In North America we are in the midst of preparing for Christmas. The stores have put up their decorations, and stocked their shelves. The frantic shopping and endless parties have begun. At a meeting this week, I heard a pastor say, “I’d like to do away with Christmas. It’s ruined.”
Many Christians lament what has happened to our wonderful Christmas celebration. Complaining doesn’t bring change. I remind you that Jesus is born not once a year but everyday with the birth of every child. We can close our hearts and minds to our society’s commercialized Christmas but we cannot stop the birth of Christ..
To regain our religious celebration we need to begin with ourselves. As you do your Christmas baking, ask for God’s blessing on the people who will be enjoying it. With each spoonful of cookie dough onto the pan, name and give thanks for your family and friends. Stir prayers for peace into your Christmas pudding.
Listen for God message to you in the Christmas Carols, the jingling of the Salvation Army bells, the excited voices of children, the tears of a grieving friend.
Search for places to share your many blessings. Give gifts of time at nursing homes, with kids activities, visiting the lonely. Remember that Jesus enjoyed a party. He’ll be present with you as you celebrate. Light the advent candles of hope, peace, joy and love for everyone you meet.
In your mind keep a running conversation with the baby Jesus. “Is this what you would have me give to my child…my spouse…my friend…a stranger? On December 25th read the Christmas story. You are the Wisemen searching for the Christ child. You have given him his gifts..
Remember, Jesus will be born. We need only open our hearts to receive him.
"It's only an inch."
Selling my books, "Spectacular Stella" and "Can I Hold Him?" has given me a new perspective on the attitude towards faith of many in today's society. I sit at a bookstore or a craft show and watch people as they walk by. Some, have been browing at each table as they come along. When they get to mine, where the Christmas poster, the nativity scene and the shining star on the front of "Can I Hold Him, all say clearly that these books are about God, they turn their eyes away and walk by quickly. Others have the courage to pick up my books and leaf through them. As soon as their eyes light on the word God, they carefully close the book and set it down as if ... I'm not sure. I know that many who have had no connection with religion or faith, except for what they read or hear in the news media, are afraid. That's it. They're afraid that somehow they'll be contaminated. Yet, these same people see books loaded with violence, and descriptions of evil beings causing havoc and they willingly reach out to buy. What is it about faith that frightens people?
I wonder if they are afraid that touching, reading, learning about faith will mean changes in their lives. They don't believe that God exists. They don't believe in any of that hocus pocus about religion, but still they are afraid. And well they should be. My experience has taught me one sure thing about God. If I give God an inch, God will change my life. For me, those changes have been wonderful. As my faith has grown more and more solid my security and inner peace has blossomed. My participation in a church family has given me friendship and support. Yes, life is different since I risked being contaminated by religion. I know that whatever happens I am never alone. I can draw on God's strength to face my troubles, and God's wisdom in making decisions. I am not alone and I am grateful. Yes, one day long ago, I gave God an inch, and God has given me abundant life.
I wonder if they are afraid that touching, reading, learning about faith will mean changes in their lives. They don't believe that God exists. They don't believe in any of that hocus pocus about religion, but still they are afraid. And well they should be. My experience has taught me one sure thing about God. If I give God an inch, God will change my life. For me, those changes have been wonderful. As my faith has grown more and more solid my security and inner peace has blossomed. My participation in a church family has given me friendship and support. Yes, life is different since I risked being contaminated by religion. I know that whatever happens I am never alone. I can draw on God's strength to face my troubles, and God's wisdom in making decisions. I am not alone and I am grateful. Yes, one day long ago, I gave God an inch, and God has given me abundant life.
Our life has value
Today we went to a funeral and I met a young man I hadn't seen for fifteen years. I received a wonderful blessing from God when I heard about his new life. We had walked together with his grief, and today he has joy. Once again he thanked me for my help in the past. Once again I experienced the privilege and honor of being part of another persons pain and joy. God's call to me to serve through loving my neighbour was amazing. Saying yes, has filled my cup to overflowing. I am truly blessed.
Answering the call.
Yesterday's Bible was titled Jesus Calls the First Disciple (Mark 1:16-20). Even as a teenager this simple well known passage always presented problems for me. After all, what self-respecting fisherman would just drop his nets, give up his livelihood and take a chance on an unknown itinerant preacher. With some research and some thinking, I began to see this scene with new eyes. First of all, Simon, Andrew, James and John were probably Jesus' contemporaries and maybe even his friends. Chances are they had heard Jesus preach often. Together they may have laid plans for travelling together. Often when we read the Bible, or any news story, we get the end result of a long process. Probably the hardest part of leaving to follow Jesus, would be accepting this Jesus whom they had known for a long time, as their leader.
In the church we use this passage to talk about following Jesus today. Can we answer God's call? What is God calling us to do? Most of us tend to clutch tightly the net of our lives as they are. Our fingers are entwined the nets webbing and we struggle with letting go.
I remember my call to write, publish books and tell stories. First, God pushed me to tell stories as a break from the regular sermons I was preaching each week. Then my congregations pushed me to gather my stories together for publication. I thought about that and prayed about it for several years. Finally, I took half a step, let go of the net with one hand, and accepted a part time position so I would have more time to write. Five years later I was ready to let go both hands and move into this new ministry of writing. For some of us it takes many years of hearing God's call before we finally relinguish our hold on our lives and say yes to God. When the yes finally comes, suddenly it feels as if we have literally just dropped our nets to follow Jesus. It is only then that this scripture passage makes sense. Although the process was long, interesting, and often challenging, the final yes just blends it all together. In many ways we feel as if God called and we dropped our lives and followed.
In the church we use this passage to talk about following Jesus today. Can we answer God's call? What is God calling us to do? Most of us tend to clutch tightly the net of our lives as they are. Our fingers are entwined the nets webbing and we struggle with letting go.
I remember my call to write, publish books and tell stories. First, God pushed me to tell stories as a break from the regular sermons I was preaching each week. Then my congregations pushed me to gather my stories together for publication. I thought about that and prayed about it for several years. Finally, I took half a step, let go of the net with one hand, and accepted a part time position so I would have more time to write. Five years later I was ready to let go both hands and move into this new ministry of writing. For some of us it takes many years of hearing God's call before we finally relinguish our hold on our lives and say yes to God. When the yes finally comes, suddenly it feels as if we have literally just dropped our nets to follow Jesus. It is only then that this scripture passage makes sense. Although the process was long, interesting, and often challenging, the final yes just blends it all together. In many ways we feel as if God called and we dropped our lives and followed.
Remember God
This morning I read Deuteronomy 6:1-12. It reminded me to remain focused on God, in all that I do and think. Love God, your God, with your whole heart: love God with all that's in you, love God with all you've got. That sounds so simple, and yet it is profoundly difficult. Like everyone else I get focused on what I am doing or worrying about and I leave God behind. With something as simple as preparing a meal, or walking the dog, we can forget God.
Every morning for several years I read from a book titled "Simple Abundance". One of the best meditations spoke of preparing your family's meal as an act of worship. This is what I gleaned from that reading. As I peel the potatoes, I need to ask God to peel from my being all the mistakes I have made this day, all the times I have lost my patience, been cross, wished I were somewhere else. My prayer is, "As these potatoes cook, God, cook your love into me that I might be tasty nourishment for my family and friends. With each item I prepare for tonight's dinner Lord, I offer you a prayer for someone I love deeply." Preparing a meal can be an act of love for God and for others if I want it to be. It requires God's help, God's reminder.
Living with my focus on God, requires intentionality, at least at first. Like everything else, we get better at it with practice. One thing I have learned over the years is that remembering God in all I think and do brings God's peace into my life.
Every morning for several years I read from a book titled "Simple Abundance". One of the best meditations spoke of preparing your family's meal as an act of worship. This is what I gleaned from that reading. As I peel the potatoes, I need to ask God to peel from my being all the mistakes I have made this day, all the times I have lost my patience, been cross, wished I were somewhere else. My prayer is, "As these potatoes cook, God, cook your love into me that I might be tasty nourishment for my family and friends. With each item I prepare for tonight's dinner Lord, I offer you a prayer for someone I love deeply." Preparing a meal can be an act of love for God and for others if I want it to be. It requires God's help, God's reminder.
Living with my focus on God, requires intentionality, at least at first. Like everything else, we get better at it with practice. One thing I have learned over the years is that remembering God in all I think and do brings God's peace into my life.
Reflections - The Path of LIfe
When I first started this blog I planned to write a daily reflection on scripture or some other thought or event. So today, I am stepping onward to that purpose. This morning I focused on Psalm 16. It is a Psalm of celebrating life with God. Today, these two lines stood out for me.
"You show me the path of life.
In your presence there is joy."
Lately I have been feeling overwhelmed. I see all the stuff I want to do - write, sell my books, enjoy my family and husband, play with my friends, support anyone I know who is hurting, care for myself physically and mentally...the list is endless. So this morning I prayed, "You show me, God, you show me what you want for my life. Lay out my days." or as this Psalm says, "You show me the path of life, God. In your presence there is joy."
Jesus said,"I am the way...follow me...and I will give you rest." What was Jesus' pattern? What is Jesus' way? Immediately into my mind comes, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and love your neighbour as yourself." Jesus clearly said that all people were our neighbours, not just the people like us. And so I say to myself this morning, I will love and care for all people, one at a time as I encounter them. I will love my wonderful grandchildren and the 'brat' at the library, church, school...who won't sit still, won't listen, continually pokes and pushes the other children. I will love the teen I see volunteering at the hospital and the teen that throws stones at the streetlight just to hear the glass break. I will love my long time neighbour and the Moslem stranger the world has taught me to fear. In doing this I will become aware of God's presence and experience joy, not happiness necessarily but joy. Joy because for a few moments I will have let go of myself, my fear, my judgment, my anger and I will have rested with God.
These are the thoughts I wrote this morning as part of my daily prayer time. I offer them to any who wish to read.
"You show me the path of life.
In your presence there is joy."
Lately I have been feeling overwhelmed. I see all the stuff I want to do - write, sell my books, enjoy my family and husband, play with my friends, support anyone I know who is hurting, care for myself physically and mentally...the list is endless. So this morning I prayed, "You show me, God, you show me what you want for my life. Lay out my days." or as this Psalm says, "You show me the path of life, God. In your presence there is joy."
Jesus said,"I am the way...follow me...and I will give you rest." What was Jesus' pattern? What is Jesus' way? Immediately into my mind comes, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and love your neighbour as yourself." Jesus clearly said that all people were our neighbours, not just the people like us. And so I say to myself this morning, I will love and care for all people, one at a time as I encounter them. I will love my wonderful grandchildren and the 'brat' at the library, church, school...who won't sit still, won't listen, continually pokes and pushes the other children. I will love the teen I see volunteering at the hospital and the teen that throws stones at the streetlight just to hear the glass break. I will love my long time neighbour and the Moslem stranger the world has taught me to fear. In doing this I will become aware of God's presence and experience joy, not happiness necessarily but joy. Joy because for a few moments I will have let go of myself, my fear, my judgment, my anger and I will have rested with God.
These are the thoughts I wrote this morning as part of my daily prayer time. I offer them to any who wish to read.
Home Again
Home is wonderful. Framed by my dining room window are vivid splashes of gold waving in the wind against the glistening black tree trunks. The rain has made everything more vivid. God's amazing creation is magnificent. Each morning Tom and I give thanks to God for the privilege of living in this place.
Note from Connellsville, Pennsylvania
We had a short time at home before we were on the road again. This time we were called south of the border to Connelsville, Pennsylvania. The mother of my bestfriend, (a fifth sister)died on Tuesday evening. We got here Monday night. Already it's Saturday night, and we're leaving for home tomorrow. I'll write more about this trip tomorrow.
We had a short time at home before we were on the road again. This time we were called south of the border to Connelsville, Pennsylvania. The mother of my bestfriend, (a fifth sister)died on Tuesday evening. We got here Monday night. Already it's Saturday night, and we're leaving for home tomorrow. I'll write more about this trip tomorrow.
Sept.15-20
This is the last instalment of our trip. We’re traveling down highway 69 south. Just like a pair of horses that have been turned toward the barn, we’re going home. The last five days have been grand, just like this whole trip.
Wednesday morning and afternoon we stopped at several churches in Sault Ste Marie. They received us joyfully buying books and telling us about their ministry. The Bible Book store down town gave us the brush off. They weren’t interested in books written by a United Church Minister, but this lovely little bookstore in the Wellington mall understood the ministry of hospitality and acceptance.
Most of our customers are Roman Catholic, the owner said, a loving smile shining from her face. We’ll buy two and see how they do. Give me your business card, we’ll be glad to order more.
We followed that pleasant encounter by visiting one more United Church, and discovering that this pastor had been at General Council too. After sharing memories and hopes, she bought the books and sent us on our way.
The distance to Sudbury seemed much greater than I had planned. We arrived at my sister Sharon’s at 7:00 p.m. “I don’t cook,” she said, “as she popped rolls into the oven, “but supper’s ready.”
We enjoyed lasagna, Caesar sald, rolls warm from the oven and tarts. Everything tasted scrumptious. For the last three and half days, we were wrapped in the Sharon’s loving arms. I felt as if I had come home. We visited and walked, sold books around the city, went to the Imax theatre and relaxed on her balcony.
This morning, I read Spectacular Stella for the Children’s time and told “An Ancient Love Story “ as the message at St. James In the Valley United Church. Tom sang a solo that went with the theme of the service. This congregation supported me as I became a candidate for ministry twenty years ago. We ended our journey surrounded with old friends. Acceptance and love surrounded us. Of course, we sold books.
We’ve been taking orders for Can I Hold Him, during the last week or so, as all the copies we had with us are sold. There are still a few copies of Stella but very few. We left home with two cases of Can I Hold Him and one case of Stella (held more than the other two since Stella is thin). We’ve left books in book stores in the cities that we visited. Afew are out on cconsignment but not many. Our book trip is a resounding success.
We’ve had a wonderful time together. Tom and I are truly partners and friends. Now, we are anxious to get home. Tomorrow life begins in a new way. I’ve a golf game scheduled weather permitting, and Tom’s Bethel course starts in the evening.
Hallelujah! Thank You God. We’re home.
.
This is the last instalment of our trip. We’re traveling down highway 69 south. Just like a pair of horses that have been turned toward the barn, we’re going home. The last five days have been grand, just like this whole trip.
Wednesday morning and afternoon we stopped at several churches in Sault Ste Marie. They received us joyfully buying books and telling us about their ministry. The Bible Book store down town gave us the brush off. They weren’t interested in books written by a United Church Minister, but this lovely little bookstore in the Wellington mall understood the ministry of hospitality and acceptance.
Most of our customers are Roman Catholic, the owner said, a loving smile shining from her face. We’ll buy two and see how they do. Give me your business card, we’ll be glad to order more.
We followed that pleasant encounter by visiting one more United Church, and discovering that this pastor had been at General Council too. After sharing memories and hopes, she bought the books and sent us on our way.
The distance to Sudbury seemed much greater than I had planned. We arrived at my sister Sharon’s at 7:00 p.m. “I don’t cook,” she said, “as she popped rolls into the oven, “but supper’s ready.”
We enjoyed lasagna, Caesar sald, rolls warm from the oven and tarts. Everything tasted scrumptious. For the last three and half days, we were wrapped in the Sharon’s loving arms. I felt as if I had come home. We visited and walked, sold books around the city, went to the Imax theatre and relaxed on her balcony.
This morning, I read Spectacular Stella for the Children’s time and told “An Ancient Love Story “ as the message at St. James In the Valley United Church. Tom sang a solo that went with the theme of the service. This congregation supported me as I became a candidate for ministry twenty years ago. We ended our journey surrounded with old friends. Acceptance and love surrounded us. Of course, we sold books.
We’ve been taking orders for Can I Hold Him, during the last week or so, as all the copies we had with us are sold. There are still a few copies of Stella but very few. We left home with two cases of Can I Hold Him and one case of Stella (held more than the other two since Stella is thin). We’ve left books in book stores in the cities that we visited. Afew are out on cconsignment but not many. Our book trip is a resounding success.
We’ve had a wonderful time together. Tom and I are truly partners and friends. Now, we are anxious to get home. Tomorrow life begins in a new way. I’ve a golf game scheduled weather permitting, and Tom’s Bethel course starts in the evening.
Hallelujah! Thank You God. We’re home.
.
It’s been a long drive to Sault Ste Marie through rugged mountains and past trees and sparkling blue lakes. Lake Superior is another sacred place. For most of the journey to Wawa, we glimpsed the shining lake waters through the trees. We stopped for a late lunch at a roadside park just past Rossport. The road led us down to the shoreline, where we found picnic tables and the essential outhouses. It was easy to say thank you to God for this place. Like Moses, we took off our shoes, rolled up our trousers and waded into the lake. Expecting the water to be frigid, we were surprised to find it quite comfortable.
“Look at all the pretty rocks. Let’s collect some for Ellie,” I said.. “Well, probably the rest of the grandchildren will like some too. We’ll have to get lots.” What followed wwas a delightful half hour gathering stones and talking to the other people who had broken their journey in this beautiful spot.
Refreshed and fed, we traveled on. Five p.m. found us driving into Wawa.
“We’ve gone far enough,” Tom said as he rubbed his eyes. The first motel had no pet free rooms so we took a room at the Sportman Motel. It’s just fine. Of course, not posh like the Sleeping Giant B&B, but quite adequate. At the restaurant down the road, Tom was complaining a bit. I reminded him that we were back in our own territory now. We can’t travel with the rich every day. When our dinner came it was scrumptious. Once fed we felt much better. We took a drive through town and found a big United Church as well as three other churches, and a beautiful lake and beach. The Laundromat was closed. Guess we’ll just carry our dirty clothes a little further. We might have enough clean stuff to get to Sharon’s.
Tonight there is a chill in the air. “I think fall must finally be starting to come,” I said.
Tom replied, “Don’t be too sure, I think it’s just the wind blowing across the water.”
“Look at all the pretty rocks. Let’s collect some for Ellie,” I said.. “Well, probably the rest of the grandchildren will like some too. We’ll have to get lots.” What followed wwas a delightful half hour gathering stones and talking to the other people who had broken their journey in this beautiful spot.
Refreshed and fed, we traveled on. Five p.m. found us driving into Wawa.
“We’ve gone far enough,” Tom said as he rubbed his eyes. The first motel had no pet free rooms so we took a room at the Sportman Motel. It’s just fine. Of course, not posh like the Sleeping Giant B&B, but quite adequate. At the restaurant down the road, Tom was complaining a bit. I reminded him that we were back in our own territory now. We can’t travel with the rich every day. When our dinner came it was scrumptious. Once fed we felt much better. We took a drive through town and found a big United Church as well as three other churches, and a beautiful lake and beach. The Laundromat was closed. Guess we’ll just carry our dirty clothes a little further. We might have enough clean stuff to get to Sharon’s.
Tonight there is a chill in the air. “I think fall must finally be starting to come,” I said.
Tom replied, “Don’t be too sure, I think it’s just the wind blowing across the water.”
Sept. 12 & 13
We spent two full days in Thunder Bay. Saturday morning I wandered and meditated in Sonja’s garden. We took pictures of the seven different garden rooms she had created with flowers, trees, and arbors. Sonja is an artist. She and her partner were friendly, welcoming and interesting. Breakfast was fabulous. We decided the experience was well worth every dollar. In the end it was no more expensive than an reasonably priced hotel when we considered the breakfast. In conversation with our hosts we mentioned our love of dancing.
“I’ll call my friends Daniel and Michelle. They’re going dancing tonight. I’m sure they’ll be glad to take you with them,” Sonja responded.
We spent the afternoon downtown at the sidewalk fair. We found a wonderful Christian Book store called Hull’s Family Book Store.
“We’ve been in business here for 91 years,” Sarah the owner said. (She looked to be about 30). “We like to support Canadian Christian Authors. Yes, I’ll buy your books, just four of each to start. When they sell I’ll order more. I own two other stores, one in Winnipeg and one in Steinbach. I’ll see about getting some for them too.”
Sarah was friendly, helpful and affirming. We went to Staples for more business cards, had supper, and returned to the B&B happy with our day, and excited about going dancing.
Danielle and Michelle were great. We had a grand evening and were ready for sleep.
Sunday morning we drove out to Camp Duncan where four downtown United Churches from ThunderBay were gathering for worship. Tom had talked with Janice Stevenson one of the ministers involved on Saturday. He brought along his guitar and helped with the music. The service was meaningful and fun. The sun kept trying to shine and God’s Son did shine through the people of the four congregations. We were welcomed and fed both spiritually and physically. And we sold books as well as recommending that people go to Hull’s.
On the way home we went to the Amethyst Mine Panorama. A tourist trap yes, yet interesting and fun. We did some mining for amethysts and got a handful of unpolished stones to bring home. We also sold the store clerk two books. All in all it was a good day, and it wasn’t over yet. Daniel and Michelle had invited us to go dancing with them again that evening. This time it was a dancing lesson. Tom and I learned a bit, got some exercise and enjoyed ourselves. Afterward we went for coffee with our new friends. Michelle even bought a copy of “Can I Hold Him?”.
This morning I was up early to do my meditation in the sun room and watch the sunrise. Once again we had a scrumptious breakfast. It was time to load the car and head towards the Sault. The Sleeping Giant B&B has been a fabulous experience, the house the garden and especially Sonja and Dick. The wonder of this journey is that the blessings never end.
We spent two full days in Thunder Bay. Saturday morning I wandered and meditated in Sonja’s garden. We took pictures of the seven different garden rooms she had created with flowers, trees, and arbors. Sonja is an artist. She and her partner were friendly, welcoming and interesting. Breakfast was fabulous. We decided the experience was well worth every dollar. In the end it was no more expensive than an reasonably priced hotel when we considered the breakfast. In conversation with our hosts we mentioned our love of dancing.
“I’ll call my friends Daniel and Michelle. They’re going dancing tonight. I’m sure they’ll be glad to take you with them,” Sonja responded.
We spent the afternoon downtown at the sidewalk fair. We found a wonderful Christian Book store called Hull’s Family Book Store.
“We’ve been in business here for 91 years,” Sarah the owner said. (She looked to be about 30). “We like to support Canadian Christian Authors. Yes, I’ll buy your books, just four of each to start. When they sell I’ll order more. I own two other stores, one in Winnipeg and one in Steinbach. I’ll see about getting some for them too.”
Sarah was friendly, helpful and affirming. We went to Staples for more business cards, had supper, and returned to the B&B happy with our day, and excited about going dancing.
Danielle and Michelle were great. We had a grand evening and were ready for sleep.
Sunday morning we drove out to Camp Duncan where four downtown United Churches from ThunderBay were gathering for worship. Tom had talked with Janice Stevenson one of the ministers involved on Saturday. He brought along his guitar and helped with the music. The service was meaningful and fun. The sun kept trying to shine and God’s Son did shine through the people of the four congregations. We were welcomed and fed both spiritually and physically. And we sold books as well as recommending that people go to Hull’s.
On the way home we went to the Amethyst Mine Panorama. A tourist trap yes, yet interesting and fun. We did some mining for amethysts and got a handful of unpolished stones to bring home. We also sold the store clerk two books. All in all it was a good day, and it wasn’t over yet. Daniel and Michelle had invited us to go dancing with them again that evening. This time it was a dancing lesson. Tom and I learned a bit, got some exercise and enjoyed ourselves. Afterward we went for coffee with our new friends. Michelle even bought a copy of “Can I Hold Him?”.
This morning I was up early to do my meditation in the sun room and watch the sunrise. Once again we had a scrumptious breakfast. It was time to load the car and head towards the Sault. The Sleeping Giant B&B has been a fabulous experience, the house the garden and especially Sonja and Dick. The wonder of this journey is that the blessings never end.
By eight a.m. today, we were on the road heading for Thunder Bay. I had been dreading this part of the drive. Trees, I thought, it will be eight hours of trees. Well, there were trees, yes, lots of trees. The trees came in every shape and shade imaginable. Around almost every corner the trees opened up to a beautiful blue lake, sparkling in the sunshine. Then the trees would close in again. There were miles of rock cuts, some 30-40 feet high, revealing every colour – pinks, blue greys, rusts, even blacks. Once again God overwhelmed me with the beauty of creation. We stopped in Kenora at Ho Jo’s coffee shop and bookstore. It’s owner bought my books outright (Hallelujah), and we bought coffee, a delicious muffin and a Kenora Misty Tea Latte. That was a huge improvement on my milky tea and only half the calories of a cappuccino.
In Dryden we were directed to a wonderful book and gift shop called Inspirations. The owner, Holly, said “This store is my ministry, and I love it. It’s like being surrounded with candy. I’ve got my dream.” Holly also bought my books outright. Her enthusiasm for my books and for her store was catching. The visit certainly gave us a blessing from God.
Arriving in Thunder Bay at supper time, we decided it would be best to get our motel room and then eat. I got out the list and we tried to call. The cell phone acted strange. We went to a shopping centre looking for a pay phone. We stopped at a Kiosk that sold cell phones (not Telus of course). A very pleasant, friendly, helpful young man informed us that Telus had no contract with the Thunder Bay Cell System. He loaned us his phone. We started with B&B’s. After two “no answers” and one “no vacancy” our frustration level on an empty stomach was rising. Tom dialed the “Sleeping Giant B&B”. They had space and the price was manageable. “She sounds nice,” Tom said, his hand over the phone. “Let’s take it.” The same helpful young man got out the phone book map and explained how to get to the B&B and to Montana’s. We took a deep breath and went to eat.
God must have been smiling on us. Supper was good and the B&B wonderful. Our hostess showed us our room – the Green room with pictures of Anne of Green Gables here and there, a wonderful ensuite bath, a sun room to relax in and beautiful flower gardens to enjoy in the morning.
In Dryden we were directed to a wonderful book and gift shop called Inspirations. The owner, Holly, said “This store is my ministry, and I love it. It’s like being surrounded with candy. I’ve got my dream.” Holly also bought my books outright. Her enthusiasm for my books and for her store was catching. The visit certainly gave us a blessing from God.
Arriving in Thunder Bay at supper time, we decided it would be best to get our motel room and then eat. I got out the list and we tried to call. The cell phone acted strange. We went to a shopping centre looking for a pay phone. We stopped at a Kiosk that sold cell phones (not Telus of course). A very pleasant, friendly, helpful young man informed us that Telus had no contract with the Thunder Bay Cell System. He loaned us his phone. We started with B&B’s. After two “no answers” and one “no vacancy” our frustration level on an empty stomach was rising. Tom dialed the “Sleeping Giant B&B”. They had space and the price was manageable. “She sounds nice,” Tom said, his hand over the phone. “Let’s take it.” The same helpful young man got out the phone book map and explained how to get to the B&B and to Montana’s. We took a deep breath and went to eat.
God must have been smiling on us. Supper was good and the B&B wonderful. Our hostess showed us our room – the Green room with pictures of Anne of Green Gables here and there, a wonderful ensuite bath, a sun room to relax in and beautiful flower gardens to enjoy in the morning.
September 8,9,10
Our time in Winnipeg has been interesting. The Holiday Inn Express with its hot tub welcomed us with low affordable rates. Tuesday night we soaked in the hot water and let the jets do their healing work. Already my elbow is much better. We need to remember that you can’t beat old-fashioned remedies.
Wednesday morning we slept in again. When we finally got on the road it was after eleven. The night before we had listed the United churches and their locations. There are approx. 35 United Churches in Winnipeg. Wow. Checking them out became an ordeal of navigating traffic trying to follow an inadequate map, only to find no one at the churches. By one o’clock we were tired hungry and, of course, cranky. We gave up and headed down to the Forks – the main tourist center of town in hopes of getting a map with all the city streets marked.
The Forks is grand. We wandered through the market inhaling all the wonderful smells. After munching our cheese and a heavenly biscuit from a vendor we felt much better. I indulged in a carmel ice cream cone. Ice cream fixes everything for me. Fortified, we looked around a little more, picked up a transit map at the tourist center and continued our search for churches. By supper time we had sold just two books. For the first time we were disappointed. We asked ourselves, “What have we accomplished?
To our surprise, we discovered that we had done and seen heaps of great things. The most out standing experience and blessing of the day was our visit to Sturgeon Creek United Church. The church building itself is fabulous. Tom and I decided that it is the most beautiful modern Cathedral-like structure we have ever seen. As we stepped from the spacious foyer into the sanctuary the words of God to Moses found in Exodus 3:5 echoed in my mind, “Take off your shoes. The place on which you stand is holy ground.” Reverence, awe, holiness, peace, the Spirit floated on the air. Prayer, thanksgiving, praise filled my soul.
“The original building burned down,” the minister told us. “When the congregation replaced it, they chose to risk being creative.”
Returning to the narthex, he pointed out seven exquisitely quilted panels that tell the Biblical story from Genesis to the Resurrection. With intricate detail and in vivid colours the quilting artists have lovingly created Biblical images that even the unchurched can enjoy. Yes, our visit to Sturgeon Creek Church is one of the highlights of our trip. Once we identified the wonder and beauty of that experience, our hearts were opened to all the other good things and people we had encountered throughout the day. We luxuriated in the hot tub bringing relaxation to our stressed bodies. We were ready for sleep.
Thursday dawned sunny and warm. Our first stop was Charleswood United Church and a visit with Mike Wilson, a classmate from Emmanuel. His love for his congregation and his pride in their accomplishment in the new addition, reminded us once again that this United Church of ours is God’s gift to the world. Michael pointed out the beautiful modern stained glass windows, another artist’s concept of the Biblical story. The sun shone through illuminating the brilliant colours of the amazing designs. God’s Son shone through Michael and his colleague and many others.
That was just the first stop and the day continued, each moment bringing joy for Tom and I. Even the hairdresser, who squeezed me in for a colour and cut, was a blessing. The day over we had supper at a wonderful Greek restaurant on Portage West called the Olympia. We had sold eight books, our tummies were satisfied, we could rest.
Our time in Winnipeg has been interesting. The Holiday Inn Express with its hot tub welcomed us with low affordable rates. Tuesday night we soaked in the hot water and let the jets do their healing work. Already my elbow is much better. We need to remember that you can’t beat old-fashioned remedies.
Wednesday morning we slept in again. When we finally got on the road it was after eleven. The night before we had listed the United churches and their locations. There are approx. 35 United Churches in Winnipeg. Wow. Checking them out became an ordeal of navigating traffic trying to follow an inadequate map, only to find no one at the churches. By one o’clock we were tired hungry and, of course, cranky. We gave up and headed down to the Forks – the main tourist center of town in hopes of getting a map with all the city streets marked.
The Forks is grand. We wandered through the market inhaling all the wonderful smells. After munching our cheese and a heavenly biscuit from a vendor we felt much better. I indulged in a carmel ice cream cone. Ice cream fixes everything for me. Fortified, we looked around a little more, picked up a transit map at the tourist center and continued our search for churches. By supper time we had sold just two books. For the first time we were disappointed. We asked ourselves, “What have we accomplished?
To our surprise, we discovered that we had done and seen heaps of great things. The most out standing experience and blessing of the day was our visit to Sturgeon Creek United Church. The church building itself is fabulous. Tom and I decided that it is the most beautiful modern Cathedral-like structure we have ever seen. As we stepped from the spacious foyer into the sanctuary the words of God to Moses found in Exodus 3:5 echoed in my mind, “Take off your shoes. The place on which you stand is holy ground.” Reverence, awe, holiness, peace, the Spirit floated on the air. Prayer, thanksgiving, praise filled my soul.
“The original building burned down,” the minister told us. “When the congregation replaced it, they chose to risk being creative.”
Returning to the narthex, he pointed out seven exquisitely quilted panels that tell the Biblical story from Genesis to the Resurrection. With intricate detail and in vivid colours the quilting artists have lovingly created Biblical images that even the unchurched can enjoy. Yes, our visit to Sturgeon Creek Church is one of the highlights of our trip. Once we identified the wonder and beauty of that experience, our hearts were opened to all the other good things and people we had encountered throughout the day. We luxuriated in the hot tub bringing relaxation to our stressed bodies. We were ready for sleep.
Thursday dawned sunny and warm. Our first stop was Charleswood United Church and a visit with Mike Wilson, a classmate from Emmanuel. His love for his congregation and his pride in their accomplishment in the new addition, reminded us once again that this United Church of ours is God’s gift to the world. Michael pointed out the beautiful modern stained glass windows, another artist’s concept of the Biblical story. The sun shone through illuminating the brilliant colours of the amazing designs. God’s Son shone through Michael and his colleague and many others.
That was just the first stop and the day continued, each moment bringing joy for Tom and I. Even the hairdresser, who squeezed me in for a colour and cut, was a blessing. The day over we had supper at a wonderful Greek restaurant on Portage West called the Olympia. We had sold eight books, our tummies were satisfied, we could rest.
September 7
We slept in. It must have been the clouds and the rain. We had a grand search for our records. When we finally found them, it was after eleven. Sharron made Saskatoon berry pancakes that were delicious. We watched the rain pelt down, stop and then start again. In between showers Tom packed the car. The clock had rolled around to 1:30 when we finally left Fort Qu’Appelle. That along with the change in time, put us in Brandon Manitoba at 6:30 p.m..
We stopped first at a pharmacy to get my elbow checked. Some time in the last three days, I had been bitten by some thing. Infection raged. The spot was swollen, red, and tingling. Time to get it checked. I had two alternatives, three actually. I could take my arm to the hospital, the drugstore or ignore it. WE decided on the pharmacy. The very friendly and helpful pharmacist suggested soaking it in salt water, applying Polysporin, and a bandaide. If it isn’t better tomorrow morning go to a walk-in clinic, she suggested.
“You don’t want to end up in the hospital on IV antibiotics,” she cautioned.
We followed instructions. The next morning it was a bit better. The swelling had diminished.. Tom went to the motel desk and came back with two handfuls of salt packets. We now have a supply for the next three days. We soaked it again
Tom took the car for a checkup and oil change and I did Staples, Sobey’s and the bank. We checked in at bookstores and went to two churches. Sold four books at the churches and left the books on consignment at two stores. It was time to move on to Winnipeg.
We slept in. It must have been the clouds and the rain. We had a grand search for our records. When we finally found them, it was after eleven. Sharron made Saskatoon berry pancakes that were delicious. We watched the rain pelt down, stop and then start again. In between showers Tom packed the car. The clock had rolled around to 1:30 when we finally left Fort Qu’Appelle. That along with the change in time, put us in Brandon Manitoba at 6:30 p.m..
We stopped first at a pharmacy to get my elbow checked. Some time in the last three days, I had been bitten by some thing. Infection raged. The spot was swollen, red, and tingling. Time to get it checked. I had two alternatives, three actually. I could take my arm to the hospital, the drugstore or ignore it. WE decided on the pharmacy. The very friendly and helpful pharmacist suggested soaking it in salt water, applying Polysporin, and a bandaide. If it isn’t better tomorrow morning go to a walk-in clinic, she suggested.
“You don’t want to end up in the hospital on IV antibiotics,” she cautioned.
We followed instructions. The next morning it was a bit better. The swelling had diminished.. Tom went to the motel desk and came back with two handfuls of salt packets. We now have a supply for the next three days. We soaked it again
Tom took the car for a checkup and oil change and I did Staples, Sobey’s and the bank. We checked in at bookstores and went to two churches. Sold four books at the churches and left the books on consignment at two stores. It was time to move on to Winnipeg.
Our Visit in Fort Qu’Appelle, Sept.3-6
Time with friends is special. Last Thursday we checked out two bookstores in Regina. Our books are now for sale at the Book and Brier-Patch, and Burns-Hanley Bookstores. We also stopped at Sunset United Church and Knox Metropolitan United. Our work done we left the city to visit our friends in Fort Qu’Appelle. Sharron and Randy welcomed us for joy. Friday we returned to Roegina to see the RCMP hereitage museum. That was extremely interesting. Friday evening Randy and Sharron treated us to the a wonderful dinner at the Off Bradway Bistro. We enjoyed each other, delicious food, and the Christmas ambiance., taking pictures in front of the Christmas Trees. The owner, Monique told us that in the fall and spring she has authors’ nights in which people gather for dinner and to listen to a reading given my a local author. Afterward the author’s books are for sale. She assured me she would love to organize an author’s evenings for me if I returned to the “Fort”. Saturday was a fabulous slow day., starting with coffee and tea on the patio and a trip to the farmers’ market. Sharron and I enjoyed a long walk down by the lake while Tom rested and kept the washing machine running. Together we cooked supper. Actually Sharron did most of the cooking. I made my famous chocolate sauce. Our tummies filled with delicious food we sat on the patio and talked.
Sunday morning I had the privilege of telling a story at St. Andrews United Church. Afterwards we sold books and then had brunch at a local restaurant. For the rest of the day Randy drove us on a tour of the area. The day ended with another long walk. We have been truly blessed by our friends and their hospitality.
Wednesday, Another book day.
I started this day with a swim in the hotel pool and hot tub. We checked out some bookstores and left our books in . On the road again we stopped and checked out prairie towns between Saskatoon and Regina. I love the prairies. The vast fields of grain speak of God’s extravagant blessings. The openness and endless blue sky
exudes peace. For me the prairies, Canada’s breadbasket, are a holy place. Prairies towns boast of super wide streets. Two giant combines could pass easily downtown. One side of town seems to be always bordered by the railroad, and the other bordered by the highway.
Like Saskatoon, Regina has a ring road that makes travel within the city very efficient. On the way into town we had picked a bed breakfast. When we checked it out, it was full. We phoned through a list in the Regina tourist hadbook. Eventually we contacted the Sunrise Bed and Breakfast.
The owner said, “$45 for a room for two and a bull breakfast. It sounded too good to be true. So we drove over to check it out. It was lovely. We had our won room in the basement with a private bathroom. The living room downstairs was very comfortable. We moved our stuff into our room, chatted with the owners Gary and Jessie and then went for a walk. Once again we were set for the night.
Time with friends is special. Last Thursday we checked out two bookstores in Regina. Our books are now for sale at the Book and Brier-Patch, and Burns-Hanley Bookstores. We also stopped at Sunset United Church and Knox Metropolitan United. Our work done we left the city to visit our friends in Fort Qu’Appelle. Sharron and Randy welcomed us for joy. Friday we returned to Roegina to see the RCMP hereitage museum. That was extremely interesting. Friday evening Randy and Sharron treated us to the a wonderful dinner at the Off Bradway Bistro. We enjoyed each other, delicious food, and the Christmas ambiance., taking pictures in front of the Christmas Trees. The owner, Monique told us that in the fall and spring she has authors’ nights in which people gather for dinner and to listen to a reading given my a local author. Afterward the author’s books are for sale. She assured me she would love to organize an author’s evenings for me if I returned to the “Fort”. Saturday was a fabulous slow day., starting with coffee and tea on the patio and a trip to the farmers’ market. Sharron and I enjoyed a long walk down by the lake while Tom rested and kept the washing machine running. Together we cooked supper. Actually Sharron did most of the cooking. I made my famous chocolate sauce. Our tummies filled with delicious food we sat on the patio and talked.
Sunday morning I had the privilege of telling a story at St. Andrews United Church. Afterwards we sold books and then had brunch at a local restaurant. For the rest of the day Randy drove us on a tour of the area. The day ended with another long walk. We have been truly blessed by our friends and their hospitality.
Wednesday, Another book day.
I started this day with a swim in the hotel pool and hot tub. We checked out some bookstores and left our books in . On the road again we stopped and checked out prairie towns between Saskatoon and Regina. I love the prairies. The vast fields of grain speak of God’s extravagant blessings. The openness and endless blue sky
exudes peace. For me the prairies, Canada’s breadbasket, are a holy place. Prairies towns boast of super wide streets. Two giant combines could pass easily downtown. One side of town seems to be always bordered by the railroad, and the other bordered by the highway.
Like Saskatoon, Regina has a ring road that makes travel within the city very efficient. On the way into town we had picked a bed breakfast. When we checked it out, it was full. We phoned through a list in the Regina tourist hadbook. Eventually we contacted the Sunrise Bed and Breakfast.
The owner said, “$45 for a room for two and a bull breakfast. It sounded too good to be true. So we drove over to check it out. It was lovely. We had our won room in the basement with a private bathroom. The living room downstairs was very comfortable. We moved our stuff into our room, chatted with the owners Gary and Jessie and then went for a walk. Once again we were set for the night.
August 31
This has been a travel and a books day. We started at the West Edmonton Mall. My book "Can I Hold Him" is now available there in the "Fig Tree" books store. The store manager said they carried very few children's books and was afraid that Stella would get lost on their shelves.
On the trip to Saskatoon, we stopped at the information centre in North Battleford. The kind lady working there wanted to buy both books but had only plastic money - bank card and credit card. She suggested we go to the little bookstore downtown called the Crandleberry's Cybre Cafe. We stopped by there, and to our surprise the owner bought our books to stock in her store. The rest of our trip to Saskatoon was uneventful.
August 30
this morning we worshipped at Knox Metropolitan United, a beautiful building and a wonderful congregation. During coffee outside on the lawn, we sold quite a few books. Afterwards we checked back into "New Beginnings" bookshop at Beulah Alliance Church. The store manager had read my books, and gladly took them for sale in their church. We had lunch and then went back to Tom's son's place. I phoned my son to wish him a happy birthday. Family is so special. This was our last day with Will. We visited, went out for supper and relaxed for the evening.
This has been a travel and a books day. We started at the West Edmonton Mall. My book "Can I Hold Him" is now available there in the "Fig Tree" books store. The store manager said they carried very few children's books and was afraid that Stella would get lost on their shelves.
On the trip to Saskatoon, we stopped at the information centre in North Battleford. The kind lady working there wanted to buy both books but had only plastic money - bank card and credit card. She suggested we go to the little bookstore downtown called the Crandleberry's Cybre Cafe. We stopped by there, and to our surprise the owner bought our books to stock in her store. The rest of our trip to Saskatoon was uneventful.
August 30
this morning we worshipped at Knox Metropolitan United, a beautiful building and a wonderful congregation. During coffee outside on the lawn, we sold quite a few books. Afterwards we checked back into "New Beginnings" bookshop at Beulah Alliance Church. The store manager had read my books, and gladly took them for sale in their church. We had lunch and then went back to Tom's son's place. I phoned my son to wish him a happy birthday. Family is so special. This was our last day with Will. We visited, went out for supper and relaxed for the evening.
August 28, 29
This morning we packed up at Jenn’s and had a late breakfast in Calgary at the Lido Café in the Kensington area. The trip to Edmonton was uneventful. We arrived early enough to begin visiting bookstores. We started with “New Beginnings” bookstore at Beulah Alliance Church. As usual, the manager wanted to read the books before deciding to take them. So we left a sample of each and moved on to the “Fig Tree” bookstore in the West Edmonton Mall. Wow! The mall is huge and noisy and full of excitement. We took pictures of the skating rink and the water park, as well as leaving samples at the bookstore.
We got to Tom’s son, Will’s, place in time to go out for a late supper with him. Will suggested that we walk to the restaurant. One of the best parts of where he lives is the community. It’s similar to Yorkville in the early 60’s. The university is a healthy walk, so the area caters to young adults. The street is lined with restaurants and coffee shops and places young people need. Will took us to a fancy restaurant with white table cloths, candles etc. We had a wonderful gourmet meal. Our visit with him had begun. We met his housemates and settled down for a good night’s sleep.
Saturday morning, we walked in a different direction to have breakfast. We followed this by a tour through Muttart gardens where flowers and plants of all varieties are growing in glass pyramid shaped greenhouses. Each of the four pyramids houses a different climate. The garden benches, tables and chairs that were scattered throughout the displays beckoned me to sit and meditate or write. Unique, beautiful and peaceful are the words I would use to describe this place.
Edmonton is divided by the lush green North Saskatchewan river valley. After the gardens we escaped the noise and heat of the city by walking the river valley. About fifteen minutes into our walk, we spied an old fashioned paddle wheeler tied up at a dock - tourist trap of course. Well, Tom and I are tourists, I thought, so why not. Tom went down to investigate sailing time and cost.
“She’s leaving in ten minutes. You have time to get tickets up there at the office,” the captain said as he pointed back up the hill.
Tom volunteered the climb. Will and I found a bench in the shade and waited. The cruise was lovely. The boat went just fast enough to make a light breeze. We sat idly in the sun, and watched the Edmonton sky line slip silently past. Eventually, I decided to walk a bit. I stood on the opposite railing and talked with a lady who lived north of Edmonton.
“That’s my husband, there in the chair. We’ve come to Edmonton to celebrate our first wedding anniversary,” she said. “It’s tomorrow.”
We watched the green water slip past the boat's hull and talked some more. When she asked about me, I told of our book tour.
“What kind of books do you write,” she asked?
Once again, I pulled the books out of my purse. She showed them to her husband. They bought them both. When I was signing them, Tom and Will joined us. We discovered that Dave was a part of “Alternative Solutions Canada Corp;, “Energy for Life”. He sold horizontal windmills, that don’t have to be as high as the vertical ones, and don’t take as much space. Our books enable us to meet the most interesting people.
When our ride was over, we were famished.
“Let’s go to the Cheese Factory Restaurant,” Tom said.
“Yes,” Will and I declared in unison. Within half an hour, we sat at a table laden with delicious Russian food.
Once fed, we realized we were tired. We returned to Will’s to complete our day with a game of Euchre with Will’s housemate Race. Sleep came easily.
August 27
Today we went to the Tyrrell Dinosaur Museum in Drumheller. That was superb. I thought the Dinosaurs at the ROM were amazing. These were just fabulous. We took heaps of pictures. We also went on the guided tour. The temperature was at least 30 degrees Celsius. We trudged up and down the hills of the Alberta badlands in the blazing sun for an hour and a half, while our guide pointed out the seven wonders of the badlands and told its history etc. I wondered if I might be extinct before the tour was over. We were glad to return to the cool dark museum and look at dinosaur bones.
We had supper at Gus’ restaurant in Drumheller. A young family sat at a table across from us. The two kids (age 8 and 5), entertained us. Eventually, a conversation started. In the end we sold them a copy of each book. The children were pleased to stand and watch me sign them. For a few moments I felt like an important author.
Everyday we sell one, two, three, six….books. All we have to do is show them to people and they buy them. That feels good.
We drove home watching a beautiful sunset. This is truly a grand holiday.
This morning we packed up at Jenn’s and had a late breakfast in Calgary at the Lido Café in the Kensington area. The trip to Edmonton was uneventful. We arrived early enough to begin visiting bookstores. We started with “New Beginnings” bookstore at Beulah Alliance Church. As usual, the manager wanted to read the books before deciding to take them. So we left a sample of each and moved on to the “Fig Tree” bookstore in the West Edmonton Mall. Wow! The mall is huge and noisy and full of excitement. We took pictures of the skating rink and the water park, as well as leaving samples at the bookstore.
We got to Tom’s son, Will’s, place in time to go out for a late supper with him. Will suggested that we walk to the restaurant. One of the best parts of where he lives is the community. It’s similar to Yorkville in the early 60’s. The university is a healthy walk, so the area caters to young adults. The street is lined with restaurants and coffee shops and places young people need. Will took us to a fancy restaurant with white table cloths, candles etc. We had a wonderful gourmet meal. Our visit with him had begun. We met his housemates and settled down for a good night’s sleep.
Saturday morning, we walked in a different direction to have breakfast. We followed this by a tour through Muttart gardens where flowers and plants of all varieties are growing in glass pyramid shaped greenhouses. Each of the four pyramids houses a different climate. The garden benches, tables and chairs that were scattered throughout the displays beckoned me to sit and meditate or write. Unique, beautiful and peaceful are the words I would use to describe this place.
Edmonton is divided by the lush green North Saskatchewan river valley. After the gardens we escaped the noise and heat of the city by walking the river valley. About fifteen minutes into our walk, we spied an old fashioned paddle wheeler tied up at a dock - tourist trap of course. Well, Tom and I are tourists, I thought, so why not. Tom went down to investigate sailing time and cost.
“She’s leaving in ten minutes. You have time to get tickets up there at the office,” the captain said as he pointed back up the hill.
Tom volunteered the climb. Will and I found a bench in the shade and waited. The cruise was lovely. The boat went just fast enough to make a light breeze. We sat idly in the sun, and watched the Edmonton sky line slip silently past. Eventually, I decided to walk a bit. I stood on the opposite railing and talked with a lady who lived north of Edmonton.
“That’s my husband, there in the chair. We’ve come to Edmonton to celebrate our first wedding anniversary,” she said. “It’s tomorrow.”
We watched the green water slip past the boat's hull and talked some more. When she asked about me, I told of our book tour.
“What kind of books do you write,” she asked?
Once again, I pulled the books out of my purse. She showed them to her husband. They bought them both. When I was signing them, Tom and Will joined us. We discovered that Dave was a part of “Alternative Solutions Canada Corp;, “Energy for Life”. He sold horizontal windmills, that don’t have to be as high as the vertical ones, and don’t take as much space. Our books enable us to meet the most interesting people.
When our ride was over, we were famished.
“Let’s go to the Cheese Factory Restaurant,” Tom said.
“Yes,” Will and I declared in unison. Within half an hour, we sat at a table laden with delicious Russian food.
Once fed, we realized we were tired. We returned to Will’s to complete our day with a game of Euchre with Will’s housemate Race. Sleep came easily.
August 27
Today we went to the Tyrrell Dinosaur Museum in Drumheller. That was superb. I thought the Dinosaurs at the ROM were amazing. These were just fabulous. We took heaps of pictures. We also went on the guided tour. The temperature was at least 30 degrees Celsius. We trudged up and down the hills of the Alberta badlands in the blazing sun for an hour and a half, while our guide pointed out the seven wonders of the badlands and told its history etc. I wondered if I might be extinct before the tour was over. We were glad to return to the cool dark museum and look at dinosaur bones.
We had supper at Gus’ restaurant in Drumheller. A young family sat at a table across from us. The two kids (age 8 and 5), entertained us. Eventually, a conversation started. In the end we sold them a copy of each book. The children were pleased to stand and watch me sign them. For a few moments I felt like an important author.
Everyday we sell one, two, three, six….books. All we have to do is show them to people and they buy them. That feels good.
We drove home watching a beautiful sunset. This is truly a grand holiday.
What’s been happening since the 25th?
Heaps and Bunches. Last Wednesday we traveled south to Head Smashed In, Buffalo Jump near Fort Macleod and Lethbridge, Alberta. It sounds gruesome and I suppose in some ways it is. Still we had a great day.
We started early. By 8 a.m. we were flying down a smooth four lane highway. I even did some of the driving. Golden fields of grain waving in the wind, cheered us on, as we passed. We arrived in time for the native dancing performance. It was worth the whole trip. The expert dancers wore beautiful beaded and feathered costumes. The emcee was funny and played the crowd well. He asked for volunteers and nabbed Tom first. Then six others joined Tom, to become the flag bearers for the opening ceremony. Tom disappeared and when the show began, he carried the American flag. God does have a sense of humour. Once the parade was finished, a dancer came out and gave the seven flag bearers a lesson. We all enjoyed their efforts. Of course, the main purpose of these volunteers was to demonstrate how hard and intricate the steps actually are. The emcee thanked his volunteers and the real dancing began. The performance lasted about two hours. It was excellent.
We had buffalo burgers for lunch. They left a little to be desired, mainly because mine was not cooked through. They were having trouble with the barbecue. We walked the trail to the “Buffalo Jump” reading the information posted along the way. The ridge gave a wide few of the big sky and flat lands around us. The Interpretive Center is built into the hill and almost disappears on the landscape. Inside, the information and artifacts of the local native culture and experiences spread out before us on five levels. A replica of the treaty, this Indian nation had made with the British long ago, hung on the wall. I had never before had the opportunity to read a treaty agreement. The native people received very little for their land. It is embarrassing and painful to think it was our ancestors who set out the terms of the agreement.
We finished our tour by three, leaving us time to go to Dove Christian Books in Lethbridge. What a truly beautiful store! The owners are lovely people. They chose to take my books on consignment. Our work done,we walked down the street to the farmer’s market. We stopped to purchase some luscious British Columbia peaches. In the process we sold a copy of Can I Hold Him to the book store owners' niece(She would have bought Spectacular Stella as well, but she didn’t have enough cash with her. She said she'd go to Dove Books to get Stella.) and a copy of both books to her boss from B.C. We also left my card at the Ten Thousand Villages store and suggested to the clerk that she go to Dove Christian Books to buy my books. Hungry, yet again, we ate at an Italian restaurant. Filling our tank with cheap gas in Fort Macleod, we headed back to Calgary. Another day completed.
Heaps and Bunches. Last Wednesday we traveled south to Head Smashed In, Buffalo Jump near Fort Macleod and Lethbridge, Alberta. It sounds gruesome and I suppose in some ways it is. Still we had a great day.
We started early. By 8 a.m. we were flying down a smooth four lane highway. I even did some of the driving. Golden fields of grain waving in the wind, cheered us on, as we passed. We arrived in time for the native dancing performance. It was worth the whole trip. The expert dancers wore beautiful beaded and feathered costumes. The emcee was funny and played the crowd well. He asked for volunteers and nabbed Tom first. Then six others joined Tom, to become the flag bearers for the opening ceremony. Tom disappeared and when the show began, he carried the American flag. God does have a sense of humour. Once the parade was finished, a dancer came out and gave the seven flag bearers a lesson. We all enjoyed their efforts. Of course, the main purpose of these volunteers was to demonstrate how hard and intricate the steps actually are. The emcee thanked his volunteers and the real dancing began. The performance lasted about two hours. It was excellent.
We had buffalo burgers for lunch. They left a little to be desired, mainly because mine was not cooked through. They were having trouble with the barbecue. We walked the trail to the “Buffalo Jump” reading the information posted along the way. The ridge gave a wide few of the big sky and flat lands around us. The Interpretive Center is built into the hill and almost disappears on the landscape. Inside, the information and artifacts of the local native culture and experiences spread out before us on five levels. A replica of the treaty, this Indian nation had made with the British long ago, hung on the wall. I had never before had the opportunity to read a treaty agreement. The native people received very little for their land. It is embarrassing and painful to think it was our ancestors who set out the terms of the agreement.
We finished our tour by three, leaving us time to go to Dove Christian Books in Lethbridge. What a truly beautiful store! The owners are lovely people. They chose to take my books on consignment. Our work done,we walked down the street to the farmer’s market. We stopped to purchase some luscious British Columbia peaches. In the process we sold a copy of Can I Hold Him to the book store owners' niece(She would have bought Spectacular Stella as well, but she didn’t have enough cash with her. She said she'd go to Dove Books to get Stella.) and a copy of both books to her boss from B.C. We also left my card at the Ten Thousand Villages store and suggested to the clerk that she go to Dove Christian Books to buy my books. Hungry, yet again, we ate at an Italian restaurant. Filling our tank with cheap gas in Fort Macleod, we headed back to Calgary. Another day completed.
August 25
We slept in this morning. We definitely needed the extra rest. Leaving the house at eleven a.m., our first stop was a restaurant for brunch. Tummies full, we started an afternoon of visiting bookstores around the city of Calgary. By the end of the day, three bookstores were carrying our books and two more had samples to read. We will check back with them on Friday a.m. We rushed back to say goodbye to our friends who were going on a retreat. They had supper ready for us. We spent the evening relaxing and preparing a letter to a large book distributor. The day over we collapsed once again into bed.
We slept in this morning. We definitely needed the extra rest. Leaving the house at eleven a.m., our first stop was a restaurant for brunch. Tummies full, we started an afternoon of visiting bookstores around the city of Calgary. By the end of the day, three bookstores were carrying our books and two more had samples to read. We will check back with them on Friday a.m. We rushed back to say goodbye to our friends who were going on a retreat. They had supper ready for us. We spent the evening relaxing and preparing a letter to a large book distributor. The day over we collapsed once again into bed.
Monday, August 24.
This morning we're going to Banff. One moment we are in the plains around Calgary, and the next we're in the Rockies – mammoth outcrops of rocks. The craggy faces of these mountains encircle us. Evergreens march up the mountain side like an army. Suddenly the soldiers stop, giving way to barren rock. It looks as if some unseen hand has taken a razor and shaved the tops clean. The sharp points make a picket fence around us. This is Canmore and it is beautiful.
We take the cutoff into town, searching for the inevitable bookstore. The main street is lined with boutiques, their architecture resembling that of the Swiss Alps. The book store owner won’t be back til after three. We stop at an old school bus for ice cream – heavenly hash in this heavenly place.
Munching contentedly on my ice cream cone, we return to the highway. Banff, and the legendary hot springs are just twenty-five minutes away. Like Canmore, only larger Banff is an Alpine town. Every other store is a gift shop. We have a relaxing swim in the hot springs pool, as we gaze at the mountains. Of course, my bathing suit wasn’t in the bag as we had thought. So I rented one – only $1.90 – mighty cheap. It’s a 1920’s flapper style – not particularly flattering.
“We should have brought the camera in,” I say to Tom.
He just shakes his head, “I’ll go up on the balcony later and get a picture.”
We paddle about and sit on the side of the pool. As usual Tom begins a conversation with two women in similar bathing suits to my rented one. Their husbands take a picture of them. They offer to take one of us and email it to us. We talk some more. Eventually I tell them about my books and we sell one.
“I didn’t bring any money with me,” she says. So once again, I trade on trust and sign a copy of Stella. “I’ll mail the check,” she assures me.
We planned to take a cable car to the top of a mountain. When we check it out, we discover a ticket is $29.50. Ouch! I decide that I have already climbed a mountain a number of years ago. Tom has ridden in this cable car before, so we'll spend our money elsewhere.
We gather up our stuff, take some pictures, and return to Canmore. The owner of Cafe books on Main Street buys three copies of each book.
“When I sell them,” she says, “I’ll order more.”
I smile and fill out the invoice.
“My accountant will mail the check tomorrow,” she says.
“That’s fine,” I reply.
Tom asks, “Where’s a good place for supper.
“Right next door. You can sit on the patio and look at the mountains while you eat.”
We eat our fill, and head back to Calgary. Once again it has been a good day.
This morning we're going to Banff. One moment we are in the plains around Calgary, and the next we're in the Rockies – mammoth outcrops of rocks. The craggy faces of these mountains encircle us. Evergreens march up the mountain side like an army. Suddenly the soldiers stop, giving way to barren rock. It looks as if some unseen hand has taken a razor and shaved the tops clean. The sharp points make a picket fence around us. This is Canmore and it is beautiful.
We take the cutoff into town, searching for the inevitable bookstore. The main street is lined with boutiques, their architecture resembling that of the Swiss Alps. The book store owner won’t be back til after three. We stop at an old school bus for ice cream – heavenly hash in this heavenly place.
Munching contentedly on my ice cream cone, we return to the highway. Banff, and the legendary hot springs are just twenty-five minutes away. Like Canmore, only larger Banff is an Alpine town. Every other store is a gift shop. We have a relaxing swim in the hot springs pool, as we gaze at the mountains. Of course, my bathing suit wasn’t in the bag as we had thought. So I rented one – only $1.90 – mighty cheap. It’s a 1920’s flapper style – not particularly flattering.
“We should have brought the camera in,” I say to Tom.
He just shakes his head, “I’ll go up on the balcony later and get a picture.”
We paddle about and sit on the side of the pool. As usual Tom begins a conversation with two women in similar bathing suits to my rented one. Their husbands take a picture of them. They offer to take one of us and email it to us. We talk some more. Eventually I tell them about my books and we sell one.
“I didn’t bring any money with me,” she says. So once again, I trade on trust and sign a copy of Stella. “I’ll mail the check,” she assures me.
We planned to take a cable car to the top of a mountain. When we check it out, we discover a ticket is $29.50. Ouch! I decide that I have already climbed a mountain a number of years ago. Tom has ridden in this cable car before, so we'll spend our money elsewhere.
We gather up our stuff, take some pictures, and return to Canmore. The owner of Cafe books on Main Street buys three copies of each book.
“When I sell them,” she says, “I’ll order more.”
I smile and fill out the invoice.
“My accountant will mail the check tomorrow,” she says.
“That’s fine,” I reply.
Tom asks, “Where’s a good place for supper.
“Right next door. You can sit on the patio and look at the mountains while you eat.”
We eat our fill, and head back to Calgary. Once again it has been a good day.
Sunday morning,
We started with church. I can think of no better way to keep the Sabbath. After having lunch with our friends, we drove out to Elbow Falls, about 45 minutes South and West of Calgary. The rugged beauty of the Elbow River as it races over the rocks is breathtaking. Tinted green by the glacial melt, this river is the water source for the city of Calgary. The falls is tiny in comparison to most others I have seen, and yet this place has a magnetism, and a peace that draws local people and tourists. The pathways are paved, with steps cut into the rocks. Here and there, along the river, families enjoyed a picnic. Tom and I walked along the railing and soaked up the Spirit that the river offered us.
We returned to Calgary for a late supper with our friends and then a neat card game before bed. We’ve had a grand day.
Over the whole day, we sold twelve books. It seems that most everyone we show them to wants to buy them. We have brought three hundred with us and they are going quickly. We are truly blessed.
.
We started with church. I can think of no better way to keep the Sabbath. After having lunch with our friends, we drove out to Elbow Falls, about 45 minutes South and West of Calgary. The rugged beauty of the Elbow River as it races over the rocks is breathtaking. Tinted green by the glacial melt, this river is the water source for the city of Calgary. The falls is tiny in comparison to most others I have seen, and yet this place has a magnetism, and a peace that draws local people and tourists. The pathways are paved, with steps cut into the rocks. Here and there, along the river, families enjoyed a picnic. Tom and I walked along the railing and soaked up the Spirit that the river offered us.
We returned to Calgary for a late supper with our friends and then a neat card game before bed. We’ve had a grand day.
Over the whole day, we sold twelve books. It seems that most everyone we show them to wants to buy them. We have brought three hundred with us and they are going quickly. We are truly blessed.
.
Saturday morning,
We’re on the road again. Driving through the Rockies is amazing. We’ve seen a multitude of mountains on this journey, but these are unique. They’re more than just a lot higher. These mountains reach into the sky. The road at times is literally hanging off the edge of the mountain. I keep saying to Tom, “Look…” , followed immediately with “No, don’t look, keep your eyes on the road.” Around every corner is a glacial river, a mountain stream, a tiny waterfall sprouting out of the rock face. At one point, this morning, we went over a bridge from one mountain top to another. I feel as if our little Honda Fit is truly an airplane as we, literally, weave in and out of the clouds. This is like traveling through a Salvador Dali painting with clouds and trees and roads melting off the edge of mountains. Tom says the mountains are “savage” here. For me they are much too beautiful, overwhelming and holy, to be “savage”. They don’t hover or tower or menace. Their craggy rock faces and crowns point upward to God They stand straight and tall declaring their strength to the world.
Much of this trip from Golden to Banff is under construction. Now, that is savage. Dangling off the side of a mountain building a road requires tremendous fortitude. No amount of money would induce me to do it.
We stopped for coffee at Tim Horton’s. I stood at the back of a long line, Tom’s “Canadian Food Grains Bank” coffee cup in hand. A woman came up and touched my shoulder.
“You’re going to think this is crazy,” she said, “but I like your cup. My husband and I are supporters of the Food Grains Bank. We’ve grown grain for them.”
And so started a wonderful conversation. They are both pastors with the Mennonite church. He had been to Ethiopia and seen the grain delivered. In the end we exchanged business cards, sold two books and made a wonderful connection.
My books are a fabulous way to connect with strangers on a spiritual level.
It’s ten a.m. and we’ve reached the foothills. Calgary here we come.
We’re on the road again. Driving through the Rockies is amazing. We’ve seen a multitude of mountains on this journey, but these are unique. They’re more than just a lot higher. These mountains reach into the sky. The road at times is literally hanging off the edge of the mountain. I keep saying to Tom, “Look…” , followed immediately with “No, don’t look, keep your eyes on the road.” Around every corner is a glacial river, a mountain stream, a tiny waterfall sprouting out of the rock face. At one point, this morning, we went over a bridge from one mountain top to another. I feel as if our little Honda Fit is truly an airplane as we, literally, weave in and out of the clouds. This is like traveling through a Salvador Dali painting with clouds and trees and roads melting off the edge of mountains. Tom says the mountains are “savage” here. For me they are much too beautiful, overwhelming and holy, to be “savage”. They don’t hover or tower or menace. Their craggy rock faces and crowns point upward to God They stand straight and tall declaring their strength to the world.
Much of this trip from Golden to Banff is under construction. Now, that is savage. Dangling off the side of a mountain building a road requires tremendous fortitude. No amount of money would induce me to do it.
We stopped for coffee at Tim Horton’s. I stood at the back of a long line, Tom’s “Canadian Food Grains Bank” coffee cup in hand. A woman came up and touched my shoulder.
“You’re going to think this is crazy,” she said, “but I like your cup. My husband and I are supporters of the Food Grains Bank. We’ve grown grain for them.”
And so started a wonderful conversation. They are both pastors with the Mennonite church. He had been to Ethiopia and seen the grain delivered. In the end we exchanged business cards, sold two books and made a wonderful connection.
My books are a fabulous way to connect with strangers on a spiritual level.
It’s ten a.m. and we’ve reached the foothills. Calgary here we come.
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
Wednesday we started the day at bookstores. Koinonia in downtown Victoria bought some outright. That was great. We left samples at two other places. Because we don’t start out early, it was nearly two when we got to Butchardt Gardens. Just as in Cathedral Grove we were overwhelmed with the beauty. This place was very different. The hand of human beings was apparent everywhere as the gardens were beautifully landscaped and groomed. The colours were so vibrant that at times they didn’t seem real. Over and over again we said, “Look at that. Wow!” until we sounded like a broken record. We kept thinking about our children, grandchildren, friends and how much they too would enjoy being there with us. We’ve been away three weeks and we’re missing everyone even though we’re having a grand time. In the evening at the gardens, we enjoyed a live theatre production of dancing and singing. Every number was a love song. It was great too. We collapsed into bed in our motel at eleven p.m.
Thursday morning we returned to the two bookstores. Christian books and supplies took ten of each on consignment. The owner said they would pay the cost of any that weren’t sold. The store only took big name people and local authors. We had a lovely ferry ride and managed to sell two books on the way across. The scenery from the ferry was also fabulous. Then came the Vancouver traffic ordeal. We spent about three hours fighting traffic to leave books on consignment at the Seraphim book store. By the time we got to Merritt it was already 7:30 p.m. Time to stop for the night. We found a wonderful motel room – once again only $55. It had a stove and fridge and dishes, a living room and a bedroom. So we bought some groceries and had supper and breakfast at the motel.
Today, Friday, our trip through the mountains was breathtaking. All Canadians need to travel West at least once. It’s amazing. We got to Golden B.C. at 5:30 (had to set our clocks ahead an hour). We could see rain in the mountains ahead. I didn’t want Tom to drive on wet and maybe slippery mountain roads in the middle of a storm. Besides we were both tired of being in the car. We’ve had a lovely restful evening. Today we sold five books on route. There’s a bookstore in Merritt that carries my books now. We had a lovely visit with the minister of the United Church in Golden. Tomorrow it’s the Rockies and Calgary. Each day I say, “It can’t get better” and yet it does.
Wednesday we started the day at bookstores. Koinonia in downtown Victoria bought some outright. That was great. We left samples at two other places. Because we don’t start out early, it was nearly two when we got to Butchardt Gardens. Just as in Cathedral Grove we were overwhelmed with the beauty. This place was very different. The hand of human beings was apparent everywhere as the gardens were beautifully landscaped and groomed. The colours were so vibrant that at times they didn’t seem real. Over and over again we said, “Look at that. Wow!” until we sounded like a broken record. We kept thinking about our children, grandchildren, friends and how much they too would enjoy being there with us. We’ve been away three weeks and we’re missing everyone even though we’re having a grand time. In the evening at the gardens, we enjoyed a live theatre production of dancing and singing. Every number was a love song. It was great too. We collapsed into bed in our motel at eleven p.m.
Thursday morning we returned to the two bookstores. Christian books and supplies took ten of each on consignment. The owner said they would pay the cost of any that weren’t sold. The store only took big name people and local authors. We had a lovely ferry ride and managed to sell two books on the way across. The scenery from the ferry was also fabulous. Then came the Vancouver traffic ordeal. We spent about three hours fighting traffic to leave books on consignment at the Seraphim book store. By the time we got to Merritt it was already 7:30 p.m. Time to stop for the night. We found a wonderful motel room – once again only $55. It had a stove and fridge and dishes, a living room and a bedroom. So we bought some groceries and had supper and breakfast at the motel.
Today, Friday, our trip through the mountains was breathtaking. All Canadians need to travel West at least once. It’s amazing. We got to Golden B.C. at 5:30 (had to set our clocks ahead an hour). We could see rain in the mountains ahead. I didn’t want Tom to drive on wet and maybe slippery mountain roads in the middle of a storm. Besides we were both tired of being in the car. We’ve had a lovely restful evening. Today we sold five books on route. There’s a bookstore in Merritt that carries my books now. We had a lovely visit with the minister of the United Church in Golden. Tomorrow it’s the Rockies and Calgary. Each day I say, “It can’t get better” and yet it does.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009 Cathedral Grove
This morning after breakfast we traveled two hours north and west to Cathedral Grove Provincial Park on the Port Alberni Highway. Four hours round trip for one hour in the old growth forest seems a bit much, but it was worth every minute. We were welcomed into the Cathedral by a delightful volunteer who talked of the winter storm on New Year’s Day in 1997.
“The storm took down the biggest and oldest tree in this forest, a Douglas Fir,” she said. “The tallest tree still standing here is 76 meters. This one was taller. Walk along it’s length. See that the life cycle has begun again as trees are born from its rotting trunk and limbs. These will be stilt trees, their roots developing in the mother – nurse- tree as it slowly disintegrates leaving the roots above the ground.” We thanked her for the information and the map and started our journey.
Beckoning sunlight filtered through the trees, and danced ahead of us as we ambled down the pathway. We snapped pictures knowing our little camera couldn’t begin to capture the majesty of the scene. We walked along the trunk of the biggest tree and read “This tree is 800 years old. It had been growing here for 300 years when Christopher Columbus discovered America.
We stopped and climbed onto the trunk. At its widest we were more than seven feet above the ground. We leaned against the tree growing behind it and spread our arms. The picture shows that even Tom’s arms couldn’t cover one side of its trunk.
We continued walking, our necks craned to see the tops of the enormous tree. A peaceful coolness settled over us. This is truly holy ground, I thought. Just as we step out of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, or the biggest of our Canadian churches, we stepped out of this natural cathedral. I took a deep breath, “Thank you God,” I whispered. ‘Thank you. My cup is full and overflowing with your abundant life and beauty. We are truly blessed to be on this wonderful journey.
This morning after breakfast we traveled two hours north and west to Cathedral Grove Provincial Park on the Port Alberni Highway. Four hours round trip for one hour in the old growth forest seems a bit much, but it was worth every minute. We were welcomed into the Cathedral by a delightful volunteer who talked of the winter storm on New Year’s Day in 1997.
“The storm took down the biggest and oldest tree in this forest, a Douglas Fir,” she said. “The tallest tree still standing here is 76 meters. This one was taller. Walk along it’s length. See that the life cycle has begun again as trees are born from its rotting trunk and limbs. These will be stilt trees, their roots developing in the mother – nurse- tree as it slowly disintegrates leaving the roots above the ground.” We thanked her for the information and the map and started our journey.
Beckoning sunlight filtered through the trees, and danced ahead of us as we ambled down the pathway. We snapped pictures knowing our little camera couldn’t begin to capture the majesty of the scene. We walked along the trunk of the biggest tree and read “This tree is 800 years old. It had been growing here for 300 years when Christopher Columbus discovered America.
We stopped and climbed onto the trunk. At its widest we were more than seven feet above the ground. We leaned against the tree growing behind it and spread our arms. The picture shows that even Tom’s arms couldn’t cover one side of its trunk.
We continued walking, our necks craned to see the tops of the enormous tree. A peaceful coolness settled over us. This is truly holy ground, I thought. Just as we step out of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, or the biggest of our Canadian churches, we stepped out of this natural cathedral. I took a deep breath, “Thank you God,” I whispered. ‘Thank you. My cup is full and overflowing with your abundant life and beauty. We are truly blessed to be on this wonderful journey.
On the Road Again
Monday, August 17
All day, we sped along the highway between Kelowna and Vancouver, weaving our way between the mountains, spiraling up and then down again on roads built for cars traveling at 110 Km per hour. At just 100 kmph our little Honda Fit seems to be flying. I’m sure glad Tom willingly does the driving. As I looked down over the three foot concrete barriers into a valley several thousand feet below, I gave thanks that this morning I promised to do the driving on the prairies. Long and straight and level had to be easier. The car slowed to 75 kmph and was still climbing. At times I was sure we were heading for the top of the world. Reaching the summit of this mountain, we looked out over a vast ocean of trees. Here and there, scars created by clear cut logging marched across the landscape. I had felt anger when reading about clear cutting. Actually seeing the desecration brought shame, shame for my part in our consumer driven society.
The roller coaster ride continued through long skinny toothpick trees.At times I felt as if we were going to drive right off the edge of a mountain. “Check your gas,” the sign said. “The next community is 110 km.” Even today, habitation is sparse. My mind turned to our past. Imagine having the courage and determination to unite this beautiful, wild country of hours into one nation. Building the tracks on the edges of these mountains was an amazing feat. For a few moments I had a glimpse of the human cost, and human faith it took to build the railway tracks on the sides of these mountains. I can only imagine the joy and exhilaration the founding fathers felt when that last spike was driven and there was a transportation link from the Atlantic to the Pacific oceans.
My thoughts were jerked back to the present as Tom applied the brakes and geared down. “It’s an eight percent grade,” he said.
I closed my eyes and prayed.
“Look,” there’s a snowshed,” he said, and took one hand off the wheel to point.
I dragged my eyes from the road to look ahead. It’s a tunnel, I thought, as we entered the darkness. The mountain is flowing down over us.
Back out in the sunlight, I saw the run away lanes – roads leading off to the right and almost straight up the mountain. I took a deep breath as a huge transport pulled alongside and then past. My ears were popping when we finally leveled out. Before I could unclench my hands and relax my knees we had started up again. Good thing we didn’t bring the trailer, flashed through my mind. Our little truck would never have done it.
The day wore on as we flew through the beauty of towering mountains, and deep rock cuts. Finally, the ground began to level out. The coastal plain and Vancouver welcomed us. It was just three o’clock when we approached the ferry dock. Traffic surrounded us and stopped. A man wearing a reflector vest and a big smile, leaned into the car window.
“Got a reservation?”
In all innocence Tom shook his head.
“When the traffic starts up move into the left lane. You’ll probably make the 5:20 or the 6:00,” he said and waved his hand.
Groaning, we did as were told.
“Oh well,” I said. “We’ll just go straight to our motel. Let’s eat on the ferry.”
We had a long wait and we had time with friendly people. I sold a copy of my book, Can I Hold Him? And gave a couple of people my business card.
The ferry ride was magical. The food was great.
By 7:15 we were once again rolling down the highway. The road still twisted and turned but the mountains had turned into hills. The sun was just setting when we pulled into our motel, a secluded collection of cottages tucked away in the woods. We had booked two nights on the internet, on the description and mostly the price - $62.50 a night.
It’s just fine. Friendly people, very clean and even well-functioning wireless. What more could we ask? It’s time to settle down for a good night’s sleep.
All day, we sped along the highway between Kelowna and Vancouver, weaving our way between the mountains, spiraling up and then down again on roads built for cars traveling at 110 Km per hour. At just 100 kmph our little Honda Fit seems to be flying. I’m sure glad Tom willingly does the driving. As I looked down over the three foot concrete barriers into a valley several thousand feet below, I gave thanks that this morning I promised to do the driving on the prairies. Long and straight and level had to be easier. The car slowed to 75 kmph and was still climbing. At times I was sure we were heading for the top of the world. Reaching the summit of this mountain, we looked out over a vast ocean of trees. Here and there, scars created by clear cut logging marched across the landscape. I had felt anger when reading about clear cutting. Actually seeing the desecration brought shame, shame for my part in our consumer driven society.
The roller coaster ride continued through long skinny toothpick trees.At times I felt as if we were going to drive right off the edge of a mountain. “Check your gas,” the sign said. “The next community is 110 km.” Even today, habitation is sparse. My mind turned to our past. Imagine having the courage and determination to unite this beautiful, wild country of hours into one nation. Building the tracks on the edges of these mountains was an amazing feat. For a few moments I had a glimpse of the human cost, and human faith it took to build the railway tracks on the sides of these mountains. I can only imagine the joy and exhilaration the founding fathers felt when that last spike was driven and there was a transportation link from the Atlantic to the Pacific oceans.
My thoughts were jerked back to the present as Tom applied the brakes and geared down. “It’s an eight percent grade,” he said.
I closed my eyes and prayed.
“Look,” there’s a snowshed,” he said, and took one hand off the wheel to point.
I dragged my eyes from the road to look ahead. It’s a tunnel, I thought, as we entered the darkness. The mountain is flowing down over us.
Back out in the sunlight, I saw the run away lanes – roads leading off to the right and almost straight up the mountain. I took a deep breath as a huge transport pulled alongside and then past. My ears were popping when we finally leveled out. Before I could unclench my hands and relax my knees we had started up again. Good thing we didn’t bring the trailer, flashed through my mind. Our little truck would never have done it.
The day wore on as we flew through the beauty of towering mountains, and deep rock cuts. Finally, the ground began to level out. The coastal plain and Vancouver welcomed us. It was just three o’clock when we approached the ferry dock. Traffic surrounded us and stopped. A man wearing a reflector vest and a big smile, leaned into the car window.
“Got a reservation?”
In all innocence Tom shook his head.
“When the traffic starts up move into the left lane. You’ll probably make the 5:20 or the 6:00,” he said and waved his hand.
Groaning, we did as were told.
“Oh well,” I said. “We’ll just go straight to our motel. Let’s eat on the ferry.”
We had a long wait and we had time with friendly people. I sold a copy of my book, Can I Hold Him? And gave a couple of people my business card.
The ferry ride was magical. The food was great.
By 7:15 we were once again rolling down the highway. The road still twisted and turned but the mountains had turned into hills. The sun was just setting when we pulled into our motel, a secluded collection of cottages tucked away in the woods. We had booked two nights on the internet, on the description and mostly the price - $62.50 a night.
It’s just fine. Friendly people, very clean and even well-functioning wireless. What more could we ask? It’s time to settle down for a good night’s sleep.
General Council - Last thoughts
August 16 It is finished. Yes, General Council is over, and I am exhausted. It’s been absolutely awesome. For seven days we have flown on God’s Spirit, as we worked long hours, worshipped together and even played occasionally. One of the highlights for me came Saturday when we discussed the Saskatchewan proposal suggesting we shift the twenty articles of faith that were set out in 1926 to the status of historical document. I expected hours of heated debate and even anger. Instead, Rev. Dr. John Young, professor at Queen’s Theological College, suggested we add the statement of faith made in the1940’s, the New Creed from the 1960’s, and our most recent document A Song of Faith to the twenty articles. Each one is an expression of faith for the time in which it was written. Each one carries our story. The commissioners received this suggestion with joy. It allowed us to be inclusive of the broad spectrum of beliefs that are held by our United Church members.
Yesterday, goodbyes were tearful, especially for the teens. “I’ve made some really good friends,” one young man said to me. “I sure hope that I will keep them.” Another teen responded, “We have lots of friends on the internet but they don’t seem as close as the friends we’ve made here. This has been really special.”
This week, I glimpsed the church as God intends it to be – warm, loving, accepting people, enthusiastic about their faith. Love and respect for all people opened us to transformation by our encounters with God in the people around us.
As we worked together we practiced giving, not just emotionally but also concretely. Through joyful requests, our teens gathered over $13,000 from us, for the solar water heater at the Naramata Camp and Conference Centre. “These kids can certainly give us lessons in fund raising,” one Commissioner commented.
Our meeting started with a young mom, her eight week old baby asleep in her arms saying, “I’ve worked on this conference for three years. I want baby Nicholas to be here. With your help I will do my best to fulfill my role as chair of business and agenda.” Yesterday as we said good bye she thanked us for our enthusiastic help. We received her work as a job well done, and learned that the You Tube video clip of “Baby in Council” had received the most hits.
We human beings, with all our flaws and fears, can truly follow Jesus’ teaching to love God and love one another. For one whole week, we lived it. I am truly grateful for the experience.
Go to the United Church website at www.united-church.ca for all the details.
Yesterday, goodbyes were tearful, especially for the teens. “I’ve made some really good friends,” one young man said to me. “I sure hope that I will keep them.” Another teen responded, “We have lots of friends on the internet but they don’t seem as close as the friends we’ve made here. This has been really special.”
This week, I glimpsed the church as God intends it to be – warm, loving, accepting people, enthusiastic about their faith. Love and respect for all people opened us to transformation by our encounters with God in the people around us.
As we worked together we practiced giving, not just emotionally but also concretely. Through joyful requests, our teens gathered over $13,000 from us, for the solar water heater at the Naramata Camp and Conference Centre. “These kids can certainly give us lessons in fund raising,” one Commissioner commented.
Our meeting started with a young mom, her eight week old baby asleep in her arms saying, “I’ve worked on this conference for three years. I want baby Nicholas to be here. With your help I will do my best to fulfill my role as chair of business and agenda.” Yesterday as we said good bye she thanked us for our enthusiastic help. We received her work as a job well done, and learned that the You Tube video clip of “Baby in Council” had received the most hits.
We human beings, with all our flaws and fears, can truly follow Jesus’ teaching to love God and love one another. For one whole week, we lived it. I am truly grateful for the experience.
Go to the United Church website at www.united-church.ca for all the details.
Wednesday August 12th - “The Half-Way Mark” (366 words)
The United Church is becoming an intra-cultural church. We are striving to step beyond tolerating others who are different. At this meeting of General Council we are walking with and learning from our Christian brothers and sisters – French, Japanese, Korean, African and more. In 1926, three Protestant denominations came together to form a new, stronger, richer and fuller being called the United Church. Today as a church we are working toward that kind of transformation.
This week enjoyed the rhythm and beauty of many languages as we have worshipped and done our work. Symbols and traditions from other cultures have enriched our understanding. We have embraced our brothers and sisters in the faith with joy. We are learning to be a church in which we truly value, respect and welcome all people.
And there is more. We have incorporated what is called green culture. Gone are the endless paper plates and Styrofoam cups. We carry our own water bottles to taps and jugs to be refilled with local water. The trash cans at UBC are not overflowing because most of what we use is recycled. We share print resources in order to save paper. We’re truly conscious of what we use.
The youth at General Council are leading us. Tuesday, they were an integral part of the discussion about our church’s position on the Israeli/Palestine conflict. This was their message to us. “I’ve been to Palestine. I’ve seen the poverty, the oppression. That wall has six hundred stops. By the time a poor farmer going to market gets through them his fresh fruit has rotted in the cart. We have to use more than words to express our horror at what is happening to the Palestinian people. It was a United Church program that sent me to Palestine to see what was happening. Listen to us.”
Monday morning we sang, “I Am a Child of God”. The words of that song declare the wonder and beauty and confidence of knowing and living the acceptance that Jesus taught. The United Church has stepped beyond having youth and people of other races as tokens among us. They are transforming us. I am grateful.
The United Church is becoming an intra-cultural church. We are striving to step beyond tolerating others who are different. At this meeting of General Council we are walking with and learning from our Christian brothers and sisters – French, Japanese, Korean, African and more. In 1926, three Protestant denominations came together to form a new, stronger, richer and fuller being called the United Church. Today as a church we are working toward that kind of transformation.
This week enjoyed the rhythm and beauty of many languages as we have worshipped and done our work. Symbols and traditions from other cultures have enriched our understanding. We have embraced our brothers and sisters in the faith with joy. We are learning to be a church in which we truly value, respect and welcome all people.
And there is more. We have incorporated what is called green culture. Gone are the endless paper plates and Styrofoam cups. We carry our own water bottles to taps and jugs to be refilled with local water. The trash cans at UBC are not overflowing because most of what we use is recycled. We share print resources in order to save paper. We’re truly conscious of what we use.
The youth at General Council are leading us. Tuesday, they were an integral part of the discussion about our church’s position on the Israeli/Palestine conflict. This was their message to us. “I’ve been to Palestine. I’ve seen the poverty, the oppression. That wall has six hundred stops. By the time a poor farmer going to market gets through them his fresh fruit has rotted in the cart. We have to use more than words to express our horror at what is happening to the Palestinian people. It was a United Church program that sent me to Palestine to see what was happening. Listen to us.”
Monday morning we sang, “I Am a Child of God”. The words of that song declare the wonder and beauty and confidence of knowing and living the acceptance that Jesus taught. The United Church has stepped beyond having youth and people of other races as tokens among us. They are transforming us. I am grateful.
“Down to the Potter’s House”
“God is good,” shouted Right Rev. David Giuliani into the microphone.
“all the time,” responded the more than six hundred committed, passionate people of faith who filled the gymnasium at the University of British Columbia in Kelowna.
“All the time,” shouted Right Rev. David Giuliani.
“God is good,” responded the people.
Thus, began the first day of the fortieth meeting of the General Council of the United Church of Canada.
That same spontaneous energy -God’s Spirit - surrounded me all day. Signs of a healthy faithful church were everywhere, from the enthusiastic happy faces of the young people to music that called us to sing and dance to walls decorated with hundreds of prayer flags made by congregations from across our country. It’s been an amazing day.
We worshipped as two potters worked with clay on their potter’s wheels. “Working with clay is messy,” our Moderator said. “The potter kneads the clay to work out the memory of the shape the clay has been. Once centered, the wheel begins to turn, and the potter’s hands gently and carefully push and scrape to mold something new and exciting. During this time together, God the potter will be working with us, kneading us to help us let go of the past, and centering us in faith in order to bring forth from us something new and exciting.”
The sunny yellow shirts and happy smiles of the local volunteers who care for us were everywhere. We heard the drums of the local native people who welcomed us as partners in our love for God’s creation.
Lively discussion as we set the agenda, told me that change will be painful. We are a church, alive and healthy, that will make decisions cautiously and carefully. We have solid roots and strong faith, and still change brings fear.
I looked at nine week old Nicholas, asleep in his mother’s arms, heard the youth commissioner at our table speak of God’s call to him to be here, and took a deep breath. This will be work, and this will be fun.
Tonight I am thankful for the privilege of being here.
“God is good,” shouted Right Rev. David Giuliani into the microphone.
“all the time,” responded the more than six hundred committed, passionate people of faith who filled the gymnasium at the University of British Columbia in Kelowna.
“All the time,” shouted Right Rev. David Giuliani.
“God is good,” responded the people.
Thus, began the first day of the fortieth meeting of the General Council of the United Church of Canada.
That same spontaneous energy -God’s Spirit - surrounded me all day. Signs of a healthy faithful church were everywhere, from the enthusiastic happy faces of the young people to music that called us to sing and dance to walls decorated with hundreds of prayer flags made by congregations from across our country. It’s been an amazing day.
We worshipped as two potters worked with clay on their potter’s wheels. “Working with clay is messy,” our Moderator said. “The potter kneads the clay to work out the memory of the shape the clay has been. Once centered, the wheel begins to turn, and the potter’s hands gently and carefully push and scrape to mold something new and exciting. During this time together, God the potter will be working with us, kneading us to help us let go of the past, and centering us in faith in order to bring forth from us something new and exciting.”
The sunny yellow shirts and happy smiles of the local volunteers who care for us were everywhere. We heard the drums of the local native people who welcomed us as partners in our love for God’s creation.
Lively discussion as we set the agenda, told me that change will be painful. We are a church, alive and healthy, that will make decisions cautiously and carefully. We have solid roots and strong faith, and still change brings fear.
I looked at nine week old Nicholas, asleep in his mother’s arms, heard the youth commissioner at our table speak of God’s call to him to be here, and took a deep breath. This will be work, and this will be fun.
Tonight I am thankful for the privilege of being here.
Day’s Three, Four and Five
On Wednesday, the highway snaked through gold – fields of wheat and grain stretching from horizon to horizon. The only trees stood silently, sheltering farm house and barn. As the miles flew by, the scene gradually changed. By Thursday, mesa’s, abrupt hills, grain thriving on their flat tops, flashed by our car windows. How do farmers get their tractors and combines up there, I wondered. Occasionally, a determined evergreen or Russian olive tree, it’s feet tickled by the browngold fuzz of dry grass, stood bravely on the steep hillsides. The valleys wandering between, lush with trees and crops of potatoes, sugar beets, and sometimes even corn, housed tiny isolated communities, And everywhere, grey-turquoise lumps of pungent sagebrush graced the scene.
That afternoon we reached the North Dakota badlands. The sharply pointed crumbly sandstone hills, piled one on top of the other presented a dangerous maze to travelers, Even horseback trails looked impossible to navigate. We stopped for a break in Medora, a commercialized tourist trap. Souvenirs, and gas were available at inflated prices. Some signs offered trail rides, others said, “Walk on the sidewalks, rattlesnakes here. Do the snakes know they aren’t allowed on the sidewalks, I wondered.
By supper time the scene had changed once again. Trees marched over the ever growing hills until the landscape resembled a waving length of brown fabric covered with green dots.
This morning we crossed into Idaho. Tall mountains surrounded us. Alongside the interstate, flashing pixel boards announced, “Watch for wildlife and fallen rocks.” Gone are the fenced off two hundred foot cultivated road allowances of North Dakota.
“Look at that,” Tom says.
Towering above me is a mountain, totally devoid of trees. Across its face runs a narrow foot path, it’s precise switchbacks forming a dark zipper in the brown grass.
Tonight we’ve arrived in Kelowna. My reading is done. The beauty of God’s world has been amazing. The people along the way have been a special blessing. At every stop, Canadians have claimed us as friends, Americans have welcomed us as neighbours. Last night in the motel outdoor pool we chatted with a mom and her two young girls, even sold them a copy of both of my books. This morning a couple from Wisconsin stopped for a chat as we loaded the car. A clerk at the Idaho information desk, told us proudly that her daughter was expecting a baby. We listened, offered Stella for sale as a baby gift.
“I only have my credit card here,” she said. “I’d like to buy both books.”
I signed the books and left them and my address with her. “I’ll trust that you’ll mail the money,” I said.
“You’d do that?” she said, “thank you.”
Probably just another one of those God Incidents, I thought.
Conference orientation is tomorrow afternoon We’re tired and ready for sleep. Our adventure has just begun.
On Wednesday, the highway snaked through gold – fields of wheat and grain stretching from horizon to horizon. The only trees stood silently, sheltering farm house and barn. As the miles flew by, the scene gradually changed. By Thursday, mesa’s, abrupt hills, grain thriving on their flat tops, flashed by our car windows. How do farmers get their tractors and combines up there, I wondered. Occasionally, a determined evergreen or Russian olive tree, it’s feet tickled by the browngold fuzz of dry grass, stood bravely on the steep hillsides. The valleys wandering between, lush with trees and crops of potatoes, sugar beets, and sometimes even corn, housed tiny isolated communities, And everywhere, grey-turquoise lumps of pungent sagebrush graced the scene.
That afternoon we reached the North Dakota badlands. The sharply pointed crumbly sandstone hills, piled one on top of the other presented a dangerous maze to travelers, Even horseback trails looked impossible to navigate. We stopped for a break in Medora, a commercialized tourist trap. Souvenirs, and gas were available at inflated prices. Some signs offered trail rides, others said, “Walk on the sidewalks, rattlesnakes here. Do the snakes know they aren’t allowed on the sidewalks, I wondered.
By supper time the scene had changed once again. Trees marched over the ever growing hills until the landscape resembled a waving length of brown fabric covered with green dots.
This morning we crossed into Idaho. Tall mountains surrounded us. Alongside the interstate, flashing pixel boards announced, “Watch for wildlife and fallen rocks.” Gone are the fenced off two hundred foot cultivated road allowances of North Dakota.
“Look at that,” Tom says.
Towering above me is a mountain, totally devoid of trees. Across its face runs a narrow foot path, it’s precise switchbacks forming a dark zipper in the brown grass.
Tonight we’ve arrived in Kelowna. My reading is done. The beauty of God’s world has been amazing. The people along the way have been a special blessing. At every stop, Canadians have claimed us as friends, Americans have welcomed us as neighbours. Last night in the motel outdoor pool we chatted with a mom and her two young girls, even sold them a copy of both of my books. This morning a couple from Wisconsin stopped for a chat as we loaded the car. A clerk at the Idaho information desk, told us proudly that her daughter was expecting a baby. We listened, offered Stella for sale as a baby gift.
“I only have my credit card here,” she said. “I’d like to buy both books.”
I signed the books and left them and my address with her. “I’ll trust that you’ll mail the money,” I said.
“You’d do that?” she said, “thank you.”
Probably just another one of those God Incidents, I thought.
Conference orientation is tomorrow afternoon We’re tired and ready for sleep. Our adventure has just begun.
Reflection on Days 1&2 of our journey
REFLECTION ON DAYS ONE AND TWO OF OUR JOURNEY by Janet Stobie.
“Co-incidences” or “God Incidents?” (542 words)
Our journey west began with worship along the river at Queen Street United Church. Although the dawn had brought clouds and threat of rain, by 9:30 the sun was playing peek-a-boo with us. I asked the congregation to consider the “co-incidences” we experience as “God Incidents”, God’s action in our lives. For example: every Sunday morning of our rainy July, we had enjoyed a few hours of sunshine for our outdoor worship - a “co-incidence” or “God Incident”.
After receiving blessings for safe travel, Tom and I headed out. Traffic was reasonable. Our simple first leg of the journey into the welcoming arms of my sister in Sudbury ended by 4:30 – a great beginning!
Monday morning, at 7:30, we hugged Sharon goodbye. Tom drove for most of the next thirteen hours and I read General Council proposals. The border crossing at the Sault took more than an hour. We started our wait about halfway across the bridge. Usually the scenery just flashes by when we travel over huge bridges. This time our wait gave us opportunity to soak in the view.
For most of this day, we drove within a tunnel of trees. Sometimes the trees were scraggly, sometimes huge and robust, most were evergreen. As a child in Southwestern Ontario, trees were my friends. I soared in my swing that was suspended from their spreading branches. The ancient maples, that lined our driveway, gathered my sister and I into their arms as we climbed among them. I loved their strength. The trees of this tunnel felt different. They glowered over me. Instead of friendship and fun, I felt majesty and menace. .
The highway slashed the landscape, cutting through rocks, wandering around bends and marching across bogs. Occasionally, the tunnel opened to a farmer’s field, a town, or patches of the glistening blue water of Lake Superior.
Yet another construction area loomed in the distance. A flag lady, standing in the sun, leaned on her stop sign. We rolled down our windows and turned off the car, prepared for a long wait. Just a few yards from the road, in a beach parking area, a young family with a tiny baby returned to their car.
Always friendly and willing to talk, Tom stuck his head out the window and said to our flag lady, “Did you see the cute wee baby over there.” She turned her head to look. He added, “that sounded like a grandfather, didn’t it.”
She grinned and came over to the car. We talked a bit about grandchildren. She told us about her oldest granddaughter. “She’d be seventeen if she had lived,” she said.
“What happened?” Tom asked.
The story of the car accident poured forth. We listened. We offered our compassion and caring. It was just a moment’s conversation, and yet our souls had connected. Was this a “co-incidence” or a ”God-incident?”
At 7:30 we chose a tiny gas station in Sidnaw, to call ahead to our motel. Lacking a pay phone, he offered his own, no charge. Why did we choose this place? “Coincidence?”
Tonight, in Ironwood Michigan, as we snuggle down to sleep, I give thanks to God for surrounding us with blessings through people and places - God-Incidents. It’s been a good day.
“Co-incidences” or “God Incidents?” (542 words)
Our journey west began with worship along the river at Queen Street United Church. Although the dawn had brought clouds and threat of rain, by 9:30 the sun was playing peek-a-boo with us. I asked the congregation to consider the “co-incidences” we experience as “God Incidents”, God’s action in our lives. For example: every Sunday morning of our rainy July, we had enjoyed a few hours of sunshine for our outdoor worship - a “co-incidence” or “God Incident”.
After receiving blessings for safe travel, Tom and I headed out. Traffic was reasonable. Our simple first leg of the journey into the welcoming arms of my sister in Sudbury ended by 4:30 – a great beginning!
Monday morning, at 7:30, we hugged Sharon goodbye. Tom drove for most of the next thirteen hours and I read General Council proposals. The border crossing at the Sault took more than an hour. We started our wait about halfway across the bridge. Usually the scenery just flashes by when we travel over huge bridges. This time our wait gave us opportunity to soak in the view.
For most of this day, we drove within a tunnel of trees. Sometimes the trees were scraggly, sometimes huge and robust, most were evergreen. As a child in Southwestern Ontario, trees were my friends. I soared in my swing that was suspended from their spreading branches. The ancient maples, that lined our driveway, gathered my sister and I into their arms as we climbed among them. I loved their strength. The trees of this tunnel felt different. They glowered over me. Instead of friendship and fun, I felt majesty and menace. .
The highway slashed the landscape, cutting through rocks, wandering around bends and marching across bogs. Occasionally, the tunnel opened to a farmer’s field, a town, or patches of the glistening blue water of Lake Superior.
Yet another construction area loomed in the distance. A flag lady, standing in the sun, leaned on her stop sign. We rolled down our windows and turned off the car, prepared for a long wait. Just a few yards from the road, in a beach parking area, a young family with a tiny baby returned to their car.
Always friendly and willing to talk, Tom stuck his head out the window and said to our flag lady, “Did you see the cute wee baby over there.” She turned her head to look. He added, “that sounded like a grandfather, didn’t it.”
She grinned and came over to the car. We talked a bit about grandchildren. She told us about her oldest granddaughter. “She’d be seventeen if she had lived,” she said.
“What happened?” Tom asked.
The story of the car accident poured forth. We listened. We offered our compassion and caring. It was just a moment’s conversation, and yet our souls had connected. Was this a “co-incidence” or a ”God-incident?”
At 7:30 we chose a tiny gas station in Sidnaw, to call ahead to our motel. Lacking a pay phone, he offered his own, no charge. Why did we choose this place? “Coincidence?”
Tonight, in Ironwood Michigan, as we snuggle down to sleep, I give thanks to God for surrounding us with blessings through people and places - God-Incidents. It’s been a good day.
Can I Hold Him?
Can I Hold Him? Christmas Stories for All Ages
Read it at home as part of your Christmas preparations.
Give it as a gift of faith to a friend or neighbor or grandchild.
Use it with your Sunday School Class as part of the lesson or as a resource for writing a skit.
Use it with adults and children as a resource for Christmas Programs and Christmas Eve worship
Table of Contents
1. Isn’t He Beautiful! 2. I'm An Angel 3. Can I Hold Him
4. That’s Not Your Baby! 5. The Last Shall Be First
4. That’s Not Your Baby! 5. The Last Shall Be First
6. The Reluctant Shepherd 7. The Third Wiseman
8. A Life Completed 9. The Refugees
10. An Ancient Love Story 11. Santa's Story
Can I Hold Him? has many uses:
Read it at home as part of your Christmas preparations.
Give it as a gift of faith to a friend or neighbor or grandchild.
Use it with your Sunday School Class as part of the lesson or as a resource for writing a skit.
Use it with adults and children as a resource for Christmas Programs and Christmas Eve worship
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)