Sweaters, robins, Shazam :Easter

Air is nippy on my arm (covered in a shirt and favorite wool sweater) as I write near my open window.  Birds are up trying to wake the sun. Plants still under their black plastic blanket. Another bird just joined the chorus. They probably want my sweater.  "Over here", "me first", "I saw it first". 

 I had a first, recently...Coffee with Duke Boy in our river garden and I witnessed it...
I've seen enough Disney and Animal Plant to know that this happens but it was a first for me....

• A robin hopping around near by us, put his head down, and quickly pulled up a worm about an inch or so long, and gobbled it up. 
•  You know you don't spend enough time in nature when your first thought is --wow--just like TV. 
•   Shazam... I don't have to work for National Geographic to see this happen!

I have seen owls swoop out of the night sky from my patio and then I've heard their "snacks" last cry, but I'd never seen, with my own eyes, a robin pluck a worm out of the ground.  It was beyond cool. 
Don't judge.  Go see for yourself.  All you need is day light, a chair, coffee, quiet, a pair of eyes , trees, birds--preferably robins.

The women at the tomb told the guys, "Go see for yourself", if you don't believe us. 
Invite someone to come see for themselves what this Easter stuff is all about.

 More than egg hunts and bunnies even though you gotta love a little kid hunting eggs.  "Look down" you gotta tell the 2 and 3 year olds.  "Don't run" because all the eggs fall out of your basket.  "Your eggs are in this basket" those are you friend's.  Let's keep it that way--friends. 

Duke Boy has 4 sermons this week.  God bless him.  I mean that in the most literal way.
 Duke continues to play basketball at the oddest times for this preacher. 

Don't forget : Elizabeth Smart in Columbus on April 9th.
 Check out http://www.pilink.org for the details.

Great buys at Bluffton Antiques and Collectibles in Lanett.
 All your Easter baskets goodies are available except the chocolate bunnies. 

Wonderful church services at Shawmut United Methodist in Valley, AL.
 Sunday : 7 and 11AM eastern time. 
Thursday, tonite 6PM and Friday  6PM.  Join us, you are very welcome.

Counseling services at the Pastoral Institute in Valley, AL and Columbus, GA.
Info: http://www.pilink.org

Y'all have been great this month.  Almost 700 hits. Please become a follower by clicking on the appropriate spots.  Leave some "raisings" in the comment section. 
Peace, love, and Happy Easter.

Time for a raising

This article will appear in the Valley Times-News this week.  If you read the paper then you'll get a double helpin'.  Thanks for sharing your Holy Week with me.  Hope this will inspire you to get "raising".

Women participating in a "raising".

“You raise me up to stand on highest mountains…you raise me up to more than I can be” by Josh Groban is a beautiful song.   We are called to love one another as we love ourselves.  Yesterday that happened to me and I was “raised up”.  Holy Week service at First UMC West Point with preaching, singing, and lunch was gracious plenty… and then I got another helping—no—I didn’t get back in line—it was tempting—but my plate was already overflowing from the first trip.  If you remember I invited y’all in my last article—sorry if you missed it.  OK, back to my “raising”.  Several people there made it a point to stop me or come by my table to tell me how much they enjoyed my articles.  Some even called it my “weekly column”.  I do aspire to have a weekly column in true Erma Bombeck style.  I also aspire to get to her workshop so I can give y’all better words to ponder, cherish, mull over, tell your friends about…I’ll stop.  Obviously, I need more training.  Send a check to the “please get this girl some Erma fund”.

Yesterday’s evidence; I need love and encouragement to keep writing.  I get that from birds singing, beautiful flowers, my river with the moon reflecting in it this morning, and pats on the back with kind words from all of you.  The song about “raising up “is about God’s power but that power to “raise” others up is in the hands of all of us.  I experienced that yesterday.  I did not “get the big head” over it either.  Do you remember those words from childhood? “ If you tell her that she did well then she’ll get the big head”.  My head did get bigger since I was kid but I think it’s because I have such a big brain.  Ok, that’s another article. 

Who needs a “raising” this week?  Most of us need several daily.  My job is about figuring out how to help folks who need a “raising” so they can do the same under their own roofs with those others who are longing for a “raising”.  I’m going to miss “raising” from some of y’all today because I’m doing a lunch time appointment with folks who are desperate to find “raising” under their roof.  I will miss the fellowship of the meal, the sermon, and the pats on my back from a Holy Week event.  I will be diligent in seeking out some “raisings” from other sources this week and trying to be more aware of where I can offer them.  Last week I wasn’t very patient with a customer service employee at a company. I attempted to make amends by returning with a box of Girls Scout cookies.  I hope my peace offering was accepted?

Our Valley Pastoral Institute Advisory Board  comprised of Bill Edwards, our chair; Christine Simpson, Marilyn Stokes, Lucy Royster, Donnie Erwin-Brown, Shelly Hunter, Brenda Andrews, Mary Susan Underwood, Micky Underwood, John Samanie, Lessie Beck, Sandra Thornton,  and Marshall Sapp. We met last week and they asked me to share with you that we had over 800 hours of service last year to the community.  Hopefully hundreds of those hours were about “raisings”. 

Karen Erwin-Brown is the director of the Valley office of the Pastoral Institute located in Shawmut United Methodist Church in Valley, AL.  She offers individual, marriage, and family counseling by appointment. Call 334-768-2341 for an appointment or more information.

Night out off the Hooch

I could write about the weather forever because it's such a story.  My yard has tarps and sheets over the
plants that were in the basement last week.  Shocking and some awe --had a pot of bulbs that I was supposed to plant--picked a beautiful narcissus that bloomed from that pile.  So cool.

Tried to take a pix of my first EVER bloom on my cherry tree.  Of course, you can't see it but the trees --the oaks, were awesome behind it. Probably too intimidated to bloom before.

Great night in Columbus with my children and Ms. M. Treated to a great evening of "Cotton Patch Gospels" and supper at Hulihans.  Both I highly recommend. The show was soooooo good.  I saw it many years ago in B'ham with Harry Chapin's brother--I think--?? in the show.  It was at Samford.  Jesus served biscuits at the last supper.  Amazing acting and musicians --great vocal--WOW. The Wednesday night show has tickets--go. 

Girls just wanna have fun!

Happy customers!. This is how you spell where we ate.

Tomorrow is Palm Sunday.  I will "walk in the footsteps of Jesus" in the nursery. 

Peace to all.

Valley daily living

There is a reason those little guys who pooped on my patio travel in flocks.  "Tufted Titmouse" .  I think that's who they were?  Difficult name for the ones who fly with jets.  Very cute and excellent poopers.

Hail--looked like snow on our front lawn--size of big gumballs here--I haven't examined my Sorrento. I'm guessing Hedgie Girl's car was doing it's signature beeping to "please" be let in the house--Beeping for hail, thunder, and when Hedgie Boy's monster truck cranks up.

Proud to say all our living trees are still standing--haven't looked near the river.  My Mom lost a pine tree in her yard to the storm.  Glad she doesn't own a chain saw--she'd be crankin that bad boy up.

Be safe today as you travel to your destinations.
 Gorgeous day.
 Singing birds.
 Cool breeze. 
Treadmill time--OK--some things aren't golden.  How did it make the list?????

Patio avoidance

My house is so D- vined!! What a job.  Only 2 small lizards, 1 big red wasp--that was disoriented and now dead, lots of tiny black now homeless spiders and 2 Aleve so I could sleep last night. 

Watched an amazing scene yesterday morning. A flock of birds--which I've now failed to ID with the website---hundreds of them in my trees--over the patio--ick. They swooped down and lined the edge of the wheelbarrow--filled with water--and all dunked their tiny beaks in tandem to get a drink.  Reminded me of the drinking bird toy that I had as a kid.  It would drink from a glass--I know you had one or envied  a friend's.  This flock hung out along time while Duke Boy and I had coffee together near the house --far from the patio. 

Peace and safety to all as we have another rainy Monday--""Rainy days and Mondays always get me down"--don't let that be you--we know what that did to poor Karen Carpenter. If you don't then Google it.

Peace from the Hooch

Rites of spring

The outside is calling so this post will also appear in The Valley Times-News next week.
 Sorry.  I know that you love to read my stuff twice and I appreciate it. 
peace from the Hooch.

Rites of Spring--or the tangled adventures of Hooch living

Birds are singing in the dark even though it’s 7:30 AM here on the Hooch. I’m loving the light at the end of the work day, and I’m an early bird too so the dark is ok with me.   God did a great job with the weather last weekend and I hope He has another fabulous one up his sleeve this weekend.  Ventured into my flower bed in the back last Saturday; I only go there during this time of year.  It’s my jungle spot… filled with two kinds of vines, ferns, and hyacinths—go figure—none of those planted by me.  In 12.5 years of residency I have not managed to tame it.  There is one precious vine, so innocent looking, I think it’s a creeping fig for those of you who know your vines.  This sweet thing would choke us in our bed, left to its own devices.  Loves to creep it’s little figgy self into the siding and run up my gutter.  One beautiful, charming piece is very close to my 2^nd story bathroom window—right outside our bedroom.  Could be curtains for it today and not the ones on my bathroom window.  It’s on the opposite side of the house from the Hooch jungle bed.  I still have an entire section of house to de-fig today.  Me and Aleve are best friends this time of year.  Wish me luck.

Elizabeth Smart held captive ten years ago is going to speak in Columbus on April 9^th.  You know her, she is that beautiful little girl taken from her parents’ home during the night.  She is a now a beautiful young woman, and advocate for children, who has a wonderful story of courage and redemption.  Tickets are available in our Columbus Pastoral Institute office at 1-800-649-6446, just ask for Brandy.  The proceeds from this event will help fund counseling services in the homeless shelters in Columbus.  You will also get a fabulous meal.  You can also go to www.pilink.org for tickets.

Noon luncheon Lenten services during Holy Week begin on March 25 at local United Methodist Churches.  We love having all of our brothers and sisters who are hungry for The Word and food join us.  All of the preachers know you’ve gotta prayer, sing, listen , eat, and get back to work or your other daily tasks so it’s just for 1 hour-- tops.  The schedule is Monday: West Point UMC, Tuesday: Hopewell UMC; Wednesday: Goodsell UMC, Thursday: Huguley UMC and Friday: Langdale UMC.  If you have just been waiting for an opportunity to visit Shawmut UMC we will have communion on Maundy Thursday, March 28 at 6PM.  Good Friday service at 6PM, Easter Sunday sunrise at 7 with breakfast and an 11 for all of you who will be hunting eggs and your snooze alarm until then.  I can’t think of a better way to celebrate God’s presence and redemption than joining together with others in our community to sing, pray and eat!  Hope you will come.

Time to go outside and sing with the birds.  They’ve gotten the sun up so I’ll be able to see that creeping little vine.  Peace to all of you from my beautiful spot on my river.

Karen Erwin-Brown is the director of the Valley office of the Pastoral Institute.  She provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. Call 334-768-2341 for an appointment or more information. Visit her blog at www.rivgarden.blogspot.com for more river musings.

A Hooch view from my bank. 

Tarzan on the Hooch

Duke Boy invited us to the party yesterday during worship.  Complete with balloons.  Sermon was on the party for the Prodigal son.  We didn't have any fatted calf.  Who needs to be invited to the party?  Who needs to know about Jesus?  This morning my devotion that comes from the Internet was on the Good Samaritan.  Hmm...I'm sensing a theme here.  Good thing I work somewhere where I can talk about Jesus. 

Birds are feeling spring--y . Chirping up a rain cloud or two.  I'm sure they are singing compliments to Duke Boy on the ease they had finding worms since the leaves are raked off their dinner plates.  Only the early birds are singing though..he,he, he.

The air on my arm is much warmer than the last time I had this window up.  I just love Spring!  I can hear 3 different birds singing.

 Last evening Duke Boy and I walked down the steps and sat on the bank of the Hooch.  What a beautiful evening to watch the sunset.  Ducks honking down the river, a flock of blackbirds --about as many as from the movie "The Birds", something big--huge wings--an owl? hawk? our eagle? Love my life. 

A neighborhood cat is in my yard.  Hunkered down near a chipmunk hole. Time to do my Tarzan yell from the porch.

Not this green yet, but our seats were just beyond the tree at the bottom of the pix. 

Peace from the Valley.  Ignore the yell.

Spring forward and pull weeds!

I love a night of Aleve sleep when I've earned it in my garden.  Ventured into a flower bed that I only go into this time of year.  Ferns, 2 kinds of vines--one house eating, the other looks sweet and timid--not to be fooled.  It will eat the siding of your house and loves wood.  It's a rite of spring to stop the onslaught.  Still lots more on the other side of the back steps. 

It was all I could do to make myself leave the garden to go to a baby shower for an upcoming new family member.  Sweet baby Ryan.  Very entertaining to watch his big sister help open his presents.  Also got to hold Baby Jake--he was born on my birthday--he will be 1 and I will be 59 years older than 1 on that day.  What a cutie.  He and I both!

The birds are singing.  Time for coffee in the backyard with Duke Boy. 

Then another wonderful Lenten message at Shawmut UMC.  Join us.  Don't forget the time change.  Move it!

Redundancy and sleepless

I am awake in the night.  I long for freedom from worry about all of life woes.  I have discovered a new group on Pandora .  The Waillin' Jennys.  Love the name and love their music more.  I hope I will be in their section in heaven so I can be sung to sleep by them.  Even better if sleeping isn't an issue and chocolate chip cookies and Vanilla Almond milk are on the 4AM snack bar. Just Goggled them and asked for a local tour to benefit the Pastoral Institute.  Pray.  They are three lovely women who have appeared on Prairie Home Companion. Bucket List spot.  Also many awards.  They are currently touring but keep West Point and Valley open as a possible venue.  The Langdale Theatre in Valley, AL is a lovely facility for performances--hint, hint. 

OK time to read me back to sleep.  Jodi Piccoult, a favorite author, The Storyteller. 
She never ceases to amaze me with her characters.  I did not expect this story when I bought the book.  It's on my Kindle.  As are Free samples of books I'm reviewing in preparation for a group.  Wow--talk about an easy life...

The Valley Times News/West Point Times-News is kind enough to publish my writings --for the last ten years or so .  Today I'm posting an article I sent to them yesterday.  Excuse the redundancy for those who follow me there or who are fortunate??enough to be on my email list.

                                                      Bunnies and Stretchers

I’ve taken up more time to study during Lent. Lent, for those of you who don’t practice it, is the 40 days leading up to Easter. Most folks chose to deny themselves something during Lent. I’ve been reading more scripture, and studying a book from our church Bible study.  I’ve also taken up writing more notes and cards.  I’ve done this because “giving up” something has never been a strength for me. Someone in my women’s circle said that I was giving up the time to do the things I would be doing if I wasn’t studying and writing.  OK.  Maybe so?  Maybe I’m enjoying it too much...Not enough self denial.  There’s always next year …

I also flipped my home from winter to spring.  If you follow my blog, www.rivgarden.blogspot.com then you know I seriously dust my house about once a quarter when I change the decor according to the season. Winter and Valentine’s are done—winter doesn’t know that it’s done but inside the four walls of my home, I have banished it.  Well, the faux fireplace with the heater is still there and was going strong last night as was our furnace, but I am in denial about winter.  Easter bunnies grace my stairs, mantle, kitchen window, and small Easter tree which also has palm crosses from Palm Sundays of the past.  The bunnies have stories as do my Santas but most of them are connected to Lucy.  She has already taken the ones to her new home for decorating  but I got to keep most of the bunny family.  Many members of the Bunny family were made by a church member from a previous congregation.  Those bunnies became Erwin-Brown’s during Lent and attended many worship services.  I’m sure they could quote lots of scripture if brought to life.  Of course, that could get messy and I did dust already…

Lent is a time of remembrance of Jesus’ suffering.  Banishing winter is my way of shaking off the coldness and looking for life to come from the ground and from within.  Suffering …no snakes in the desert… no need to get to the Promised Land.  God allowed his Son to be defeated so we wouldn’t have to be—getting through feeling defeated is difficult.  The book I’m reading talks about being stretch bearers for those who need our help much like the man lowered through the roof in scripture.  Google it if you aren’t a Bible person.  I’m hoping that notes can count as stretching bearing because I can’t always be present for those who I know feel defeated, sick, or sleepless.

Who are your stretcher bearers?  Who do you know that needs one?  Maybe you are it??  One of the hymns that can send me to weeping  is “Here I am Lord.  Is it me, Lord?  I can hear you calling in the night.  If you need me, I will follow.  I will hold your people in my heart.”

The Way: Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus - 40 Days of Reflection

By: Adam Hamilton

Abingdon Press / 2012 / Paperback

I’ve listed the name of book that’s been a good read for me this Lent. The song is “Here I am, Lord”

Nanny 2 is 90. Happy Birthday.

Shout out to Nanny 2 who is 90.  She is Mom to Ms. Sunny and Great Grandmother to future Miss Sunny.
Hope the party was a blast! 

This is me with purple hair.  Pre-pneumonia.  Fun.

Flipping the house to spring today was fun since outside was too cold to venture out into.  Did go to church where Duke Boy had a great Lenten sermon.  Got to wear my long black warmest coat in the world.
Back to the closet until next year.

No snow here.  Just a few flakes yesterday. 

Peaceful Sunday night.

NO Name Tags necessary

Great meal with friends without name tags. Since 1999 meals with these folks..Always much laughter. Preachers, counselor, teacher, accountant, nurses, marketing expert, doctor,and engineer.  We can discuss it all . Alabama, Auburn and Troy.  Nothing off limits.  We even have an official recognized storyteller.  During our meal the waiter unknowingly contributed one liners to the storytelling.  One thing I did learn --do not drink a cappuccino at 7PM unless you plan things to do until 2AM.  Write that down. 

No snow here.  BW is under the blankie.  She sat on the floor staring at me until I arranged the couch so she could snuggle her way back to sleep.

 Grateful to have time to nest today.  Flip my house from Valentine's and winter
                                  to spring and Easter.
 Seasonal decor helps me remember to dust. 
                                      Almost quarterly.
Getting out Easter bunnies is almost as much fun as looking at my Santas.  I don't have 400+ bunnies. 

Salty day to all and peace,

We did it!

5029 hits on this blog.  Hurrah.  Thanks.

Beautiful cold March 1st here.  Little BW wanted to lay in the sunshine instead of sniffing ever single blade of grass in the yard.

Lots of new items in my booth at Bluffton.  Take them home with you.

Elizabeth Smart is the speaker for the Women Helping Women luncheon in Columbus in April.  Check out www.pilink.org for the details.  It's always a wonderful event. 

Time to go see those old friends so we can have lots of good laughs about what it's like to get grayer or have to see the beautician more often to do something about those roots.

Peace and get out and enjoy this great day.

See ya in a KIA ?

Lovely day--slight chill--clean, serviced car  to ride home in ---thanks to KIA Autosport in Columbus.  Good place to do business.  Did I mention they picked up my car and serviced it while I was working? Felt special. Thanks Alie and Wayne. 
The big hamsters or is it guinea pigs? don't pick up your car--sad but true.

19 hits away from the 5000.  Bob was right.  YOU CAN DO IT!!

New items coming to the booth at Bluffton Antiques and Collectibles this week.  Come have a look see.

Get to see friends this weekend who we missed seeing at Christmas because he was in ICU. 
                                            God is Good. 

Where did you shake salt today? 

Gibbs Garden, Ball Ground, GA 2012
Go and check out the daffodils

Peace from the Valley.

Salt and Miss Sunny days

Rain is a good thing.  People hang out with their computers and are hungry for stuff to read.  If this rain continues I will make it to 5000 hits by the end of the month.  Bring it on!  Tell your friends.  Let's accomplish something BIG in this short month!!!.  You can do it.  Bob told me so. 

Got to finally spend a little time with my Mom over the weekend while attending the ALAMFT annual conference.  She was glad to see me--cupcakes, hugs, music and a clean bed.  Told her she had the best hotel in the town.

ALAMFT connected me with old friends---OLD-- and previous supervisees who are now family therapists.  So cool--especially to see those I supervised who are now supervisors.  May the circle be ....
The great thing about workshops is the name tags--really cuts down on the awkwardness except when they are pinned under a scarf or stuffed in a pocket.  I was able to remember all the names especially those that were at eye level.

Wonderful dinner with Mumpsey and JimPa--guess what they are about to be?? Yep--we did a baby age guessing thing with all the little ones who were sleeping or waving at us while their folks ate Mexican.  JimPa had a picture on his cell of the sonogram of little Baby Hannah's head--amazing.  Hannah, you are already so loved. Mumpsey is the former Miss Sunny from the Gulf Shores Seafood Festival if you are a follower of mine.  Little Hannah will get to dip her toes in the Gulf soon.  She is probably a future "Miss Sunny". Good genes for it. 

Lenten lesson today on "salt".  We are called to be salt.  Bring out the flavor or the best in those around us.  Look for a place to sprinkle that goodness today.  Savor the moment with those who share their day with you.  You might even lower a blood pressure or two.

Laura, my niece in NYC. Love this pix.

Peace and safety for the day.

Footprints on the cross, rainboots in the yard

Crispy outside again this morning.  More rain coming our way.  Whew.  I need me a pair of those cute rain boots.  They'd get a work out around here.

Little BW is restless and wants me to get my yogurt and cereal.  She wants to lick out the leftovers in that little carton.  Just a minute or two more...

The young lovers are planning a Charleston wedding.  I'm excited for them.    I'm also excited to return to Charleston.  I've only been there for an afternoon in 1996 or so.   Work trip where we stopped for a brief break from the car. 

Put my name on a footprint for the cross yesterday at Shawmut UMC.  Saturday night I'd been the cutter outer for all those footprints.  It was neat to watch people leave the altar and make their mark on their footprint .  I literally had a hand in that--fear and wonder--thambeo.  Check out yesterday's blog if your curious and it all seems Greek to you.

Peace from the Valley.

Fear and wonder on your journey

Thanks to all of you who've followed me this year and to all my new readers.  This began as an attempt to connect with all those who don't subscribe to newspapers any longer since that's where my writing was happening.  I'm approaching 5000 hits on my page.  Wow.  Y'all never cease to humble me.

New Greek word--"thambeo".  Greek for "astounded".  According to Adam Hamilton in "The Way". When Jesus spoke he was instilling fear and wonder.  The enhanced meaning of "thambeo".  Look for Jesus with fear and wonder today.  It's outside in the cold--need a big coat---morning.  Just picked some hyacinths for my foyer.  Fear and wonder in my front yard.  Where will yours be today??  Where will you see God?

Great visit with the young lovers yesterday.  Such an exciting time of fear and wonder. 

Gotta run--have the nursery today at church--fear and wonder for sure.  No bumps or bruises on my watch combined with play dough mystery muffins.

Peace and frost from the Hooch.

Lenten reflections

No snow here.  Chilly.  There was a flock of lost seagulls that flew up the river a little bit ago--or perhaps birds from a recent snow fall.    White and lovely flying by. 

The couple willing to risk loving each other for life meet with Duke Boy today.  They are coming by the house.  I'm excited to see her...many years have passed...gives me goosebumps and some tear-filled eyes to think about her beautiful mother and silly, funny, sweet daddy in heaven.  I have no clue how that works?  Folks talk about the saints surrounding us.  I prefer that image over my Daddy knowing every thing I do on a daily basis.  Surely, there is peace and you get protected by God's hand from humanness once you are just with Him?  Another question for my list when I have my own personal conversation.

Twin love
Precious children of friend
Too cute not to share

A question I've encouraged parents of children having problems in school to lead with when they do school pick up is "Where did you see God today?"  So much nicer than "you didn't move to red, did you?"  The first question is a conversation starter--we all know where the other leads...

Prayers for all of you today as you journey through the first Saturday of Lent.
 Reading : The Way--Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus   by Adam Hamilton.  Good book for those going on a Holy Land trip or if you just want to take one from your cozy chair--like me.

Peace from the Valley.

Love, love, love

Lovely evening last night with my Valentine.  He outdid himself in the kitchen as always.  Hope you have eaten today because this menu will make you hungry.

Beef tenderloin with brandy sauce

Dill roasted potatoes   Heart of romaine salad

Cheese a la Duke Boy biscuits

Chocolate Mousse

We then watched "Flight".  What an intense movie.  Worth a look see.

Love my Duke Boy!

It's a lovers' weekend here.  A couple from our past life is coming from way out of town to do premarital counseling with Duke Boy.  The young woman is a grown up now from our second church home, East Lake.  Her parents were our friends there but have since died.  Donnie is privileged to be a part of this couples' love story. More to come...


Peace from the Valley. 

Sunny Valentine's Day to All

Happy Valentine's Day.  My sweetheart sneaked an orchid into the house somehow yesterday?  Lovely purpley color.  The greatest part of this gift is that I mentioned on Sunday that I saw the orchid in Kroger--are you getting the greatest part--he heard me and remember it for several days.  So lovely.  A gift of the heart, a connection, ---should have mentioned the cute pink Mercedes that I noticed in downtown West Point this week--hmmm.  I love my orchid. 

He's also cooking us a yummy Valentine's supper today. I purposefully didn't work late tonight--I also mentioned that earlier in the week.  Perhaps Hedgie Girl and Boy will join us?

No rain this morning.  That is my Valentine from God.  Thank you.  The birds are singing up a --started to type storm--stopped myself---sunny day.   There.

My good looks are attributes of these two folks!

Time to make the doughnuts.  Hope all of you have a moment with someone you love today.  Valentine's are gifts from the heart that come in unexpected places. Got a sweet card from my Mama yesterday.  Thanks Mom even though I know you have a computer to read this.

Some of the folks I love are featured above. 

Taking up for Lent

Too quiet. Gladys isn't singing. No rain on my roof. Weird.

Today is Ash Wednesday.  The beginning of Lent. I am "taking up" more time in prayer and reading. Someone said at our women's circle that meant "giving up" time to do other things.  Maybe it's my own bent to excess that likes the other approach. Could be just an excuse to allow myself more time to read. 

Peace to you this Ash Wednesday as we walk to the cross together. 

Medicine in laughter

Sing it Gladys, "it was a rainy night in Georgia". Willie is sad because "it's nothing but grey sky coming my way".  I can't help it. Woke up singing--OK--not really but why not?  Etta James hopes everyone was safe during the "stormy weather" last night.  Mitch Miller wants you to  "follow the bouncing ball" and stay with me. Who is old enough to remember that one?  Singing with the TV.  My family did it. 

Duke Boy and I watched Betty White's bawdy celebration of her 91st BD celebration. Many celebs don't live that long.  The ones that came to mind that did  have long lives where comics: Jack Benny at 79 "Modesty is my best quality",  George Burns and Bob Hope were both 100, and Lucille Ball was 78.  Maybe all those studies about laughter are right??  God must have one and I pray that he'll keep it so he won't have to resort to smoting again--Old Testament style.

www.rethinkchurch.com has a Lenten activity involving pictures that sounds like a good one for youth.  Check it out. 

Pray for safety for those experiencing storms today and those who suffered from them yesterday. 

Scripture from on high

Lovely evening beside my fake fireplace.  Rainy outside.  Little BW is pouty and not even attemptng to beg any apple and cheese from me.  She hates any weather except sunshine. She shall never be asked to be a body double for the Groundhog.  She will maintain her spot under the ottoman or in front of the fake fireplace that blows out heat. 

Had a novel experience in worship today.  Duke Boy read scripture from atop a ladder.  I was trembling most of the time since I still haven't paid all the medical bills from my pneumonia.  One of the youth upon hearing the scripture for Sunday asked Duke Boy for a new look at that scripture.  It was about Jesus on the mountain with his disciples trying to stay awake.  We were all awake today. Gotta love that man and the God he serves. I have a picture of this that  Hedgie Girl sent to me to me--it's on my phone--we all know how challenged I am by technology. Wait for it!  ( I was afraid to snap a picture with my phone--"Jack fell down and broke..."

My sweet flowers have brought a lovely scent into my home.  Thank you, God. 
Today's gratitudes : 1) Husband UP for the challenges of ministry to youth and beyond
2) sweet scent of flowers in my home 3) little BW curled at my feet in front of our fake fire.

Hope you will find a spot to walk thru Lent.  The ending is definitely UP.

Peace from the Valley.

Almost forgot --got a great pre-Valentine gift from sweet Hedgie Boy.  Hoda Kotb's new book about people overcoming adversity.  Great snuggle under the cover for my Sunday nap read.  Thanks HB.

Duke Boy and BW

Reclaiming the lost

I'm involved in a reclamation project--my garage. New shelving, new plastic containers, new floor--no wait--same floor just able to see it now.  OK--parts still aren't visible.  Good news--buried treasures.  Wag these treasures back into the house --soon the floor will become invisible there too--bad plan.  Instead I wagged a load to my booth at Bluffton Antiques.  Easter bunnies are ready to greet you there. 

My house is also filled with flowers--daffodils, lilies of the valley, and hyacinths.  Picked while watching the sunset over the river.  Chilly,but lovely.  Afternoons like this tease me into thinking that spring will soon be here. If I thought that was true I'd have picked up all the limbs and sticks in the yard.  Instead I picked up some cushions and headed for a seat to continue enjoying the show.

This week Lent begins.  I love Lent.  Today while putting items in my booth I was talking with a friend about Lent and Easter.   Her child said, "I'm gonna give up baths for Lent."  We got a good laugh out of the that one.  I don't usually "give up" anything for Lent.  I like to "take up" more  intense studying of scripture during Lent by using the book that our church studies. I miss the Lenten study  because I work out of town on Wednesday night but since I live with the preacher if I have questions I have my own theologian available 24/7. I try not to wake him up...much.  Find a place to walk through the 40 days of Lent.  Get ready for the Resurrection. Maybe it can be your reclamation project for the next 40 days.  Who knows what treasures await you?

Beautiful day on the Hooch

Not afraid of the plague unless it's locust

Don't give up on me.  I'm still trying to shake this pneumonia.  Last drug also helps with plague and anthrax.  I'm covered for any new events this week. 

I just have one Christmas wreath to take down.  My morning thought was to spray paint the gourds on the front porch red for Valentine's.  They were gold for Christmas.  My golden pumpkin is still in my pot out front.  Boxwood is deader than a dump truck load of door nails.  What is that expression about? Just looked up--some say--hammered that nail in so hard that the head is completely flat--very hard to remove.
I am so glad if this is what you've learned for the day.

Anyhow--we will see what the day holds around here.  My energy comes in waves--tsunami like.  Good to be near a bed when this occurs.  Still using my nebulizer.  I tried blowing smoke rings out of boredom.  Pretty cool.  Kinda like the caterpillar in Alice and Wonderland.  Definitely feels like a rabbit hole at times.

This post is born of lack of sleep. 

On a better note--my yard is filling with daffodil shoots--hope they'll keep their heads down awhile but some already have buds.  My neighbor's tulip tree is filled with buds.  Very sad.  I need to go cut a branch to force in the house.  Did that one year and it was beautiful since his tree usually is killed by the cold.

I'm learning useful French phrases from a calendar for 2013.  There was a really good one last week.  Something about "it's behind the television".  So useful--the only thing behind my TV is dust and cables. 

Peace from the Valley with plague protection.

I'm wearing this when I go out to keep germs away. Look for me in the Valley. Also works on robbers.

Having the flu and pneumonia means there's a huge disconnect between your brain and your fingers.  Since it just took me several tries to get that sentence completed I believe this shall be a short post.  I will try to say something uplifting like take your anti biotics so your body can heal. 

Ok, I quit.  Too hard.  Need something less taxing.  Sleep may be the ticket. 

Peace to all.  Stay well.

Merry Christmas night

Christmas is a lovely time.  I love Advent worship--singing carols, hearing the reading from Luke that I can say in my head during the reading, communion, families,hugs, and Merry Christmas greetings.  OK, cookies, wonderful food, watching the kids play with toys that I've never heard of!!. 

The rain is pouring day and the weather channel is telling me to be safe.  My prayers are for all those who have lost loved ones this Christmas.  Prayers for a good friend whose health turned around so his family could love him through another Christmas. 

Merry Christmas to all and to all a peaceful, safe night.

Merry Christmas

Listening to CMA Christmas special . Just now Christmaas Eve, GA time that is. Spent fun time with Duke Boy's family today.  Four kids under 6 opening presents is too much fun.  Got to hold Baby Jake since he's too little to be in the mix too much. After a good meal and desserts time to go home for my Sunday nap. 

Peace to all celebrating Christmas.  Safe travel ...safe weather..  Watch out for Santa.  Still remember as a kid coming home from my Grandmother's on Christmas Eve. Tracking Santa on the radio while I struggled to stay awake in the warm car. 


Duke Boy, my prince



31 years with Duke Boy

31 years ago today I married Duke Boy.  He was truly a Duke Boy then with another semester left at Duke in the seminary. I was happily living and working in Gainesville, Ga at a job that I enjoyed.  OK, that's the stuff for my upcoming book that I SHALL write one day. 

Fast forward to our wedding: the scene is the Wesley Foundation at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. Now if you go to the Publix near the campus and stand close to the milk then you will be approximately on the site of our nuptials. There were probably a hundred people who came to wish us well. It wasn't a fancy ordeal.  Duke Boy wore a suit and I wore a purple skirt, jacket ,and lovely silk blouse. Boys from the Valley were our ushers. My little niece walked the aisle ahead of me.  Our parents stood up with us.  Both of these were last minute ideas and worked perfectly. Two preachers and we still forgot the rings.  People were asked to bring a covered dish lunch and they did.  My sister called from south AL a few days before the wedding to find out what the cake was like.  Cake?? She showed up in true southern style with a sheet cake from the IGA that said "Karen & Donnie". I'm sure she also brought her signature dish-- pear salad, you know, the individual ones with the cherry on top of the mayo.

Fast forward to today. Duke Boy is still sleeping upstairs with little BW.  If the weather cooperates we may go out tonight. We already celebrated Saturday at Mama Lucia's in Newnan.  Our life is a good one.  He cooks, I don't clean.  I pay the bills, do the laundry, decorate, send cards, buy gifts, and remind him to change the oil in his car.  He digs the holes for my flowers and does the yard work.  I do the yard play.
Most days it all works and on the days when it doesn't then we have to work it out.

Happy Anniversary Duke Boy.  This IS your card.  Love you.

                                                     Last years' card but we look the same.

Twelve years of Valley Christmases

Since I'm married to a United Methodist minister we don't always get to stay in one spot for several years.  I'm fortunate that we own our home and when my husband changed churches six years ago we didn't have to change homes.  I'm sharing my article today that is published in our local paper ,

The Valley Times-New  West Point Times-News.

Merry Christmas, peace and joy to all .

On my twelfth year of Christmases in the Valley, my truly loving son-in-law gave to me a cold night in a lawn chair watching the Christmas parade from the back of his pickup truck.   Ok, so this version will never be the hit song that I sang from the cold bench seat on the Jolly Trolley at Callaway Gardens while enjoying the Christmas lights.  I do have lots to sing about though when I think of my twelfth Christmas in the Valley.  My favorite float in the parade was the Hairspray folks with their silly roller hats on.  Perhaps because I’m from the era of sleeping with one orange juice can pinned to the top of my head at night so my long brown hair would be straight when I went to high school.  I’m sorry the “sticky uppy” look wasn’t popular then …I might have been on time for school and been more rested due to less trouble sleeping with that thing on my head. 

 My home was joyful last week as we shared lunch with the Pastoral Institute Valley Advisory Board and celebrated their first year of success. They exceeded our fund raising goal for 2012.  Greetings were extended by 437 Santas and 45 Jesus Babies, and a very happy dog.  She likes to function as our vacuum cleaner after we entertain.     

Another high note, remember the musical theme, are the lights from the city of Valley, Lanett ,and West Point that never cease to make me smile as I make my way home from work at night.  The West Point Depot trees are another wonderful addition to the merriment this year.  I also smile when I view the restored camel, donkey, and wise men in the Nativity scene across from Valley Baptist Church.  I met the camel and donkey up close and personal in my neighbor’s yard when they rested after their restoration work journey.  Of course, they aren’t unaccustomed to travel since they’ve survived years of bad weather and floods in their Valley location. 

I haven’t ridden the Merry-go-round yet.  Last year it provided merriment for one 9 year old family skeptic who thought it was “for babies”.  The fried Snickers’ bar convinced the Grinch in him to smile and ask to ride again.  Santa was his happy, jolly self at the Shawmut UMC Breakfast.  I hope he remembers that trip to Paris this year. I know the ticket will be in my stocking soon.  Santa got some help from the Christian Service Center again this year with our church participating in helping provide Christmas gifts to three families.  My family had lots of fun shopping for clothes and toys for children to be with surprised with on Christmas morning.  

 Shawmut UMC church had the children/youth remind us in their Christmas program that some people have difficulty finding joy at Christmas.  We all know that this is the case in Sandy Hook, Connecticut this holiday season.  My heart goes out to all those who feel robbed of their joy.  Pray for the love of God to surround them, and for the community to lift them up.  I pray that your joy is apparent to you and to the world as you move through this season of Peace, Hope, Joy, and Love as we have during Advent at Shawmut United Methodist Church.  You are all invited to communion  on Christmas Eve at 5:30 ET.  Merry Christmas to all of you.  Thanks for all the encouragement you give me for writing when you see me in the community.  This is truly a wonderful Valley to dwell in.

Karen Erwin-Brown is the director of the Valley office of the Pastoral Institute.  She provides individual, marriage, and family counseling.  Call 334-768-2341 for more information or to schedule an appointment. 

Hedgie girl and her favorite momma at Callaway Gardens Festival of Lights

notice my Bama ear muffs

Praying for peace

Find a church today to gather with those you love. Little Emilie's Dad from the Connecticut tragedy reminds us not to give into our feelings of hate that can come from this event.  You can chose to look for the opportunity to be more loving and giving instead of more isolated and scared. 

We all want answers. God is present even when we feel that He doesn't see us.  Answers??  Solutions to the continuing questions of mental health care funding, gun accessibility,  and securing facilities. 

Pray for all the children returning to school tomorrow and going out into the world today.  Give them courage, compassion, and vigilance. Make sure they have a plan and know who to call if there is an emergency. Pray for teachers who have the often under appreciated job of being surrogate parents for eight hours daily.

Prayers to Connecticut

You have another opportunity today ... be the person  you want to be to those you love.

  The sad events yesterday in Connecticut remind us all how our lives can change in an instant.  Yesterday I spent the day in the bed because I was sick.  When I turned on the TV and heard the news I felt worse.  I made myself not overload my already sick body with all that horror and spent time sleeping and reading instead of watcing the news. When I called my Mom last night, I encouraged her to turn off the TV and do something else.

Your young children don't understand that the ever repeating news isn't happening over and over again.

Today I plan to turn off the TV and do something else.  Pray for the victims, those dead and alive.

If you live near the Valley come and ride the free Merry-go-round, view the Nativity scene, enjoy the Christmas lights down JL King Drive in Shawmut.  Hug your little ones.

Christmas Spirit, where?

Welcome to those of you from Saudi Arab.  I think you are a newbie to the rumpus here.  I'm taking a moment for the "the pause" as explained so beautifully by www.aholyexperience.com .  I wish I was smarter about making all this stuff work and I'd put her button here.  Of course, then I wouldn't have time for a "pause".  The house was quiet for a minute.  Now I hear Duke Boy stirring...better than a mouse. 

I'm having my board for the Pastoral Institute, Valley to my home for lunch today. Duke Boy is the chef so I know food will be wonderful.   Table is lovely.  Set by my favorite hostess, me!  Now all I need is the sweet hardworking folks who helped make this year easier by giving of themselves when asked . 

Pause today and look  for Christmas spirit.  The kind that doesn't come in a box. 

Got to sit on Santa's lap on Saturday.  He brought Christmas spirit to many excited children.

great Madonna and child moment
Maw maw and Baby Jake 2012
"The Pause"
Hedgehogphotos.com
Hedgie girl shot

Getting Santamantel

I have 439 Santas in my home now.  Well, probably more..those were the ones showing their faces on Sunday plus the two I got from my sister last night.

Christmas is a time to get Santamantel. :)

Tonight is the Christmas parade in the Valley.  This will be my first time to watch it from the bed of a
 pick up. That's a truck for all you city slickers. The Pastoral Instiute has a gorgeous package with a lovely sign on the Chamber float thanks to Brenda Andrews and Hedge Girl.  Keep an eye peeled for all that cuteness.

It's great to live in a spot with so many fun things to experience.  New Horizon Theatre's play is this weekend.  Breakfast with Santa at Shawmut UMC. Graduation at Auburn. Ok, not exactly in my town but my niece is graduating. Congrats Laura. Shopping at Bluffton Street Antiques and Collectibles.  Point University's musical Christmas programs.  Come on over we'd love to have you visit our town--don't forget the Merry-Go-Round, and the Navity Scene in Valley.  Free!

Gotta run get ready for work.  Santa needs help buying presents this year.

Where is that Baby?

Welcome to Algeria and Switzerland.  The rumpus is over and my home is decorated.  Hosted a party yesterday.  It's so great that Duke Boy can cook.  He can holler too.   You heard him all the way down the Hooch during the Alabama game yesterday.  Roll Tide. 

Advent .  I love worship during this season.  There are lots of good Advent books out there for devotionals.  Locate one and be still and reflect on why Jesus came as a baby and not as a warrior.  Be vulnerable to where His spirit will lead. Be astonished at what you discover.  Be ready for the messiness that babies can bring.  They aren't always sweet and sleeping. 

Blessing and thankfulness on all the prayers for my friend in Florida.  No tumor on her last MRI.  Great news.  The Baby is out there climbing on our hearts. 

Look at those astonished wise men.  Our family painted this one when Hedgie girl was little.  One of my favs.

Peace for the day.

Tired but happy

My rumpus is tired from the rumpus.  I just unpacked my most favortist--I know that's not a word, but it matches my feeling the bestest--box of Santas. A box that held the little guy that started all this madness.  My parents gave him to me when I was little--he is a bank--they were probably trying to also encourage a habit of saving $. Unfortunately, that part of the message didn't take hold.  Santamania did. 

Unfortunately, I just noticed there is a box of my favortist Christmas teapots missing.  Hmmm???Garage??  Please say it ain't so. 

Guess the rumpus is on-going.  Decorating tip of the day--"never underestimate the power of a string of white lights."  I'll be passing the hat for my power bill later. 

I am happy to report that at the table where we eat there are 3 out of 4 places where one could sit and enjoy a meal.  There are two spots in the livingroom for tired rumpusses or rumpi(??? ) and several spots in the den.  I did not fill Duke Boy's chair or block the view of the TV.  

Time to get ready for work so I can get some relief. 

Wild Rumpus time

 "Hand me the spray paint and super glue so the wild rumpus can begin."
                                                         Karen EB

Do you ever say you'll do something without looking at your calendar?  Perhaps it's a commitment that's a year in the making, and you know it won't be a problem.  You have a chef and he'll cook anything if you tell him a year in advance! You have a house and you have more Christmas decorations than the windows at Macy's.  It's a year away.  It's only for a few friends in your circle from church.  It's a breakfast.  This isn't hard.  Yes, please come to my house next Christmas. 

It doesn't matter that you've just had a big breakfast with a hostess who has more Christmas decorations than Macy's, Tiffany's, and Target--OK--I couldn't think of another place.  You have just eaten at a huge table with fine china, embroidered cloth napkins, two or three kinds of crystal, and an array of eating utensils.  It might have been her silver but since I don't own silver, I didn't recognize it.  It was more elaborate than any breakfast meal I'd ever eaten and more delicious.  We had played Dirty Santa, I was happy with my gift, and I needed a nap.  Of course, I want you all to come to my house NEXT year. 

Then November 1st was on a Thursday.  Do you know what happens when November 1st is on a Thursday?   Thanksgiving which is always the 4th Thursday since Tom Turkey was a little gobbler--is on November 22nd. Throw in the Alabama/Auburn game on  November 24th in Tuscaloosa --can you say time crunch?

December 1st, the date of my breakfast which was year away last December is the first Saturday in December.  Rumpus time---my house is in disarray again.  I only have 10 plastic tubs with Santas and Baby Jesus boys to unpack--I've already unpacked about twice that number.  I have even decorated two trees. 
OK, they are only three feet high and sitting on chests but that's big--I don't do trees--not for the last six years.  Another story for another day.

I am glad to report that the bout with polio that I'd thought I was coming down with was only leg pain from carrying plastic tubs of Christmas stuff up from the basement.  I confess..Duke Boy did help. 

It's almost time to head to the rumpus .  Spray paint and super glue are good items to keep in stock if you are planning on having one.  Items glued thus far--Santa's hand holding a bird house, wise men back on Nativity from the Holy Land via China, attempt at staff of Joseph from Ecuador --he really needs both hands free to give Mary some relief.  I probably need to stop at the Big W and stock up for the rumpus.

Peace on earth, in the Valley, and in my home on the Hooch soon.

News from the Prettiest

My new stadium seats need footwarmers.  Don't get me wrong, I was really glad my rear wasn't on the concrete bleachers last night.  However, my feet were freezing. Needed boots.  I had a blankie--oh well, Lanett lost last night so I won't have to worry about freezing again for awhile. 

Today the view is fabulours from my window seat.  My sitting room is complete now.  Ok--still needs pictures.  Rats.. I forgot to get those nails for plaster walls--if you haven't tried them you should.  Otherwise you have to pretend your livingroom  wall was fired on the day the Fort Tyler battle was fought just across the Hooch.  People who don't know much about history or time in general will believe those stories if told with a straight face.  The battle scar was lost last year when I had my livingroom wall professionally repaired. 

Peace to all on this glorious day. 

Let love be your greatest aim.  I Corinthians 14:1

 Prettiest at the Halloween mask contest at the Pastoral Institute.

    

Tree top awesomeness

Enjoying my treetop view of the river from my newly painted,
 not quite straight dressing-writing-thinking-praying-reading-coffee drinking room.
The oak trees are gorgeous now with orange, green and a few brown leaves. Yesterday morning Duke Boy and I were out having coffee and conversation before church and got to experience the water oak shedding its leaves.   So beautiful looking up and watching them swirl their way to the ground.  Almost forgot what a pain it will be to get them all out of the drain at our back door.

Speaking of coffee, Duke Boy usually fills my cup in the morning when I am blogging.  Now I'm upstairs--HEY, I'M UP HERE!!.  Room service???
  Bitter with the sweet.  I didn't have to ask him to turn down "Morning Joe". It's so quiet except for the ticking of a new clock from my Mom--a birthday present--purple with a peace sign--you rock, Mom. 

Praying for healing for several friends and family this morning.  Praying for peace in the world.  Praying for healing in relationships. 

Holiday Hope, November 15th at noon at Shawmut United Methodist Church in Valley, AL is sponsored by the Pastoral Institute.  I 'll present a seminar on facing the holidays for the first time after the death of a loved one. Lunch will be served. It's free.  Call 334-768-2341 to reserve your place. 

This huge beauty is showcased from my window this morning.

Commerical break: sale in booth # 19 of Bluffton Street Antiques and Collectibles in Lanett, AL.  Lots of Christmas goodies.

Dancing, painting, praying

Bonnie Raitt is a marvelous entertainer and didn't disappoint last Saturday night in Columbus, GA.  I stayed in my seat until the last song in the encore--then it was time to dance.  I'd never attended a concert in the River Center where the crowd was very polite and sedate, but finally I was joined by several others who'd been longing to express some of that built up passion brought on by her music.  Thanks, Bonnie. 

The gal whose name escapes me ...who did her lead up music was wonderfully talented.  She had a great voice and played several instruments.  Her band included another guitar player and a cello player, very cool. 

Great meal at The Loft before the concert.  Food, service, and atmosphere were all excellent. Trick or treat in downtown Columbus was fun to experience with lots of little kids in costumes and adults too--some very interesting.  Columbus is a great little city to frolic in. 

Thanks too to my peeps that provide my companionship and ride for such a great night.

Amazingly close to finishing my dressing room.  It's proving to be a fun place to start my day.  It will be even cozier when I get the door painted and figure out what I want to do with my closet.  HMMM??  Door, curtain, ?? Doors hide a world of sin.  Doors make space get lost in the room too.  More to come.

Plants are the basement, in the house, in the garage.  Lizards are probably in the basement, in the house, and in the garage.  Let's hope only critters who are green and have legs came in.  I'm ok with a lizard or two.  Last winter, I think?  We had a snake in the basement--don't tell my Mom.  She will never visit my home again.  It was on top of the frig --either trying to get to the ice or get warm?? The pest control man and Duke boy said it went out the way it came in---spoken by men who knew that there are 10000000000 places for snakes to hide in our basement. 

Prayers for several close friends who are in different stages of cancer treatments.  Remember to get your mammogram.  1 in 8 women have breast cancer, I believe that's the stat.  Sad.  Pray.