June 27, 2011
Psalm 30
"Joy will come in the morning." So once again I am sitting on my patio enjoying the flowers of garden. It is beautiful but I do miss the flowers of the Appalachian trail. We will have to see what the rest of this summer will bring.
Julie and I will be attending Adult Conference. Hopefully this will be a spiritual pick me up after losing her job. Please pray for Julie's former boss as well as this is not what he wanted but what he had to do stay afloat in the economic times.
Tonight we will have a full house. Andy and his GF Michael are coming as is my Dad. Maybe I will just sleep out here on the back porch. Anyway, it's the first day of Adult Conference so we will see how the week goes. I will have to work very hard NOT to step into work mode.
Lord,
We don't always know the reason for things but I trust in the scriptures that say, "All things work together for Good to those that love the Lord."
Work out your good in this situation. Amen.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Saturday, June 25, 2011
June 25, 2011
Psalm 28
While this hostel is expensive from a hostel perspective. It is well worth it. Mountain Harbor Hostel is built into the second floor of a horse barn but it is very nice. It has four beds and a king size bed, a bath, kitchen area, and a back patio over looking a beautiful brook. Breakfast in the morning was all you can eat and I ate a lot. The owners, Mary and Terry, are very great hosts. Terry gave me a ride this morning over the Roan Mountain on the one hour drive it would have taken me 4 more days to hike. There are some who say this is the most beautiful place on the trail. I will look forward to comeing back here and finishing this section. Maybe later this summer.
It was a long 7 hour drive home but glad to be with Julie as we shared together our emotions of her news from yesterday. We will just have to see what God has in store for us. But we know that "The Lord is the strength of God's People...God be our shepherd, and carry us forever."
Have no fear for those of you supporing me. I am planning this as a temporary setback to my hike. I intend to continue hiking and blogging throughout my sabbatical.
While this hostel is expensive from a hostel perspective. It is well worth it. Mountain Harbor Hostel is built into the second floor of a horse barn but it is very nice. It has four beds and a king size bed, a bath, kitchen area, and a back patio over looking a beautiful brook. Breakfast in the morning was all you can eat and I ate a lot. The owners, Mary and Terry, are very great hosts. Terry gave me a ride this morning over the Roan Mountain on the one hour drive it would have taken me 4 more days to hike. There are some who say this is the most beautiful place on the trail. I will look forward to comeing back here and finishing this section. Maybe later this summer.
It was a long 7 hour drive home but glad to be with Julie as we shared together our emotions of her news from yesterday. We will just have to see what God has in store for us. But we know that "The Lord is the strength of God's People...God be our shepherd, and carry us forever."
Have no fear for those of you supporing me. I am planning this as a temporary setback to my hike. I intend to continue hiking and blogging throughout my sabbatical.
June 21-25, 2011
June 21, 2011
Psalm 24
The earth is the Lords. And it is beautiful. The longest day of the year and in some ways it has been for me as well. The morning began early about 6:30am. I got up and fixed breakfast, Oatmeal. I headed out for Laura Falls shelter. According to my map some 8 miles away but the sign in the shelter said 11 miles. I was hoping my map was correct but alas. I began my climb up Pond Flats at 1900 feet and did the three mile climb to the top with few problems. I ate lunch on the top at 3700 ft. and then proceded to climb down back to 1900 feet. I have no idea why they took us up this hill only to bring us back to the same altitude we left from and only about two miles away. Oh well it was good exercise. When I reached the bottom I was so exhausted. I had not drank enough water so I immediately pump me a two leter bottle full and I would not leave until I had finished the whole think. The sign at the cross roads said 1 mile to the shelter so I headed out. At the one mile marker on my GPS I finally reached the path that led to the shelter but the shelter was up a steep hill another mile. So when I checked my GPS when I reached the shelter, it was indeed 11 miles. I crashed slept for 1/2 hour without even empting my back-pack. I got up and made dinner and I had cell service. Called my wife and let her know I was ok. Then I checked the weather! Radar show a big rain taking place all night and into the morning. I learned there is a Hostel 2 miles south of the shelter. Better to be in a hostel in a thunder storm where there are 4 sides and bathrooms than a shelter that only has three side and the closest thing to a bathroom is a fallen tree many rain soaked feet from the shelter.
So I repacked and made it to the shelter around 7:30pm. So now it can rain all night. I am in a safe place but without cell coverage. Boy am I tired. Total distance today was 13.6 miles. Tomorrow will be a much shorter day, I hope.
God,
Thank you for a safe day with lots of beautiful things to see. Who is the King of glory? You are. Amen.
June 22, 2011
Psalm 25
A couple of verses stick out in this Psalm. Verse 7 begins "Remember not the sins of my youth." Then in the next sentence he asks God to "remember me." This writer has a good understanding that my sins or my past do not define who I am now. God you know who I am now. God you know what's in my heart. You know me inside and out. Remember me. A powerful Psalm. Lord remember me.
I made it to the hostel last evening and met the Owner Bob Peoples. Bob has a passion for the AT trail and for those who walk it't path. He tries to meet every person who uses the hostel which is a two story log cabin at the back of his home. He asks for donations and suggests $4.00. He allows hikers a chance to wash clothes and shower so this morning my sweat soaked clothes are nice and clean as am I. The rain has not materialized yet. It is raining but not heavy and as of yet no thunderstorms. I have no cell reception so I am unable to check radar.
Today's hike is a short 5.6 miles to the Moreland Shelter. I could try for the Mountaineer Shelter some 15 miles away but seeing that I am just beginning to get my "Mountain Legs" beneath me, I think I will be happy with just 5.6 miles. We will see if the weather will allow me to go.
Lord, Thank you for remembering Me. Amen.
PM. Well my short 5.2 mile hike turned into at 7 mile hike. I am not sure how they measure in TN but my GPS says 7 miles. 5 of those miles were up hill. Needless to say I am exhausted but satisfied with the days travel. I made it here around 4 and there was no rain. My number one worry. I am away from a hostel so it is what it is. two people at the shelter have built a beautiful fire and we are sitting around sharing stories. It's been a good day.
June 23, 2011
Psalm 26
Rain! Rain! Rain! I woke up at 6:30 this morning and it was raining. Tried to get ready but it was still raining. So I laid back down and it's still raining. It is 11:00 and still raining. I may just try to wait it out here. Only problem is, it is forecast to rain here for the next 4 days. Decisions, Decisions? At least for now gonna try to wait it out. If I wait past 12 o'clock I might as well stay here. Decisions, decisions!
PM. At 1:00 the rain quit. So at 1:30 I headed out for what was a 10.3 miles. I made it here about 7:00. It was a long hike over fairly up and down hills. I must have pushed it on the water however as I am very dehydrated. After drinking water a little too quickly, I ended up with the dry heaves. (My appologies if this is meal time) but once I took a sip and then another, I think I am ok. We will see what tomorrow brings.
June 24, 2011
Psalm 27
How do you spell Appalachian Mountain sickness? I spell it Insomnia, dehydration, and inability to eat. I have all three. I am going to try today to so some serious rehydrating. Hopefully, this will solve the other two problems.
PM. Wow today has been filled with all kinds of emotions. First, it is my son's birthday but with no cell coverage there is no way to send him my best wishes. He makes me a very proud Dad. I did hydrate today like crasy. I drank 5 liters of water on todays 10 mile hike. It seems to have done the job. I am staying at a hostel tonight. The owner took us to a barbecue rib place for dinner. I haven't eaten in two days and tonight and finished off a whole meal and then some. I am beginning to feel like I am getting my mountain legs. Not all the way there yet but a big improvement from where I was a week ago.
I called home tonight to let my wife know all was OK. She informed me that she received news tonight that her job is being discontinued. She was unemployed for two years before finding this job in January of this year. I have made the decision to terminate my sabbaticle plans in order to support her in helping her catch her breath before we move into the job hunt again. Keep her in your prayers.
Psalm 24
The earth is the Lords. And it is beautiful. The longest day of the year and in some ways it has been for me as well. The morning began early about 6:30am. I got up and fixed breakfast, Oatmeal. I headed out for Laura Falls shelter. According to my map some 8 miles away but the sign in the shelter said 11 miles. I was hoping my map was correct but alas. I began my climb up Pond Flats at 1900 feet and did the three mile climb to the top with few problems. I ate lunch on the top at 3700 ft. and then proceded to climb down back to 1900 feet. I have no idea why they took us up this hill only to bring us back to the same altitude we left from and only about two miles away. Oh well it was good exercise. When I reached the bottom I was so exhausted. I had not drank enough water so I immediately pump me a two leter bottle full and I would not leave until I had finished the whole think. The sign at the cross roads said 1 mile to the shelter so I headed out. At the one mile marker on my GPS I finally reached the path that led to the shelter but the shelter was up a steep hill another mile. So when I checked my GPS when I reached the shelter, it was indeed 11 miles. I crashed slept for 1/2 hour without even empting my back-pack. I got up and made dinner and I had cell service. Called my wife and let her know I was ok. Then I checked the weather! Radar show a big rain taking place all night and into the morning. I learned there is a Hostel 2 miles south of the shelter. Better to be in a hostel in a thunder storm where there are 4 sides and bathrooms than a shelter that only has three side and the closest thing to a bathroom is a fallen tree many rain soaked feet from the shelter.
So I repacked and made it to the shelter around 7:30pm. So now it can rain all night. I am in a safe place but without cell coverage. Boy am I tired. Total distance today was 13.6 miles. Tomorrow will be a much shorter day, I hope.
God,
Thank you for a safe day with lots of beautiful things to see. Who is the King of glory? You are. Amen.
June 22, 2011
Psalm 25
A couple of verses stick out in this Psalm. Verse 7 begins "Remember not the sins of my youth." Then in the next sentence he asks God to "remember me." This writer has a good understanding that my sins or my past do not define who I am now. God you know who I am now. God you know what's in my heart. You know me inside and out. Remember me. A powerful Psalm. Lord remember me.
I made it to the hostel last evening and met the Owner Bob Peoples. Bob has a passion for the AT trail and for those who walk it't path. He tries to meet every person who uses the hostel which is a two story log cabin at the back of his home. He asks for donations and suggests $4.00. He allows hikers a chance to wash clothes and shower so this morning my sweat soaked clothes are nice and clean as am I. The rain has not materialized yet. It is raining but not heavy and as of yet no thunderstorms. I have no cell reception so I am unable to check radar.
Today's hike is a short 5.6 miles to the Moreland Shelter. I could try for the Mountaineer Shelter some 15 miles away but seeing that I am just beginning to get my "Mountain Legs" beneath me, I think I will be happy with just 5.6 miles. We will see if the weather will allow me to go.
Lord, Thank you for remembering Me. Amen.
PM. Well my short 5.2 mile hike turned into at 7 mile hike. I am not sure how they measure in TN but my GPS says 7 miles. 5 of those miles were up hill. Needless to say I am exhausted but satisfied with the days travel. I made it here around 4 and there was no rain. My number one worry. I am away from a hostel so it is what it is. two people at the shelter have built a beautiful fire and we are sitting around sharing stories. It's been a good day.
June 23, 2011
Psalm 26
Rain! Rain! Rain! I woke up at 6:30 this morning and it was raining. Tried to get ready but it was still raining. So I laid back down and it's still raining. It is 11:00 and still raining. I may just try to wait it out here. Only problem is, it is forecast to rain here for the next 4 days. Decisions, Decisions? At least for now gonna try to wait it out. If I wait past 12 o'clock I might as well stay here. Decisions, decisions!
PM. At 1:00 the rain quit. So at 1:30 I headed out for what was a 10.3 miles. I made it here about 7:00. It was a long hike over fairly up and down hills. I must have pushed it on the water however as I am very dehydrated. After drinking water a little too quickly, I ended up with the dry heaves. (My appologies if this is meal time) but once I took a sip and then another, I think I am ok. We will see what tomorrow brings.
June 24, 2011
Psalm 27
How do you spell Appalachian Mountain sickness? I spell it Insomnia, dehydration, and inability to eat. I have all three. I am going to try today to so some serious rehydrating. Hopefully, this will solve the other two problems.
PM. Wow today has been filled with all kinds of emotions. First, it is my son's birthday but with no cell coverage there is no way to send him my best wishes. He makes me a very proud Dad. I did hydrate today like crasy. I drank 5 liters of water on todays 10 mile hike. It seems to have done the job. I am staying at a hostel tonight. The owner took us to a barbecue rib place for dinner. I haven't eaten in two days and tonight and finished off a whole meal and then some. I am beginning to feel like I am getting my mountain legs. Not all the way there yet but a big improvement from where I was a week ago.
I called home tonight to let my wife know all was OK. She informed me that she received news tonight that her job is being discontinued. She was unemployed for two years before finding this job in January of this year. I have made the decision to terminate my sabbaticle plans in order to support her in helping her catch her breath before we move into the job hunt again. Keep her in your prayers.
Monday, June 20, 2011
June 20, 2011
Psalm 23
The Lord is my hiking partner, I have all I need. He leads me beside quit waters, he guides me to the top of beautiful mountains You renew me in spirit. God leads me in God's ways that in me God might be proclaimed. Even in the darkest valley, or the steepest hill, or the fiercest thunderstorn you are with me. Your presences sends my fears and insecurities away. You set a bounteous table before me togive me strength to continue the journey. You have given me more than I can take it. Surely goodness and mercy will go with me my whole life long and You will dwell with me. Amen.
Woke up this morning at 4:30 to a clap of thunder. It is now 7:00 and it is still raining. Radar shows it will contnue for yet another couple of hours. so I may just stay here for an extra day. However, it is supposed to rain much of this week. It's hard to get motivated to go out and hike when I am warm and safe and dry and there is a thunderstorm going on outside. We will see where the day leads.
PM. Well it has been an eventful day. It rained until about 12:30pm. They finally was able to get dropped off at Watauga Dam around 3:30pm. The first shelter was only 2.5 miles from there. I debated traveling another 5 miles to a campsite on top of Pond Flats. However, while I was walking a good pace, there was a three mile climb ahead of me. These typically slow me down to about 1 mile per hour. That would put me at the campsite at 8:00 with only 45 minutes of light to set camp, fix supper, and hang food. So I opted to stay at the Watauga Dam shelter. I share the shelter with a 65 year old woman - Peggy Sue (Trail Name) Near by another NOBO (North bounder) set up his hammock. It actually had a place to hang food away from bears, Near by I found little tiny fungi growing on a small twig. Nice Picture. Surprisingly, I even had cell coverage here. I finished supper around 7:00 both of the other hikers went right to bed. It is still light and I am feeling pretty good. But I am look for a good night's sleep and a sunny day tomorrow. Thank you God for a great day.
The Lord is my hiking partner, I have all I need. He leads me beside quit waters, he guides me to the top of beautiful mountains You renew me in spirit. God leads me in God's ways that in me God might be proclaimed. Even in the darkest valley, or the steepest hill, or the fiercest thunderstorn you are with me. Your presences sends my fears and insecurities away. You set a bounteous table before me togive me strength to continue the journey. You have given me more than I can take it. Surely goodness and mercy will go with me my whole life long and You will dwell with me. Amen.
Woke up this morning at 4:30 to a clap of thunder. It is now 7:00 and it is still raining. Radar shows it will contnue for yet another couple of hours. so I may just stay here for an extra day. However, it is supposed to rain much of this week. It's hard to get motivated to go out and hike when I am warm and safe and dry and there is a thunderstorm going on outside. We will see where the day leads.
PM. Well it has been an eventful day. It rained until about 12:30pm. They finally was able to get dropped off at Watauga Dam around 3:30pm. The first shelter was only 2.5 miles from there. I debated traveling another 5 miles to a campsite on top of Pond Flats. However, while I was walking a good pace, there was a three mile climb ahead of me. These typically slow me down to about 1 mile per hour. That would put me at the campsite at 8:00 with only 45 minutes of light to set camp, fix supper, and hang food. So I opted to stay at the Watauga Dam shelter. I share the shelter with a 65 year old woman - Peggy Sue (Trail Name) Near by another NOBO (North bounder) set up his hammock. It actually had a place to hang food away from bears, Near by I found little tiny fungi growing on a small twig. Nice Picture. Surprisingly, I even had cell coverage here. I finished supper around 7:00 both of the other hikers went right to bed. It is still light and I am feeling pretty good. But I am look for a good night's sleep and a sunny day tomorrow. Thank you God for a great day.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
June 19, 2011
June 17, 2011
Psalm 20
I spent a great two days singing Barbershop at Apple Corps. It was a great deal of fun. Spent both Afterglows in the bar singing tags until the "wee small hours of the morning."
God,
Thank you for music. Amen.
June 19, 2011
Psalm 22
Wow, what a long day. I preached at the Smithfield Christian Church. This is a beautiful church in the small town of smithfield, OH. After the service, I headed out for the big town of Erwin, TN about 7 hours away.
I have to confess, I have the pre-hike jitters. Do I have the stamina to do the hike? Some of this hills are very high up to 6000 ft. The last time I hiked, I had some severe knee pain. While conditioning, I have felt twindges of that pain. Will it come back and prevent me finishing my hike? I stopped at the Walgreens and picked up a knee brace. Now i have one for each knee. I would rather carry the extra weight and not have problems than to have an issue and not have a brace.
As i was driving on I26 I could see Roan Mountain at over 6000 ft. Tonight I am sleeping at 1700 ft. In three days I hope to be at the top of Roan Mountian. To get there, I will have several climbs but the longest is 6 miles long. The good news is that it isn't as steep the northbounders have. They climb to same altitude in half the distance, so that is really steep. I am happy to be a southbounder. I am excited that I have hiked less than 50 miles but have already raised over $1000 for these ministries. I am hoping for $5000.
Lord,
As I stand on the edge of the beginning of our journey together, I feel like that writer of Psalm 22. I have this challenge ahead of me that is both exciting and frieghtening. Make me aware of your presence as we begin this journey together. Open my heart and mind to discover your word for me. Amen.
Psalm 20
I spent a great two days singing Barbershop at Apple Corps. It was a great deal of fun. Spent both Afterglows in the bar singing tags until the "wee small hours of the morning."
God,
Thank you for music. Amen.
June 19, 2011
Psalm 22
Wow, what a long day. I preached at the Smithfield Christian Church. This is a beautiful church in the small town of smithfield, OH. After the service, I headed out for the big town of Erwin, TN about 7 hours away.
I have to confess, I have the pre-hike jitters. Do I have the stamina to do the hike? Some of this hills are very high up to 6000 ft. The last time I hiked, I had some severe knee pain. While conditioning, I have felt twindges of that pain. Will it come back and prevent me finishing my hike? I stopped at the Walgreens and picked up a knee brace. Now i have one for each knee. I would rather carry the extra weight and not have problems than to have an issue and not have a brace.
As i was driving on I26 I could see Roan Mountain at over 6000 ft. Tonight I am sleeping at 1700 ft. In three days I hope to be at the top of Roan Mountian. To get there, I will have several climbs but the longest is 6 miles long. The good news is that it isn't as steep the northbounders have. They climb to same altitude in half the distance, so that is really steep. I am happy to be a southbounder. I am excited that I have hiked less than 50 miles but have already raised over $1000 for these ministries. I am hoping for $5000.
Lord,
As I stand on the edge of the beginning of our journey together, I feel like that writer of Psalm 22. I have this challenge ahead of me that is both exciting and frieghtening. Make me aware of your presence as we begin this journey together. Open my heart and mind to discover your word for me. Amen.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
June 16, 2011
Psalm 19
This is a beautiful Psalm about the wonders of creation as the witer understood them and the law of God. I especially like the last verses. These are verses that are often quoted in worship services. I remember them from Chi Rho camp as we said them at every vesper service. Oh that we would make them our prayer every day.
Yesterday, I met up with Andy after dropping off all of the leftovers from Adventure Camp at Camp Christian. We hiked 7 miles in Slate Run Metro Park. We had a few small hills but nothing like I will see on the AT. After a few hours carring 45 lbs on my back, my feet got very sore. My guess is that this is the longest hike I have done this year. What concerns me is that the shortest hike on the AT is longer by 1/2 again than what I have been able to hike. I guess I will just have to get in shape on the trail.
I am heading for a Barbershop convention today called "Apple Corps" My quartet is hoping to improve our singing and compete next fall for contest. So this week-end I will be singing my heart out. Sunday, I am preaching at the Smithfield Christian Church. From there I head to Ervin, TN to begin hiking the AT. That first sectionn is 83 miles and should take me about 8 days.. From there I am heading to Fontana Dam at the Southern End of the Smokys and hiking to Springer Mt., Georgia, the Southern Termins of the AT. If everything works right, I will be at the General Assembly in Nashville before returning home.
Thank you God for another beautiful day. "May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart, be acceptable to you, O Lord, My Rock and my Redeemer." Amen.
This is a beautiful Psalm about the wonders of creation as the witer understood them and the law of God. I especially like the last verses. These are verses that are often quoted in worship services. I remember them from Chi Rho camp as we said them at every vesper service. Oh that we would make them our prayer every day.
Yesterday, I met up with Andy after dropping off all of the leftovers from Adventure Camp at Camp Christian. We hiked 7 miles in Slate Run Metro Park. We had a few small hills but nothing like I will see on the AT. After a few hours carring 45 lbs on my back, my feet got very sore. My guess is that this is the longest hike I have done this year. What concerns me is that the shortest hike on the AT is longer by 1/2 again than what I have been able to hike. I guess I will just have to get in shape on the trail.
I am heading for a Barbershop convention today called "Apple Corps" My quartet is hoping to improve our singing and compete next fall for contest. So this week-end I will be singing my heart out. Sunday, I am preaching at the Smithfield Christian Church. From there I head to Ervin, TN to begin hiking the AT. That first sectionn is 83 miles and should take me about 8 days.. From there I am heading to Fontana Dam at the Southern End of the Smokys and hiking to Springer Mt., Georgia, the Southern Termins of the AT. If everything works right, I will be at the General Assembly in Nashville before returning home.
Thank you God for another beautiful day. "May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart, be acceptable to you, O Lord, My Rock and my Redeemer." Amen.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
June 15, 2011
June 15, 2011
Psalm 18
I love the writing of this Psalm. He is really excited about the many ways God is present in our lives. I too can think of many ways God is present in my life.
Yesterday, was the first day I felt anxious about the coming hike. I only hiked about 2 miles. Andy and I set out for Tar Hollow. When we arrived we discovered that the trail we had planned to hike was closed because of harvesting trees. We chose an alternative trail which led us three quarters of a mile down a big steep hill and then ended in the middle of nowhere. The trail was not wel marked. So we hiked back and came home. Going down that hill however I could feel twinges of the issue I ended with last year. My knee was beginning to hurt. I hope this is not a precurser of pain to come. I have a knee brace I hope will help take care of the problem. Only time will tell. I know some of the anxiety comes from moving from a land where hills are measured in feet to a place where they are measured in miles. As physically prepared as I am, I know the first two week are waiting for me to remind me of just how out of shape I really am.
Lord God,
Give me vision this day to see the many ways you are present with me. Help me to deal with the anxious times that are coming. Amen.
Psalm 18
I love the writing of this Psalm. He is really excited about the many ways God is present in our lives. I too can think of many ways God is present in my life.
Yesterday, was the first day I felt anxious about the coming hike. I only hiked about 2 miles. Andy and I set out for Tar Hollow. When we arrived we discovered that the trail we had planned to hike was closed because of harvesting trees. We chose an alternative trail which led us three quarters of a mile down a big steep hill and then ended in the middle of nowhere. The trail was not wel marked. So we hiked back and came home. Going down that hill however I could feel twinges of the issue I ended with last year. My knee was beginning to hurt. I hope this is not a precurser of pain to come. I have a knee brace I hope will help take care of the problem. Only time will tell. I know some of the anxiety comes from moving from a land where hills are measured in feet to a place where they are measured in miles. As physically prepared as I am, I know the first two week are waiting for me to remind me of just how out of shape I really am.
Lord God,
Give me vision this day to see the many ways you are present with me. Help me to deal with the anxious times that are coming. Amen.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
June 13, 2011
June 13, 2011
Psalm 17
I love the poetry if this particular Psalm. Walking under the shadow of God's wings is a beautiful image of a bird with it's wings outstretched over a brood of chicks. Such is the love of God for us.
Yesterday, i hiked 5 miles around A.W. Marion lake south of my home. On the way around i picked up all kinds of trash that others had simply cast aside on the trail. The more I thought about it, the angrier i got. How could people come out into the beauty of nature only to trash it up. My hike became filled with negativity. Suddenly a voice spoke from the depth of the negativity. Yes there was trash on the trail but there was still a great deal of beauty to be seen. I was missing it all because i was only seeing the few pieces of trash I found on the trail.
How often this happens in life, that we are so focused on 'what's wrong' that we can't see all that's beautiful in the world around us. This is a lesson for me to stop focusing on the negative and to see the beauty of our world everywhere.
Thank you God, for reaching in my negativity and reminding me of the beautiful that's all around. amen.
Psalm 17
I love the poetry if this particular Psalm. Walking under the shadow of God's wings is a beautiful image of a bird with it's wings outstretched over a brood of chicks. Such is the love of God for us.
Yesterday, i hiked 5 miles around A.W. Marion lake south of my home. On the way around i picked up all kinds of trash that others had simply cast aside on the trail. The more I thought about it, the angrier i got. How could people come out into the beauty of nature only to trash it up. My hike became filled with negativity. Suddenly a voice spoke from the depth of the negativity. Yes there was trash on the trail but there was still a great deal of beauty to be seen. I was missing it all because i was only seeing the few pieces of trash I found on the trail.
How often this happens in life, that we are so focused on 'what's wrong' that we can't see all that's beautiful in the world around us. This is a lesson for me to stop focusing on the negative and to see the beauty of our world everywhere.
Thank you God, for reaching in my negativity and reminding me of the beautiful that's all around. amen.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Adventure camp 2011
June 6, 2011
Psalm 8
I'm a little upset that today my keyboard, which has worked fine up til now, quit working. So now I am using the swype method.
Today we hiked to Laural Falls. It was a 2.8 mile walk. It was only a 300 ft climb and it was not too steep but it still took us a long time to get there and back. Many of us are not in the shape I had hoped we would be in.
After lunch, several of us hiked another 1.5 nature trail which turned out to be a very nice hike.
I so enjoyed playing the guitar tonight with Diana. We played for 2 hours and had a great time.
Tomorrow, we are going to hike to Abrams Falls or about 5 miles round trip. We are hoping to get an earlier start.
Thank you God for a good day. Amen
June 7, 2011
Psalm 10
This Psalm reminds us of the importance of the poor in the eyes of God. Those people that society finds unimportant are the very people God finds important.
On this day we are planning to hikeA
Abrams Falls today. We will side how well we do hiking 5 miles.
I am setting out enjoying the birds this morning. They sounded beautiful until the crows have come in and they are so loud the other birds Can't even be heard.
Lord, help me enjoy this day. Amen.
PM What a great day! It took us all day but we did hike to Abrams Falls. They were beautiful. But they also were refreshing. After a long day of hiking, getting into cool water felt exelorating. Dad was slow but sure. Once we got back we made dinner and visited. Heather did worship and we all helped Carol and Paige set up their tent. Ok. We all watched Carol and Paige set up their tent. Thanks Lord for answerd prayer. Amen.
June 8, 2011
Psalm 11
As I write it is in the afternoon. We drove 1.5 hours to get to Clingman's Dome Parking lot. The trail was steep and one of us at 85 climbed the .5 miles to the top. On the way it began to rain. It was pouring by the time we returned to the car. We ate lunch in the cars trying to decide what to do next. Several wanted to continue even in the rain. We left them there and returned. On our return trip we came through several bad storms. All of this brings me back to my sitting here in the afternoon listening to the sound of thunder crack over my head while I wait for the others to return. But in all my worry, I know that God is in Gods thrown.
Lord, thank you for a beautiful day. Amen.
June 9, 2011
Psalm 12
The last time this scripture Came up while I was on sabbaticali returned to my car to find it had been broken into.yet in spiteof it all, there we good people who helped me through this difficult situation.
Today I have tried to pick out a trail that is mostly down hill yet offers an option for those who want to hike some up hill.it means maneuvering the cars so we will see how this goes.
Creating God, give me eyes to see this day all who do good. Amen.
June 10, 2011
Psalm 13
Well you never know what the day will bring. Yesterday started out well. We had scheduled a hike that would take us down hill for 3.9 miles. Towards the bottom those that wanted would climb the 1.1 miles to the top of the Chimney Tops would break off and do so.
As we started down the trail the path was wide and a very nice trail. About 1 mile down however, the trail became steep and extremely rocky. One of our
members fell and injured a knee. This was the start of more falls until they eventually could go no further. We had to have them rescued. Two people stayed behind with the injured party while the rest of us hurried to get help. It took us an hour to get help and by that time a thunder storm had moved in. It took another hour to get the folk who would do the actual rescue together. It was another 2 hours getting the rescue completed. All involved we wet and cold but safe. That night we all shared stories of the day.
God,
Thank you for those who come out in the wind, rain, and lightening to rescue a total stranger.Thank you for challenging times that make us even stronger. Amen.
June 11, 2011
Psalm 14
Today we hiked 4.2 miles mostly uphill to Indian Creek waterfalls. There was a brook that was too are left the whole way there. It had beautiful scenery with moss covered rocks several waterfalls coming down. On our way up one of the switchbacks we met a couple who told us the marker for the trail that lead back to the Falls. If we haven't met them we would've missed the falls completely. We hide down in the Falls and broke out lunch. Trevor found many salamanders. Some of us got our feet wet and even waited into the cold water. We spent about an hour there eating lunch, finding salamanders, and wading.
After lunch we height of 4.2 miles downhill back to her car along the same beautiful brooks. On our return trip we saw horses and many many beautiful butterflies. Never even picked up to ring necked snakes. I carry baby Sue who with pack weight and his weight must've been about 35 pounds, for the whole journey. At the end of the day we were all tired but well satisfied with a good week of hiking.
Creator God,
we thank you for this beautiful world and for this short opportunity to enjoy the beauty within just a small part of it. Help us to see the beauty and all the small places we find ourselves. Amen.
June 11, 2011
Psalm 15
We spent the morning packing up. And then we moved on the traveling. It was a long day but we all made it home safe with lots of memories and pictures of the week journey.
God,
thank you for traveling mercies during this trip for our safety for the many sites that we had to give you thanks. Amen
June 12, 2011
Psalms 16
I attended Gender Rd., Christian church at the early service. They were celebrating their first Sunday with Rev. Jeff Bartlett. The sermon dealt with what he would be doing with them through the interim period. Jeff is a good friend and a good pastor. I know you will do a good job there.
I spend the rest of the day getting ready for my trip at the end of the week.
Lord God,
thank you for Pentecost a day to remember the birthday of the church and how you continue To empower the church to this day. Through the power of your Holy Spirit your church continues to minister to the needs of all of your people. We give you thanks. Amen
Psalm 8
I'm a little upset that today my keyboard, which has worked fine up til now, quit working. So now I am using the swype method.
Today we hiked to Laural Falls. It was a 2.8 mile walk. It was only a 300 ft climb and it was not too steep but it still took us a long time to get there and back. Many of us are not in the shape I had hoped we would be in.
After lunch, several of us hiked another 1.5 nature trail which turned out to be a very nice hike.
I so enjoyed playing the guitar tonight with Diana. We played for 2 hours and had a great time.
Tomorrow, we are going to hike to Abrams Falls or about 5 miles round trip. We are hoping to get an earlier start.
Thank you God for a good day. Amen
June 7, 2011
Psalm 10
This Psalm reminds us of the importance of the poor in the eyes of God. Those people that society finds unimportant are the very people God finds important.
On this day we are planning to hikeA
Abrams Falls today. We will side how well we do hiking 5 miles.
I am setting out enjoying the birds this morning. They sounded beautiful until the crows have come in and they are so loud the other birds Can't even be heard.
Lord, help me enjoy this day. Amen.
PM What a great day! It took us all day but we did hike to Abrams Falls. They were beautiful. But they also were refreshing. After a long day of hiking, getting into cool water felt exelorating. Dad was slow but sure. Once we got back we made dinner and visited. Heather did worship and we all helped Carol and Paige set up their tent. Ok. We all watched Carol and Paige set up their tent. Thanks Lord for answerd prayer. Amen.
June 8, 2011
Psalm 11
As I write it is in the afternoon. We drove 1.5 hours to get to Clingman's Dome Parking lot. The trail was steep and one of us at 85 climbed the .5 miles to the top. On the way it began to rain. It was pouring by the time we returned to the car. We ate lunch in the cars trying to decide what to do next. Several wanted to continue even in the rain. We left them there and returned. On our return trip we came through several bad storms. All of this brings me back to my sitting here in the afternoon listening to the sound of thunder crack over my head while I wait for the others to return. But in all my worry, I know that God is in Gods thrown.
Lord, thank you for a beautiful day. Amen.
June 9, 2011
Psalm 12
The last time this scripture Came up while I was on sabbaticali returned to my car to find it had been broken into.yet in spiteof it all, there we good people who helped me through this difficult situation.
Today I have tried to pick out a trail that is mostly down hill yet offers an option for those who want to hike some up hill.it means maneuvering the cars so we will see how this goes.
Creating God, give me eyes to see this day all who do good. Amen.
June 10, 2011
Psalm 13
Well you never know what the day will bring. Yesterday started out well. We had scheduled a hike that would take us down hill for 3.9 miles. Towards the bottom those that wanted would climb the 1.1 miles to the top of the Chimney Tops would break off and do so.
As we started down the trail the path was wide and a very nice trail. About 1 mile down however, the trail became steep and extremely rocky. One of our
members fell and injured a knee. This was the start of more falls until they eventually could go no further. We had to have them rescued. Two people stayed behind with the injured party while the rest of us hurried to get help. It took us an hour to get help and by that time a thunder storm had moved in. It took another hour to get the folk who would do the actual rescue together. It was another 2 hours getting the rescue completed. All involved we wet and cold but safe. That night we all shared stories of the day.
God,
Thank you for those who come out in the wind, rain, and lightening to rescue a total stranger.Thank you for challenging times that make us even stronger. Amen.
June 11, 2011
Psalm 14
Today we hiked 4.2 miles mostly uphill to Indian Creek waterfalls. There was a brook that was too are left the whole way there. It had beautiful scenery with moss covered rocks several waterfalls coming down. On our way up one of the switchbacks we met a couple who told us the marker for the trail that lead back to the Falls. If we haven't met them we would've missed the falls completely. We hide down in the Falls and broke out lunch. Trevor found many salamanders. Some of us got our feet wet and even waited into the cold water. We spent about an hour there eating lunch, finding salamanders, and wading.
After lunch we height of 4.2 miles downhill back to her car along the same beautiful brooks. On our return trip we saw horses and many many beautiful butterflies. Never even picked up to ring necked snakes. I carry baby Sue who with pack weight and his weight must've been about 35 pounds, for the whole journey. At the end of the day we were all tired but well satisfied with a good week of hiking.
Creator God,
we thank you for this beautiful world and for this short opportunity to enjoy the beauty within just a small part of it. Help us to see the beauty and all the small places we find ourselves. Amen.
June 11, 2011
Psalm 15
We spent the morning packing up. And then we moved on the traveling. It was a long day but we all made it home safe with lots of memories and pictures of the week journey.
God,
thank you for traveling mercies during this trip for our safety for the many sites that we had to give you thanks. Amen
June 12, 2011
Psalms 16
I attended Gender Rd., Christian church at the early service. They were celebrating their first Sunday with Rev. Jeff Bartlett. The sermon dealt with what he would be doing with them through the interim period. Jeff is a good friend and a good pastor. I know you will do a good job there.
I spend the rest of the day getting ready for my trip at the end of the week.
Lord God,
thank you for Pentecost a day to remember the birthday of the church and how you continue To empower the church to this day. Through the power of your Holy Spirit your church continues to minister to the needs of all of your people. We give you thanks. Amen
Saturday, June 4, 2011
June 4, 2011
Psalm 7
Today my grandson Stu turns one year old. It is hard to believe he is one already. It just seems like yesterday. Yet he has grown up quite a bit in the last year. He babbles like a pro and is already walking. As i get to spend all next week with the little tike, I will not be attending the birthday party and will his other grandparents, who live further away and do not get to see him as often, some more time with their Grandson. I am spending the day at our Annual Golf Outing. This raises a significant amount of money for Camp Scholarship. For those of you sponsoring me on my hike, This is one of the receiptiants of the funds I am raising.
Yesterday, I walked 2.5 mile with a full pack. It was the first time I walked any length with the full pack. My shoulders were paying for it which means I need to continuing preparing with a full pack. I think I am well on the way to being prepared..
Lord, help us raise the money we need to send all to camp who need assistance. Amen.
Today my grandson Stu turns one year old. It is hard to believe he is one already. It just seems like yesterday. Yet he has grown up quite a bit in the last year. He babbles like a pro and is already walking. As i get to spend all next week with the little tike, I will not be attending the birthday party and will his other grandparents, who live further away and do not get to see him as often, some more time with their Grandson. I am spending the day at our Annual Golf Outing. This raises a significant amount of money for Camp Scholarship. For those of you sponsoring me on my hike, This is one of the receiptiants of the funds I am raising.
Yesterday, I walked 2.5 mile with a full pack. It was the first time I walked any length with the full pack. My shoulders were paying for it which means I need to continuing preparing with a full pack. I think I am well on the way to being prepared..
Lord, help us raise the money we need to send all to camp who need assistance. Amen.
Friday, June 3, 2011
June 3, 2011 - day 3
Psalm 6
It is once again a beautiful morning from my back porch. I spent yesterday running around picking up last minute supplies and sorting through my backpack to release about 3 lbs of extras in order to get my pack down to a manageable weight of 45.5 lbs. This is heavier than I would have liked but it is manageable.
Todays Psalm is one of thos that is still hard to deal with as David (if David did indeed write this) as what I call an immature understanding of God. Its the belief that his illness is casued by God and through tears and weeping he can somehow convince God he is worth healing. I too believe in an asking God for healing but recognizing this God of love heals in many different ways and not just physical healing. I don't have to convince God I am worthy of healing, I am worthy because I am a creation of God. With all of the deaths from tornados this season, I want to shout out loud and clear that they were not taken because they were not worthy. Indeed they are worthy because of who God created them to me. Tornados and other disasters are not some divine punishment for sins but in the earth doing what it has done for millions of years. As beautiful as nature is, it can also be very dangerous at times. David's prayer for God's salvation takes on new meaning in the light of the Gospel of Jesus. Salvation become a way for me to be all God created me to me in this life and in eternity to come.
Lord, be with all those who have lost loved ones in disasters this year. Grant unto us the knowledge of your never failing love even in trying times. Amen.
It is once again a beautiful morning from my back porch. I spent yesterday running around picking up last minute supplies and sorting through my backpack to release about 3 lbs of extras in order to get my pack down to a manageable weight of 45.5 lbs. This is heavier than I would have liked but it is manageable.
Todays Psalm is one of thos that is still hard to deal with as David (if David did indeed write this) as what I call an immature understanding of God. Its the belief that his illness is casued by God and through tears and weeping he can somehow convince God he is worth healing. I too believe in an asking God for healing but recognizing this God of love heals in many different ways and not just physical healing. I don't have to convince God I am worthy of healing, I am worthy because I am a creation of God. With all of the deaths from tornados this season, I want to shout out loud and clear that they were not taken because they were not worthy. Indeed they are worthy because of who God created them to me. Tornados and other disasters are not some divine punishment for sins but in the earth doing what it has done for millions of years. As beautiful as nature is, it can also be very dangerous at times. David's prayer for God's salvation takes on new meaning in the light of the Gospel of Jesus. Salvation become a way for me to be all God created me to me in this life and in eternity to come.
Lord, be with all those who have lost loved ones in disasters this year. Grant unto us the knowledge of your never failing love even in trying times. Amen.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
June 2, 2011 Day 2
Psalm 5
What a beautiful day already. It's not even 8:00 and already and biked with my wife for 6 miles, watched the sun rise, and am currently once again enjoying the flowers off my back patio. God is GOOD! All the time.
Yesterday, was a great day for preparation. I purchased groceries for the first 20 days or so and have them in back packable form. I picked out the food for the first 8 days and discovered it weighed 8.5 lbs. That brings the pack weight to 46 lbs which is too heavy. I will take time today to trim down this weight so will only be carrying about 42 tlbs. I will get it there, I hope.
I walked yesterday about 5 miles with a 38 lbs pack. I walked around A.W. Marion lake. It has some nice hills but all are too short. I am sure i will get a workout this next week in the smoky mountains. While carrying baby Stu I may have to add some weight to really be getting into shape.
The Psalm this morning urges God to listen to our voice. I am feeling the opposite this morning. I am hearing God speak of his love for the world in the cooing calling of the Morning Dove, in the voice of the song birds. I feel it in the gentle breeze as it blows around my back. I see it in the beauty of my peonies and pansies.
God, In this day you have given me, give me a heart to see all you are doing to show your great love for this world. Amen.
What a beautiful day already. It's not even 8:00 and already and biked with my wife for 6 miles, watched the sun rise, and am currently once again enjoying the flowers off my back patio. God is GOOD! All the time.
Yesterday, was a great day for preparation. I purchased groceries for the first 20 days or so and have them in back packable form. I picked out the food for the first 8 days and discovered it weighed 8.5 lbs. That brings the pack weight to 46 lbs which is too heavy. I will take time today to trim down this weight so will only be carrying about 42 tlbs. I will get it there, I hope.
I walked yesterday about 5 miles with a 38 lbs pack. I walked around A.W. Marion lake. It has some nice hills but all are too short. I am sure i will get a workout this next week in the smoky mountains. While carrying baby Stu I may have to add some weight to really be getting into shape.
The Psalm this morning urges God to listen to our voice. I am feeling the opposite this morning. I am hearing God speak of his love for the world in the cooing calling of the Morning Dove, in the voice of the song birds. I feel it in the gentle breeze as it blows around my back. I see it in the beauty of my peonies and pansies.
God, In this day you have given me, give me a heart to see all you are doing to show your great love for this world. Amen.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
June 1, 2011 - Day One
June 1, 2011
Psalm 4
Beautiful morning just after sunrise on my back patio. I am enjoying the Peonies I planted several years back. They are actually 3 generation peonies. They were at my grandfathers farm in Indiana. When he died in in 1968 my mother brought some to our home in Ohio. When she died in 2007, I brought some of them to my back patio. Everytime I see this beautiful pink show, I am reminded of her. She too, love the outdoors and especially working with flowers. She definately had a green thumb.
Yesterday, I hiked 3 miles at Chestnut Ridge metro park. Of all of the metro parks close by, it offers the longest hill. It is not as steep or long as what you will fine on the Appalachian Trail but It is what I have to work with.
Today I have on tap some more honey-do jobs. Bringing some plants from the basement to the sunshine of the back patio. Hopefully, they survived. Then sweeping the living room and clothes. I have some equipment to put together for Adventure Camp this weekend and then another good hike. maybe 10 miles today.
God,
Thank you for this beautiful place to enjoy this NEW day. Be with me this day as I continue to prepare for this trip. Help me in all I do this day to honor you. Amen.
Psalm 4
Beautiful morning just after sunrise on my back patio. I am enjoying the Peonies I planted several years back. They are actually 3 generation peonies. They were at my grandfathers farm in Indiana. When he died in in 1968 my mother brought some to our home in Ohio. When she died in 2007, I brought some of them to my back patio. Everytime I see this beautiful pink show, I am reminded of her. She too, love the outdoors and especially working with flowers. She definately had a green thumb.
Yesterday, I hiked 3 miles at Chestnut Ridge metro park. Of all of the metro parks close by, it offers the longest hill. It is not as steep or long as what you will fine on the Appalachian Trail but It is what I have to work with.
Today I have on tap some more honey-do jobs. Bringing some plants from the basement to the sunshine of the back patio. Hopefully, they survived. Then sweeping the living room and clothes. I have some equipment to put together for Adventure Camp this weekend and then another good hike. maybe 10 miles today.
God,
Thank you for this beautiful place to enjoy this NEW day. Be with me this day as I continue to prepare for this trip. Help me in all I do this day to honor you. Amen.
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