HAPPY APRIL FOOLS DAY!

Happy birthday to Randy and Mich. Enjoy your trip to Edmonton Randy.

I am not going to turn the computer on in case something might do something that I do not want it to do.

Enjoying the stew and the hockey game.

Glen just drop in to see how we are. Good job I did not have my dark green ointment on I would have scared him.

My words of wisdom; "never take a pain free day for granted."

BETTER AND BETTER

A NICE WARM LIGHT - ON A COLD - WET - MORNING

I am feeling every so much better today. I just have a mild ear ache but no ice pack needed.
I am thinking this started in my back and neck and am hopeful and encouraged that I am going to feel better than I have for months. Now, I have to gradually get my energy back. My friend brought me some special oil to help the rash heal and take the itch away.

"Very occasionally singles pain occurs without a rash. This condition is called zoster sine herpe. In the absence of a rash' pain in the chest, or the back may be so severe as to be occasionally be taken for a heart attack [which I felt ] a lung infection or spinal problem."

Now, we just have to get dad to feel better. Worrying about me has not helped me.

I asked dad every day what he wants for supper and he always says he does not know or care but he says he wants stew. A good day for stew I reckon.

Now, I will check face book for more rabbit pictures. Rick is becoming an expert.

"Our concern is to live while we are alive. . . .
to release our inner selves from the spiritual death that comes from living behind a facade designed to conform to eternal definitions of who and what we are" Eliazbeth Kubbler-Ross

"Be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind." Paul

I may find the Bible hard to understand at times but I do agree that "God's ways are higher than ours". God loves to give and loves us to give to one another; to be generous in our thoughts and in our compassion.

WHAT A FUN WEEK

Looking back at last week there were so many happy moments. The funny card from Theresa, the special supper that Randy cooked, Sandra made sure we got our green vegtables, the over night visit with Ron and the early morning heart to heart, Mary coming to clean us up, Kim's phone calls and visits, hearing about the new adventures that Carol and Pentali will be having in China, Jane coming to help me pick out the underwear for the lady at the nursing home, Chris going to church with us and making us lunch, and Shirley and Belinda and Biranne coming to out story grandpa, the phone calls, the spring flowers and the delicious strawberries. It is good to laugh and enjoy life with family and friends.
Lots of good books to read and our wonderful T.V. which we are still learning to use.

Dad's bursitis is giving him pain. He needs to stop worrying about me. It is hard to be a care giver.

Jesus, was a man of action, who brought his healing presence to many; and still brings his spirituality of intense involment to others. We all have our moments when we feel discouragement and dispair but our prayers are being answered in unexpected ways.
Jesus healed the blind so that they could be among the first to see!

"If we never knew sadness [or sickness] how would we recognize happiness and health."

WHERE IS THE GOOD NEWS?

NO NOT A PICTURE FROM THE 1920'S

JUST HOME FROM CHURCH - ENJOYING OUR FLEETING SUNSHINE

Where is the good news? Certainly not on our news today; where we hear stories of violence, poverty, disaster. For instance there was the story of the gram other who was refused entrance to Canada to see her badly burnt grand son. We abuse the people with no power while we let the criminals abuse us. I firmly believe that all criminals from other countries who form gangs and murder people should be sent back where they came from. A simple act of justice.

We are waiting for good news from Melina and Ken as they are house hunting; an exciting time in their lives. But also one that will bring changes and sacrifices.

Do we go to church expecting to hear good news? Does the Bible grab our attention and show us how to live among all the disasters? Does the Bible inspire us to change and be transformed into people who have the desire to help others.

There is something missing in our churches. A sense of the sacred and the mystery of holiness that Jesus taught with simple stories that contained deeper truth that we are too blind to see.

Christopher is going to church with us today which is good news and makes my heart glad.

We all planned to go to Kim's place yesterday, Sandra and Randy, Carol and Panteli but lunch was too early for them and dinner too late for us. We went to the library and to the White Spot.
We can share a turkey dinner for under 20$ and we know the Sat. Waitress, she is a joy!

I am still having shooting pains in my head every evening and wake up at about 4 with shooting pains in my ear, so I can expect this for awhile. But his is so much better and putting my bag of peas really helps and taking some pills.


My plan is to go for short walks, 30 or 40 minutes twice a day.
This is 2.27 milws, with 4819 steps at 1.98 miles per hour.

I am looking forward to strawberries for breakfast and church and lumch with Chris.

TWO VISITERS

A LITTLE CLEANING ANGEL DESCENDED UPON OUR HOME

Yesterday I had two visiters; both of whom brightened up my day. My griend Carolyn came to pray for me and she told me how worried she was about me and she had been praying for me.

Mary, our grand daughter came, to clean up and make the whole house shine. She did a very good job and her happy attitude blessed us both.

We went out for a late lunch and it was good to be out and about. Later I talked dad into going for a short walk. I would have gone farther.

This morning I am going for a 30 minute walk.

DAD IS RIGHTER AND RIGHTER!

This is very annoying but it does help because I cannot make decisions right or wrong.

I had less pain yesterday and slept good until 5:30 when my ear decided to ache. I am all fineshed the anti-viral pills but took the T #3 and eventually it works, also put the ice pack on. I would much rather use warm but the cold helps but it makes my whole body feel chilled. I did not feel like getting up so dad got up and made me breakfast in bed. I figure we should use our little bed tray although I have never offered it to any of our stay over guests.

Jane helped me do the shopping for the lady at the nursing home. I did not think he would enjoy looking for cotton under garments etc. But dad did deliver them and they had a good visit.

I have an appointment with Nolte on the 22 well I should have taken the 17. If I find out when he is walking in I will go just to have some one I feel a little better with. I must say some of those doctors are inhuman.; or they make me feel inhuman.

My back is better but my head aches so I will be on the pill for awhile. I miss my walks.

Dad would vacuum if I asked but I sweep the floor and do laundry. I would like him to throw away stuff in his "salubrious place" better known as his computer room.

Rick is off on a trip and will send pictures. We would like to treat you to Kim's place Sandra should I find out if she is working. She is working to-morrow at noon.

I read this morning that every thing happens for a purpose so I will think about that today!

I told dad he should get a job working for the national inquirier taken awful pictures of people.

Oliver's last day of school today!

THE LOBBY AT THE SYLVIA VERY PEACE-FULL

BLESSINGS COME IN MANY DISGUISES

I am so thankful that the ugly red bumps are in my hair so I can go out; I was asked to get some clothes for a lady at the Nursing Home so Larry and I will have a quick look today and he can take them over. Yesterday, when we went to toe eye doctor for Larry I had an attack of inner ear vertigo; but after awhile it passed and we decided to go to the Sylvia. It was beautiful there.
We do not need to go far to be happy.

I believe that being content is a wonderful blessing.

Today most people do not think about the blessing of heaven that is waiting for them because they have it all now. I believe for those who are suffering poverty and misery they have to believe there is a place where the hungry are fed, the poor are clothed and the sad laugh and laugh until the tears flow.

Jesus did not heal everyone but he gave them hope. He assured them they were suffering the injustice of life not punishment for sins.

Material weath, knowing you can go anywhere anytime, does not bring increased happiness. What we start with is what we end with.

A WINDY DAY AT THE SYLVIA HOTEL

INSIDE THE DINING ROOM LOOKING TOWARD THE SEA

A VERY LARGE PRIVATE YAUGHT - APPEARS ON THE HORIZON BUCKING THE WAVES

WE APPROACH THE SYLVIA HOTEL - WITH THE RESTAURANT IN FOREGROUND

A NEW BUILDING SEEMED TO JUST POP UP WITHIN THE PAST THREE MONTHS

THE BEAUTIFUL VIEW OF VANCOUVER LOOKING NORTH FROM THE GRANVILLE ST. BRIDGE

We decided to go to the Sylvia for lunch after my (grampa) eye appointment, we really didn't feel to much like it, but it was such a nice clear day.

We were 45min. late for my appointment - a Semi truck turned over on the Alex Fraser Bridge and we eventually detoured through burnaby - so did about a thousand others.

Mom felt very sick with her headache and nausia on the way so went straight to the washroom. I went for my tests but they said I was too late - however I looked sort of pathetic and they decided to fit me in. By the time I was out Mom was coming back from the washroon looking a little green.

So after I had my next appointment with my real Doctor we decided to live it up.

ENJOY LIFE WHILE YOU CAN

My pain medication was increased and i exerienced four wonderful hours. But then it returned and continued into the night. I am now waiting for it to start working this morning, I am tired this morning and wonder if my life will ever be the same.

Randy made us a delicous supper last night, even special New York Brownies, O;over and Mary, Carol and Panteli, Sandra and Randy were here so it was fun.

Dad woke up in good humor this morning cracking jokes. I would laugh if it did not hurt!

We are off to see his eye doctor in town. I will keep to myself It is quite a nice day so I am thankful for that. Iam thankful that I do not have to work for a critical boss. I am thankful I am not starting a new job or fighting a very miserable cold.

I will get ready and lie on the bed until it is time to go. I do not know if I can go out, doctors do not tell you anything. My doctor at the clinic had a dead pan look and no compassion at all. "You are having pain take more and more pills." And out the door he went.

So I phoned my friend who had shingles and she said "O you poor dear I know it is the worse pain ever."

I could be phony and be bright and cheerful. Maybe tomorrow.

Hey, I almost had a positive thought!






.

FOR BETTER OR WORSE

I start to feel better and I am so happy but then the sharp pain returns with all its might. I had another bad night but I am counting the days until I will be all better and back to normal.
Which as normal as I can be. Right now I am going to put ice on my head and try to pray and to read. I do not know if it is okay to put ice on but it helps. Maybe warm is better I wish I knew.
I will go back to the doctor when the pills run out.

Definition of shingles: a disease causing inflamation along a nerve.

Ken I am sorry your cold got so miserable I thought you should have been on something here.
Matthew looks adorable as usual.

Anyway we are looking forward to Randy and Sandra trying out a new receipe on us this evenning, Whatever it is it will be good! Carol and Panteli dropped in on us as did my good friend Jane.

Kim made us lunch yesterday and we really enjoyed it.

Encouraging words from Chris and Tasha helped a lot. Also got an e-mail from Ranu. Theresa called last night as did Ken and Rick!


I find myself turning to the comfort of prayer and the wisdom of scripture to speak to me this morning. Conversion becomes the process of being aware that somehow God is at work even in the cells of my body. I feel like this pain of the shingles is playing tricks on me. Last night it was in my ear while this morning it is the top of my head.

One day I will look back and laugh. But right now I feel that it is these miserable sharp twinges that are laughing at me!

As I turn my thoughts to prayer I see this very, very tiny person at the feet of Jesus. So tiny all I see is his toes in his sandles. I hear him calling all the children to come and sit on his knee. I am too small and too weak. So I wait. This is when the ptayers of others are so important; so much so that they can lift us up! !

THREE MORE DAYS TO GO

I FEEL FOR THOSE SUFFERING CHRONIC PAIN
as I sit here with a bag of ice on my head. It wakes me up in the night
and early in the morning. I am so thankful for the pills that help and i count
the minutes after I take them.

The anti-viral pills make me feel stramge but it is important I take them.

I feel badly my boys have had such miserable colds We are all getting better but it is miserable.

The rash is going into my head so I just cannot touch it at all. Maybe I should shave it all off.

But like they all say :It could be worse" well believe me that is not cheering me u

My morning coffee tastes great, thanks dad. I am soo weak I can barely lift the cup.

Just got an answer from Chris. That means the world to me. Sure we would love it if you could come over this week-end. This is very hard in dad and he would appreciate some one makeing a meal.

Our family is the best! ! !

Kim says she is coming for a visit so we are lookimg forward to that.

THE SHUFFLE AND THE FLOWERS HELP

THE BEAUTIFUL FLOWERS JANE BROUGHT - THEY HELP SO MUCH - AND ARE SO APPRECIATED FROM SUCH A DEAR FRIEND!

It is such a beautiful day and I am longing to go for a walk. Maybe dad has gotten his wish the days of long walks are over!

I am in terrific pain that has travelled from my forehead to all around my eye to my neck and now up the back of my head. It is like having a headache, an ear ache and a tooth ache. I am om the pills that control it a pit but do not cure it. I have lots of pain pills I am usubf ice and cold. My i-pod it a real gift that helps me relax.

I cannot comb my hair it hurts too much. I look about a 100.

Dad is absolutely wonderful except when we go to the doctor. He was complaining about my long walks which Had Nothing to do with the case in hand.

I have a good mystery, and good video's. Even The Prime Suspect and Columbo. My friends will be praying and I am so thankful for their prayers. A miracle would be nice but I know there are so many worse off than me. I would be happy if they had a miracle.

My legs want to go for a walk but the guard at the door says "no Way" Dad is reading me funny articles from the paper.

A BIGG PILL

I know I am beimg a big pill amd a complainer but I never have had suck sharp painful pain.. It st rated ij my forehead and then went to around my eye and then down around the neck, up the next into the ear. Now it is shooting up the bad of the head to the top of the head. It really really hurts and takes my breath away.



I am taking lots of pills. HEY, i MAY HAVE TO RECALL SOME i GAVE AWAY! jUST JOKING.

Just imagine the worse tooth-ache combined with ear-ache etc.



I am trying cold and hot. Listening to my religious music on my i-pod helped me during the night.



I am looking disgustingly old.



I will rally the prayer team and I appreciate your loving thoughts and prayers and sympathy

A LONG NIGHT

Yes it was a long night for dad and me. My head hurt and he was worried. So we will find a doctor today and find out what I can take and hopefully what it is.

Ron has just left for a busy day. I hope Mikie's back improves he was in a lot of pain after hurting his back. He is getting treatments and he seemed better but yesterday he was not so good. Hopefully they have fun on Salt Spring joining Kim and Mike there. Ben and Morgan will love the new baby lambs, three of them are bottled fed.

It feels warm today and right now it is not raining. I will pass on the walk. off to the doctor instead/

NO WORRIES MATE! The pain is from my neck and is not caused by the pill and I can take something for the pain, put heat on it and do stretching and resting. I am considering going for smaller walks as again they say it hurts the back. I just have to watch for a rash because it may be shingles. I do hope it is not. Dr. Nolte is back April 3.

ONE BY ONE

CAN YOU SEE THE RAIN?


One by one they come to stay in our guest room but occasionally there are two or maybe three when Theresa stays and Ben and Morgan end up in bed with her.

Today Ron is coming and it will be good to have a visit. Hope I can get rid of this miserable headache. Came on two days ago and was worse when I woke up this morning. I think it may be a side affect of the medicine.

Theresa and Ben and Morgan may drop by today. It is spring break and I believe they are off to Salt Spring Friday to see baby lambs, etc. We have talked about going but so far it has just been talk.

we saw Matthew going for a walk with his daddy on our inter-net. Sounds like his is still bothered by that miserable cold. It is amazing how these pictures can go back and forth.

I am off to the store to get some food and use my slow cooker.

Sandra drop by on your way home if you feel up to it. Do you know when Dr. Nolte returns?

ACCOMPISHMENTS

BEFORE YOU KNOW IT - GRADUATING FROM HIGH SCHOOL - LIKE TAVIA

ON STRONG - (BUT MAYBE A LITTLE WOBBLY) LITTLE LEGS

TAKING FIRST STEPS - WITH A LITTLE SUPPORT!

LIKE CLEANING UP THE GARDEN

It seems like a good day when you accomplish even a few tasks.

A hockey stick and skating with friends enables Larry to skate around passing the puck with only one fall. He managed to get up himself. It was a short time but he did it.

I phoned the Women's Hospital to check on my appointment to find no appointment had been made. I now have one for June 1. I am learning how to cope better and realize that certain things make me worse.

I read in my "Coyote Medicine Book";

1. The patient must do 70% of the work of getting well.

2.The native healer does 10%

3.The Creator does 20%

I am reminded that I need to learn all I can and seek help from people that I believe really care and want to help me. Healing can be an experimental process. Spiritual energy can be experienced in nature and in prayer and worship. An important part of Native healing is the ceremony that encompasses compassion as well as fire and smoke and herbs. In curing a wife of depression both partners are encouraged to speak words of love and praise to each other.

So much of who we think we are is wrapped up in what we can do; which is important. Even more important is realizing how much we need each other. We all know how sad it is to be away from those you love and who love you. We know that we carry that love within us at all times.

Jesus tried to teach us that religion was to be experienced in the heart and soul and the external observances were not what was important. No one has more authority over us because we are all equal. All interpretations have some bais and words of scripture have been used to prove their point. I can look back and see how my beliefs are changing. My picture of Jesus will always see his eyes as full of compassion as well as wisdom and mystery.

"the ragged figure who moves from tree to tree in the back of ones mind" - Flannery O'Connor.

We had a good visit with Carol as she was waiting for Pentali to pick her up. Randy now has the cold and we can all feel sorry for him. It is a miserable sore throat runny nose and cough.

I hope little black cat comes home. I was going to phone Sandra last night but thought maybe it was too late. It was 8:30 but you never know.

I am going visiting today because Theresa Ben and Morgan may come over on Thrus.

DOING WHAT HE LOVES

7AM - GRAMPA LEAVING FOR THE RINK - HOPING FOR THE BEST - HE DID MUCH BETTER THAN PUBLIC SKATING - ONLY FELL ONCE NEEDED A LITTLE HELP GETTING UP - HAVING THE PADS ON AND THE HOCKEY STICK TO KEEP HIM BALANCED (SOMEWHAT) MADE A HUGE DIFFERENCE

GRAMPA GETTING READY THE NIGHT BEFORE

It is an early start for dad as he has a quick breakfast, puts together the hockey bag. "Boy, it sure has gotten heavier". Then it is off to the hockey rink and to see if he can do better than his first try back skating. He is meeting our friend John who will be his guardian angel!

Well, we are told to face our fears amd just get on with life. I think this is what real courage is about. Keep on keeping on.

Rick will be starting a new job living in a new place and meeting new people. Carol also is planning to move up north to try a new carrier. Soon Mary and Michael John will be married and moving away. Sandra cooks turkey dinners in March and Ken, starting a new family, flies all this way from Melbourne to have a visit with us. We sure hope Sandra and Randy do not move far away because they continually do things for us both.

Our family keeps our lives interesting and we enjoy keeping in touch as best we can.

We have found some video's about a female detective who teams up with a professor who finds clues to the mystery in cross-ward puzzles. His name is Oliver and he likes Beethoven, jazz and puzzles of all kinds. I am finding Rebus too "real". I do not know if that is the right word.

But people who do crossword puzzles are always loveable! Right Sandra?

This afternoon we have coffee with friends who are going through treatment like your dad did.
They will have much in commom.

Of course I felt like I could have slept in this morning; wouldn't you know. But now it is off for a walk and back doing my yoga. I am doing what I love too!

It is good to know that we have good friends praying for us.

STARTING OUT

Another cold day and I am off walking all alone.

Before I went dad said "hey they are talking about your shuffle, and I thought it was my walking but evidently it has to do with the i-pod.

Then we went to pay a traffic ticket [well everyone makes mistakes once in a blue moon].

Dad may go skating tomorrow and I hope that goes well

BURNING FIRE

This is the burning fire that kept us warm at Kim's restaurant and cast a beautiful glow all around us. God spoke to Moses through a burning bush which drew him to the place where he heard God's voice. John the Baptist spoke of Jesus as the one who would baptize with the Holy Spirit and with fire.

Can religion help us overcome the fire of anger that burns within all our human hearts? Religion can insite people to be violent and fuel intolerance but I do not believe that this was the teachings we were to live by. One of the challenges of faith is to cultivate peace within our own hearts and our families and communities. We have to read the Bible with the goal of "doing unto others what you would have done to you." This says Karen Armstrong is the real message of the Bible threaded among the ugliness of religion that creates war because it's goal is power.

I agree with David Wolfe "inside every human being is a battle againest the pettiness and malice that thread through our character." I believe that our anger leaves us not only drained but feeling guilty realizing we have lost our "cool."

"The deepest experience of God has never been in conquest but in compassion, community, holiness, and humble goodness." Violence can never capture the human soul and force it to conform. The fire of religion, the love of God, can be denied expression but cannot be put out.

I would invite your comments.

THE VISIT

LUNCH MENU

THE INSIDE - VERY NICE PLACE

KIMBERLEY JOINS US FOR A LITTLE VISIT

OUR FAVORITE WAITRESS

THE ENTRANCE - RATHER UNDER-STATED - SIDE STREET - GETS BETTER INSIDE

We finally made it to the restaurant where Kim works in New Westminster. A very beautiful place, big and open, friendly and warm. It was too bad Ken could not visit during his visit with us; we enjoyed every moment of catching up with all he has been doing; and Randy and Sandy were not able to join us yesterday. The meal was Delicious but right now I cannot remember the name of the place so hopefully dad will remember when he wakes up. Piatos I think.

Afterwards we had some time with Mike and his son Michael. It is good to meet people that you have heard about but now we have a face to remember.

Hopefully our family is finally getting over the bad sore throat and cold we have all had to some degree or another.

Tonight our group comes over to study our book "Why Faith Matters." We all believe that faith should matter and as we seek answers together somehow our lives will take on a deeper meaning that produces within us more love and compassion for life and for our family and our friends.


Faith that is taught and learnt by "religious instruction" can be a powerful force for good or for abuse. The disciples who lived with Jesus and heard his teachings often only heard what they wanted to hear. He told them story after story to help them see beyond themselves and see the hurting world that needed hope not more rituals that outwardly can make us look good while inwardly there has been no change. Change is hard for all of us.

The Promise

Jesus told his followers that he was leaving them but to remember His Spirit would aways walk with them. We may feel alone at times but if we believe the promise of the Spirit we are not really alone.

NEGATIVE ENERGY & POSITIVE

THIS IS A VIEW WITH A MAGNIFICATION OF FIVE - A HIDDEN SECRET HOUSE - IMAGINE IN THE SUMMER - NO ONE WOULD GUESS A BUILDING EXISTED

WITH THE MAX TELEPHOTO - MANY INTERESTING IMAGES APPEAR

I am working on clearing away any negative energy and believing I am feeling better.

Rick, I do not know how to work our new cable stuff but I will have to give it a try soon.
Maybe dad can send you your programs; but no he says he cannot.

No, we have not ordered that program but will do it today.

Thank you for the great pictures of your new place. I am sure it will be great in the warmer weather. We are looking forward to coming to see you when the weather is better.

Are you all over your cold?

"I love science, and I understand the impulse to look for biochemical explanations for disease and everything else that happens in the body. I understand that our emotions are played out upon a molecular stage." -Dr. Mehl

I believe that prayers can have amazing effects on our bodies. Especially prayers of thankfulness.

"I believe the less respectible view that illness has itw roots in the invisible world of the spirits, And in the stories people tell themselves." -Dr. Mehl

Dr. Lewis Mehl-Madrona, M.D. has written an amazing book "Coyote MEDICINE" which examines how doctors try to figure out what is wrong with us by tests and cure us by giving us pills. I would recommend getting this book from the library!

MISERABLE COLDS SLOW US DOWN

A PICTURE FROM DAD'S CAMERA

We tried to go and visit Kim when Ken was here but he was getting the miserable cold and I was a bit acky. This cold has hit our family hard; now with Sandra in bed miserable. Actually that was several days ago but hopefully she is better now.

Waiting for pictures from Australia. Wondering if Ken is feeling better or worse? ?

MY OWN JOLLY MAIDS

WHAT IS THIS

GIRLS JUST ARRIVED - OUR VAC IS THE FUNNIEST THING

Thank you Ava, Tavia and Gracelyn for coming and making our house so fresh and clean. We really appreciate all you did. Thanks for the flowers and the visit. I know from the camera pictures you had fun doing it!

A slower pace.
Our computer has slowed down but so have we. Today I am planning a long walk over with Janet but I know my pace is slowing down. We encourage one another which is good. Its is warmer today and the rain is coming.

Our T. V. is now working after another visit from the cable boys.

A spiritual vision.
"If we lose the vision, we alone our responsible, and the way we lose the vision is by spiritual leakage. If we do not run [apply] our beliefs about God into practical issues, [the vision God has given us with our spiritual gifts] we lose what has been given to us." O. Chambers.

NOT THERE YET

LADNER UNITED CHURCH - SITE OF MARY AND MICHAEL JOHN'S WEDDING

As we woke up this morning we are aware that Ken is still flying and he will arrive in Melbourne on Friday their date. What a long trip! We so appreciatte his coming to spend time with us.
Carol is now planning to work up north and she is excited about trying this new adventure. We know we will miss her too, but we wish her well on her new adventure.

Looking back on my life I cannot say I have had any real regrets and I am content with my life and feel blessed in many ways. I am thankful for the faith that has carried me through the difficult times.

The book I am reading suggests three questions to ask yourself to open your heart to the healing that flows all around us as we become aware that we are human but we have potential to be spiritual beings.

Who are you?

Where did you come from?

Why are you here?

We all have a" hidden mystical consciousness" that waits to be born and nutured to deepen the soul to it's full potential. A kind heart, a compassionate spirit, a generous soul, an inner peace.
We are aware that we can be more than we are and the presence of the wisdom of the Spirit will encourage us and teach us. One of the messages of Jesus was asking us if we are willing to die to ourselves to be reborn; reminding us that we are caught in between two worlds; the spiritual and the natural. We are given special spiritual gifts to heal and transform us if we are open to it.


Mary and Michael John are preparing to be married and committ their lives to growing together. It is an exciting time of preparing and expectations but it is only a beginning.
They will continue to learn more about each other and more about unconditional love.

We are all born with our distinct personality that can be shaped by life but not changed!
We can become discouraged when some things do not change and we have to learn to live with it.

Other things, like our health and our relationships, require work and effort. Even on our spiritual journey we are not there yet! Today I will be walking alone this morning so I will not go in the water shed park.

OFF HOME

THIS FELLOW KEPT AN EYE ON US AS WE DROVE HOME

A BEAUTIFUL VIEW OF A BEAUTIFUL WORLD

MOM IS JUST ABOUT TO CRY!!

ONE RATHER PHOTOGENIC GUY - PLUS GEEK WITH STRANG HAT!

A perfect day with the mountains guiding our way to the airport; but always sad saying good bye

LAST MORNING

KEN WITH HIS AIRCRAFT SEAT COMPANION!

STARTING OUT FOR A LITTLE WALK BEFORE GOING TO AIRPORT

JOURNEYS

It is bright and sunny and -4. We all woke up early and enjoyed pancake breakfast along with dad's stories. It has been a fun morning with Ken teasing dad about his coffee drinking.
He has gone three days without coffee so he is not addicted but he may be in denial.

I cannot believe it is time for Ken to leave but I know he cannot wait to be back with his loved ones. He will be on his journey by 2 this afternoon.

I have decided to journey deeper into the spiritual to see if I can find answers for my pain. I am so grateful for all those who are praying for me.

HOME ALONE

Some of the family are dining out today but I did not feel quite up to it. I have had a good visit with Kenny and have enjoyed out walks together. He does miss everyone at home a lot. I know what that is like; I do not like being away from our family for a long time.

We will really miss Carol is she takes the job up north which it sounds like she is going to do.

My camera is out of memory so no pictures today unless I put an old one on.

It has been a very beautiful day with the sun shining but it has also been very cold. I wonder about my poor plants. Ken and I did some shopping today for small items to take home with him. Dad and I went to the library and I got him a great book about London in the time of Dickens. He reads the paper and I search for video's and books.

I am having some pain so if I rest I will not need to take another pain pill. I have some phone calls to make and a good book so I am okay with being here and resting.

A WALK IN THE PARK

Kenny shoveled the walk before we start off.

WAITING Hi Melina

LUNCH AT THE WHARF IN LADNER

STARTING OUT TO LOOK AT THE SHOW HOME

It is a cold frosty morning and I have been up for over an hour but Ken and Dad are still sleeping. Panteli just phoned to make sure we changed our clocks ahead an hour.

We had an excellent turkey supper at Sandra and Randy's yesterday. It was delicious and they went to a lot of work and effort. We celebrated Mikie's birthday and Carol's and actually had two cakes and lots of candles. We missed Chris and Leah and Tasha, and they missed a fun evening.

Today dad and I and Ken will be off to church. While we are gone the Shanon girls' have offered to come over and do some cleaning for us. This is a first and will be a treat for me.

After church Ken is going with Sandra and Randy to White Rock to see the Show Home. Then later Carol and Panteli will be going to a movie with him.

I hope Ken's sore throat is better and Rick's nasty cold. I am feeling better this morning with no back pain. I am very thankful after two days when it was increased. Anyway I know that getting on is giving even my children some new aches and pains.

I like the quiet mornings and time with Jesus. The mystery of his presence comes to turn the ordinary into a spiritual reality. He challenges the self-righteous, the rich and the legalistic that have turned the gospel into an elite separation of those ritually pure from the down-cast, the sick at heart and soul, the poor and needy.

Jesus waits for us to invite him to stir up within us new awareness of our own soul's neediness and compassion for others.

KEN STUDIES UP ON HIS BABY LORE

HERE HE IS WITH HIS NEW BOOK

SPEECHLESS MY DAY IN PICTURES

BALLONS AT THE VEGETABLE STORE FOR 2ND BIRTHDAY STOP AT SAFEWAY TO ADMIRE FLOWERS

KEN AND I WALK ON SUNWOOD DRIVE

SNOW CLOUDS

GRAMPA STUDIES HIS NEW PHONE (BLUETOOTH) MANUAL