekend with our youngest daughter Lauryl and her new husband Tyler at Cypress Hills. The weather was great and it was fun to relax in some of God's beautiful creation. It was also great to be with family to share the good news of Jaxton. We're blessed!

Couldn't resist one more!

2007-08-06T19:15:00.000-06:00

Only minutes old!

2007-08-06T18:50:00.000-06:00

Jaxton Aaron Douglas Gerrard

2007-08-03T17:17:00.000-06:00

Sorry everybody. We've received pictures, but I'm having trouble downloading for some reason. We're at Cypress Hills this weekend - we're hoteling and Lauryl and Tyler are camping. There's only wireless in the hotel lobby and it's not real strong, so I think that's the problem. I'll keep trying later. Check out the name! Also, here's Aaron's take on things.

Hello everyone,

Regarding the newest Gerrard...

Quick version:
Surrey Memorial Hospital
8:20am, Friday, August 3, 2007
A boy: Jaxton Aaron Douglas Gerrard
6 pounds, 15 ounces
20 inches long
Dirty blonde hair
Looks like a premier NHL goalie already (but that may just be his father living out his dreams through his son?)
Shalene and baby are doing great!

Long version:
Shay's water broke on Wednesday night while out for a walk. One of many as of late in trying to get her water to break! It finally worked. Problem was, after an exam at the hospital shortly after, nothing was happening so they sent us home. We were called back in Thursday night as they don't like to let a baby go longer than 24hours after the water's broken.

So at 2am Shalene was put on iv and an anti-biotic drip to keep the baby healthy in a "water broken" home.

At 4am Shay was induced (even though she was having small contractions by then).

At 6am Shay was 3cm, and by 8am she was 10cm. She pushed for 20 minutes and out popped Jaxton. She was awesome. No needle in the back, just some good ol' morphine. She did a great job!

So, after not sleeping for two nights, mother and child (once all cleaned up) had some food and hit the sack. I slept too...though I didn't feel as though I deserved it as much as Shay. You might not think Shay one to yell. You'd be wrong.

And for all those wondering how queasy Gerrard did. I rocked it too. Cut the cord and everything...didn't feel faint for a moment. Only by God's grace was that possible. I'm sure if I saw a needle right now I'd pass out.

As for the name, obviously the two middle names have meaning. Aaron, being me...and Douglas, being my dad. We figured if we only ever had one boy we wanted to honour Doug somehow...so two middle names it was.

Jaxton. Unique. Ours. No creative meaning. Possible short forms or nicknames would include: Jax, Jaxty, Jaxy, Jaxy-waxy, Jax-a-lack-a-bing-bong, and so forth.

Attached you'll find some pics...and I'm sure I've missed a bunch of important details but for now this will have to do.

Love you all, and we have appreciated your prayers and support so much!

Until later,

-Aaron

It's a boy!!

2007-08-03T15:57:00.000-06:00

Thanks for all your prayers. Baby arrived this morning around 8:45 a.m. BC time. He's 6 lbs, 15 oz and 51 cm long with blonde/brown hair. Shay didn't get hooked up to the drip until 2:00 a.m. this a.m., so all things considered that's pretty quick. We're thrilled she and baby are great and so is the DAD! As soon as Aaron sends pictures, I'll post them. It's killing me not to get on a plane and head out there. I'll have to work hard at being patient for a couple of weeks.

Baby update

2007-08-02T13:09:00.000-06:00

Still the waiting game. Contractions aren't strong or regular yet, so they'll head to the hospital this afternoon to get hooked up to I V with Oxytocin to help speed things along if they don't speed along on their own.

Baby's on the way!!!

2007-08-01T23:21:00.001-06:00

Shay's water has broken! Baby is coming!! I'll keep everyone posted!

For the women in my life who like flowers

2007-08-01T19:17:00.000-06:00

If perchance there are any men reading these meandering thoughts, you may tune out with this one. However, for my hydrangea loving daughter Karmyn, my Morden rose loving mother Marion and my gardening loving daughter Lauryl - these are for you! Shay, I didn't forget you - wish I were there to present you with flowers in your hospital room with that slow-to-arrive baby!!

My spiritual friend

2007-07-31T20:44:00.000-06:00

One of the things I'm doing to live a life on purpose is to invite a friend into my life on a regular basis to ask me the hard questions that no one likes to ask, but we all need asking. God gave me "N". She's a gift truly, as she models a life of sweet surrender to Jesus in every way. I always come away affirmed and encouraged to live my life fully surrendered/sold out/ and deeply in love with Jesus - as I did once again tonight. Her life hasn't been an easy one, but amazingly by many standards, she says that God is completely trustworthy. My life is richer for her friendship!

Life Purpose Coaching

2007-07-30T22:12:00.001-06:00

I am deep into my Life Purpose Coach's training with Pathway to Purpose Ministries. It's wonderful stuff. At the end I hope to be a certified coach with this Ministry that was begun by Dr. Katie Brazelton. Life Purpose coaching is designed to help women know and fulfill their unique life purpose. It's designed to help women live with passion, purpose and joy, being holy women of God. As part of my training, I'm currently being coached and am finding it to be a great experience. If you're interested in finding out more, look for the book Pathway to Purpose. Conversations on Purpose is the book we use in the 10 week coaching by phone, face-face or emails/letters.

Long Weekend Approaches!

2007-07-30T21:56:00.001-06:00

I went grocery shopping today for the coming long weekend. We're heading to Cypress Hills with Lauryl and Tyler! Woohoo!! They're old pro campers already, but we're going to take the easy route and stay in the hotel. However, we will be enjoying their campsite for roasting marshmallows and hot dogs and all other good camping past times! Cypress Hills is the highest point between Winnipeg and Banff apparently. It's a beautiful place, although I can't remember much, as I was last there when I was 5! Here's to long weekends and great kids to enjoy them with! I hope we don't get as burnt as this from all the hot temperatures. This was taken on Lauryl and Tyler's last camping adventure this past weekend with Karmyn and Brock, soon to become seasoned campers on their trek to Oregon.

Old Friends

2007-07-29T17:10:00.000-06:00

We were up early this morning to serve at our church's annual pancake breakfast. During and after the breakfast, illusionist Greg Wood and his wife Oonaugh entertained us with their slight of hand show. Greg and Oonaugh started their journey with Jesus in Morden and were part of our church when we pastored there. It's so good to see them continuing on in their journey and now serving with Power to Change (formerly Campus Crusade). We reminisced over lunch and of course he also "performed" more tricks for us! They're great at what they do. Who would have thought that 16 years ago this is where they'd be and what they'd be doing? Journeying with Jesus is always an adventure.

2007-07-28T13:09:00.000-06:00

I forgot one thing. You can check out Brock's website for a bit more info on the CD. It's www.brocktyler.com

My musician son-in-law

2007-07-28T12:53:00.000-06:00

It's a blazing hot day here today in Regina. Doug decided to go to the football game - Roughriders vs. Eskimos, so I hope the Roughies win big to make up for Doug sitting in the hot sun. I'm listening to my son-in-law's new CD cranked up loud - that's how I love to listen to good music and since Doug is not of the same bent, I take advantage of it when he's out of the house. So, back to Brock's CD - it's amazing!!! He wrote, sang and played every instrument as well as did all his own recording. It's got a great CD cover, his friend the graphic designer did. The CD is entitled "Unclosing" and represents a couple of years hard labor! Let me know if you'd like to buy one - $15 well spent!! Yes, I'm a biased mother-in-law and he's not paying me to be his agent either. It is really good! I have a few copies I asked for to see if I could sell them here in Regina for him. I'd mail them anywhere too.

This picture is Brock performing at a Calgary Stampede breakfast at one of the Alliance Churches there. He plays with his good buddy Nathan Carroll as well - this is Nathan's group. Nathan also has hid newly produced CD on the market as well. It too is excellent. Brock played banjo, guitar and trumpet on Nathan's as well as doing back up vocals. Nathan's is a bit different genre than Brock's. Amazing musicians!! God has truly gifted them.

Tharseo: Excitement in the neighbourhood

2007-07-27T08:47:00.000-06:00

Tharseo: Excitement in the neighbourhood

www.leaderpost.com

Excitement in the neighbourhood

2007-07-27T08:24:00.000-06:00

This unusual event took place just a couple of blocks away from us. The boom of the crane that was trying to replace a broken power transformer toppled right onto and through the roof of this home. Thankfully it took place early in the morning before anyone was awake so no one was hurt. It also completely damaged the next door neighbours patio and furniture.

2007-07-26T23:07:00.000-06:00

Summer pleasures

2007-07-26T22:59:00.000-06:00

I love flowers, so summer is great for that reason alone! Here's some samplings of my garden. I'm planning to move some of my perennials around this fall and maybe add some more. Our Morden apple tree has the most apples it's ever had to date. Maybe enough for a couple of pies and a few to eat.