It was a treat yesterday when Marcia Jones & JoAnn Wilhoite knocked on my door. We had a delightful time eating.... laughing... catching up on our lives.....and celebrating our belated January birthdays. Howard got home in time to see the wedding photos Marcia brought of her daughter's wedding.Saturday, February 16, 2008
Nothing Like A Visit From Friends
It was a treat yesterday when Marcia Jones & JoAnn Wilhoite knocked on my door. We had a delightful time eating.... laughing... catching up on our lives.....and celebrating our belated January birthdays. Howard got home in time to see the wedding photos Marcia brought of her daughter's wedding.
Joy Came Out Of Sorrow
It was a sad day when a raging fire gutted the University Christian Church here in Cincinnati a few years ago. It is the church where our son Craig and his family attend. The congregation is made up largely of college students since it is located across the street from the University of Cincinnati campus.
Most everything was consumed by the fire; however, this Bible was only scorched. It is now on display in the entry hallway. It served as a reminder that all is not lost. Take heart; God is STILL in control.
What the worshippers did not know was the surprise hidden under the surface. When the old carpet was burned off, they found a beautiful hardwood floor layed on the diagonal. All it needed was a good sanding.
Pastor Troy Jackson challenged each person to buy a chair for themselves and one for a friend. Everyone pitched in until the floor was covered with contemporary seating. This arrangement is movable which provides creative seating for various occasions.
Another Surprise!
The back wall of the church had been covered with plaster many years ago. Layers and layers of paint covered the surface, but nothing could hide the cracks. The fire burned it all off leaving a lovely brick wall as a backdrop to this newly decorated space. (Craig is patiently waiting while I snap these photos.)Last But Not Least
A fresh coat of paint on the walls made these old stained-glass windows pop! It is a lovely setting on Sunday mornings to be inside with the morning sun shining through cream and yellow glass with the aqua accents.This church is blessed with wonderful muscians. Many of them are enrolled in the U.C.'s School of Music. We have enjoyed communion and offertory meditations from students using guitars, flutes, violins, piano, drums and other instruments I could not identify. Some of the regular members also play on a rotation basis. Craig often plays his guitar which is always a treat for mom and dad.
A Place To Relax
The University Christian Church has an interesting coffee shop attached called Rohs Street Cafe. Craig met us here one Saturday morning. As you can see, it is a great place to get a latte and kick back.The Perfect Pets
If you want pets without the trouble of feeding, walking or training them, then go to Lego Land in downtown Disney. Here are five up for adoption.Friday, February 15, 2008
The Episcopal Church In Bluffton, S.C.
This is the church I wrote about earlier. The exterior is unfinished pine. It was built back in the eighteen hundreds. It is a thriving congregation with multiple services. Our guide was from Indianapolis.Kissin' Cousins
Howard is always happy to see another "West Virginian" especially when it's his first cousin. We drove to Wilmington, N.C. from Hilton Head to visit his cousin Norma and her husband Jim. Howard and Norma grew up together in Beckley, W.Va. Their mothers were sisters.Refreshing Beauty
After ice and snow at home, it was refreshing to see flowers in bloom. These two beauties were staging a show in Bluffton, S.C.
Jason's Recent Art Work
Here's a note from Jason explaining one of his recent works of art...
Here's the painting that got accepted into the Salon show in May. I'll be doing a demo for that show, so it should be interesting. This piece is called "Listening to Musical History" and it's 72" x 32"! I love painting this big, it's so freeing. If you look closely at the bottom, you can see an upside down cassette that is unraveling. My concept was to paint all of the older musical elements out of focus and distant with the headphones "plugging into" the past and listening.
The Pursuit Christian Church
Howard designed our vacation so we would be in Florida on opening day for the Pursuit Christian Church. It was a great beginning for this baby church which the Traders Point Christian Church in Indianapolis helped launch. Matt Mehaffey was the youth minister at TPCC before moving to Florida and becoming the lead minister. His wife Janie also worked on the TPCC staff. It is our prayer that this new church will grow and have a great harvest for the Lord. (The waves in the photo are from the people who went down to help with opening day from Indianapolis).Thursday, February 14, 2008
The Latest Fad
Living around the corner from the grandkids is becoming more educational than I expected. Are you aware of the latest fad among the young? Sawyer is 9 years old. He is bringing more information than the other three put together when it comes to current trends.
Today he informed me that he was learning to be a "responsible parent". I admire any young man who would lift themselve to such a high calling, but starting at nine years old seemed a bit premature to me.
I noticed he was heading toward the computer as he spoke. He explained that he had to use the computer and check up on his WEBKIN. When he purchased this small stuffed animal, it came with a code. The "new parent" types in the code and up comes their newly adopted Webkin on the screen (as I understand it).
Sawyer says it is his job to care for this little guy. I have yet to figure out how this works, but it is a serious matter to him. He says it teaches him responsibility. He is never to forget about the Webkin who is totally dependant upon him.
When he finished his task of doing the necessary things the Webkin needed, he returned with a look of contentment on his face. He said he liked caring for this little fellow.
I would like to meet the person who dreamed up this whole thing. He must be laughing all the way to the bank since the Webkins are not free! Also, Sawyer tells me he only has two, but some of his friends have as many as eight and ten each.
What happened to the old way of learning responsibility like taking out the garbage, walking a real dog and even feeding the poor thing. I have a hunch that Jack (his dog) does not get the attention this Webkin gets. Today was garbage day, and I didn't see Sawyer dragging any trash cans to the curb. I do hope he remembered to check on little buddy before going to bed tonight. Jack can take care of himself.
Today he informed me that he was learning to be a "responsible parent". I admire any young man who would lift themselve to such a high calling, but starting at nine years old seemed a bit premature to me.
I noticed he was heading toward the computer as he spoke. He explained that he had to use the computer and check up on his WEBKIN. When he purchased this small stuffed animal, it came with a code. The "new parent" types in the code and up comes their newly adopted Webkin on the screen (as I understand it).
Sawyer says it is his job to care for this little guy. I have yet to figure out how this works, but it is a serious matter to him. He says it teaches him responsibility. He is never to forget about the Webkin who is totally dependant upon him.
When he finished his task of doing the necessary things the Webkin needed, he returned with a look of contentment on his face. He said he liked caring for this little fellow.
I would like to meet the person who dreamed up this whole thing. He must be laughing all the way to the bank since the Webkins are not free! Also, Sawyer tells me he only has two, but some of his friends have as many as eight and ten each.
What happened to the old way of learning responsibility like taking out the garbage, walking a real dog and even feeding the poor thing. I have a hunch that Jack (his dog) does not get the attention this Webkin gets. Today was garbage day, and I didn't see Sawyer dragging any trash cans to the curb. I do hope he remembered to check on little buddy before going to bed tonight. Jack can take care of himself.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Happy Valentine's Day
Howard begins working with the college (Cincinnati Christian University) tomorrow. He returned from vacation with a rather full schedule. Sunday was his first day at the church near Dayton (Beaver Creek Christian). He has driven up two days this week. His schedule is flexible with both places which provides the breaks he needs.
Today was spent with two of the grandkids and my daughter-in-law Carol. She is homeschooling them, so they did it at our dining room table rather than theirs. They were happy to be here when the ginger snaps came out of the oven.
I baked cookies for the garbage collectors and the mail carrier on Valentine's Day while living in Indy, so decided to carry on the tradition here in the Queen City. Our garbage collectors deserve more than cookies with all the boxes we have left out for them while unpacking. They have been good sports about it and still wave as they pull away each week.
There are cookies left over. If you are in the neighborhood, stop by for a cup of tea and a couple of ginger snaps.
Happy Valentine's Day!
Friday, February 8, 2008
Home At Last!
Our trip to the South came to an end this evening when our plane touched down at the Cincinnati International Airport. Craig was there to meet us. We were welcomed by mild temperatures rather than the cold blast we had expected. I think we can adapt to this kind of weather.
It is great to be home. We are looking forward to meeting the Brammer clan at their coffee shop in the morning. I have been promised a "Brutopia" mocha. (No one makes a mocha or chai like Brutopia.) Taylor is their newest employee. We are eager to have him wait on us. We want to see him in action. He says he has the mocha routine down pat. We'll see!
It is great to be home. We are looking forward to meeting the Brammer clan at their coffee shop in the morning. I have been promised a "Brutopia" mocha. (No one makes a mocha or chai like Brutopia.) Taylor is their newest employee. We are eager to have him wait on us. We want to see him in action. He says he has the mocha routine down pat. We'll see!
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
What Does Our Name Say About Us?
While names are personal, we do not have the opportunity to choose them for ourselves. I have wondered what my name would be if I could have made chosen it myself. Some names seem like oxymorons to the persons they describe.
E.g., I knew a fellow in college whose last name was Richmond. He was anything but rich. He was a great guy, but wealth had not been handed down to him. He was a struggling college student like the rest of us.
Years ago we had friends whose surname was Small, but they weren't. They were tall and lanky.
We have friends whose names are Rush. I'm sure they have been known to hurry, but we have found them more inclined to kick back and relax.
Today I stopped by the ART CENTER here on the Island to see the "Gullah Celebration". Near the entrance was a bronze bust of a gentleman whose name was SELF. The plaque described him as being more about others than himself. He had donated the land the center was built as well as a generous contribution to get the center built.
He wanted those who lived on the island to have access to all forms of art. Today there are classes for various ages. It is also a theater which provides the locals an opportunity to hear music, drama and enjoy art from all over the country. My hat is off to Mr. Jim Self who has proven once again that, while we carry the name given to us, it can end up being an oxymoron.
E.g., I knew a fellow in college whose last name was Richmond. He was anything but rich. He was a great guy, but wealth had not been handed down to him. He was a struggling college student like the rest of us.
Years ago we had friends whose surname was Small, but they weren't. They were tall and lanky.
We have friends whose names are Rush. I'm sure they have been known to hurry, but we have found them more inclined to kick back and relax.
Today I stopped by the ART CENTER here on the Island to see the "Gullah Celebration". Near the entrance was a bronze bust of a gentleman whose name was SELF. The plaque described him as being more about others than himself. He had donated the land the center was built as well as a generous contribution to get the center built.
He wanted those who lived on the island to have access to all forms of art. Today there are classes for various ages. It is also a theater which provides the locals an opportunity to hear music, drama and enjoy art from all over the country. My hat is off to Mr. Jim Self who has proven once again that, while we carry the name given to us, it can end up being an oxymoron.
Eating at Pepper's Porch In Bluffton, NC
This is the restaurant I wrote about earlier. The exterior is covered with corrigated tin. The inside is in shambles. The legs on the tables & chairs are not the same length. The ceiling is low and dark. However, the food is excellent. Howard's gumbo was his best ever. My oyster sandwich, coleslaw and fried okra (yes...I said fried!) was incredible. It's not a meal we will repeat, but, hey, we're vacationing in the South. When in Rome, do as the Romans do!Monday, February 4, 2008
The Deep South
The Deep South got deeper yesterday as we drove through the streets of Savannah. Silver-gray moss waved us on as we drove down tree-lined streets and cobblestone alley ways.
Savannah holds tightly to its charm and tradition which provides a refreshing reminder of days gone by. It is a joy to drive by the old sun-bleached houses as they rest behind picket fences and swinging gates.
Horse-drawn carriages rattle their way through town giving visitors a personal tour of the old city. Savannah's rich history is one reason folks are drawn back to this Low Country. Another reason is to get one more taste of their "sweet tea". There's nothing like it!
Our visit also included a wonderful morning of worship at Savannah Christian Church. Cam Huxford is the pastor; however, he turned the pulpit over to a guest pastor yesterday. Gene Apple from the Willow Creek Church in Chicago gave a challenge for all of us to love people unlike ourselves. The church was warm and friendly. It was a great place to spend the morning. Cam & Sarah invited us to their home for lunch. Sarah had prepared a delightful meal which included....of course.... "sweet tea"!
We experienced SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY at it's best!
Love,
Martha (and Howard)
Savannah holds tightly to its charm and tradition which provides a refreshing reminder of days gone by. It is a joy to drive by the old sun-bleached houses as they rest behind picket fences and swinging gates.
Horse-drawn carriages rattle their way through town giving visitors a personal tour of the old city. Savannah's rich history is one reason folks are drawn back to this Low Country. Another reason is to get one more taste of their "sweet tea". There's nothing like it!
Our visit also included a wonderful morning of worship at Savannah Christian Church. Cam Huxford is the pastor; however, he turned the pulpit over to a guest pastor yesterday. Gene Apple from the Willow Creek Church in Chicago gave a challenge for all of us to love people unlike ourselves. The church was warm and friendly. It was a great place to spend the morning. Cam & Sarah invited us to their home for lunch. Sarah had prepared a delightful meal which included....of course.... "sweet tea"!
We experienced SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY at it's best!
Love,
Martha (and Howard)
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Everyone Has A Story
Howard claims I have an invisible message on my forehead which reads, "If you have a story, I want to hear it". Well, if it's true, I am delighted because of the interesting people who cross my path. I met one this morning. Our paths did not actually cross because neither of us were going anywhere. We were on treadmills in the exercise room! I was amazed that she could talk and tread at the same time. I was on the easy side of the conversation....just listening.
Her story began as a graduate from nursing school. She was immediately hired at a local hospital in the maternity ward. Her assignment included assisting a Jewish doctor in performing abortions. Since she didn't have an opinion regarding the matter, there was no reason not to give it her all.
As more proceedures were performed, she found it more and more difficult to sleep. She tried to talk herself into believing it was the long day's work with few breaks. Also, she knew she was not eating well. So she continued on.
God had been a part of her life since early childhood, but not seriously. He was someone distant to call upon in times of trouble. She decided perhaps she needed to call upon Him now. She needed guidance in this matter since it was haunting her day and night.
She went to a local Baptist church. The people she met seemed excited about their Christian walk. She wanted what they had and joined them. She asked a prayer group if they would pray for her because she did not want to quit her job and receive a bad mark on her record. Abortion was a very hot topic in the media at the time. This was before Roe vs. Wade. The group not only prayed but enlisted everyone they knew to join them. They asked God to remove her from the maternity ward so she would never have to deal with an abortion again.
Sometime later, much to her surprise, her boss, the Jewish doctor, came and explained that he had become a Christian. He could no longer perform abortions. He wanted God to forgive him for all those he had done including the one he performed on his wife. (Knowing how dangerous they were, he did not trust his wife to the care of anyone but himself) He told her it was from the viewpoint of Science that caused him to change his mind. He saw how one small dot carried all the DNA a person would ever need. He could no longer destroy it. (By the time one knows they are pregnant, the "dot" has grown much larger with a beating heart and brain waves). This gives a whole new meaning to the following Scripture.
13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. 14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. 15 My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth 16 your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
He quit his practice. Now he was going to devote his life to making people aware of what abortion REALLY was. Most people were not aware that one in fifty women died from the proceedure. My new friend had seen it happen. She gave me enough graphic details to convince me it was horrible. Tears puddled in my eyes. (Believe it or not.... I was STILL treading!)
The Messenic Jewish doctor contacted James Dobson and produced the film "The Silent Scream". That film has been shown around the world. It has received much criticism accusing this doctor of scaring women who are in need of help. I'm sure he has saved many lives....women as well as children.
My treadmill buddy is now the head of a Crisis Pregnancy Center which she started. She goes around the country speaking on behalf of those who don't have a voice. I was so inspired after hearing her. I was delighted that our paths crossed or at least we traveled 2.43 miles together on our treadmills!
Her story began as a graduate from nursing school. She was immediately hired at a local hospital in the maternity ward. Her assignment included assisting a Jewish doctor in performing abortions. Since she didn't have an opinion regarding the matter, there was no reason not to give it her all.
As more proceedures were performed, she found it more and more difficult to sleep. She tried to talk herself into believing it was the long day's work with few breaks. Also, she knew she was not eating well. So she continued on.
God had been a part of her life since early childhood, but not seriously. He was someone distant to call upon in times of trouble. She decided perhaps she needed to call upon Him now. She needed guidance in this matter since it was haunting her day and night.
She went to a local Baptist church. The people she met seemed excited about their Christian walk. She wanted what they had and joined them. She asked a prayer group if they would pray for her because she did not want to quit her job and receive a bad mark on her record. Abortion was a very hot topic in the media at the time. This was before Roe vs. Wade. The group not only prayed but enlisted everyone they knew to join them. They asked God to remove her from the maternity ward so she would never have to deal with an abortion again.
Sometime later, much to her surprise, her boss, the Jewish doctor, came and explained that he had become a Christian. He could no longer perform abortions. He wanted God to forgive him for all those he had done including the one he performed on his wife. (Knowing how dangerous they were, he did not trust his wife to the care of anyone but himself) He told her it was from the viewpoint of Science that caused him to change his mind. He saw how one small dot carried all the DNA a person would ever need. He could no longer destroy it. (By the time one knows they are pregnant, the "dot" has grown much larger with a beating heart and brain waves). This gives a whole new meaning to the following Scripture.
Psalms 139
13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. 14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. 15 My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth 16 your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
He quit his practice. Now he was going to devote his life to making people aware of what abortion REALLY was. Most people were not aware that one in fifty women died from the proceedure. My new friend had seen it happen. She gave me enough graphic details to convince me it was horrible. Tears puddled in my eyes. (Believe it or not.... I was STILL treading!)
The Messenic Jewish doctor contacted James Dobson and produced the film "The Silent Scream". That film has been shown around the world. It has received much criticism accusing this doctor of scaring women who are in need of help. I'm sure he has saved many lives....women as well as children.
My treadmill buddy is now the head of a Crisis Pregnancy Center which she started. She goes around the country speaking on behalf of those who don't have a voice. I was so inspired after hearing her. I was delighted that our paths crossed or at least we traveled 2.43 miles together on our treadmills!
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