Walking Wet

workspace

2011-09-09T14:29:00.002-05:00

I work best with little distraction. And coffee.

he knows if you've been good or bad

2010-12-24T07:19:00.004-06:00

It was about 5:15 this morning, after the Prince had been up in the bathroom and had a little fit because he was not allowed neither to get into bed with me nor to get up to play. It was while he was in his bed, yelling about the unfairness of being sent back to bed when, "I am not tired!" Yes, it was about then that I thought, "If you don't be quiet, Santa Claus won't bring you any present." I am a little ashed to write that. I am quite glad that those words stayed in my head and did not cross my lips.

Husband and I do not promote Santa. His least favorite Christmas song begins, "You better watch out. You better not shout. You better look out I'm telling you why." The most offensive part is, to my mind, "He knows if you've been good or bad so be good for goodness sake." No, not for goodness sake, but for the sake of receiving a beautifully wrapped, object of desire on Christmas morning (or a little before or after, depending on your parents' work schedule).

I find it distasteful that we teach our children that Jesus loves them in spite of their naughty, and that there is no cosmic list of good deeds and bad. Yet, Monday - through Saturday in December we teach the children that only those who are deserving get a reward. The radical message of the incarnation gets muted. Last week sometime LittleBear announced that Santa was keeping a naughty list. Husband looked him in the eyes and said, "no one is keeping a list of good and bad. There is no list." (see hes a Lutheran preacher too!)

I am opposed to lying to children. oh, and the idea of a man that we have never met who sneaks into our house in the middle of the night: that is creepy.

I am not a Christmas hater. I love the cultural celebrations at this time of the year: the way people have more patience for one another, the giving of time and money by people of all religious persuasions, the exchange of gifts, the cookies, the cookies. But I won't adopt a cultural celebration that contradicts a deeper truth I seek to instill in my children. Good gifts, great gifts are given even if you have been naughty. This gift looks like forgiveness; its name is grace.

I haven't had the courage of my friend Rachel who just flat out tells her children that Santa is a lie. At our home, we tell the story of Saint Nicholas and remind our sons that Santa Claus is for those who don't have. In our home, we give gifts to one another out of our love for each other and in celebration of God who gives greater gifts.

unbound

2010-08-21T22:57:00.001-05:00

Deuteronomy 5:12-15
Observe the sabbath day and keep it holy, as the Lord your God commanded you. Six days you shall labor and do all your work. But the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God; you shall not do any work -- you, or your son or your daughter, or your male or female slave, or your ox or your donkey, or any of your livestock, or the resident alien in your towns, so that your male and female slaves may rest as well as you. Remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the Lord your God brought you out from there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm; therefore the Lord your God commanded you to keep the sabbath day.

Luke 13:10-17
Now he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. And just then there appeared a woman with a spirit that had crippled her for eighteen years. She was bent over and was quite unable to stand up straight. When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said, ‘Woman, you are set free from your ailment.’ When he laid his hands on her, immediately she stood up straight and began praising God. But the leader of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had cured on the sabbath, kept saying to the crowd, ‘There are six days on which work ought to be done; come on those days and be cured, and not on the sabbath day.’ But the Lord answered him and said, ‘You hypocrites! Does not each of you on the sabbath untie his ox or his donkey from the manger, and lead it away to give it water? And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan bound for eighteen long years, be set free from this bondage on the sabbath day?’ When he said this, all his opponents were put to shame; and the entire crowd was rejoicing at all the wonderful things that he was doing.

keep the sabbath day = remember your freedom. God released you from slavery. God is your master, not the Egyptians. Remember that in the past someone else told you when to come and when to go. Your master bound you to a work that was not of your choosing. Your master made you work each day without ceasing. But the Lord your God has loosed the bonds of your slavery. In your freedom, the seventh day of the week shall be a sabbath. No longer are you bound to toil all of the days, but free to work six days and rest on the seventh, as did the Lord your maker.

This is the practice of Shabbat (the sabbath) - Saturday, the seventh day of the week from sun down Friday to sundown Saturday - this is the Jewish sabbath. The people remember God’s choosing them, their exodus from slavery. And as was and is their practice - go to the synagogue, hear the scriptures and the teachings.

And so it is that read of another sabbath, this time a sabbath recounted in Luke 13. The people are gathered at the synagogue. Jesus was there, teaching. While is at the synagogue he sees a women. She is bent over, terribly bent over. Jesus is moved by compassion for this woman and the ailment that binds her body and binds her life into a shape that is not her own choosing. Jesus touched her. He healed her.
In spite of the commandment to do no work on the sabbath, Jesus does the work of healing. The authorities clearly taught that any work on this day of rest was against the commandment of the Lord. The leader of the synagogue called Jesus on his break with the traditions and the practice of the community of faith. “We don’t do that here. That is not how you show respect for the God who made you.” This leader seeks to be faithful to the scriptures, which teach no work on the sabbath.

And so Jesus teaches. If your ox is tied up, do you not unbind it and lead it to water, even on the sabbath out of mercy and care for the creature? Here, a woman bound up by Satan in her own body for 18 long years, ought not this daughter of Abraham too be unbound and led to living water on the sabbath? Jesus argues from a legitimate allowance of work on the sabbath to argue for the woman’s inherent worth as a daughter of Abraham and healing on the sabbath. Really, is there any day more appropriate for healing and bringing freedom than the sabbath?

The day of rest is for the freedom of God’s people. It is for our healing. For our freedom from all that binds us. Our sins, and the sins of those around us. The powers of the world, the pressures of the job or the search for the job. The bills that keep coming, the demands of parents of children or spouse or teachers or boss or client. The relentless demands of life that bind us so tightly that we can see no way out. But the day of rest is for our freedom. “Remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the Lord your God brought you out from there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm; therefore the Lord your God commanded you to keep the sabbath day,” Moses taught the people.

As Christian disciples, we have shifted the observance of sabbath from the seventh day of the week to the first day of the week...we gather on the day that our Lord was raised from death.

We gather, we hear scripture, we remember that we were slaves to sin. The Lord has brought us out of our slavery with a mighty hand and outstretched arms.

She, an outsider... she did not come to the synagogue looking for a miracle. She was there to remember that her people had been slaves. She was there to keep the sabbath holy. A woman, in the middle east in the first century, a lower class of human being. A horribly deformed woman... looked down upon by others. Jesus sees her and knows that she is held captive. He sets her free. Even though it means breaking with tradition. Even though it means behaving improperly in their sabbath service. He is concerned about the woman’s wholeness and her identity as God’s child than he is about and he expands their understanding of what is acceptable sabbath behavior. Is there, in fact, any day more appropriate for healing?

Thanks be to God.
The bent over woman is us.
The bent over woman is us.
Weighed down with the diseases and disturbances of the world; bound up by Satan and crippled by the weight of our sin. “We cannot by ourselves stand upright.”

Jesus sees our need and lays a hand of blessing upon each one of us, and gives us strength and courage to stand up victoriously. He is not concerned with what we believe is proper or our human understanding of God’s word. He is concerned with our healing, our wholeness, our freedom from everything that binds us in slavery.

We follow the One whom Satan could not bind, not even with the strong bands of death. We follow the One whom God raised up so that we too might be raised up. “Child of God, you are set free.”

2010-08-08T22:39:00.002-05:00

Made it through a week of Vacation Bible School. And it was good. 39 students, many many adult leaders. Gave 4 Bibles to students who did not have any.
Preached mostly off the cuff this morning, with rough outline in my head. I like to be more prepared--but VBS and a funeral took most of my energy.
Speaking of, I'm going to arrange to cut Sunday out of the weekend following vacation Bible School next summer.
Afternoon concert with Peder Eide. Excellent.worship. soul filled.
Nearly two days off, praise Jesus. I plan to clean my house! but first I shall sleep.

vacation coming

2010-06-26T19:43:00.001-05:00

One week until vacation. and I am sooooo ready!

Life on the run

2010-06-16T23:33:00.003-05:00

Life on the run, indeed. I thought, I suppose, that summer and vacation go together. Let me tell you, this is no break. Those two calls I got last week... come quick, my loved one is dying. Thursday and Friday I bury them. Add in a denominational meeting, some visitation, funeral prep, wedding prep, Sunday sermon prep, oh and one brand new T-ball player in my house complete with weekly games and practices. And several hospital emergencies. I am longing for, praying for a quieter week next week. I have perennials sitting on the back porch longing for new dirt. I have a stack of bricks in the backyard desiring to become a low retaining wall. I have a large cross-stitch project that needs finishing by August. I have kids I need to spent time with. None of these things can be done when working 60 hours / week and single parenting. (Hubby is working more than me!) So yes, life on the run. but good, too.

2010-06-09T22:56:00.002-05:00

It was a roller coaster of a day. Today there were two calls to come quickly... our beloved family member is dying. I didn't make it in time to the second. To accommodate these emergencies, I needed to cancel an appointment with a parishioner who really needed my time. This long day of ministry ended with a great Bible study. It was my first attempt at a mid-week lectionary study in the parish; we had 8 people and great discussion! I hope it will continue in such a fashion.

Ministry has been wearing on me of late. The funerals have come fast and furious. Some days I feel that the needs of the people are far beyond my ability to bring before God. I'd like to have a professional counselor on church staff... all i can do is pray and hold hands, and it so often feels totally inadequate. and yet...holy stuff, this calling. Its just that I miss my kids these last two weeks.

Three-in-One

2010-05-28T23:20:00.003-05:00

For the first time in many weeks, I have completed the Sunday sermon before Saturday. What a relief; why don't I do this more often? Trinity Sunday is a challenge to be sure. I am attempting to answer the questions, "Why should we care about the doctrine of the Trinity?" Because, dear friend, proclaiming God as Trinity is a confession of faith about WHO this God is.

I never, ever, would have imagined myself quoting my systematics professor in a sermon. But stranger things have happened:
“Christian faith and theology do not speak of God in a general and indefinite way; they speak of God concretely and specifically. Christians affirm their faith in God as the sovereign Lord of all creation who has done a new and gracious work in Jesus Christ and who continues to be active in the world through the power of the Spirit.” (Daniel Migliore, Faith Seeking Understanding)

Missional Church - Simple!

2010-05-16T15:42:00.000-05:00

to do

2010-05-06T20:44:00.002-05:00

Somehow it always seems that my life is composed of to-do lists. I am a list sort of person. I love the feeling of checking something off my list. It gives me a sense of tangible accomplishment for sometimes intangible tasks. Actually, many of my days are filled with intangibles. Provide appropriate pastoral care... um, how do I know when that is completed? Spend time in prayer for congregation members (always need more time for prayer.) read scripture (again, need more time). Be a visible presence in the community. Connect with people. Form personal relationships. Dream big dreams. List to Holy Spirit. Cast vision...
break them down into tiny little steps, practical, accomplishable steps. Check off steps, feel that something has been done. Sleep better at night knowing that the next little step is written down and will still be there in the morning.

2010-04-13T22:34:00.004-05:00

I posted a cranky post: now some things that make me smile

pajamas
pictures of babies - particularly very cute ones named Caleb, Lewis, or Adam. Thanks for posting!
a warm and comfortable house on this windy night
thank you e-mails
that I changed which CDs are in the car -- reintroducing myself to old favorites.
a magazine arrived in the mail today
coffee pot set and ready to go for morning
a clean bathroom (see, I did do something on my day off!)
plans to see dear friends
my beautiful red toe-nails
my bright pink macbook
that going to bed is next in my evening

What we need is

2010-04-13T22:20:00.002-05:00

money gets tighter (isn't it happening everywhere?)

people get crankier. really? we can't give $20 to the bacclaurate fund...because kids these days expect that everything be given to them.

Pastor, we need more service opportunities.
Pastor, we need a men's group.
Pastor, we need more Bible studies. (really? what do you think we are, a church? funny, last time I hosted a Bible study only one person showed up on a regular basis)
Pastor, we have to start a mid-week contemporary service. (I've been working on this for months and suddenly its your idea....) Great. Who will commit to coming? oh, no one. How much capital can I invest in new music, new musician... hmm, the room got real quiet.
Pastor, we need,
Pastor we need...

So, what are you going to do about it?

One step forward two steps back.

2009-11-15T20:42:00.003-06:00

Today we had a baptism for a two month old. I love baptisms. The happy family gathered together to worship. The parents bringing their child to worship and promising to raise them in the faith and teach them about the wonderful gifts of God. Sponsors who clearly do not know the words of the Apostle's Creed (reading from the book none the less) as we proclaim the faith, surrounding this baby and promising to teach it to her! I wanted to bang my head against the font. repeatedly. Did we not walk through this yesterday at the pre-baptismal pastor-parent-sponsor meeting? That's right, we did.

But other than that my day went exceedingly well, until I opened my e-mail. a sunday school teacher quit. that would be the second one this week. seriously. I've worked my back side off to get us to a somewhat passable place for children's education. we are building from the ground up. started with 10 kids, there were 16 today. (60% increase!) The curriculum is being implemented in a way that makes connections with worship. The kids who are coming are coming fairly consistently and seem to be having fun. And wham-o. No teacher for our young elementary students. One step forward, two steps back.

Every time there is something good happening, the forces of evil start fighting back hard. (Did I mention I had dreams about demons in the bell tower. Beginning to think that was more than a dream.) I know the Holy Spirit is at work in this little faith community, but we are going to have to fight to hold onto every inspiration and every blessing that comes our way. This is starting to get very very old.

shiny and new

2009-11-06T09:59:00.002-06:00

Today's Friday Five: Please share with us five things you like *especially* when they are new.

1. Fresh baked bread.
2. A great book on the first reading.
3. When one of my children discovers something or understands something for the first time.
4. My newly painted living room.
5. A brand new calendar or planner: so much potential, so many blank pages, ready for new appointments, lunch-dates, special activities, and stickers.

dots

2009-10-28T21:08:00.003-05:00

It is Wednesday, should have been confirmation night... we canceled -- community tragedy this week, and it is too much for young minds and hearts to put theological learning and another class on them right now. I guess I'll watch the Baseball Game. Tomorrow will be my first Catholic funeral. How did I get to age 30 without ever attending a funeral Mass?
Today I drove twenty miles (20!) to the pharmacy (each way--yes that's how far I live in the boonies) to pick up the prescription I was supposed to start yesterday. They didn't have the authorization from my doc yet. Damn, I don't have time for this.
Hubby has deer quarters in the garage, in garbage bags. and the head. It looks at me every time I get in the car. I said thank you for feeding my family. Now I avoid that part of the garage.
Advent is coming. I need a day in the liturgicave. I do.not.like doing worship planning at the last minute.
But let me tell you, I walk in the door and I hear, "Mommy! pick me up mommy!" life is good.

Thankfulness

2009-10-18T22:03:00.002-05:00

I'm dealing with a whole steaming pile of unbloggable stuff; I need a thankfulness reminder.

new car--2005 Subaru Outback. I really like the all wheel drive! Not quite so thankful for new car loan.
Upcoming time to myself on the way to and from synod-event, four hours of total car time is good for thinking and praying and catching up on podcasts.
Upcoming time to myself--getting my very own hotel room at continuing ed event later in the week.
My children. I asked the LittleBear about Sunday School today. He loved it (new curriculum). I asked him to tell me about what he learned.

ME: What did you learn about in Sunday School?
LB: (with exasperation) Mom! It was just like at church.
ME: Tell me about it.
LB: About some guys. I don't remember their names.
ME: Was it Frank and Fred?
LB: NO, It was James and John.
ME: Right! What did James and John do?
LB They asked Jesus if they could sit at his right hand and his left hand.
ME: And then what happened?
LB: Jesus said no.
ME: Why?
LB: (thinking) Because everybody has a special place in heaven. (He is four! Note to self, write thank you note to Sunday School teacher.)

Warm house.
People who pray for the church, local and universal.
friends near and far

2009-10-03T09:01:00.003-05:00

I am not thrilled with the gospel text for tomorrow. Are we done with Mark yet? What, not until the end of November. This theme of discipleship--its hard! (whine, whine.)

I am, for the first time in quite a while, nearly done with my sermon before Saturday night! I hope to be completely finished before we leave for lunch.

Tomorrow we celebrate the Prince's 2nd birthday, with three out of four grandparents able to be with us. Today's agenda includes making chocolate cupcakes.
In my part of the country this is "festival" time. There is a fair, a festival, an occasion in more than one local town every weekend. It is also the time of church dinners and luncheons and other food occasions. The people in the congregations are busy baking and cooking for all the bake sales and fund raising dinners. I'm not thrilled with fund raising dinners, especially with the fact that as the pastor I need to show up to most of them!
My kids are engrossed in Dora the Explorer. This would be a good time to finish up this sermon.

2009-10-01T20:54:00.005-05:00

Did you ever play this game?

That's my ministry right now. Yup, problems keep popping their head up, I beat them back with a foam mallet, only to have them pop up again when I'm whacking some other problem into submission. Same six damn moles again and again.

This is Not What I Signed Up For.

production

2009-09-14T09:58:00.002-05:00

I have a project that I have been contemplating for months. It seemed hard, one of those projects with so much decision making and sub-projects to take care of before I could get to the main project at hand. This morning I woke up with a deadline in my mind (Oct 2) and the rare desire to dig into it. I worked about an hour before the family got up. I am almost 1/4 done! Go me. I guess it wasn't such a big deal after all.

Is it Saturday Already?

2009-09-12T20:58:00.003-05:00

It has come again to Saturday night. There is always Sunday morning services to prepare for. So of course, I'm procrastinating! Laundry, cleaning, blogging.

I looked at the calendar for the next several weeks and I almost cried. The business quotient increases a lot in the coming weeks: confirmation orientation, new member classes, new member Sunday, special events, special fundraisers, youth service projects, on top of all the home visits and nursing home visits. Even this, though, I think I could handle. I've also been carrying the heavy emotional weight that I am learning is a regular part of pastoral ministry. First, the decisions of ELCA churchwide assembly to ordain persons in "publicly accountable life long monogamous same-gender relationships." There is a significant amount of fall-out in the rural parish--many are angry and some are taking it out on me as their local church representative. There have been many hard conversations, several of which ended with me in tears for several hours following. Second, funeral for a man who died suddenly and tragically. Third, heavy ( and on-going) issues in pastoral care of an unbloggable nature. Fourth, beloved matriarch entered into hospital with illness that may well bring her home to Jesus. Fifth, worry about a friend and her unborn baby; worry about family members, and on and on...

See, when Jesus said that to follow him we would need to pick up the cross, I knew it meant pain. What I'm learning is that when one is called to ministry in the church it also means to carry others' pain. And when I think that I carry pain for only a few of the billions, but Jesus' took even my pain and suffering to the cross and it weighed him down into death, it is an astounding thing. How is it possible?

And here I sit on another Saturday night, hoping for inspiration from the Holy Spirit, a word of gospel for God's people, and the stamina to make it through another day. And yet, as tired as I am, it is certainly not all gloom and sadness and pain. The people of God are very good and shown me much grace and much caring. The sun has been shining. Today was full of enjoyment. And I know the Holy Spirit will show up by 8:15 tomorrow morning because God has promised us a Word of grace.

Seriously?

2009-09-03T09:46:00.001-05:00

The evils of staying in school and setting educational goals. All I can say is WTF?

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2009/09/02/critics-decry-obamas-lesson-plan-students/

This and that

2009-08-02T22:19:00.003-05:00

Today we worshiped outside in a beautiful setting by the big river. The summer staff from our local Bible camp came to lead our music, so we sang songs that make one dance with joy in God's presence. (Almost no camp songs are too slow or uninteresting, at least in my experience.) I got to hear the word of God proclaimed in a way that spoke to my heart. The children played and we all feasted on a potluck dinner. It was a blessing, quite a blessing.

Tonight my heart is aching for the mountains. Maybe it is the camp songs that move my feet and my heart in a way that most traditional hymns don't do--maybe they bring me back to mountain peaks and alpine climes. Maybe it is the beautiful outdoor setting where my soul is meant to be, not inside four walls or at a desk. How much more difficult it is to worship God when we can't see the world that he made. At least it is for me.
Or maybe it is my longing for the much needed vacation that will take me back to the mountains. It is in sight, but still too many days away. First we summon all our energy to make Vacation Bible School as successful as we can, with the help of the Holy Spirit.

Somehow I got myself into both leading the music for VBS and teaching the adult Bible study. Seriously, can't I leave well enough alone? If I hadn't suggested adult VBS class, there wouldn't be one. But is it ever bad to have the people of God read God's word? I don't think so, even if it makes me tired by the end of this week! In the midst of this, I need to make a hospital visit and a visit to a new nursing home resident, an hours drive away. God keeps giving me opportunities to serve!

The body

2009-07-10T08:54:00.002-05:00

I haven't done a Friday Five in a while, but it sounds like a good exercise today to get me into the writing groove--I have a lot to write today.

So how about you and your beautiful temple of the Holy Spirit?

1. What was your favorite sport or outdoor activity as a child?
It always has been and always will be camping. Getting outside, slowing down, enjoying nature, and spending time with people who are important to me.

2. P.E. class--heaven or the other place?
I did not have good PE experiences, mostly because of having a pretty lousy PE teacher. (She knit scarves while we played kick ball or volleyball.)

3. What is your favorite form of exercise now?
running and hiking

4. Do you like to work out solo or with a partner?
By myself. It is my time to focus on me and my body and to let everything else slide away.

5. Inside or outside?
Out. Definitely out.

Bonus: Post a poem, scripture passage, quotation, song, etc. regarding the body or exercise.
Psalm 8 connects me with a summer of volunteer ministry, many hikes with good friends and a great overlook in Grand Teton National Park. Not about the body per se, but it is meaningful to me in the context of a good sweaty hike and a great view.

another church meeting

2009-07-07T21:06:00.004-05:00

Tonight was a meeting of the "pastor support committee." It is made of members of the call committee that worked together for a year and a half to discern how God was leading this country parish, and interviewed, prayed, waited, interviewed, prayed.... until they and I discerned that God was calling me to country parish to be their pastor. This group of faithful people covenanted together that they would actively support whomever they called to country parish. Tonight we gathered together for prayer, mutual support and conversation, uplifting of concerns.
I am truly blessed beyond words to have a group of people who hold me in prayer, who ask how I am doing and actually want an answer. I heard thanks for the preparatory work that goes into preaching and for sitting with a family while their mother died. Words of thanks that remind me what I do is important. They challenged me to make sure I am taking enough time off--they challenged my husband to do the same. They appropriately ooed and ahhed when my children showed off.
This is the church. This is the body of Christ, and I am so blessed to be their pastor.

and good riddance

2009-07-01T21:19:00.004-05:00

I'd like to say goodbye to June. Not my favorite month so far in ministry. Two funerals. Two weddings. My husband's job kept him away from home most of the time. Attempting to do long(er) range planning. Like, looking beyond the next two weeks. And, note to myself, August Vacation Bible School should not be planned in late June. (See: long(er) range planning) Oh, and all those weddings...lots of pre-marital counseling sessions. The new pastor should not require premarital sessions for weddings she did not schedule, for people who live more than 100 miles from the church. Thank goodness I get say over the weekends I make myself available for weddings in the future.

The weather has been wonky too. Tornados, serious storms, heat above 100. Today the high was 63.

I also paid my nanny more this month than we ever have before--something about my hubby not being home much this recently, I think. Add in two funerals (extra hours of work with home visits, the wakes)

But I am also thankful for many moments of grace. My brother's wedding and the rain and the way it worked out after all. The trust and respect that people in this rural parish have given to me. Prayer. Colleagues who ask how I am and really want to know. A husband who supports me. A church that doesn't mind if I bring my kids to church functions. (they like it). My flexibility of hours--this morning I took the boys grocery shopping, and in the afternoon wrote my sermon while the babysitter played with them upstairs. The joy that people experienced when we returned to a familiar old liturgy this month (ELW 4--wow are they happy!) A glass of Cabernet, my iBook, and children who went to bed easily.

2009-06-22T08:49:00.002-05:00

I thought summer was supposed to be more laid back.

On Saturday I officiated a wedding for "Fred Jr." and "Jane." Tomorrow I'll officiate the funeral for "Fred Sr." On Saturday there will be another wedding.

Today, my day off, includes:
-writing the newsletter article
-wake and family prayer service
-writing the funeral sermon

to add to the fun, I shall
-do laundry,
-clean, clean, clean
-bake bread (not the best day for baking, heat index to hit 100 today)
-seed bare spots in the yard
-pray for the people affected by tornados last night
-pay bills
-send card of congratulations to dear friends who became parents on Father's Day. (I'm so thrilled!)

Also, I think that my day off is when I should spend time with my children.

Signing off,
mother, pastor, housekeeper, cook, and all around super-woman. (who needs sleep anyway?)

2009-05-19T15:26:00.002-05:00

I've been connected on *ace*ook. (feel free to look me up) My blog feels neglected. But I'm still here, enjoying rural ministry and looking for the way that the Holy Spirit is moving in this place.
I'm also loving the spring weather. Thanks be to God!

Ministry

2009-05-16T21:51:00.000-05:00

She does pastoral care via Facebook

computer angst

2009-03-27T10:42:00.000-05:00

My laptop is dying a slow painful death.
Hubby's died a quick dramatic death.
In need of two computers,
We are considering becoming a mac family.

2009-02-27T22:00:00.002-06:00

For today's Friday Five, share with us five "fork-in-the-road" events, or persons, or choices. And how did life change after these forks in the road?

1. Picked up a newspaper, read an article about Christian Ministry in the National Parks, signed up ASAP, sent to Wyoming, heard God calling me to ministry.

2. I put my calling first. Decided to go to seminary with or without serious boyfriend in tow.

3. Moved to New Jersey, serious boyfriend followed.

4. Said yes to serious boyfriend.

5. I put his calling first. Followed husband (former serious boyfriend) to Wisconsin, not knowing what that would mean for my call to ministry.

two weeks

2009-02-27T21:46:00.003-06:00

Two weeks since my installation at country parish.
I have heard:
*Why women shouldn't be pastors. Twice.
*Apologies from others about those comments: three times
*A parishoner say, "you are a good looking chick." (um, thanks?)
* A non-member pray a spirit-led prayer of annointing for the ministry at country parish. (wow)

I have:
* written four sermons
* planned Lenten worship services
* had a hamburger at the bar with parishoners
* sat with a dying women and her children - a moment of profound grace
* given thanks for my Bishop
*worked on learning names
*driven in the ice and snow
*drank more coffee than is good for me.
*wondered if there was a ghost in the church.
*prayed. a lot.

just a link

2009-01-26T14:06:00.000-06:00

http://reverendmother.org/2009-01-25/drive-by-thought

Looking back, looking forward.

2009-01-02T13:01:00.003-06:00

Beginnings and endings Friday Five

This Celtic Mandala represents life, noting how days and years turn from one to another. As we have stepped from 2008 into 2009 some of us look back with joy and others with saddness; probably most of us with a mixture of the two.

As we look back we may come to understand how God has worked in and through us in joy and saddness. how we have grown against what may seem impossible odds. As we look forward we may do so with expectation, and we may do so with fear and trembling. As we look back and forward in New Years liminality I offer you this simple yet I hope profound Friday Fivein two parts:

First list five things that you remember/ treasure from 2008

Watching the Prince grow up to become a one year old who loves horses.
Seeing the LittleBear ride a horse for the first time.
Officiating at the sacrament of Holy Communion for the first time, at licensed interim position.
a brief visit with friends from far away, as they moved across the country. Dear friends who live too far away.
My sister's college graduation.

Then list five things that you are looking forward to in 2009

a new call. Friends, I will officially start at new parish on February 15th, the day of my installation.
Likewise, the ordination service, set for Feb. 1. You can e-mail me to find out more information. (walkwet at gmail dot com)
Weddings, weddings and weddings--four family weddings (brother, brother -in-law, two cousins -in -law), at least three in new parish. I'm also officiating at one of the cousins' wedding.
My boys being old enough to take camping this summer.
The possibility of a four wheel drive vehicle in my future.

Overwhelmed

2008-11-24T21:52:00.002-06:00

The obligations are stacking up. I'm supposed to go to work tomorrow, the only day this week. The babysitter is sick and my husband is out of town. I'm hoping to drive about 350 miles on Wednesday to celebrate the Turkey with family. My car won't accelerate over 50 miles an hour, and uphill only 35 mph. I'm afraid I'll get stuck at Canal Park.

What I'm up to

2008-11-06T23:35:00.000-06:00

A glimpse at my life of late:
-writing stewardship sermons
-planning advent worship
-preparing advent devotional
-answering delicate questions
-dreaming, planning, envisioning the future
-giving thanks
-praying, lots of praying
-enjoying time with the shut-ins.

on history made

2008-11-05T19:44:00.003-06:00

It surprised me. No, not the results. For the results I had hoped and prayed. My reaction surprised me.

I felt the tears in the corners of my eyes about the time Senator McCain got to the third paragraph of his concession speech:
"In a contest as long and difficult as this campaign has been, his success alone commands my respect for his ability and perseverance. But that he managed to do so by inspiring the hopes of so many millions of Americans who had once wrongly believed that they had little at stake or little influence in the election of an American president is something I deeply admire and commend him for achieving."

While I sat alone in my living room watching CNN, my tears continued to well up and spill over through the remainder of his speech. They returned en force as Obama took the stage in Chicago--as the cameras panned the crowds and I saw an exuberant young Caucasian woman jumping and cheering. Standing next to her was an elderly African American gentlemen. He appeared solemn. Tears streamed down his face. Tears streamed down my face.

I am not old enough to remember the intimidation, the threats, the marches, or the bridge. But I have seen enough of the lingering divide to yearn for a different way to live together. Something in my heart saw the voice of a nation long divided, the voices of people who thought they were forgotten. Together. Hopeful. Ready to face our future hand in hand as we set aside differences for the betterment of all.

"It's the answer spoken by young and old, rich and poor, Democrat and Republican, black, white, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled. Americans who sent a message to the world that we have never been just a collection of individuals or a collection of red states and blue states.
We are, and always will be, the United States of America."

I have never before understood what it meant to be proud of my country. Today I am extraordinarily proud.

A Busy Season Friday Five

2008-10-31T09:47:00.001-05:00

a Friday Five brought by willsmama.

As I zip around the webring it is quite clear that we are getting BUSY. "Tis the season" when clergy and laypeople alike walk the highwire from Fall programming to Christmas carrying their balancing pole with family/rest on the one side and turkey shelters/advent wreaths on the other.

And so I offer this Friday Five with 5 quick hit questions... and a bonus:

1) Your work day is done and the brain is fried, what do you do?
Head home, make dinner (or eat dinner hubby has cooked), clean up dinner, chase small children, pick up food off the floor, do dishes, play with kids, baths, diaper change, wrestle them into jammies, bed time. Collapse!

2) Your work week is done and the brain is fried (for some Friday, others Sunday afternoon), what do you do?
Sunday afternoon. Put kids down for nap, grab snack, lay on couch to nap/watch football/watch a movie. Later, get up and go for a walk or do some baking.

3) Like most of us, I often keep myself busy even while programs are on the tv. I stop to watch The Office and 30 Rock on Thursday nights. Do you have 'stop everything' tv programming or books or events or projects that are totally 'for you' moments?
Nope. Not really. I used to be really into Pushing Daisies. Now I have netflix, so I figure all in good time and without commercials! My "me" time comes when I get to read up on your blogs, or sit down with a good book.

4) When was the last time you laughed, really laughed? What was so funny?
Oooo, I'm guessing there is going to be some crazy laughter tomorrow! I'm seeing some great girlfriends.

5) What is a fairly common item that some people are willing to go cheap on, but you are not.
Facial moisturizer. I only use one kind and I use it religiously.

Where I've lived

2008-10-24T13:27:00.004-05:00

Singing Owl brings us today's Friday Five:
My daughter, her husband, and their toddler, Trinity Ann, are moving from Minneapolis, Minnesota to our place. It's a long story, but the short version is that they will be loading a Ryder truck on Saturday, and on Sunday afternoon we will unload it into a storage unit in our town. They will move themselves, their two cats and their BIG dog into our place. Yes, there will be issues, but this Friday Five isn't really about that. (Prayers for jobs for them and patience for all of us are most welcome, however.) This post is about locations. My husband has lived at 64 addresses in his life so far (16 with me) and he suggested the topic since we have moving trucks on our minds.

Therefore, tell us about the five favorite places you have lived in your lifetime. What did you like? What kind of place was it? Anything special happen there?

If you have lived in less than five places, you can tell us about a fantasy location.

I bring you my quick list!

1. Northern Minnesota, land of snow, scrubby trees, timberwolves, and the Boundary Waters.
2. Central Minnesota flatlands
3. Wyoming and Colorado mountains
4. Mid New Jersey
5. Philly suburbs
6. Currently, the driftless region.

Saturday, again

2008-09-27T13:47:00.002-05:00

Saturday often seems to be made of lists:

laundry - done
write sermon - done
proof read sermon -
write children's sermon
write call to confession
clean kitchen -
bake bread - done
pick up toys
clean up office - done
re-pot plant
make dinner (decide what to make for dinner!)

Johnny Appleseed Friday Five

2008-09-27T06:16:00.003-05:00

Over at the RevGals , we get another Friday Five (Thanks Singing Owl):

Raise your hand if you know that today is Johnny Appleseed Day!

September 26, 1774 was his birthday. "Johnny Appleseed" (John Chapman) is one of America's great legends. He was a nurseryman who started out planting trees in western New York and Pennsylvania, but he was among those who were captivated by the movement west across the continent.

As Johnny traveled west (at that time, the "West" was places like Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois) he planted apple trees and sold trees to settlers. With every apple tree that was planted, the legend grew. A devout Christian, he was known to preach during his travels. According to legend, Johny Appleseed led a simple life and wanted little. He rarely accepted money and often donated any money he received to churches or charities. He planted hundreds of orchards, considering it his service to humankind. There is some link between Johny Appleseed and very early Arbor Day celebrations.

So, in honor of this interesting fellow, let's get on with the questions!

1. What is your favorite apple dish? (BIG BONUS points if you share the recipe.)
I love apple pie. love love love apple pie.

2. Have you ever planted a tree? If so was there a special reason or occasion you can tell us about?
Many many trees. My father is a tree planter--pines mostly, but not exclusively. I have learned the nurture of young seedlings.
I also remember getting a red pine seedling for arbor day when I was in elementary school and planting it in my parents' yard. Now it is about 25 feet tall and still growing!

My husband and I gave seedlings away at our wedding as party favors, asking people to plant them in honor of our wedding and marriage. Some of those trees survived and are growing at my in-laws' and at my parents' places. Anyone reading who planted one of those? Let me know how it is doing.

3. Does the idea of roaming around the countryside (preaching or otherwise) appeal to you? Why or why not?

Very appealing. The simplicity of living with just a few possessions, of re-learning to rely on one's self and on God. This is why I enjoy rustic camping so much (think remote mountain ranges or the BWCAW ).

4. Who is a favorite "historical legend" of yours?
I'm not sure there's a favorite. Having been raised in northern Minnesota, I did hear a lot about Paul Bunyan.

5. Johnny Appleseed was said to sing to keep up his spirits as he traveled the roads of the west. Do you have a song that comes when you are trying to be cheerful, or is there something else that you often do?
I often find myself humming a tune. Lately it has been "How Great thou Art". I think we may have sung this in church a few weeks ago.

Here are the instructions for the magical little link. Copy and paste the following: what you want the link to say goes here For a complete how-to, click here.

Saturday night

2008-09-20T20:41:00.002-05:00

Saturday night means read through the sermon, make sure the details are set for the "time for children" (aka children's sermon), and prayer. Lay out the details before God and remember that IT IS NOT ABOUT ME. It is what it is, I can't do much about the bulletin or the hymns or the readers now.

Today

2008-09-13T10:35:00.003-05:00

Today's list:

Finish Sermon
Laundry - done
Clean up living room (attack of toddler toys) and vacuum - in progress
Blog - done
Drink coffee--in progress, oh time to make more (better go decaf)
Spend time with hubby
Read books to children
Watch rain fall

Seems like a good day.

Back-To-School Friday Five!

2008-09-12T13:29:00.003-05:00

It's time for a Back-To-School Friday Five!

1. Is anyone going back to school, as a student or teacher, at your house? How's it going so far?

LittleBear, the older son, is off to preschool three days a week. We drive a half an hour each way (did I mention that I live in a RURAL area?) so the gas budget it getting a good workout. I am the chauffeur twice a week, hubby is a one day a week chauffeur. And I am getting to know some local parks, hiking trails and historic sites. Once it gets cold, the library will become my good friend.

2. Were you glad or sad when back-to-school time came as a kid?
I enjoyed school, so it was a good thing to have back to school.

3. Did your family of origin have any rituals to mark this time of year? How about now?
I don't remember specific rituals although we partook of the back to school shopping in a limited manner.

4. Favorite memories of back-to-school outfits, lunchboxes, etc?
I remember a dress that looked like a skirt/shirt/vest combo. It was bright blue with black stripes and polka dots, and more stripes. That must have been in late elementary.

5. What was your best year of school?
My third (and fourth) of college. I lived with good friends, was taking upper level courses I was really interested in, spending inordinate amounts of time playing music, and running a campus ministry program. I'd do that again.

A Wednesday morning

2008-09-10T08:59:00.003-05:00

It has been a while since I've blogged, but I didn't realize how long until I saw the date on my blogger dashboard. I just haven't been in a writing mood I guess.

Since I've last blogged, I have begun as an interim pastor at two country churches in county north of here. My first Sunday was one of the congregation's 125th anniversary celebration. I spent my first week setting up the office. I am starting from scratch--I bought the pens, the pencils, the paper clips, the file folders--everything. I was a bit (okay, more than a bit) surprised that this church had NOTHING except a broken copy machine and a file drawer full of announcements from the 1990s. I'm wondering if the previous pastor used all her own stuff.

Its good to be doing and thinking ministry again, even if this is a short term assignment.

And now, as Wednesday morning is my time to myself, I am going to make tomato sauce from garden tomatoes and contemplate how to talk about forgiveness in this Sunday's sermon.
Blessings to all.

I'm not gone!

2008-08-15T10:17:00.004-05:00

I realized this morning that I haven't posted here in quiet a while. For one, I've been spending more time off-line. I have been downloading some podcasts, including some of my favorite public radio shows from my Philadelphia days. Where we live, here in the valley, miles from Anywhere, there is little radio reception. We do get one public radio station; it only plays local call-in shows on topics that usually don't interest me. Where is my news? Enter i-tunes, WBUR, and WHYY . How I have missed them.

The kids and I have been enjoying the fabulous summer weather lately. We have had beautiful temperatures and the humidity has, for the most part, been lower. We have made use of the pool at camp, and today the LittleBear will get to ride a horse - his second ride of the summer. I had some girlfriends from college visiting recently for an old fashioned sleep-over. Clearly, we are older - no staying up late.

I have also been contemplating a potential job change - from full-time parent to full-time parent plus part time minister. Because of the nature of this decision making, it leads to unbloggable reflections. I have been making use of my old-fashioned paper journal lately. But surely, I will keep you all (both readers) up to date. But prayers for my discernment would be much appreciated.

absolutely can't leave home without

2008-07-25T09:11:00.002-05:00

Today's Friday Five brought by Singing Owl:

We will be at a chaplain's convention when you all are answering the Friday Five Questions. I'll look forward to reading your answers next week when I get home. At the moment we are trying to get the car loaded so we can hit the road, so this will be a simple F.F. This running around madly in order to leave has me wondering: what are the five things you simply must have when you are away from home? And why? Any history or goofy things, or stories?

Simple it may seem. This one made me think. I like to believe I'm not attached to my belongings, but most everything is about personal comfort.

1. Toothbrush - a must. If I don't have it I must buy a new one.
2. My favorite face wash. No ucky dirty face, please.
3. Comfy shoes or sandals - If I'm going away from home, I certainly hope I am going to get to explore the place I'll be visiting. This means walking, which makes a comfy pair of shoes a necessity.
4. Sunscreen - it has become a staple in my life.
5. Diapers /a good book - this one depends if my going away involves children or not. Baby means lots of diapers. No baby means time to have a good read.

One of Life's Persistent Questions

2008-07-21T21:20:00.001-05:00

Some days are longer than others. Why is it that on the longest days, after the children are in bed, the pile of dishes next to the sink is also the largest?

2008-07-18T11:08:00.001-05:00

I am absolutely irritated with blogger and layout today. I was trying to play with my format... and ended up just using a pre-fab blogger choice. Its acceptable for now.

A Bloggy Five

2008-07-18T09:38:00.007-05:00

Its already time for a Friday Five? RevHRod brings us this fun one:

Friday, July 18, 2008

The Friday Five: What's in a name?

If you are a regular reader of Songbird's blog, you know that "The Princess" has requested a new name. Her older brother changed his "secret identity" a while back and now this lovely young lady is searching for a new name on her mother's blog. This got me to thinking. How do we come up with all of these names? There must be at least a few good stories out there.

In honor of the Princess I have posted a picture of one of my favorite members of fictional royalty, Robert Munch's "Paperback Princess." She is a brave young woman who doesn't need anyone else to fight her battles. And she knows that what is most important isn't tiaras and finery but what's on the inside. If you haven't read this little fairy tale, I highly recommend it. But I digress.

So how did you come up with your blogging name? And/or the name of your blog? WalkingWet - the name comes from the baptismal promises made to me by God when an itty bitty baby, and my desire to live into those promises as faithfully as possible, to live with the baptismal waters daily.

Are there any code names or secret identities in your blog? Any stories there? We have "The Prince" - the nine month old. He is the Prince because he rules the house. I have "Little Bear" the three year old. His bloggy name was also his baby nickname. Then of course there is "hubby," which is not very creative, but pretty self-explanatory.

What are some blog titles that you just love? For their cleverness, drama, or sheer, crazy fun?
I like "Rejuvenation" - because she uses the blog as a rejuvenating creative space.
"Unlikely, but Possible" - sums up a lot of Christian life, and our Christian hope!
The Lutheran Zephyr for the title's lighthearted nature.
And You've Really Got to Love Your People because one of my seminary professors said that loving the people was one of the most important tasks in ministry, and that has really stuck with me.

What three blogs are you devoted to? Other than the RevGalBlogPals blog of course!
I've always got to check Cheesehead in Paradise (because she is a great story teller, an inspiration in ministry and sort of near where I live),
Advice Smackdown (because it is a little bit of lighthearted that I need),
and Reverend Mother (pastor, spouse, mother, writer--all things I aspire to do well. She makes it sound easy, and when its not, she is full of grace).

Who introduced you to the world of blogging and why? I don't think any person introduced me. I was reading blogs for a while and then I just decided to jump into the conversation and the community. The support that RevGals give to one another drew me in.

Bonus question: Have you ever met any of your blogging friends? Where are some of the places you've met these fun folks?
I've never had a blogger meet up, but these are folks I knew in real life first:

PS at Proclaiming Softly
The Sutherluns over at Suth-scription
Erin at Just Another Day
Laura at Unearthing Grace

Tongues Afire at Preaching the Gospel

And Backwoods Rev at Holy Grounds

Have you read?

2008-07-15T21:06:00.002-05:00

I'll admit it: I'm procrastinating. Some serious thinking to do. I'd rather play a game that I found over at The Owl's Song , way down the page. (I'm catching up).

This is from something called 'The Big Read' from the NEA. They came up with a list of their top 100 books, and they estimate that the average adult has only read 6 of these books. I will highlight the ones I've read. Cut and paste into your blog and let us know which you've read.

1 Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austen
2 The Lord of the Rings - JRR Tolkien
3 Jane Eyre - Charlotte Bronte
4 Harry Potter series - JK Rowling
5 To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee
6 The Bible
7 Wuthering Heights - Emily Bronte
8 Nineteen Eighty Four - George Orwell
9 His Dark Materials - Philip Pullman
10 Great Expectations - Charles Dickens
11 Little Women - Louisa M Alcott
12 Tess of the D’Urbervilles - Thomas Hardy
13 Catch 22 - Joseph Heller
14 Complete Works of Shakespeare (wait this is one book?)
15 Rebecca - Daphne Du Maurier
16 The Hobbit - JRR Tolkien
17 Birdsong - Sebastian Faulks1
18 Catcher in the Rye - JD Salinger
19 The Time Traveler’s Wife - Audrey Niffenegger
20 Middlemarch - George Eliot
21 Gone With The Wind - Margaret Mitchell
22 The Great Gatsby - F Scott Fitzgerald
23 Bleak House - Charles Dickens (I hated Great Expectations so much I couldn't read any more Dickens)
24 War and Peace - Leo Tolstoy
25 The Hitch Hiker’s Guide to the Galaxy - Douglas Adams
26 Brideshead Revisited - Evelyn Waugh
27 Crime and Punishment - Fyodor Dostoyevsky
28 Grapes of Wrath - John Steinbeck
29 Alice in Wonderland - Lewis Carroll
30 The Wind in the Willows - Kenneth Grahame
31 Anna Karenina - Leo Tolstoy
32 David Copperfield - Charles Dickens
33 Chronicles of Narnia - CS Lewis
34 Emma - Jane Austen
35 Persuasion - Jane Austen
36 The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe - CS Lewis
37 The Kite Runner - Khaled Hosseini
38 Captain Corelli’s Mandolin - Louis De Bernieres
39 Memoirs of a Geisha - Arthur Golden
40 Winnie the Pooh - AA Milne
41 Animal Farm - George Orwell
42 The Da Vinci Code - Dan Brown (best 100?! are you serious!)
43 One Hundred Years of Solitude - Gabriel Garcia Marquez
44 A Prayer for Owen Meaney - John Irving
45 The Woman in White - Wilkie Collins
46 Anne of Green Gables - LM Montgomery
47 Far From The Madding Crowd - Thomas Hardy
48 The Handmaid’s Tale - Margaret Atwood
49 Lord of the Flies - William Golding
50 Atonement - Ian McEwan
51 Life of Pi - Yann Martel
52 Dune - Frank Herbert
53 Cold Comfort Farm - Stella Gibbons
54 Sense and Sensibility - Jane Austen
55 A Suitable Boy - Vikram Seth
56 The Shadow of the Wind - Carlos Ruiz Zafon
57 A Tale Of Two Cities - Charles Dickens
58 Brave New World - Aldous Huxley
59 The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time - Mark Haddon
60 Love In The Time Of Cholera - Gabriel Garcia Marquez
61 Of Mice and Men - John Steinbeck
62 Lolita - Vladimir Nabokov
63 The Secret History - Donna Tartt
64 The Lovely Bones - Alice Sebold
65 Count of Monte Cristo - Alexandre Dumas
66 On The Road - Jack Kerouac
67 Jude the Obscure - Thomas Hardy
68 Bridget Jones’s Diary - Helen Fielding
69 Midnight’s Children - Salman Rushdie
70 Moby Dick - Herman Melville
71 Oliver Twist - Charles Dickens
72 Dracula - Bram Stoker
73 The Secret Garden - Frances Hodgson Burnett
74 Notes From A Small Island - Bill Bryson
75 Ulysses - James Joyce
76 The Bell Jar - Sylvia Plath
77 Swallows and Amazons - Arthur Ransome
78 Germinal - Emile Zola
79 Vanity Fair - William Makepeace Thackeray
80 Possession - AS Byatt
81 A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens
82 Cloud Atlas - David Mitchell
83 The Color Purple - Alice Walker
84 The Remains of the Day - Kazuo Ishiguro
85 Madame Bovary - Gustave Flaubert
86 A Fine Balance - Rohinton Mistry
87 Charlotte’s Web - EB White
88 The Five People You Meet In Heaven - Mitch Albom
89 Adventures of Sherlock Holmes - Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
90 The Faraway Tree Collection - Enid Blyton
91 Heart of Darkness - Joseph Conrad
92 The Little Prince - Antoine De Saint-Exupery
93 The Wasp Factory - Iain Banks
94 Watership Down - Richard Adams
95 A Confederacy of Dunces - John Kennedy Toole
96 A Town Like Alice - Nevil Shute
97 The Three Musketeers - Alexandre Dumas
98 Hamlet - William Shakespeare
99 Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - Roald Dahl
100 Les Miserables - Victor Hugo

Summer Camp

2008-07-11T10:59:00.002-05:00

This week's Friday Five from Mother Laura is a must do:

1. Did you go to sleep away camp, or day camp, as a child? Wish you could? Or sometimes wish you hadn't?
I attended summer Bible Camp several years as a child. Enjoyed it. I also went a language camp (French), I think when I was late elementary or junior high.

2. How about camping out? Dream vacation, nightmare, or somewhere in between?
A great time spent outdoors. I grew up camping with my family every summer - remote camping, not this drive up to a campsite with running water, hot showers, and swimming pool at the campground kind of stuff. I also spent two summers as a backpacking guide in Colorado. Five days at a time with teens, carrying everything we needed for the week on our backs. I miss it.

3. Have you ever worked as a camp counselor, or been to a camp for your denomination for either work or pleasure?
Yes, yes and yes.
I worked at Voyageurs Lutheran Ministries and at Sky Ranch/Lutheran Ranches of the Rockies (that's where I was a backpacking guide). I now live at a church camp too as it is hubby's calling - you can e-mail me if you'd like to know where.

4. Most dramatic memory of camp, or camping out?
Where to even start?
- nearly running into a moose one rainy afternoon.
- lake swimming
- campfire worship
- a camper re-tearing something in her knee, 3.5 miles from the nearest road
- capture the flag at camp vermilion
and many many more...

5. What is your favorite camp song or songs? Bonus points if you link to a recording or video.
I'm abstaining because of too many favorites and lack of motivation to find a recording. The one I'm loving now is certainly not recorded (an original by one of my husband's summer staff members.)

Thankful

2008-06-26T11:11:00.002-05:00

For a week of sunshine to dry everything out.
Wonderful little boys, LittleBear and the Prince.
Faithful women who blazed trails, like this one and many others.
Four dear friends arriving this afternoon
Another dear friend coming next week
Wrestling with Romans 6 again this week.
The opportunity to preach on Sunday
That Dunkin' Donuts coffee grounds are available at the grocery store (one thing I miss very much about living East).

Word Association

2008-06-20T11:04:00.003-05:00

I snuck away from the kiddos to do a Friday Five. That's been difficult of late.
Singing Owl brings us this offering...

Sorry for being a bit late. The power was out here for a few hours.

I am feeling like playing hooky, and I'm putting off sermon prep till tomorrow. It is a beautiful, sunny day at my place. So come on outside and let's play a summer Friday Five!

This post is loosely based on previous "wordy" Friday Fives from Reverend Mother and Songbird. I liked the results, and so we are doing another word association . Theirs were based on words from a lectionary text. Mine comes from the Lovin' Spoonful song, "Summer in the City."

Think summer......are you there? Below you will find five words or phrases. Tell us the first thing you think of on reading each one. Your response might be simply another word, or it might be a sentence, a poem, a memory, a recipe, or a story. You get the idea:

1. rooftop hide and seek

2. gritty sand in my shorts at the beach, sand in my shoes

3. hot town (yeah, I know, it's two words) Philadelphia

4. night starts and breezes

5. dance when I was a camp counselor, sometimes the junior high campers would end their week with a dance--a practice I had and still have mixed feelings about. Maybe something about the mixed feelings I had at dances I attended as a junior high student.

ENOUGH

2008-06-08T14:53:00.002-05:00

ENOUGH
tornadoes
rain
flooding

We have had enough!
Forcast for severe storms the remainder of the week.

Grand Tour - a Friday Five

2008-05-16T09:54:00.005-05:00

Songbird has posted a great Friday Five over at RevGals .
Here it is:
One of our original ring members, jo(e), wrote yesterday about a trip she and her sisters are taking overseas with their parents, to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. Many other RevGals are headed for the Festival of Homiletics in the coming week (click here for information on a RevGals meetup!!). In honor of these upcoming trips, herewith your Grand Tour Friday Five.

Name five places that fall into the following categories:

1) Favorite Destination -- someplace you've visited once or often and would gladly go again
Colorado - beautiful mountains, beautiful weather, beautiful mountains. I lived and worked in Colorado for three summers. My sister and two of my best friends and their beautiful daughters are moving there soon. I'm jealous.

2) Unfavorite Destination -- someplace you wish you had never been (and why)
I can't really think of a place that I wish I had not gone.

3) Fantasy Destination -- someplace to visit if cost and/or time did not matter
New Zealand (again, my sister has been there), or Italy with my husband to explore old Roman stuff.

4) Fictional Destination -- someplace from a book or movie or other art or media form you would love to visit, although it exists only in imagination.
Middle Earth. But maybe I can see some of the sights, the way Peter Jackson saw them.- see #3.

5) Funny Destination -- the funniest place name you've ever visited or want to visit.
When I was in Colorado I lived at "Sleepy Owl" one summer. Not really that funny.

Windy

2008-04-26T14:43:00.003-05:00

It is a windy windy day here in the sticks. A large tree just came down in our yard. I'm glad we were all safely inside. I made the LittleBear "nap" (stay in his room) while the Prince actually naps so I can try to finish up proof reading my sermon.
This sure was easier when my husband was able to be home, or I had actual work time when the kids weren't underfoot.

Old Versus Modern?

2008-04-25T08:48:00.002-05:00

Singing Owl Writes,
"Yesterday I had two separate conversations in which people were musing about how much change is occurring. The WW II generation, of which my mom is a part, went from horse and buggy to automobiles, saw the lessening, or even the end of many diseases, went from widespread use of kerosene lamps and outhouses (in the country, and most folks were rural)) to a totally electrified and plumbed society. The fastest means of communication was a telegraph. The second conversation--gulp--was about MY generation and how much change occurred in the last half of the 20th century. The person said his 13 year old had not seen a vinyl record album until a few days before, couldn't remember a time without cell phones, and on and on.

As for the questions!

1. What modern convenience/invention could you absolutely, positively not live
without?
I really enjoy having the internet and my e-mail. I love being instantly connected to people around the world, being able to send messages to friends at any time, instant weather reports, (traffic reports were handy when I lived in Philly, now, not so much); Facebook has reconnected me with high school friends and keeps me connected with seminary friends. (Strangely, my college pals are a little Facebook shy). Those few internet-less months after our move were pretty lonely.

2. What modern convenience/invention do you wish had never seen the light of day?
Why?
We don't have any television reception here and I'm just as happy to keep it that way. We were visiting some relatives at Easter and the LittleBear was watching some television. Those commercials! He kept asking questions about the toys that he saw. Wow--I could see such a difference in his attitude that afternoon. There was one commercial that directly instructed the children to ask and then pester and beg their parents for the product.

3. Do you own a music-playing device older than a CD player? More than one? If
so, do you use it (them)?
A radio. I listen frequently.

4. Do you find the rapid change in our world exciting, scary, a mix...or something
else?
Mostly exciting. I'm young enough to never have lived without rapid change. There are some "advances" (see children watching commercials in #2) that are less than helpful. Others are great additions to humankind.

5. What did our forebears have that we have lost and you'd like to regain? Bonus
points if you have a suggestion of how to begin that process.
With all respect to Songbird, this isn't a question that I'm interested in answering. We can no more stop the change of society than we can stop the rain from falling. What we can do is be aware of the change and respond in ways that are helpful and appropriate. For my family that means videos only for our children, no television. It means not necessarily jumping on the cell phone wagon (although for many it is helpful, I know). It means embracing the different way relationships are formed, using facebook to connect with youth and adults in the church. We, as Christians, and especially as Christian leaders, need to put on our 'principalities and powers' filtering glasses. Does any given technology serve to enhance our gospel proclamation or does it become an idol--embraced because of its own attributes that make it attractive and, dare I say, God-like.

As society moves in a direction that looks to me to be increasingly antagonistic to a Christian way of life, our own witness must not strive for 'relevancy' for its own sake, or 'hipness' or any other descriptor unless such a thing is always in service of the gospel. I am becoming more and more convinced that a 'relevant' Christian witness in the years to come will look less and less like the cultural norms.

Tired

2008-04-24T14:41:00.000-05:00

The baby has been cut off from night time nursing. I am tired. Oh so tired.
But...

The plan is working. The Prince is sleeping longer and longer chunks at night. The screaming fits are growing shorter and shorter.

I have hope that within the next few weeks I may be able to sleep through the night.

And then, perhaps, I'll have energy for something other than laundry, dinner, and toddler chasing.

To the RevGals: I apologize for not being part of the conversations recently, and for my lack of commenting. I've been reading and I appreciate your stories and your wisdom. I'll be back to the table soon.

scam

2008-04-17T09:44:00.002-05:00

Today I received the scam e-mail claiming to be from the IRS requesting my personal information so that I could get a tax refund. I already received my refund.
Folks, watch out for this one (or any other e-mail that claims to need your personal info).

Etc.

2008-04-04T09:21:00.007-05:00

We started a compost bin. It has leaves and grass in it thus far. I'm excited about turning old stuff into new stuff, stuff that nourishes and will help our vegetable garden grow.
I'm taking a stand against passive-aggressive. I live in the land of gentle Norwegian farmers, Norwegian Lutheran farmers. Sweet people, but can't saying anything straight. I'm not gonna show up if no one actually ASKS ME!
I have family coming to visit this weekend. Yikes--gotta do some cleaning.

The Leaves

2008-04-04T09:12:00.002-05:00

I've been raking our yard. We moved in to this home in December, after the snow had already covered the ground. As it melted these last few weeks, its become quite clear that this task wasn't on anybody's priority list last fall. Along with the leaves piling up, I am pulling up long dead grasses and clearing the way for the new shoots that are tentatively poking their heads through in a few of the sunnier spots. Once the weather warms we should have a great explosion of green all around. Some of the trees have little buds and are, again, just waiting for weather a little warmer.

This is the work of ministry: wielding the tools at my disposal, raking away the ground cover, pulling out the old dead strands and preparing the ground for the warm breath of the Holy Spirit to bring new life.

I can't say it any better

2008-04-01T11:28:00.001-05:00

Your reading assignment for today: A more perfect communion?

sickly, but on-line

2008-03-27T09:27:00.002-05:00

My family has the icky-sickies. It all started last week when LittleBear threw up several times. He ran a fever through Easter and refused to eat. I saw his pants fall off him at Easter dinner. Luckily he started to eat again yesterday. It continued with my spouse who powered through the triduum with ibuprofen, and now sounds like his lungs are coming up each time he coughs. He stayed home from work for three days. I sent him off this morning, but he didn't look so good.

I thought the baby and I had escaped infection. No such luck! We are both stuffy-nosed, mild fever, and tired zombies. In an infant this manifests itself as only sleeping on mommy's shoulder and screaming if set down.

Into the midst of this chaos came Carl, the nice man who put some wires through our wall and connected them to a satellite receiver. I now have internet! Praise be!

hiatus

2008-03-13T15:06:00.002-05:00

Dear friends and anonymous readers,

I am a country dweller. I have no internet, hence no updates in the last few months. We should be back on-line soon (or maybe not so soon, but sometime). I am waiting for a call and in the meanwhile enjoying time with my family. I'll be back to the blog eventually.
Blessings!

Christmas favorites

2007-11-30T07:44:00.000-06:00

Parishioners pushing for carols before you digested your turkey?

Organist refusing to play Advent hymns because he/she already has them planned for Lessons & Carols?

Find yourself reading Luke and thinking of a variety of ways to tell Linus where to stick it? (Lights please.)

Then this quick and easy Friday Five is for you! And for those of you with a more positive attitude, have no fear. I am sure more sacred and reverent Friday Fives will follow.

Please tell us your least favorite/most annoying seasonal....

1) dessert/cookie/family food
anything with those little "candied fruits" is yucky!

2) beverage (seasonal beer, eggnog w/ way too much egg and not enough nog, etc...)

Eggnog - bleh! I like cocoa with a little peppermint.

3) tradition (church, family, other)
In many places there is a very strong tradition of singing "Silent Night" by candlelight. I guess I just don't get it. Wax dripping on my hands, people only know the first verse and can't read the rest of the lyrics in the candlelight, and inevitably someone forgets to give the leader a small flashlight so he/she has to improvise the next part of the service because he/she didn't look ahead (too enthralled with the candlelight?). Maybe someone can explain the appeal of doing this--other than we've always done it.

4) decoration
I love the real tree, but I have an artificial one-it's so much easier!

5) gift (received or given)
hmmm.... I'm pondering this. I don't put so much importance in the gifts that any one sticks out to me.

BONUS: SONG/CD that makes you want to tell the elves where to stick it.
All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth...

going, going

2007-11-26T11:11:00.000-06:00

Two weeks
to wrap things up.
to pack everything up.
until the whole family heads west

To the land of
vicious mammals in red
victorious men in green
rabid fans with yellow foam wedges upon their heads

To a place
that had no ice while others were frozen
near the great river
where many trees grow

The Lord be with you

2007-11-01T14:14:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, 8:00 a.m.

LittleBear, standing in the doorway of my bedroom (hubby and I are still in bed): The Lord be with you.

MamaS and hubby: And also with you.

LittleBear: Let's share Christ's communion.

MamaS: Okay

LittleBear: This is Christ, given for you. Now dip it in this cup. Now eat it.

MamaS: Amen.

produce

2007-10-24T10:34:00.001-05:00

We've lived in this 'burb for three summers. The first summer, no fresh and local produce. The second summer, we discovered the farmer's market. This past summer we planted three tomato plants on the porch. This past summer, people started giving us the overflowing produce of their garden: a few cucumbers and many, many tomatoes. I don't really care for tomatoes.

2007-10-06T19:19:00.000-05:00

For the first time in a long time, no one at our place is doing any last minute preparations for Sunday morning!

A Friday Five

2007-10-05T08:58:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the Friday Five! This one is going to be veeeery simple: List at least five things (people, places, graces, miracles...) for which you are thankful. You may elaborate as you wish, or keep it simple.

1. the Prince, age 3 days (met him Tuesday at 8:33 a.m.)

2. LittleBear, age 34 months

3. the Hubby: my true love, my partner, my cheerleader

4. Returning to the mid-west: Assignment to the South-Central Wisconsin Synod of the ELCA (Found out Thursday at 5:30 p.m.)

5. Being loved by God, no matter what

Of Endings

2007-09-28T06:48:00.000-05:00

A Friday Five, brought to us by Reverendmother...

Well friends, as I prepare for the birth of Bonus Baby, it's time to simplify life, step back from the Friday Five, and let one of the other capable and creative RevGals take the helm. It's been a great almost 17 months of co-hosting the F5, but it's time to say goodbye... so here's my swan song.

On Endings and Goodbyes:

1. Best ending of a movie/book/TV show-
I read Cold Mountain this summer. I can't say it was an ending that I loved, but it was just the right thing for this book. I also remember being completely struck by the ending of the Sixth Sense when I saw it (quite a while ago now).

2. Worst ending of a movie/book/TV show -
"The Forgotten" . "I need more time..." (the sound of a giant vacuum cleaner)...

3. Tell about a memorable goodbye you've experienced.
I was sitting with my grandfather when he died. It was an anticipated death due to illness and several of the family was present. I was a young adolescent; my younger siblings were there too. It was sad but it was also very right. After he stopped breathing, I "saw" an angel. Not with my physical eyes, but I just knew. The angel was in the corner of the room, and then came toward the foot of the bed, was there for a while, and then went back to the corner of the room. Later I sat with my grandmother on the couch while she sobbed. But you know, I never cried about grandpa's death because it wasn't sorrowful for me.
I am so glad that my family didn't keep the kids away from this part of our family experience. This is a memory that I will always cherish, and it taught me a great deal about life and death and family.

4. Is it true that "all good things must come to an end"?
In all earthly things, yes.

5. "Everything I ever let go of has claw marks on it." --Anne Lamott
Discuss.
She's onto something. Can we ever love someone or something without damaging them in some way? Its our sinful self-centeredness that makes us hold onto something for all the wrong reasons. But, I'd like to think that I also make positive contributions to those I love as well.

Bonus: "It isn't over until the fat lady sings." I've never loved this expression. So propose an alternative: "It isn't over until ____________________"
...the check is in my hand.
...they turn the lights off.

In which my brain has disengaged from the keyboard...

2007-09-27T20:26:00.000-05:00

Since I finished internship, I have had no desire to write anything. So I haven't. Blogging shouldn't be a chore or a have-to--that would defeat the purpose, or at least my purpose. I have been reading others blogs, and commenting here or there.

There are many things on my mind these days. Six days until the region assignment. 12 days until the Due date. Scheduled induction in 19 if baby doesn't show up on his own. God's got an interesting sense of humor, letting these two monumental, life-changing events be in the same week. There are other family issues going on as well, which I can't blog about, 'cuz well, I just can't. Needless to say, the stress level has been high around here lately. The LittleBear has forgotten his toilet training. Given the pregnancy bladder, I haven't slept more than about two hours straight in weeks. Yes, I know I'm going to get even less sleep. At least I'll be able to tie my shoes!

That's all I have to say about that.

I didn't fall off the earth...

2007-09-21T08:32:00.001-05:00

Wow! Its been a while since I posted anything. But here is today's Friday Five from the Revgals:

Making the most of our resources is important, I have been challenged this week by the amount of stuff we accumulate, I'd love to live a simpler lifestyle, it would be good for me, and for the environment I think...

With that in mind I bring you this Friday 5;

1. Are you a hoarder or a minimalist?
I am a minimalist at heart, and I've been working at getting rid of a lot of things. Our family will be moving sometime in the next year, to an as of yet undetermined location--I want to not move anything I don't use regularly or love. My spouse is a packrat, which makes my de-cluttering tendencies more difficult. Not to mention, a toddler seems to accumulate a lot of primary colored plastic doodads.

2. Name one important object ( could be an heirloom) that you will never part with.
I honestly can't think of anything I wouldn't ever be able to live without. Perhaps my wedding photo album, although that's not an heirloom yet! ah, okay, won't give up the wedding ring, although I currently don't wear it (I've developed an allergy, boo).

3. What is the oldest item in your closet? Does it still fit???
t-shirts from HS. Yes they fit, even with my big pregnant belly. I wore clothing a bit too big then.

4.Yard sales- love 'em or hate 'em ?
Not so much a fan. Usually the stuff is just more stuff to find a place to store in my apartment. They were helpful when we were furnishing our home a couple years ago, once in a while I stop in if I know that they have children's clothing.

5. Name a recycling habit you really want to get into.

Composting. I grew up taking this for granted. The amount of banana peels, apple cores, and carrot peels that we put in the garbage can is pretty astounding. I'm not willing to have a compost bin in my apartment however, so this is not an option now.

Presents!

2007-08-27T09:33:00.000-05:00

On Friday, I was visiting some homebound parishoners. When I returned, I found this...

Yesterday, at the end of the service, the congregation presented me with this...

My internship congregation is pretty cool. Only two more weeks. Mixed feelings.

on division

2007-08-18T14:08:00.000-05:00

In the gospel text for this week (Luke 12:49-56) Jesus promises division, even among family. It so happens that I heard an interview with Tony and Peggy Campolo this week on Radio Times. These two faithful Christians disagree strongly with one another about the issue of homosexual marriage. Yet, they live together with love and respect for one another. I haven't yet been able to listen to the whole interview, but I will. I will point you in to it, for what I have heard so far has made my heart glad and made my head think. It was timely, as I reflected on the promised division in this week's gospel lesson. You will find the mp3 and the podcast at the Radio Times website .

Column thinking

2007-08-17T18:10:00.001-05:00

Saturday spots

2007-08-11T06:43:00.000-05:00

I took an unintentional hiatus from blogging. I just didn't have the energy for it. But now our five weeks of summer camp (think 40 hours x five weeks of VBS) is finished. Energy is returning.
This week, I traveled to my home synod (read judicatory, presbytery, diocese.) I am "approved" for ordination! Whoo hoo! In October, I will be assigned to a region and a synod and able to begin interviewing with churches.
Unfortunately, there was a miscommunication about when my approval interview was scheduled. I was set to show up three hours late. I was able to interview via conference call--good. I traveled half way across the country to make a phone call--bad. But I got to spend a day with my parents --good, and a day away from my two year old LittleBear - relaxing!
Since I've returned, its been a very light week, work-wise. I'm amazed!
Yesterday late afternoon the rains came, the temperatures dropped, the humidity dropped. It was blessedly cool last night. We had the windows open all night long. Yes, God is good!

S T R E S S

2007-08-10T09:02:00.000-05:00

Sally has given us another excellent Friday Five:

I am off to spend a few days at the beach chilling out after a hectic few weeks and before I head off for Summer School...

So with that in mind this weeks questions are looking at how you deal with the stress monster!!!???

1. First, and before we start busting stress, what causes you the most stress, is it big things or the small stuff ?
If there is a big thing looming, the little stuff irritates the **** out of me. Usually I can brush the little things off. Unfortunately, there are lots of big things in the next few months (end of internship, new baby, region assignment, job interviews, new job, husband leaving his job, moving... yikes! I'm tired just writing it.)

2. Exercise or chocolate for stress busting ( or maybe something else) ?
Exercise. Although in my rather advanced state of pregnancy it has become somewhat difficult.

3.What is your favourite music to chill out to?
I relax by making music. I play piano and flute.

4. Where do you go to chill?
Short term--to the book store, the coffee shop, or for a walk in the park
Longer term - someplace with lots of trees, lakes and/or mountains. or relaxing in at the home of someone I love and who can make me laugh

5. Extrovert or introvert, do you relax at a party, or do you prefer a solitary walk?
This introvert loves a walk. I also find small gatherings with great friends to be very relaxing.

Bonus- share your favourite stress busting tip!
De-clutter and clean up something. It makes me feel that I've accomplished something significant, and it has instant results!

Potter Mania

2007-07-21T06:36:00.001-05:00

I intended to post some thoughts and predictions about Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. I guess its too late to do that now. Husband is reading it in the dining room while LittleBear watches a BabyEinstein video. Yesterday was husband's birthday and I promised him priority on the book (not to mention that he went to the bookstore at 11pm yesterday while I was in bed).
I have a sermon to write today. I dislike writing the sermon on Saturday, but that's how it goes some weeks, especially when the usual weekly rhythm gets thrown to the wind.
There is only one more week of church camp (like VBS, but five weeks long!). After next week, my weekly rhythm will calm down a whole lot!
I also have a group from church coming for lunch tomorrow--that means after the sermon it done, I have to do some major cleaning of the apartment. Harry Potter has to wait until at least tomorrow night.

a day late...

2007-07-21T06:20:00.000-05:00

The Friday Five, on Saturday, as I didn't even get to turning on the computer yesterday. ( it was a long day!)

Sally writes,

When I began work here at Downham Market a wise friend told me that after one year I would see a few changes and sense God at work- years two and three would cause me to question and to wonder why I had chosen to accept the post here and in year four I might see the beginnings of something new.

And so with that in mind alongside yesterdays celebrations I bring you Friday 5 Looking back, looking forward..

1. Share a moment/ time of real encouragement in your journey of faith
I was standing on the deck of the lodge at camp, with a cup of coffee in hand taking in the view of the mountains. I was chatting with a (middle aged male) pastor who was at camp with his youth for the week. He asked me about my journey and I had shared that I was called to ordained ministry. He said, "Our church needs strong young female leaders. I encourage you to persevere in this call and press on toward ordination. We don't have enough young females in our pulpits." (or he said something very similar.)
That was seven years ago. I haven't forgotten it. It keeps me going when I feel discouraged about all the "hoops" of preparing for ministry in the church as an institution. It kept me focused on finished school and absorbing as much as I can throughout the learning process. I don't remember who this pastor was or where he was from, but I will never forget that moment of God speaking through someone I had only just met. Thank you!

God willing, I will be receiving a call and be ordained to the ministry of word and sacrament in the next year.

2. Do you have a current vision / dream for your work/ family/ministry?
To be called to an exciting congregation with opportunities for me, and that my spouse would find exciting and meaningful ministry as well.

3.Money is no object and so you will.....
Run a summer camp/retreat center. Spouse will do summer camp. I will focus on meaningful spiritual growth and renewal opportunities for clergy and families, and retreats for lay people focusing on vocational discernment and Christian living in the 21st century. There would be regular worship and prayer. It would be rather rustic, but very comfortable, with good beds, great food, good coffee and a porch swing for the morning hours, internet available for guests but not a whole lot of fluff and frills. The focus would be on retreating and getting away from distractions. And since money is no object, there would be a small dedicated staff who we can pay well and offer great benefits (health, dental, pension, meals...) who would become a steady and faithful Christian community.

4. How do you see your way through the disappointments? What keeps you going?
Prayer, spouse, and see #1. Also, trying to remember that joys and sorrows come and go, but God is faithful, even when i can't see that.

5. How important are your roots?
Family formed me. I miss the culture that I grew up in and I hope to return there soon.

6. Bonus= what would you like to add ?

What are you...

2007-07-06T12:53:00.001-05:00

Its time for the Friday Five
Today, what are you:

1. Wearing:
Black t-shirt, khaki shorts

2. Reading
The Bible, a commentary, and a few websites.

3. Eating: pizza, french vanilla coffee.
Dinner will be fish, rice pilaf and a salad.

4. Doing:
writing a sermon

5. Pondering:
Luke 10:1-11, 16-20.
Why the lectionary cuts out the woes, and
How we as the church should be thinking about mission. If we don't do sending in pairs to proclaim the kingdom of God, what form should our mission and proclamation take in this day and age?

WELCOME!

2007-07-02T15:04:00.001-05:00

Welcome to those dropping by from the RevGals (meet 'n') greet. Thanks for stopping by. I am looking forward to getting to know you. I'm a little busy at the moment, please don't dwell on the disarray. I would appreciate prayers for our church summer camp. Five weeks, five days a week... If you stop back in August, I may have more profound thoughts, or at least slightly more involved posts. Until then, there will be a few Friday Fives.

Blessings!

5 Things

2007-06-30T15:11:00.001-05:00

Here is the famous five things about Jesus meme. I've had a busy week, so its taken me a while to get to this. Here you go:

Rules for this meme:
a)Those tagged will share "Five Things They Dig About Jesus".
b)Those tagged will tag 5 people. (if they can find someone untagged!)
c) Those tagged will leave a link to their meme in the comments section of the
blog of the person who tagged them (meaning this post) so that everyone can
keep track of what's being posted.

1. He was God-100%. He was human - 100%. All the time.
2. He loved the women, the sinners, the lepers, the tax collectors, the children, the unlovable ones.
3. Jesus rose from the dead.
4. He taught with stories. Often those stories confused people, and there is more than one way of hearing a story!
5. Jesus loves me! (and you too)

And seeing as how almost everyone has already done this, I'm not tagging. Just go ahead and consider yourself tagged. Let me know if you play.

Summer Time,

2007-06-22T13:02:00.001-05:00

Its time for another Friday Five!

1. Favorite summer food(s) and beverage(s).
Lemonade (the real stuff, and the pink Minute Maid stuff), grilled food especially corn on the cob, good steak, burgers if they aren't overcooked. A good pasta salad (not too much mayo), some potato chips and baked beans, and hotdogs cooked over the fire. (oh, see number 3).
2. Song that "says" summer to you. (Need not be about summer explicitly.)
"Summertime" from Porgy and Bess...
and as I spent six summers working for a variety of Lutheran summer camps, those classic camp songs send me there pretty quickly: Pass It On, Psalm 121, The Rock, etc...

3. A childhood summer memory
1. Backyard hotdog and marshmallow roasts with the family, 2. Camping with my dad at the lake, 3. Playing in Lake Michigan with my brother and sister on an incredibly hot and humid summer day. The air was well above 110, and the lake was incredibly cold!

4. An adult summer memory
Many and varied views of "the mummy" from my time at Sky Ranch .

This is also where I met Mr. mamaS, fell in love, and where we were engaged. With scenery like this, how could I help it!

Bonus pic: Here we are on our 'first date' --a hike to an alpine Lake above tree line. We're the two on the right. Our friend, who is on the left in the picture married the other person who hiked with us that day (the picture taker). How cool is that? Funny thing is, at the time I don't think any of us considered it a romantic date--just some coworkers spending a Saturday together enjoying the world God made.

5. Describe a wonderful summer day you'd like to have in the near future. (weather, location, activities)

A day when my family could enjoy a picnic someplace near the water (lake or ocean), just the three of us.

Optional: Does your place of worship do anything differently in the summer? (Fewer services, casual dress, etc.)

We worship earlier (so as not to bake in an un-airconditioned sanctuary).

Friday again?

2007-06-08T06:03:00.000-05:00

How did it get to be Friday again? Well, I'm up early with my LittleBear. He just decided to crawl back in bed with his papa, so maybe I've got a little time. Ladies, gentlemen and random web surfers, I present this week's Friday Five the Island Getaway Edition.

Cathy writes,
We snitched a bit of time on an quiet island nearby this week. It was a last minute plan, escaping with a minimal amount of preparation. One must have essentials that make it a relaxing time. Perhaps you have had this opportunity to escape, or maybe it's only been a thought to get away. However, suppose you were told to pack some essentials for a trip to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Describe your location, in general or specific terms and....

1) What book(s) will you bring?
There is no "required reading" but it should include one novel light and fluffy and one novel moving, thought provoking or of a classic literary nature. (I just finished Cold Mountain --both moving and thought provoking.)

There shall be no church books on vacation. Except my pocket Bible, of course.

2) What music accompanies you?
For a truly relaxing vacation, I'd mostly like the leave the music behind, and just tune in to the radio now and then (probably the classical music or the classic rock station).

3) What essentials of everyday living must you take (as in the health and beauty aids aisle variety)?
Sunscreen (this is a sunny vacation!), shampoo and conditioner, lip balm, a moisturizing lotion, and my Philosophy Purity Made Simple face wash. ( my skin hasn't been so clear since I was 10!) If this island getaway involves dining out I'd consider taking foundation and mascara--but this is a getaway, so that's all!

4) What technological gadgets if any, will you take with you or do you leave it all behind?
I'm a leave it behind kind of gal, although I'd appreciate a nice coffee maker.

5) What culinary delights will you partake in while there?
See number 4. Local produce, simple meals preferably cooked by my hubby.

As a bonus question, what makes for a perfect day on vacation for you?
Quiet, walks, sunshine, some swimming (no chlorine), a couple hours of reading, and a picnic lunch,

Hopes, Visions, Dreams

2007-06-01T09:14:00.000-05:00

Today's Friday Five courtesy of Sally at the RevGals .

1. Think back to the time you left High School, what were your hopes visions and dreams for your life/ for the world?

I wanted to change the world through music (or at least help kids to see how music could impact and shape them). That's right, I wanted to be a music teacher.

2. Have those hopes visions and dreams changed a lot, or are some of them still alive and kicking? (share one if you can)
I still think that music impacts and shapes people, but when I started to hear God calling me to ministry, the teaching of music took a secondary role. I still occasionally take music students, and I like to use music in my ministry.

3. Hebrews 11:1 " Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. " Comforting, challenging or frustrating?
Comforting. Things that we hope for have substance! That substance is faith. Faith we have been given now...perhaps the present and the hoped for future are not so distant from one another after all. The Kingdom of God is at hand.

4. If resources were unlimited, and you had free reign to pursue a vision what would it be?
To organize and implement outdoor ministry in a beautiful setting with a wonderful staff. It would be life-affirming and life-changing. It would be both personally challenging and family-life friendly. I would live in a beautiful place and my commute would be a ten minute walk. There would be community meals and daily worship and I would get to help young people find out how God is calling them.

5. Finally with summer upon us- and not to make this too heavy- share your dream holiday....where, when and who with...
A cozy cabin near a good swimming lake with either my spouse or some of my closest girlfriends, but not both at the same time. On second thought, with the girlfriends--I am blessed to see my spouse daily, and some of the girls I haven't seen in a couple years.

So take some time out re-visit you hope and visions...

Come, Join the Dance of Trinity

2007-05-30T08:13:00.001-05:00

Come, Join The Dance of Trinity
Text: Richard Leach
Tune: Kingsfold (CMD)

Come, join the dance of Trinity, before all worlds begun--
the interweaving of the Three, the Father, Spirit, Son.
The universe of space and time did not arise by chance,
but as the Three, in love and hope, made room within their dance.

Come, see the face of Trinity, newborn in Bethlehem;
then bloodied by a crown of thorns outside Jerusalem.
The dance of Trinity is meant for human flesh and bone;
when fear confines the dance in death, God rolls away the stone.

Come, speak aloud of Trinity, as wind and tongues of flame
set the people free at Pentecost to tell the Savior's name.
We know the yoke of sin and death, our necks have worn it smooth;
go tell the world of weight and woe that we are free to move!

Within the dance of Trinity, before all worlds begun,
we sing the praises of the Three, the Father, Spirit, Son.
Let voices rise and interweave, by love and hope set free,
to shape in song this joy, this life: the dance of Trinity.

Habits

2007-05-25T08:40:00.000-05:00

1. Have you ever successfully quit a bad habit, or gotten a good habit established? Tell us about how you did it.

With my first pregnancy, I quit coffee altogether. It actually was rather easy. The smell made me nauseous.

2. "If only there were a 12-step program for _________________!"
Obsessive e-mail and bloglines checking.

3. Share one of your healthy "obsessions" with us.
Meal planning--I look at the grocery fliers, plan out the menus for the week and shop accordingly. I try make the meals square (granted, that doesn't always happen). My husband and I are becoming more and more keen on keeping the saturated fats, the trans-fats and the sodium far, far away. I've always like green stuff, but he is getting into the salads and vegetables too. Our farmer's market opened up this week! Yippee.

4. Share the habit of a spouse, friend or loved one that drives you C-R-A-Z-Y.
My lovely spouse is often running about five minutes late. When we are getting ready to go somewhere, I will often have my shoes on, my coat on, the LittleBear's shoes on--and he is in the kitchen getting a snack. (Its getting a little better though. We are down to five minutes behind.) I adapt by giving him a departure time that is earlier than we actually need to leave.

5. "I'd love to get into the habit of ___________________."
A regularly scheduled time for devotions. In college, I would get up before my roommates and spend ten or fifteen minutes with my Bible or other devotional material. Now that I'm a parent, I cannot seem to find the energy to get up a few minutes earlier. I miss it.

Bonus: What is one small action you might take immediately to make #5 a reality?
Darn it-just set the alarm and do it for a week or two, until it doesn't hurt so much to just get out of bed.

Bonus 2: Try it, and let us know how it goes in a future post!

Sunday Afternoon Nap

2007-05-20T15:59:00.001-05:00

The confirmation students led worship today. They did a very nice job overall.
We just started using the ecumenical version of the Lord's Prayer (you know, "sins" rather than "trespasses" and "your" rather than "thy." The students were near the altar while we were praying the Lord's Prayer, and in the middle (in the middle!) of the prayer, I heard one say, "I don't like this version, Vicar." Loudly.
One of the eighth graders is a rockin' guitar player. He was awesome. I wish this church had a band.
I must sleep soon...
I greatly resent that I only get two weeks off as an intern. I wish I hadn't used them all up already. A dear friend is being ordained in June, in Boston. I lost my time turner and I won't be able to get there for the service.
I talked to some good friends this week, most of my family, and got a great e-mail from one of my bestest friends, all with good news to share. Its great to hear good things from ones who are dear.

Big Ol' Friday Five

2007-05-18T10:29:00.000-05:00

At first read, I didn't think I'd play today, as I'm not actually an official member of RevGals, but then I started dreaming, (and I've been hanging around these wonderful ladies in cyberspace for a while now).

Did you know that the major purpose for forming a non-profit, RevGalBlogPals, Inc., was to be able to attract grant support for a large scale RevGalBlogPal meetup? My dream from the beginning has been attracting financial support that would allow as many of our bloggers to be together as possible.

RGBP, Inc. now has a planning committee, and we are in the early stages of planning the RevGalBlogPal Big Event. What, When, Where and Who are all on the table at the moment. In that spirit, I bring you the Big Event Friday Five.

1. What would the meeting be like? (Continuing Ed? Retreat? Outside Speakers? Interest Groups? Workshops? Hot Stone Massages? Pedicures? Glorified Slumber Party?)

Continuing Ed would probably make it easier for some of us to swing something like this financially, but if so, make it about self-care, women's issues, and not too heavy.

2. When in 2008 might you be able to attend? January? Shortly after Easter? Summer? Fall? Some other time?
I personally hope to be finding or beginning a new job in early 2008, so realistically summer of fall.

3. Where would your dream meeting location be? (Urban Hotel? Rural Retreat Center? New England Camp? Southwestern Fantasy Hotel? Far away from civilization? Nearby Outlets or Really Great Thrift Stores?)
Outdoors, warm, plenty of hiking and mountains or water. I could care less about the shopping and the dining, and I don't mind having to drive far from a major airport, although I do think that if it was completely remote a lot of gals would find it difficult to come.

4. Who would make a great keynote speaker? (That's if #1 leads us in that direction.)
Again, I'm thinking lean toward self-care rather than deep theology. I think we might benefit more from plenty of worship and prayer opportunities with one another. If there were individuals or teams who would prepare these types of opportunities, the work could be spread out. I would love, love, love to hear some of the RevGals and friends preach. Please?

5. Did I leave out something you want to suggest?

Dreamers and Planners,
is this a gals-only? Family options? Childcare? (holy smokes, that adds a whole layer of complication, doesn't it?) Potential scholarship opportunities for those with more limited means and/or the students among us?

Dream big for the Big Event!!!

"I don't have a mom..."

2007-05-13T14:11:00.001-05:00

Over at Revgals there's been some discussion about the delicate situation of celebrating/preaching about/ recognizing Mother's day in the worship service. See here and here. I was already anticipating the dangerous work of crafting a children's sermon for this day. Many of the young people in this congregation don't attend church with any parent--some with grandparents, some with other adults, and quite a few who come with th staff of their group home. After much consideration and prayer, I decided to acknowledge that moms can do good stuff for their kids and moms can do not so good stuff, and then ask the women of the congregation to stand as I called them out (moms, godmothers, teachers, Sunday School teachers, scout leaders...etc. the list was long!) until they were all standing. Then tell the children that these women were their mothers in faith, and loved them, and remind the congregation to show the children how much they love them.

So I started the children's sermon. Before I even got through the first sentence, one girl raised her hand. "I have a question," she said. I nodded at her. "What do I do on mother's day. I don't have a mom." She brought her painful encounter with Mother's Day right to everyone's attention. I wish that we wouldn't loose that honesty as we grow. A lot of us adults like to ignore the elephant in the room even when it is standing on our toe. It flustered me, but I made it through all right to the part where the kids are supposed to see all the women who care for them. After the service, another girl asked me, "If they love me, why did they take me away?" (one of the girls from the children's home.) I don't know her specific story. The only answer I could give her was a big hug. What can one say to that? Just keeping showing God's perfect mothering love.

I am so, so, so glad that RevGals reminded me that this day is both joyous and painful (as can be many holidays). I've seen so many Mother's Day children's sermons about "How do we show mom we love her?" or "What does your mother do for you?" And that certainly would have blown up in my face! Thank you, thank you wise women and men of RevGals, for your thoughts this week.

Another Friday Five

2007-05-11T08:19:00.000-05:00

There are two types of people in the world, morning people and night owls. Or Red Sox fans and Yankees fans. Or boxers and briefs. Or people who divide the world into two types of people and those who don't. Let your preferences be known here. And if you're feeling verbose, defend your choices!

1. Mac? or PC?
PC, rather by default. That's always what's been at work, and what I could afford at home.

2. Pizza: Chicago style luscious hearty goodness, or New York floppy and flaccid?
More toppings, less bread.

3. Brownies/fudge containing nuts:
a) Good. I like the variation in texture.
b) An abomination unto the Lord. The nuts take up valuable chocolate space.
[or a response of your choosing]
I won't eat 'em with nuts. (shudder)

4. Do you hang your toilet paper so that the "tail" hangs flush with the wall, or over the top of the roll like normal people do?
Over the top, please. If the tail hangs against the wall, how am I supposed to grab it?

5. Toothpaste: Do you squeeze the tube wantonly in the middle, or squeeze from the bottom and flatten as you go just like the tube instructs?
In the middle--that is much more satisfying. I let the husband squeeze up from the bottom and get the last drops out. There is usually a week or so when I've started a new tube, and he steadfastly uses the old one--even though I'm sure there is no toothpaste left inside.

Bonus: Share your favorite either/or.
Coffee: it depends on my mood. Usually I take it black. If its not such good coffee (too bitter) or I'm just feeling like something different, cream please. And if we're going to use cream, let's use cream, not skim milk.

Its my party...

2007-05-04T07:38:00.000-05:00

Today's Friday Five courtesy of Songbird over at RevGals is about Parties. So here you go.

1) Would you rather be the host or the guest?

That depends--If I'm the host that means I know everyone who is invited and the food will be something that I like. But sometimes its just nice to party without all the prep work.

2) When you are hosting, do you clean everything up the minute the guests go home? Will you accept help with the dishes?

Heck yes, if someone offers to do dishes, they can! I usually clean up at least some after the guests leave. I really, really hate getting up the next day and still having a mess all over.

3) If you had the wherewithal, and I guess I mean more than money, to throw a great theme party, what would the theme be?

I haven't really thought about this. Perhaps a train theme (for my 2 year old) or if it was an adult party, we might have to do "favorite theologians" or "infamous heretics." That would be kind of fun to plan. I'd really like to just have a nice back yard bar-b-que. But we need a back yard for that.

4) What's the worst time you ever had at a party?
I can't remember something that was outright terrible. I've been at a few that were pretty boring, though. And a couple weeks ago, I was sick as a dog during a friend's wedding reception.

5) And to end on a brighter note, what was the best?
My wedding reception. It was a beautiful day and a meaningful ceremony. And of course, many of our friends and family were there. I don't think that I'll have that many friends in one place again (from so many different areas of my life - family, college, seminary, camp, camp, ...) until my funeral, and probably not even then. I'd definitely do that party again, even if I had to come up with the cash again.

Calling on the Experience of others

2007-05-02T10:40:00.000-05:00

Dear experienced ministery type folk--

I have a young couple who would like to learn about Christianity. One is baptized, one is not. There is very little experience of exposure to Christianity before they started attending church about two months ago. Now they want some instruction (and possible baptismal preparation for one)--and I'm meeting them next week.

Does anyone have some very basic, but adult resources that they've found or used in the past? Anything I shouldn't bother with? My plan for the moment is to start with the Apostle's Creed and go from there, seeing what they are most interested in.
Your thoughts appreciated!

Stinkin' Tired

2007-04-29T15:46:00.000-05:00

~ I have got to preach more and more from an outline. I'm not sure it really matters what I say, I always get more feedback when I use an outline rather than a manuscript. They listen more! (what I surprise, hey?)

~ I am exhausted! LittleBear (two years old) was up twice last night. Up at six to go over sermon and get ready for church. Try to get LittleBear ready for church for a 7:10 departure.

~ Potty training--had to wipe poopy butt at same time the confirmation class was waiting for me to show up so we could do something!

~Hubby ran his first marathon this morning. I couldn't be there because I was preaching. That sucks. He finished and I am a very proud wife!

~Want to nap, but must clean up at least a little before Hubby gets home.

Friday Five. What are you

2007-04-27T13:52:00.000-05:00

1. Wearing
jeans, black t-shirt that says, "You say I preach like a woman?..."
the back reads, "I say amen!"

2. Pondering
why I didn't start sermon writing a little earlier, instead of reading a novel

3. Reading
"Executive Orders" by Tom Clancy, a couple magazines on the bed side table, and Bonhoeffer's "Discipleship"

4. Dreaming
about living someplace with a yard

5. Eating
For lunch, it was peanut butter toast. Since then, pepsi and a little bit of muffin batter--I'm baking lemon poppyseed muffins for dinner tonight with friends.

Friday Five

2007-03-30T07:02:00.000-05:00

Well, the Clergy Superbowl is almost upon us, and so, I offer up this Friday Five (with apologies for the irreverent title):

1. Will this Sunday be Palms only, Passion only, or hyphenated?
I guess its passion Sunday, although the choir and the kids are processing with Palms and I'll do the children's sermon right after the procession, telling the Palm Sunday story (as we've cut out the processional gospel).

2. Maundy Thursday Footwashing: Discuss.
Eh, I'm kinda glad I don't have to touch people's feet this year. Although when I've gone to a foot washing service, its pretty meaningful.

3. Share a particularly meaningful Good Friday worship experience.
Last year I went to a service where the whole gospel was chanted. Wow! I thought it would be boring. Not so. It slowed down the pace so I really had time to take it in, and the chanting melody works so that the emphasis falls in the right place and the words get emphasized in amazing ways. This is something I want to do in the future, given the right musical talent and a congregation that won't show me the door.

4. Easter Sunrise Services--choose one:
a) "Resurrection tradition par excellence!"
b) "Eh. As long as it's sunrise with coffee, I can live with it."
c) "[Yawn] Can't Jesus stay in the tomb just five more minutes, Mom?!?"

b. Seeing as how I have sunrise service every week (8 am), no biggie.

5. Complete this sentence: It just isn't Easter without...
Communion, the hymn "Jesus Christ is Risen Today," it makes me want to dance and shout!

Bonus: Any Easter Vigil aficionados out there? Please share.

I love it, love it, love it. There is something amazing about standing in darkness, lighting a new fire, recounting God's salvation throughout the Bible, baptisms (oh I'd like to dunk 'em please...my denomination likes to sprinkle or pour) and celebratory communion, together, Christ is risen! Alleluia! If we can celebrate like this in the darkness when we see only dimly, how much more in the light when all is revealed?

A good nap

2007-03-29T15:59:00.000-05:00

1. I picked up LittleBear at daycare at noon-thirty. We came home. We napped. I feel like I have been hit by a truck. Its time to cook dinner (my turn tonight). Too bad I didn't get any of the enormous amounts of writing accomplished.

2. Has anyone seen the money that my confirmation class raised two weeks ago doing the 30 Hour Famine ? Dang it. I'm supposed to send that in.

An introduction

2007-03-21T11:00:00.000-05:00

Every blog needs an introductory post, right?

I decided I need a place to think about ministry stuff, things I'm reading, plus a place to do some revgals Friday Fives. I blog about family stuff elsewhere, but that just wasn't the right place for some of this.

I'm a Lutheran minister in training, a wife, a mom, a country girl stuck in the suburbs and working in urban ministry. I love to read, but I don't nearly enough. I miss the midwest and I hope to return there someday. Most of all, I am a child of God who is trying to live her life and calling with integrity and honest.
Join me in this journey!