Psalm 64
Had a wonderful day yesterday. Went 13 miles yesterday. Saw about 10 egrets at our usual pond. They are beautiful birds. And of course I saw rabbits galore. I even saw one young deer. So I guess it was a day for animals.
Andy contacted us and he and Michal were go goiog to Athens and they stopped by for lunch and a short visit. It was good to see them again.
Julie drove by all of the places she will be interviewed on Monday, all three of them. We are hopeful but trying not to count on anything. We have planned a weeks vacation in Michigan beginning next Sunday so I will be writing my blog from the tip of the thumb in Michigan. They have some nice trails but I am not aware of any long one. Julie and I are taking the tandem so I may go with bike mileage. Looking forword to some time together away from the pressures of home.
Adam is now out to sea. Aireen and Julie are doing OK but I know they both miss hubby and daddy. It will be a long 6 to 9 months for all of them.
As I was spending time with Julie yesterday, she said she was spending time praising. So God, I am praising you too, for the love you have poured out on human kind. Help me to be a representative of that love today. Amen.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Saturday, July 30, 2011
July 30, 2011
Psalm 63
My soul does indeed thrist for the living God. I have been reading Rob Bell's book "Love Wins" What a great book. He has put to words what I have come to believe about God over the last years. Thank you Jeff.
What a difference a day makes. After not hearing anything for weeks after sending out many many resumes, Yesterday, Julie send out 10 resumes and heard back from 3 of them in the same day. They all look promising although 1 is only part time. Keep her in your prayers.
Yesterday was a hot morning but I still hiked 7 miles in Slate Run Metro Park. Over half of those miles is on a trail with little or no shade. The meadow however was in full bloom with black=eyed susans, Iron weed, bergomot, queen anne's lace, . . . It was indeed beautiful. I did not see the sandhill cranes that frequent this location.
In the last afternoon, I traveled another 5 miles in Three Creeks Metro Park and finished it by racing a storm back to the car. When I arrived back home I set up chairs in the garage and Julie and I sat for an hour watching the thunderstorm from the safety of our garage.
God, I thank you for your love that is boundless. Thank you for helping to open my eyes to see your presence everywhere. Help me to be a better clay vessel of that love today. Amen.
My soul does indeed thrist for the living God. I have been reading Rob Bell's book "Love Wins" What a great book. He has put to words what I have come to believe about God over the last years. Thank you Jeff.
What a difference a day makes. After not hearing anything for weeks after sending out many many resumes, Yesterday, Julie send out 10 resumes and heard back from 3 of them in the same day. They all look promising although 1 is only part time. Keep her in your prayers.
Yesterday was a hot morning but I still hiked 7 miles in Slate Run Metro Park. Over half of those miles is on a trail with little or no shade. The meadow however was in full bloom with black=eyed susans, Iron weed, bergomot, queen anne's lace, . . . It was indeed beautiful. I did not see the sandhill cranes that frequent this location.
In the last afternoon, I traveled another 5 miles in Three Creeks Metro Park and finished it by racing a storm back to the car. When I arrived back home I set up chairs in the garage and Julie and I sat for an hour watching the thunderstorm from the safety of our garage.
God, I thank you for your love that is boundless. Thank you for helping to open my eyes to see your presence everywhere. Help me to be a better clay vessel of that love today. Amen.
Friday, July 29, 2011
July 29, 2011
Psalm 62
Heather came over with little Stu yesterday and we took him swimming. He is actually get very good at going under water. He is not a bit scared by the whole process. In fact he seem to enjoy it but still will not do it on his own.
I went out in the afternoon to take a hike and ended up pulling out my hammock and laying down in the woods for several hours. That little tike took a lot out of me. Because of the muddy conditions in the southeast ohio, I have decided not even to try again until we have had a week or more without rain. Therefore, that leaves the trails closer to home. I will walk closer to home for the next few weeks.
Julie has applied to several different places and unfortunately has not heard back from any of them. Unemployment has finally kicked in. We will see.
God,
Be with thos who are unemployed. Be especially with those who have been unemployed for a long time. Be with our leaders as they try to get our economy back on track. Amen.
Heather came over with little Stu yesterday and we took him swimming. He is actually get very good at going under water. He is not a bit scared by the whole process. In fact he seem to enjoy it but still will not do it on his own.
I went out in the afternoon to take a hike and ended up pulling out my hammock and laying down in the woods for several hours. That little tike took a lot out of me. Because of the muddy conditions in the southeast ohio, I have decided not even to try again until we have had a week or more without rain. Therefore, that leaves the trails closer to home. I will walk closer to home for the next few weeks.
Julie has applied to several different places and unfortunately has not heard back from any of them. Unemployment has finally kicked in. We will see.
God,
Be with thos who are unemployed. Be especially with those who have been unemployed for a long time. Be with our leaders as they try to get our economy back on track. Amen.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
July 27-28, 2011
Psalm 60-61
Yesterday, I had planned to hike Wildcat Hollow just north of Glouster, OH. I drove all of the way there and began hiking. The trail in the beginning was just how I remembered it. However, soon it became a muddy mess. Not only was it muddy, but the trail was overgrown with Stinging nettles. I went into this tangled mess thinking that it would get better. No such luck. If anything it got worse. I hike for the enjoyment of it and I was not enjoyng this. So I turned around and came home. the good new is that of the last 3 days I have traveled some 20 miles.
Here i hiked today there is a pond that had 8 white egrets feeding. They were beautiful. I also went past the place where I put the five bunnys that were in our front flower beds. No sign of the bunnys. Hopefully they all survived their transplanting.
Baby Stu is coming over today and we get him overnight as today is Heather and Stu's 4th anniversary. So they are going out to celebrate and we get our grand-son. A win-win.
God, Thank you for the beauty of nature, anniversaries, and grandchildren. Amen.
Yesterday, I had planned to hike Wildcat Hollow just north of Glouster, OH. I drove all of the way there and began hiking. The trail in the beginning was just how I remembered it. However, soon it became a muddy mess. Not only was it muddy, but the trail was overgrown with Stinging nettles. I went into this tangled mess thinking that it would get better. No such luck. If anything it got worse. I hike for the enjoyment of it and I was not enjoyng this. So I turned around and came home. the good new is that of the last 3 days I have traveled some 20 miles.
Here i hiked today there is a pond that had 8 white egrets feeding. They were beautiful. I also went past the place where I put the five bunnys that were in our front flower beds. No sign of the bunnys. Hopefully they all survived their transplanting.
Baby Stu is coming over today and we get him overnight as today is Heather and Stu's 4th anniversary. So they are going out to celebrate and we get our grand-son. A win-win.
God, Thank you for the beauty of nature, anniversaries, and grandchildren. Amen.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
July 26, 2011
Psalm 58
Some Psalms I find difficult to read. If you ever have any one that says the Bible does not contradict itself, have them read this Psalm. It is a prayer for vegnence . . . "that I might wash my feet in the blood" of my enemy. I know there are times we might feel that way but Jesus gave us another way. "Love your enemies and pray for those who percecute you."
Yesterday after going to the early service at Gender Road CC and headed down to Clear Creek Metro Park. I combined about three of the trails up there and did a total of 8 miles according to their trail lengths. It was a beautiful hike but man was it hot and muggy. I had originally planned to do ten miles but the heat really got to my. my clothes were soaked as if I had just gotten out of the swimming pool. I drank 4 quarts of water and I still am dehydrated.
Today i am hoping to go to one of my old stomping grounds when I worked in the Hocking Valley Parish. It is called Wild Cat Hollow. It is about 15 long. I am hoping to do it in one day. I have before but I was younger then. We will see.
God that you for being a God of Love. Help me to be an example of that love today and always. Amen.
Some Psalms I find difficult to read. If you ever have any one that says the Bible does not contradict itself, have them read this Psalm. It is a prayer for vegnence . . . "that I might wash my feet in the blood" of my enemy. I know there are times we might feel that way but Jesus gave us another way. "Love your enemies and pray for those who percecute you."
Yesterday after going to the early service at Gender Road CC and headed down to Clear Creek Metro Park. I combined about three of the trails up there and did a total of 8 miles according to their trail lengths. It was a beautiful hike but man was it hot and muggy. I had originally planned to do ten miles but the heat really got to my. my clothes were soaked as if I had just gotten out of the swimming pool. I drank 4 quarts of water and I still am dehydrated.
Today i am hoping to go to one of my old stomping grounds when I worked in the Hocking Valley Parish. It is called Wild Cat Hollow. It is about 15 long. I am hoping to do it in one day. I have before but I was younger then. We will see.
God that you for being a God of Love. Help me to be an example of that love today and always. Amen.
Monday, July 25, 2011
July 25, 2011
Psalm 58
Some Psalms I find difficult to read. If you ever have any one that says the Bible does not contradict itself, have them read this Psalm. It is a prayer for vegnence . . . "that I might wash my feet in the blood" of my enemy. I know there are times we might feel that way but Jesus gave us another way. "Love your enemies and pray for those who percecute you."
Yesterday after going to the early service at Gender Road CC and headed down to Clear Creek Metro Park. I combined about three of the trails up there and did a total of 8 miles according to their trail lengths. It was a beautiful hike but man was it hot and muggy. I had originally planned to do ten miles but the heat really got to my. my clothes were soaked as if I had just gotten out of the swimming pool. I drank 4 quarts of water and I still am dehydrated.
Today i am hoping to go to one of my old stomping grounds when I worked in the Hocking Valley Parish. It is called Wild Cat Hollow. It is about 15 long. I am hoping to do it in one day. I have before but I was younger then. We will see.
God that you for being a God of Love. Help me to be an example of that love today and always. Amen.
Some Psalms I find difficult to read. If you ever have any one that says the Bible does not contradict itself, have them read this Psalm. It is a prayer for vegnence . . . "that I might wash my feet in the blood" of my enemy. I know there are times we might feel that way but Jesus gave us another way. "Love your enemies and pray for those who percecute you."
Yesterday after going to the early service at Gender Road CC and headed down to Clear Creek Metro Park. I combined about three of the trails up there and did a total of 8 miles according to their trail lengths. It was a beautiful hike but man was it hot and muggy. I had originally planned to do ten miles but the heat really got to my. my clothes were soaked as if I had just gotten out of the swimming pool. I drank 4 quarts of water and I still am dehydrated.
Today i am hoping to go to one of my old stomping grounds when I worked in the Hocking Valley Parish. It is called Wild Cat Hollow. It is about 15 long. I am hoping to do it in one day. I have before but I was younger then. We will see.
God that you for being a God of Love. Help me to be an example of that love today and always. Amen.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
July 24, 2011
Psalm 57
I am writing from the morning outside worship at Gender Road Christian Church. The singinger reminded us we do indeed stand on Holy Ground. Jeff's sermon was very good. If I heard right his points seemed to be, Their is room for you in a relationship with God. Their is room for all others in a relationship with God. Is there room in you for a relationship with all others? Thanks Jeff for a good sermon.
Yesterday I did 13 miles. OK it was on my tandem with my wife but it was still 13 miles. We biked the trail from Groveport to through Three Creeks Metro Park an back. One of the sights we saw along the way was a group of about 15 tandems. They kept inviting us to join them but they were always going the wrong direction. When we first entered the trail, we came across a deer. We were surprised but this one did not run. It just stood and looked as us as we peddled by. It was beautiful.
In the afternoon I had Quartet practice. It was one of our better practices as we dueted some missed notes and will hopefully have those notes fixed the next time we meet. We are singing this next Sunday. We could be a really good quartet if we could get all notes locked in. On another note I was disappointed I was not chosen for the lead of the other quartet i had tried out for. But I will say, there was some tough competition. I am however going to be able to attend the Indiana Harmony Brigate in November. YEA.
Getting ready to go on a hike today. I'd better get out quick as the heat is building quick.
God thank you for a great worship and a beautiful world to go exploring. Amen.
I am writing from the morning outside worship at Gender Road Christian Church. The singinger reminded us we do indeed stand on Holy Ground. Jeff's sermon was very good. If I heard right his points seemed to be, Their is room for you in a relationship with God. Their is room for all others in a relationship with God. Is there room in you for a relationship with all others? Thanks Jeff for a good sermon.
Yesterday I did 13 miles. OK it was on my tandem with my wife but it was still 13 miles. We biked the trail from Groveport to through Three Creeks Metro Park an back. One of the sights we saw along the way was a group of about 15 tandems. They kept inviting us to join them but they were always going the wrong direction. When we first entered the trail, we came across a deer. We were surprised but this one did not run. It just stood and looked as us as we peddled by. It was beautiful.
In the afternoon I had Quartet practice. It was one of our better practices as we dueted some missed notes and will hopefully have those notes fixed the next time we meet. We are singing this next Sunday. We could be a really good quartet if we could get all notes locked in. On another note I was disappointed I was not chosen for the lead of the other quartet i had tried out for. But I will say, there was some tough competition. I am however going to be able to attend the Indiana Harmony Brigate in November. YEA.
Getting ready to go on a hike today. I'd better get out quick as the heat is building quick.
God thank you for a great worship and a beautiful world to go exploring. Amen.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
July 23, 2011
Psalm 56
I did 11 miles yesterday.. Thankfully the morning is cooler than the afternoon. I am saddended by a story from yesterday. Our grass cutting company hired 4 people to do the trimming of all the bushes in the condo association. All of them were hispanic. When they got to our house we talked them into a short break in the shade of one of our trees and giving them some ice water. The heat index was well over 100. I told them they were welcome to use our outside water spicket anytime and if I was home, I would get them ice. They told me there were people who were angry if they got a drink out of a water spicket. What does the Bible say about a cup of cold water? What the the Bible say about hospitality? Thank you God for these men who worked all day on the hottest day of the year to make our Condo association look more beautiful. Thank you for the opportunity to offer you a a cold cup of water.
It was great spending time with heather and stu yesterday. We took little Stu swimming. He had a great time. There was a mom's group there so he got to play with lots of other toddlers.
Adam is preparing for deployment soon. Aireen, needless to say, is anxious. She is far away from any family. Her mother is in Japan and we are on the other side of the country. I am glad she has a church family to help her during these difficult times.
Andy is finishing up his three weeks of active duty. It will be nice to have him back in Columbus so that I can have a hiking buddy again.
Lord, be with my family members in all their different situations. Be with the families of all of our deployed service people. Amen.
I did 11 miles yesterday.. Thankfully the morning is cooler than the afternoon. I am saddended by a story from yesterday. Our grass cutting company hired 4 people to do the trimming of all the bushes in the condo association. All of them were hispanic. When they got to our house we talked them into a short break in the shade of one of our trees and giving them some ice water. The heat index was well over 100. I told them they were welcome to use our outside water spicket anytime and if I was home, I would get them ice. They told me there were people who were angry if they got a drink out of a water spicket. What does the Bible say about a cup of cold water? What the the Bible say about hospitality? Thank you God for these men who worked all day on the hottest day of the year to make our Condo association look more beautiful. Thank you for the opportunity to offer you a a cold cup of water.
It was great spending time with heather and stu yesterday. We took little Stu swimming. He had a great time. There was a mom's group there so he got to play with lots of other toddlers.
Adam is preparing for deployment soon. Aireen, needless to say, is anxious. She is far away from any family. Her mother is in Japan and we are on the other side of the country. I am glad she has a church family to help her during these difficult times.
Andy is finishing up his three weeks of active duty. It will be nice to have him back in Columbus so that I can have a hiking buddy again.
Lord, be with my family members in all their different situations. Be with the families of all of our deployed service people. Amen.
Friday, July 22, 2011
July 22, 2011
Psalm 55
All of us have felt the pain of this writer. We have all had those days where we just wanted run away and somehow that would help all of our problems go away. It will not of course but sometimes we just need to get away. I've been there!
I was hoping to backpack yesterday. I arrived down in Zaleski around 11:00am. The temp was already around 92 degrees. It took me a few minutes but I finally had myself talked into hiking the trail even with the heat. Once I got to the beginning of the trail I immediately changed my mind. It had rained the day before and the trail was two inches of mud. I opted to come back home and stayed in the airconditioning all day. Yes, I've gotten spoiled since I've been back home. I am still hoping to do this trail before sabbatical is over.
Julie has begun to recieve rejection letters. Keep her in your prayers.
God, thank you for opportunities to ge out and away to rethink and renew. Amen.
All of us have felt the pain of this writer. We have all had those days where we just wanted run away and somehow that would help all of our problems go away. It will not of course but sometimes we just need to get away. I've been there!
I was hoping to backpack yesterday. I arrived down in Zaleski around 11:00am. The temp was already around 92 degrees. It took me a few minutes but I finally had myself talked into hiking the trail even with the heat. Once I got to the beginning of the trail I immediately changed my mind. It had rained the day before and the trail was two inches of mud. I opted to come back home and stayed in the airconditioning all day. Yes, I've gotten spoiled since I've been back home. I am still hoping to do this trail before sabbatical is over.
Julie has begun to recieve rejection letters. Keep her in your prayers.
God, thank you for opportunities to ge out and away to rethink and renew. Amen.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
July 21, 2011
alm 51
Psalm 51 is another of a long line of Psalms that give thanks to God that the writer has been redeemed but woe to those who do evil. It reminds me of so many of my brother and sister christians who are so sure that they are among the saved but woe to you if you do not agree with their understanding of God. It's an attitude that I am in the right place but only those who agree with me are. All others are doomed to the fires of hell. I have been rereading Rob Bells book "Love Wins." I have found this book to be a source of inspiration and hope for this divided world.
I went 10 miles yesterday and am preparing for a hike today (yes, in this heat) that will take me 23 miles in the next two days. I am looking forward to being in the woods again after a three week furlough. But it looks like a hot two days. I will just have to drink plenty of water.
God, I thank you for being the God of love that you are. Thank you for sending you son to show us how to live an abundant life by accepting all others where ever they are on life's journey. Amen.
Psalm 51 is another of a long line of Psalms that give thanks to God that the writer has been redeemed but woe to those who do evil. It reminds me of so many of my brother and sister christians who are so sure that they are among the saved but woe to you if you do not agree with their understanding of God. It's an attitude that I am in the right place but only those who agree with me are. All others are doomed to the fires of hell. I have been rereading Rob Bells book "Love Wins." I have found this book to be a source of inspiration and hope for this divided world.
I went 10 miles yesterday and am preparing for a hike today (yes, in this heat) that will take me 23 miles in the next two days. I am looking forward to being in the woods again after a three week furlough. But it looks like a hot two days. I will just have to drink plenty of water.
God, I thank you for being the God of love that you are. Thank you for sending you son to show us how to live an abundant life by accepting all others where ever they are on life's journey. Amen.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
July 20, 2011
Psalm 53
This is a great cry for Justice. There are so many people who need justice in our world today. Women of children bearing years who also happen to be poor who need justice as their ability to get affordable to get help and support for contraception and care. Mothers with young children who are poor are losing their ability to find affordable childcare. Many who are poor still lack health insurance. Unemployment is a great deal higher than we hear as so many people have already used up their benefits and are not even counted. It is hard to believe but in our country children still go to bed hungry. And yet the gap between the rich and the poor continues to increase. Lord, help us to have the will power and the sense of need to do what is best for the "Common Good."
I spent yesterday waiting around for the cable guy to get here and remove our cable. No more TV for a while. We are making cut backs in many area of our life. In many ways it is humbling to see where our own money is going. It is an eye opener in many ways. Where is our witness for justice in the ways we spend our money?
Because I had to be home, I was unable to get a hike in yesterday. I did get to Barbershop practice last night and enjoyed it. Tonight I try out for the Lead in a quartet that finished 11th in last years contest. There are three others trying out so we will see where it all leads. (no pun intended.) I am hoping to go backpacking tomorow in Zeleski State Park. Julie seems to be doing ok looking for a job. She has put in 20 to 30 applications and only heard back from one. So keep her in your prayers.
We had the appraiser here this morning to look over the house so we can refinance. In many ways, I am glad this happened at a time when I have the time to do what is needed.
God, be with us this day, as we savor each minute of our life. Amen.
This is a great cry for Justice. There are so many people who need justice in our world today. Women of children bearing years who also happen to be poor who need justice as their ability to get affordable to get help and support for contraception and care. Mothers with young children who are poor are losing their ability to find affordable childcare. Many who are poor still lack health insurance. Unemployment is a great deal higher than we hear as so many people have already used up their benefits and are not even counted. It is hard to believe but in our country children still go to bed hungry. And yet the gap between the rich and the poor continues to increase. Lord, help us to have the will power and the sense of need to do what is best for the "Common Good."
I spent yesterday waiting around for the cable guy to get here and remove our cable. No more TV for a while. We are making cut backs in many area of our life. In many ways it is humbling to see where our own money is going. It is an eye opener in many ways. Where is our witness for justice in the ways we spend our money?
Because I had to be home, I was unable to get a hike in yesterday. I did get to Barbershop practice last night and enjoyed it. Tonight I try out for the Lead in a quartet that finished 11th in last years contest. There are three others trying out so we will see where it all leads. (no pun intended.) I am hoping to go backpacking tomorow in Zeleski State Park. Julie seems to be doing ok looking for a job. She has put in 20 to 30 applications and only heard back from one. So keep her in your prayers.
We had the appraiser here this morning to look over the house so we can refinance. In many ways, I am glad this happened at a time when I have the time to do what is needed.
God, be with us this day, as we savor each minute of our life. Amen.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
July 19, 2011
Psalm 52
This Psalm has the theme of warning to wicked which he finally names as the rich and wealthy. After a job loss, yesterday was the day for cutting back. We gave up the Cable and High Speed internet, reworked our cell phones, and of course we are refinancing the house to lower the payments. It humbling to think of some of the things you use to think of as basic necessities when thre is abundance, are moved to the discrecionary column in times not so abundant. We may yet have to make other cuts and yet through it all I still feel well off.
Yesterday, I walked 5 miles around A. W. Marion State Park lake in my sandels. It was so dry that my feet got very dusty. I could not help but think of another feet who got dusty walking the hills around Jerusalem. Feet dusty with dirt of the Holy Land. Feet cleansed by the tears of one who recognized this love for her, in spite of her past. Feet nailed to a cross. Feet washed again in preparation for burial. Feet the kissed the morning dew of that first Easter. Thank you Jesus for you example of how to live a life of love.
The heat index was way up there. This is the first time I have walked this whole trail and never saw another hiker. Even the camp ground there were no children playing. In fact there were no tents. Only mobile homes with their air conditioners running on full. While I was soaked with sweat when I finished, I had no problems with the heat. Hoping for the same as I hike today.
God, thank you for reminding me through the many distractions of life that you are present in the here and now. Open my eyes to see your presence and my heart to embrace it in the many people in which your presence is revealed. Amen.
This Psalm has the theme of warning to wicked which he finally names as the rich and wealthy. After a job loss, yesterday was the day for cutting back. We gave up the Cable and High Speed internet, reworked our cell phones, and of course we are refinancing the house to lower the payments. It humbling to think of some of the things you use to think of as basic necessities when thre is abundance, are moved to the discrecionary column in times not so abundant. We may yet have to make other cuts and yet through it all I still feel well off.
Yesterday, I walked 5 miles around A. W. Marion State Park lake in my sandels. It was so dry that my feet got very dusty. I could not help but think of another feet who got dusty walking the hills around Jerusalem. Feet dusty with dirt of the Holy Land. Feet cleansed by the tears of one who recognized this love for her, in spite of her past. Feet nailed to a cross. Feet washed again in preparation for burial. Feet the kissed the morning dew of that first Easter. Thank you Jesus for you example of how to live a life of love.
The heat index was way up there. This is the first time I have walked this whole trail and never saw another hiker. Even the camp ground there were no children playing. In fact there were no tents. Only mobile homes with their air conditioners running on full. While I was soaked with sweat when I finished, I had no problems with the heat. Hoping for the same as I hike today.
God, thank you for reminding me through the many distractions of life that you are present in the here and now. Open my eyes to see your presence and my heart to embrace it in the many people in which your presence is revealed. Amen.
Monday, July 18, 2011
July 18, 2011
Psalm 51
Psalm 51 is just a beautiful prayer of confession. "Create in me a clean heart, Oh God and renew a right spirit within me." This my prayer every day.
Hiking the 7 miles around Slate Run Farm Metro Park was exhausing. I began around 8 o'clock in the morning at the ponds section. The temperature was in the 70's and the humidity was around 100% as there was drizzle in the air. One of the advantages of hiking in the mountains is that at 3000 feet, it is noticibly cooler.
I noticed that there was at least one other car in the parking lot that morning. I headed out with my 600 mm lens on my camera, hoping to shoot a deer and other animal. As I rounded a bend in the trail I came upon another hiker/photographer shooting at something. I turned and looked and there were these huge birds standing 4 to 5 feet tall. The young lady shared with me that these were Sand Hill cranes and that this is one of only a few place in Ohio where they nest and live. I snapped a few pictures before these birds ambled off into the tall grass and out of sight.
I hiked to the drinking fountain at the playground to finish one bottle of water and refill it for the second half of the hike. I was already soaking wet with sweat. I met another person wanting to hike and being unfamilute with the park I invited him to go with me around the 2.5 mile loop trail. IT was great having some company to visit with while you are hiking. It makes the hike go so much better.
Last evening, I sang with my quartet Diversion at a show in Westerville. We did two numbers and except for the last chord on the first song, we did a very good job.
Lord, Indeed create in me a clean heart and renew a right and gentle spirit within me. Amen.
Psalm 51 is just a beautiful prayer of confession. "Create in me a clean heart, Oh God and renew a right spirit within me." This my prayer every day.
Hiking the 7 miles around Slate Run Farm Metro Park was exhausing. I began around 8 o'clock in the morning at the ponds section. The temperature was in the 70's and the humidity was around 100% as there was drizzle in the air. One of the advantages of hiking in the mountains is that at 3000 feet, it is noticibly cooler.
I noticed that there was at least one other car in the parking lot that morning. I headed out with my 600 mm lens on my camera, hoping to shoot a deer and other animal. As I rounded a bend in the trail I came upon another hiker/photographer shooting at something. I turned and looked and there were these huge birds standing 4 to 5 feet tall. The young lady shared with me that these were Sand Hill cranes and that this is one of only a few place in Ohio where they nest and live. I snapped a few pictures before these birds ambled off into the tall grass and out of sight.
I hiked to the drinking fountain at the playground to finish one bottle of water and refill it for the second half of the hike. I was already soaking wet with sweat. I met another person wanting to hike and being unfamilute with the park I invited him to go with me around the 2.5 mile loop trail. IT was great having some company to visit with while you are hiking. It makes the hike go so much better.
Last evening, I sang with my quartet Diversion at a show in Westerville. We did two numbers and except for the last chord on the first song, we did a very good job.
Lord, Indeed create in me a clean heart and renew a right and gentle spirit within me. Amen.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
July 17, 2011
Psalm 50
Yesterday I did 12 miles on a path between Winchester Pike and Pickerton Ponds. It is a beautiful trail made mostly of open meadow. It crosses several creeks but there are no hills. It is flat all of the way as it is a bike trail. Pickerington Ponds has a look out and from there I could see 5 beautiful white herons feeding the a shallow marsh.
I traveled to Athens in the afternoon to practice for today's show in Sunbury. This will be the first time we have sang for an audience in about six months. So I am looking forward to it.
Since thetrails around here are fairly limited and I need to stay around the area for several reasons, I am planning to hike several trails in southern Oh. One is a 15 mile trail called Wild Cat Hollow. I have hiked this trail several times before. It has some pretty camping sights. While I can hike this in one day, I think I will camp out and make it two days. The other trail is the backpacking trail in Zaleski State forest. It is 23.5 miles long. I know I wall take at least two days to hike this. I have done part of this trail before. I was disappointed because at the first camp site, foke all up all kinds of beer. They have the strength to all of that liquid up the hill but leave empty cans all over the ground. It was a mess. The rules for the trail are that you have to use the designated camping places to stay over night. I hate to stay in these trash heaps. We will just have to see. Stay tuned.
Today's Psalm deals the right sacrifice being a thanksgiving to God.
God, I thank you for the beauty of nature, for your presence that shares with me all of this creation, and who give me the disire and ability to be out in it. Open my eyes this day to see even more of your creation. Be with my quartet this day as we sing your praises tonight in Sunbury. Amen.
Yesterday I did 12 miles on a path between Winchester Pike and Pickerton Ponds. It is a beautiful trail made mostly of open meadow. It crosses several creeks but there are no hills. It is flat all of the way as it is a bike trail. Pickerington Ponds has a look out and from there I could see 5 beautiful white herons feeding the a shallow marsh.
I traveled to Athens in the afternoon to practice for today's show in Sunbury. This will be the first time we have sang for an audience in about six months. So I am looking forward to it.
Since thetrails around here are fairly limited and I need to stay around the area for several reasons, I am planning to hike several trails in southern Oh. One is a 15 mile trail called Wild Cat Hollow. I have hiked this trail several times before. It has some pretty camping sights. While I can hike this in one day, I think I will camp out and make it two days. The other trail is the backpacking trail in Zaleski State forest. It is 23.5 miles long. I know I wall take at least two days to hike this. I have done part of this trail before. I was disappointed because at the first camp site, foke all up all kinds of beer. They have the strength to all of that liquid up the hill but leave empty cans all over the ground. It was a mess. The rules for the trail are that you have to use the designated camping places to stay over night. I hate to stay in these trash heaps. We will just have to see. Stay tuned.
Today's Psalm deals the right sacrifice being a thanksgiving to God.
God, I thank you for the beauty of nature, for your presence that shares with me all of this creation, and who give me the disire and ability to be out in it. Open my eyes this day to see even more of your creation. Be with my quartet this day as we sing your praises tonight in Sunbury. Amen.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
July 16, 2011
Psalm 49
The Psalm this morning is a warning about bragging about riches because you cannot take any of it with you. I got to thinking about this however and realize how rich I am. I have shared a great life with a wonderful partner for some 34 years and together we have raised a family and sent them forth to have their own families. I was brought up in a loving family and have been accepted/adopted by my wife's loving family. I have two grandchildren who are my pride and joy. I have a relationship with my God that multiplies each of these blessings. I havce the blessing of Nature that is all around us and I have the blessing of music. In these economic times, I have a job and workmates whom I love and respect, and who love and respect me. While I can take none of these "riches" with me, they will indeed be a joy forever.
Yesterday, I spent the morning with one of my blessings. Little Stu was over to see the grandparents. He is a cute little tyke who is blessed to have a great mother and father. We sat and watched as he played Noah all day taking animals out of the plastic ark and then putting them back in. Of course all the while splashing Nanny and grandpa of the 3 inches of water in the kiddy pool.
After a week in the heat of the General Assembly where temperatures ranged in the upper 90's to low 100's I was finally thrilled to take a 3 mile hike with the temps in the 80's. It felt good to stretch my legs again. I did the figure 8 trail at Chestnut Ridge. It has a wide range of different terrains from forested to meadow. It has some good hills and some flat places.
Enjoyed the rest of the day at home catching up on some much needed sleep. I am looking forward to singing barbershop for the two days.
Thank you God for the riches you have blessed me with. Help me to share these blessings with other. Amen
The Psalm this morning is a warning about bragging about riches because you cannot take any of it with you. I got to thinking about this however and realize how rich I am. I have shared a great life with a wonderful partner for some 34 years and together we have raised a family and sent them forth to have their own families. I was brought up in a loving family and have been accepted/adopted by my wife's loving family. I have two grandchildren who are my pride and joy. I have a relationship with my God that multiplies each of these blessings. I havce the blessing of Nature that is all around us and I have the blessing of music. In these economic times, I have a job and workmates whom I love and respect, and who love and respect me. While I can take none of these "riches" with me, they will indeed be a joy forever.
Yesterday, I spent the morning with one of my blessings. Little Stu was over to see the grandparents. He is a cute little tyke who is blessed to have a great mother and father. We sat and watched as he played Noah all day taking animals out of the plastic ark and then putting them back in. Of course all the while splashing Nanny and grandpa of the 3 inches of water in the kiddy pool.
After a week in the heat of the General Assembly where temperatures ranged in the upper 90's to low 100's I was finally thrilled to take a 3 mile hike with the temps in the 80's. It felt good to stretch my legs again. I did the figure 8 trail at Chestnut Ridge. It has a wide range of different terrains from forested to meadow. It has some good hills and some flat places.
Enjoyed the rest of the day at home catching up on some much needed sleep. I am looking forward to singing barbershop for the two days.
Thank you God for the riches you have blessed me with. Help me to share these blessings with other. Amen
Friday, July 15, 2011
July 15, 2011
Psalm 48
Well, today my sabbatical is 1/2 over. It has become an unplanned sabbatical. Still not sure if I will get back to the trail. At this point I have committments here through wed. night of next week. I spent all day yesterday in the car on the way home from General Assembly. It was a long day and Dad did all of the driving but I am still tired.
Woke up in the own bed this morning. Felt great. Looking forward to getting a hike in today. Learning some new barbershop music. etc.
Thank you God for safe journey and a great assembly. Amen.
Well, today my sabbatical is 1/2 over. It has become an unplanned sabbatical. Still not sure if I will get back to the trail. At this point I have committments here through wed. night of next week. I spent all day yesterday in the car on the way home from General Assembly. It was a long day and Dad did all of the driving but I am still tired.
Woke up in the own bed this morning. Felt great. Looking forward to getting a hike in today. Learning some new barbershop music. etc.
Thank you God for safe journey and a great assembly. Amen.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
July 14, 2011
July 14, 2011
Psalm 47
"All you people clap your hands . . ." What a great closing worship we had. The youth choir was great. Marion Weight Edelman was superb. It was indeed a worship of outside and thanksgiving.
Today we go home.it is about a five hour drive home. I have the feeling Dad will do most of it. It is a bright sunny day and it will be great for seeing all of the beauty around us.
God,
Thank you for working in me during this Assembly. Amen.
Psalm 47
"All you people clap your hands . . ." What a great closing worship we had. The youth choir was great. Marion Weight Edelman was superb. It was indeed a worship of outside and thanksgiving.
Today we go home.it is about a five hour drive home. I have the feeling Dad will do most of it. It is a bright sunny day and it will be great for seeing all of the beauty around us.
God,
Thank you for working in me during this Assembly. Amen.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
July 12-13, 2011
July 12, 2011
Psalm 45
A wonderful day at the GA yesterday. We elected Sharon Watkins as our General Minister. Praise God. In the after noon I attended a workshop on just war. It was very good.it was actually done in such a way as to allow conservation. There were no winners our losers.it is a great way to allow people to talk I did not see how a decision Could be made.
It is hot here somewhere over 100. This morning's low was 82. So as I sit writing this morning it is hot.no birds singing Today. Too hot!
Thank you Jesus for the beauty of scripture & this Psalm. Use me this day for your good. Amen.
July 13, 2011
Psalm 46
Good morning Lord! It is a beautiful morning this morning. Back to a cool morning and the birds are singing again. A great day to be outside praying!
Yesterday Dad and I went to see the parthenon. Yes, in Nashville. It is a copy of the one in greece only complete. We did our own mission project for the community as we picked up litter people had thrown into the gardens around the Parthenon.
I think both of us were tired last night as we came back early and tried to get the program online but alas our service was too slow.
Lord Jesus as I live this day help me to be still and know you are God. Amen.
Psalm 45
A wonderful day at the GA yesterday. We elected Sharon Watkins as our General Minister. Praise God. In the after noon I attended a workshop on just war. It was very good.it was actually done in such a way as to allow conservation. There were no winners our losers.it is a great way to allow people to talk I did not see how a decision Could be made.
It is hot here somewhere over 100. This morning's low was 82. So as I sit writing this morning it is hot.no birds singing Today. Too hot!
Thank you Jesus for the beauty of scripture & this Psalm. Use me this day for your good. Amen.
July 13, 2011
Psalm 46
Good morning Lord! It is a beautiful morning this morning. Back to a cool morning and the birds are singing again. A great day to be outside praying!
Yesterday Dad and I went to see the parthenon. Yes, in Nashville. It is a copy of the one in greece only complete. We did our own mission project for the community as we picked up litter people had thrown into the gardens around the Parthenon.
I think both of us were tired last night as we came back early and tried to get the program online but alas our service was too slow.
Lord Jesus as I live this day help me to be still and know you are God. Amen.
Monday, July 11, 2011
July 11, 2011
July 11, 2011
Psalm 44
We had a great day yesterday. We went to hear Michael Kinniman at the first service and had planned to hear Amy Gopp at the second service but we failed to get a seat and did not want to stand.
We traveled downtown for lunch at a BBQ place. Very good. Dad and I had a nice walk along the main drag. It was extremely hot so we did not walk too far.
We attended the opening businesses session had supper and came back to the cabin. Dad needed some supplies so we found a local walmart and stocked up.we miffed the concert that evening but enjoyed playing cribbage.
This morning I am out early enjoying the day.the sun has turned the humidity in the air a beautiful orange. Birds are singing and all nature is welcoming the new day.
Thank you God for this new day and help me make the most out of it for you. Amen.
Psalm 44
We had a great day yesterday. We went to hear Michael Kinniman at the first service and had planned to hear Amy Gopp at the second service but we failed to get a seat and did not want to stand.
We traveled downtown for lunch at a BBQ place. Very good. Dad and I had a nice walk along the main drag. It was extremely hot so we did not walk too far.
We attended the opening businesses session had supper and came back to the cabin. Dad needed some supplies so we found a local walmart and stocked up.we miffed the concert that evening but enjoyed playing cribbage.
This morning I am out early enjoying the day.the sun has turned the humidity in the air a beautiful orange. Birds are singing and all nature is welcoming the new day.
Thank you God for this new day and help me make the most out of it for you. Amen.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
July 10, 2011
Psalm 43
This morning in Nashville for the General Assembly. It was a long drive yesterday but beautiful. Our little cabin measures 12 x 12. Small but we only use it to sleep so it is ok.
It was a beautiful opening worship Around the theme "Tell it" How do we out into words all that we get out of our relation ship to God? Just tell it. Share your story.
As I am writing, a bird is singing its praise for a new day. It is "Telling it!" Thank you God for the simple lesson in evangelism. Amen.
This morning in Nashville for the General Assembly. It was a long drive yesterday but beautiful. Our little cabin measures 12 x 12. Small but we only use it to sleep so it is ok.
It was a beautiful opening worship Around the theme "Tell it" How do we out into words all that we get out of our relation ship to God? Just tell it. Share your story.
As I am writing, a bird is singing its praise for a new day. It is "Telling it!" Thank you God for the simple lesson in evangelism. Amen.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
July 7, 2011
Psalm 40
I enjoyed a wonderful day yesterday. I rode bikes with my wife for 6 miles. Came home and worked on a barbershop arrangement I am working on. Then in the afternoon, I walked 7 miles with my son and his GF Michal. It's hard to keep up with young bones but I did it.
On Tuesday hike I walked the six miles in sandals. I thought about the stories of the Bible and how they walked everywhere in sandals. My feet got dusty and I thought about the dusty feet of those folk of old and the woman who wiped jesus feet with her hair and her tears and the Joy she discovered.
How beautiful it is out here on my back patio enjoying the morning sunrise. I am surrounded by the end of early summer flowers, lillies, hostes, daisies and am beginning to enjoy the later summer flowers: Purple cone flowers, blick eyed Susans, roses, asters, etc. The song bird are filling the air with their beautiful music as a mourning dove sings off in the distance.
Thank you God for dusty feet, beautiful trails, flowers and song birds that make each day so enjoyable. Thak you for the opportunity for some time off to open my eyes to see, smell, taste and feel the wonders of this world in my own back yard.
Amen.
I enjoyed a wonderful day yesterday. I rode bikes with my wife for 6 miles. Came home and worked on a barbershop arrangement I am working on. Then in the afternoon, I walked 7 miles with my son and his GF Michal. It's hard to keep up with young bones but I did it.
On Tuesday hike I walked the six miles in sandals. I thought about the stories of the Bible and how they walked everywhere in sandals. My feet got dusty and I thought about the dusty feet of those folk of old and the woman who wiped jesus feet with her hair and her tears and the Joy she discovered.
How beautiful it is out here on my back patio enjoying the morning sunrise. I am surrounded by the end of early summer flowers, lillies, hostes, daisies and am beginning to enjoy the later summer flowers: Purple cone flowers, blick eyed Susans, roses, asters, etc. The song bird are filling the air with their beautiful music as a mourning dove sings off in the distance.
Thank you God for dusty feet, beautiful trails, flowers and song birds that make each day so enjoyable. Thak you for the opportunity for some time off to open my eyes to see, smell, taste and feel the wonders of this world in my own back yard.
Amen.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
July 5-6, 2011
Psalm 38-39
Both of these Psalms have the theme of forgiveness. Thankfully, forgivceness is there in abundance.
Yesterday, Andy and I six miles at Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park. They have some really nice trail. While the hills cannot begin to rival those of the AT, at least I feel like I am getting some of the excercise I need on this sabbatical. More and more I see this sabbatical turning in ways I had not expected. It may not be possible for me to get back to the tral with the circumstances not existing with my family. I simply do not want to leave my wife to deal with the burdon of unemployment on her own. She on the other hand says its ok for me to go. It just doesn't feel right.
So my plans are to continue walking every day on local trails. I will not get the miles in I had expected but it is great excercise which I need. I am going to work on reading and maybe even try my hand at arranging Barbershop piece or two.
I was honored to be asked by Jim Fry to try out for the position of Lead for his quartet as they prepare for contest. This means I will be singing in two quartets for contest this year. I need to get my music memorized for both and the remaining part of my sabbatical will allow me time to do this as well.
God, thank you for the opportunies to change plans and have them meet needs unconsidered at the beginning of the planning. Be will all those looking for work. Amen.
Both of these Psalms have the theme of forgiveness. Thankfully, forgivceness is there in abundance.
Yesterday, Andy and I six miles at Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park. They have some really nice trail. While the hills cannot begin to rival those of the AT, at least I feel like I am getting some of the excercise I need on this sabbatical. More and more I see this sabbatical turning in ways I had not expected. It may not be possible for me to get back to the tral with the circumstances not existing with my family. I simply do not want to leave my wife to deal with the burdon of unemployment on her own. She on the other hand says its ok for me to go. It just doesn't feel right.
So my plans are to continue walking every day on local trails. I will not get the miles in I had expected but it is great excercise which I need. I am going to work on reading and maybe even try my hand at arranging Barbershop piece or two.
I was honored to be asked by Jim Fry to try out for the position of Lead for his quartet as they prepare for contest. This means I will be singing in two quartets for contest this year. I need to get my music memorized for both and the remaining part of my sabbatical will allow me time to do this as well.
God, thank you for the opportunies to change plans and have them meet needs unconsidered at the beginning of the planning. Be will all those looking for work. Amen.
Monday, July 4, 2011
July 4, 2011
Psalm 37
I went to the outdoor service at Gender Road. It was fairly well atended and Jeff did another good sermon on the freedoms we have as Christians. He tied it in well with the holiday today. Andy and I left for Hocking Hills yesterday taking two cars to park at each end of the trail from Old Man's Cave to Ash Cave. A dog jumped out in front of me and i slammed on the brakes. Andy braked to avoid hitting me but the car behind Andy did not brake in time and clobbered his back end. His bumper is just hanging there. After the police reports, we continued on our way and hiked the six miles between the two caves. It was a great hike. We took the gorge hike which I have not done in several years and boy is it beautiful.
This morning I am sitting on the back porch surounded by flowers and enjoying the sunrise. Thank you God for the morning, for the anticipation of all the day might hold. Heather and Stu and little Stu are coming over and Andy and Michal are here. Only wish Adam, Aireen, and Julie could be here.
Lord, thank you for a great day. Amen.
I went to the outdoor service at Gender Road. It was fairly well atended and Jeff did another good sermon on the freedoms we have as Christians. He tied it in well with the holiday today. Andy and I left for Hocking Hills yesterday taking two cars to park at each end of the trail from Old Man's Cave to Ash Cave. A dog jumped out in front of me and i slammed on the brakes. Andy braked to avoid hitting me but the car behind Andy did not brake in time and clobbered his back end. His bumper is just hanging there. After the police reports, we continued on our way and hiked the six miles between the two caves. It was a great hike. We took the gorge hike which I have not done in several years and boy is it beautiful.
This morning I am sitting on the back porch surounded by flowers and enjoying the sunrise. Thank you God for the morning, for the anticipation of all the day might hold. Heather and Stu and little Stu are coming over and Andy and Michal are here. Only wish Adam, Aireen, and Julie could be here.
Lord, thank you for a great day. Amen.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
July 1-3,2011
July 1, 2011
Psalm 34
"O Taste and see that the Lord is good." What a great week at Adult Conference. Julie told me that Adult Conference was just what she needed after loosing her job. It was a definate spiritual uplift.
"O Taste and see that the Lord is good." I have tasted with my eyes the summer flowers. They are so beautiful. My nose has tasted the summer scents and rejoiced.
"O Taste and see that the Lord is good." My Being has tasted the goodness of God in the breath of daily living. My soul has drank deep from the well of relationship and in each relationship felt the presence of God.
"O Taste and see that the Lord is good." Amen.
July 3, 2011
Psalm 36
I have been home for a week and I am beginning to think about getting back on the trail. It will wait until after the General Assembly which begins a week from yesterday. My wife is doing OK at looking for her next job. Keep her in your prayers. I am going to the 8:30 am service at Gender Road and then heading for a long hike. Maybe 10 miles. We will see.
God,
Help me to experience you this day not only in worship but in the events that unfold throughout the day. Amen.
Psalm 34
"O Taste and see that the Lord is good." What a great week at Adult Conference. Julie told me that Adult Conference was just what she needed after loosing her job. It was a definate spiritual uplift.
"O Taste and see that the Lord is good." I have tasted with my eyes the summer flowers. They are so beautiful. My nose has tasted the summer scents and rejoiced.
"O Taste and see that the Lord is good." My Being has tasted the goodness of God in the breath of daily living. My soul has drank deep from the well of relationship and in each relationship felt the presence of God.
"O Taste and see that the Lord is good." Amen.
July 3, 2011
Psalm 36
I have been home for a week and I am beginning to think about getting back on the trail. It will wait until after the General Assembly which begins a week from yesterday. My wife is doing OK at looking for her next job. Keep her in your prayers. I am going to the 8:30 am service at Gender Road and then heading for a long hike. Maybe 10 miles. We will see.
God,
Help me to experience you this day not only in worship but in the events that unfold throughout the day. Amen.
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