Hammer Times

Lyden, Washington Part II

2011-05-08T13:02:00.001-07:00

Today is Rachel's first Mother's Day. David and Doug prepared brunch for us. Rachel wanted waffles and strawberries with sausage. My choice was an omelet filled with veggies and goat cheese and served with bacon. We both were totally pleased with our meals. Just so the family knows it is true, here is Doug working in the kitchen with David. Doug sliced all the strawberries and David did pretty much everything else. But, in Doug's defense, Molly did need to be held and cuddled during the cooking process. So he helped a lot by keeping her happy. He also did most of the clean-up work after breakfast.

This post really should be titled "My Son Is Better Than Your Son." Not only did David fix me a wonderful breakfast but my gift is this amazing tea set and tray WHICH HE MADE!! Okay, now be envious... David is an art major and his emphasis is ceramics. He is getting really good and I'm the benefit of his expertise. This will sit in a place of honor on the console which Jon built for me. I'm more that a little impressed with the talent of my own family.

Lynden, Washington Part I

2011-05-08T12:44:00.001-07:00

Each grandchild on the occasion of their birth receives a quilt made especially for them by Grandma Judi. Now, I say on the occasion of their birth but to date Henry is the only grandchild to receive his quilt in such a timely manner. As for Molly's quilt, it was mostly done before we had to leave for Lynden. That meant that I carted my sewing machine to Washington and have spent time sewing whenever possible. The top was finished and the quilting had begun. So, I finished that quilting part, added the prairie points to two sides and then did the binding. It was finished a couple of days ago and I think it turned out perfect. I hand appliqued flowers around two corners. This pictures shows that detail. This is the whole quilt.Here is newest addition to the Hammer clan, Molly Marie and isn't she beautiful. I really need to get Doug to take some pictures with a better camera. When I don't use the flash on my camera I just can't hold it still enough the get sharp pictures with the slower shutter speed. Soft focus is good for Grandma but it really isn't necessary for this beautiful baby.Doug arrived back in Lynden yesterday and is enjoying time with little Molly Marie. She needs plenty of Grandpa and Grandma time as soon she'll be dependent on just Mom and Dad. I'm sure they will do a fine job even without my help. Grandma and Molly Marie, we've had lots of bonding time over the last two week. She is really going to miss me.

David is a full time student but wisely is taking on-line classes right now. That way he can study and take care of Molly. Once Rachel is back to work full time David will be spending lots of time holding Molly and working on the computer. It's going to be fun.

David and Rachel's latest project is to raise as much of their own food as possible. Not only will it be healthier but it can and should save some money. The first step is to get a garden going out back. The second step is to raise chickens for the eggs. As it turned out the chickens came before the garden. Here is David introducing the baby chicks to the dogs. It is making the dogs a little crazy knowing there are birds in the house and they are not allowed to 'play' with them.

There are five different varieties of chicken which will each produce a different colored egg. The shells will be different colors, not the insides, in case you weren't sure.

Molly Marie Hammer

2011-04-30T14:15:00.002-07:00

Being in Washington with Molly is absolutely wonderful. I'm also enjoying her parents, they're pretty wonderful also. Here are some pictures so you can get a glimpse of my newest granddaughter.

Molly Marie Hammer all bundled up for a trip out into the Washington cold.
The new family and aren't they beautiful!

Grandpa took every opportunity to hold Molly before he had to leave for home and work. Once he returns next weekend, he plans to once again monopolize his granddaughter to attempt to fill up his resevoir before we have to leave.

Molly is one month old and we celebrated with a birthday cupcake. She seems a bit startled by the candle.

Rachel and Molly taking a much needed nap.

Home With Jesus

2011-04-22T20:27:00.000-07:00

The jarring of the phone broke the morning silence early Tuesday. Doug answered and received the news that David, his youngest brother, had been in a horrific car accident and was in critical condition. David and his wife Vanessa live in Orlando and he was on a business trip in northern Florida.

As the day progressed, we continued to get reports and learn more of the accident. There were three cars involved on a lonely country road late at night. David's SUV flipped and caught fire. He was trapped inside, unconscious. He suffered third and fourth degree burns over 90% of his body plus numerous internal injuries. The doctors gave him little hope of survival. Vanessa made the difficult but courageous and correct decision to take him off life support. Thursday morning we were again awoken by the jarring ring of the phone to learn David had died. He was now at home with his Lord.

In the midst of this heavy and difficult week we were reminded of God's goodness and providence. This past February Doug had a business conference in Orlando. David and Vanessa invited us to stay with them. We arrived in the early evening. Vanessa prepared us an amazing dinner and David gave us the grand tour of their house. The next day David got us passes to Epcot Center at Disney World. Doug, David and I spent a beautiful day together. As I shopped and explored, I would find Doug and David patiently waiting, talking and enjoying the rare opportunity to have time together. What a beautiful time God gave us and such a warm and wonderful memory of time with David.
Doug with his little brother, David Brian Hammer. 6/3/62 - 4/21/11

Empty Nest Syndrome

2011-04-12T18:32:00.001-07:00

Well, my nest has emptied out...AGAIN!! It seems that I should have adjusted to the quiet house, the lack of company throughout the day and the change this brings in my day since I have been here before. But it just doesn't work that way. I lay in bed in the morning expecting to hear Josie calling from her room that it's time to get up. Or have Ella cooing and smiling at me. There is no one to share the cooking with, no other 'wife' in the house. Oh, I'm spending less time at the grocery store and the washing machine is quiet most of the week. I'm sure that the electric bill is lower and food lasts longer. Somehow these things just don't make up for the people I'm missing every day. Heidi has assured me that she is more than willing to drop the girls off at any time to help fill my void. She is in need of some void in her life, so that should work well. But...it is still different. Doug and I are enjoying being a twosome again. It is a good thing to still be in love with the husband of my youth after 40 years. It is a good thing that we nurtured our relationship during the busy years of kids. It is a good thing we are still best friends. It is a good thing to move into this new phase of life (again) and be able to share it with Doug. God has been so good to us. We have a great marriage and a wonderful family. My heart is full even if my house is empty.

Happy Birthday David

2011-04-04T10:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was David's 30th birthday. I think he has the best present ever in little Molly. Happy Birthday!!

David's a DAD

2011-03-31T09:13:00.001-07:00

They're a family and aren't they cute!

We're Grandparents Again!!!

2011-03-30T10:49:00.001-07:00

Molly Marie Hammer arrived on Monday morning, March 28 at 8:24. She weighed in at 6 lbs. 8 oz and is 20 inches long. She is beautiful and I can't wait to meet her in person when we are able to go to Washington in late April. It's a long time to wait to hold that precious new baby girl. Congratulations to David and Rachel.

40 years

2011-02-18T10:38:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow Doug and I will celebrate our 40th anniversary. WOW!! It is a wonderful thing to still be in love, more today than ever, with the husband of my youth.

Fun with Grandkids

2011-02-17T18:10:00.000-08:00

My grandchildren are some of the most wonderful little people on the planet. They are each one unique and full of their own special personality. They bring so much joy into my life. It seems that my own children kept me so busy that the time with them was over way too soon. Now with new little ones around I am once again enjoying, and remembering, the pleasure of watching them, interacting with them and loving them. Below are some pictures of these amazing children. Enjoy!

Here is Josie having fun in Grandma's pantry bowling with the plastic Perrier bottles. She also tried out the dog food and decided it's not that good. Amy and some of Heidi's friends gave a 'sprinkle' for baby Eleanor. It was a fun day to celebrate the new baby who will now be one of the best dressed babies in town. Last Sunday we went to San Diego for Henry's dedication service. He was quite handsome in his bow tie (made by Julie) and button up shirt. It was a blessing to be part of the service. The whole family is invited onto the stage. My Dad was there. He dedicated Jon. I was overwhelmed with God's goodness as I stood with my father, son and grandson and thought of God's faithfulness through the generations. Maddie trying on Henry's bow tie. Josie is at the stage where she really likes to help. She does things like swiffer the floors, help polish the furniture, bring wipes for Ella and even help Grandma build cabinets.

Uh Oh!!

2011-01-31T15:16:00.001-08:00

Okay, I said I would try to blog at least twice a month and today is the last day of January. So here is my blog entry.

Not much to say except that I'm enjoying the opportunity to get a little bit organized. As soon as I finish here I'm heading upstairs to clean out my gift wrap boxes and a couple of other items in the master bedroom. That will make the master happy and that is always a good idea!

January 27, 2011

2011-01-27T14:36:00.000-08:00

Well, it is my intent to blog on a more regular basis. That would mean that I would take the time to journal and add pictures more than twice a year. I'm actually thinking that I might try for twice a month. Hmmm...that might be a bit ambitious, especially since January is almost over, but a person has to start somewhere. So, if you are actually reading this you are one of the lucky few to be prepared for all the amazing things you will read on my blog this year. Check back soon for the next fantastic entry.

Safari

2010-08-04T11:36:00.001-07:00

Traveling to Kenya was about working at Amani and our day with World Vision. The bulk of our time was spent in those endeavors and we were all truly blessed with our opportunities to serve. In the midst of that work God gave us the amazing experience of going on safari. Over the weekend we flew to the Masai Mara which is in the south west portion of Kenya right on the Tanzanian border. Our flight took about 45 minutes and was an experience in and of itself. The rather steep landing took us all by surprise. The hotel was wonderful and the food delicious. Even though we had only been working for a week at Amani, we were ready for a break and a chance to relax. Here we are at the Wilson airport outside of Nairobi with our laminated boarding cards waiting for our flight.

We are on safari!! Notice the giraffes in the background. This is our first day out and we are having a ball. Already we have seen elephants, zebra, wildebeest, gazelle, impalas, giraffe, and lions. It is so fun we can hardly contain ourselves. This lone female lion was on the hunt. Our vehicle parked in a great spot to observe her movements. She was searching in holes and looking for dinner. We quietly watched and snapped pictures as she came closer and closer to us. Ultimately she walked within feet of my spot in the vehicle creating some consternation with some in our car. It was awesome. Another of the big cats, this family of cheetahs posed for us. They are beautiful animals with the tear marks on their faces and grand posture. We also saw a leopard crouched in a tree. My pictures of it are terrible but I do have some just to prove I finally saw a leopard. Elephants are one of my favorite animals in Africa and I never tire of observing them in the wild. When we landed at the Masai Mara there was a small herd near the runway. We first spotted them before landing and then had a close up view as we drove to our hotel. The airport is visible in the background. It's a dirt runway with a covered area to wait for the plane. Giraffes are fascinating creatures to watch. They move with such fluidity and grace for a rather awkward animal. It was great fun to be able to pet and feed them at the Giraffe center. I'll include a picture of that on another blog. This crocodile was at least 12 feet long and we were standing not more than 10 feet away. Okay, we were on top of a steep bank so it felt safe. Pretty cool.

TODAY!!!!

2010-06-24T10:37:00.000-07:00

Today at 5:30 P.M. we leave for the airport where we will board a British Airways plane and begin the trek to Kenya. It is weird to think the time has come. Time has moved quickly to this date and I know that it will seem no time at all when we are boarding that plane to come home. Pray for us.

More to come.....

Kenya

2010-06-22T10:10:00.000-07:00

Today is Tuesday and Thursday evening I leave for Kenya along with three other women. I am both very excited and very nervous. The excited part is obvious. Going to Kenya is great fun, I will have the opportunity to reconnect with old friends, serve the Lord as I serve the women of Amani, go on safari which is always fun and this trip is an adventure. The nervous part comes from being the 'in charge' person for our missions trip.

The other ladies going along (Nancy, Amber and Brianna) are not exactly babies that I need to care for but I am the go-to person. Doug is not coming and I've always traveled in Africa with him by my side. He is the one I normally consult with and share the experience. This is going to be so different. It is truly making me depend on the Lord in a whole new way. There is no one else to go to. That is a good thing. It is always a good thing to have my faith stretched. It is good to remember that no matter who is by my side, ultimately it is only God by my side that matters.

Be sure to check back in July for the pictures and updates from this exciting adventure.

Grandbabies

2010-06-12T17:52:00.000-07:00

It has been quite a long time since I've bothered to blog about anything in my life. It's not as if nothing of significance has happened, I've just been too lazy to write about it. In the last couple of months I traveled to Kansas City, MO. to help Joan get settled into her new house. We had a blast shopping and decorating Jack and Joan's beautiful new house. The next week Joan came to S. Cal and my sisters and I celebrated by birthday. It was a great day all about me! Of course we had to stop at Jon and Julie's house to spend some time with them and Maddie.

May found Amy and I traveling to Washington to spend time with David and Rachel. Doug, Heidi and Josie came up a couple of days later and we had such a wonderful time all together. Washington provided us with some beautiful clear but cold days and some rain. We went for walks, shopped in the antique stores of Lynden, helped decorate David and Rachel's kitchen, played Wii, kayaked, ate out and just had lots of fun. Doug and I at The Woods coffee shop where Rachel is manager.

David taking care of a sick Josephine. She was sick with a fever for two days. Poor baby.

Rachel, Heidi and Amy enjoying bags of potato chips.

Doug, Heidi, Amy, David and Rachel went kayaking one day while I stayed to care for the sick baby. No kayaks in this picture but I thought you might want to see David and Rachel.

But what has finally made me take time to blog? Grandchildren, of course!! First let's take June 6 which happens to be Josie's first birthday party. That's right she is now 1 year old. She is a total joy in our lives and we get the added pleasure of having her and her parents live with us. That gives us lots of time to be with her and watch her grow and learn. Here are few pictures from the party. Heidi and Amy joining Josie in the pointing game. Josie likes to point at everything and then expects someone to get 'it' for her. Whatever the 'it' might be.

Heidi, Josie and Caleb looking very happy to celebrate her birthday. The other thing contributing to the smiles is finally announcing to everyone that Weston baby #2 is due in December. The family is growing. Josie, however, has no idea how her life will change. It's good to just let her enjoy being the center of attention for as long as possible.

The birthday girl and her cupcake. Turns out she didn't really like chocolate cake. I'm sure that will change in time.

Opening presents is always fun.

Great-grandparents are also fun.

The next morning, June 7, at 5:57 a.m. Henry Oliver Hammer joined the family. Julie had been in labor all day Sunday and we wondered if we would have two grandchildren with the same birthday. Henry decided to have his own day and arrived the day after Josie's birthday. Doug was in Cleveland for a business meeting so as soon as he arrived home on Tuesday we headed to San Diego to meet our newest grandchild. We spent the afternoon taking turns holding him and I think we could have continued for hours more if there wasn't a need to get home. After all, Doug was still on Cleveland time and had to work the next day.

The proud parents with their new son. We didn't get to see Maddie with her brother but look forward to seeing her next weekend when we again head to San Diego to get more grandchild time.

By the way, the quilt was my gift to Henry which I managed to finish the night before, just in time.

It's About Time

2010-04-01T10:14:00.001-07:00

Okay, I get ragged on for not posting to my blog. Even though I'm often tempted to write, there are never any pictures to post and the pictures are the best part. Today I'm writing this to let anyone who actually attempts to read my blog know that I'm still around and able to write. Maybe after Easter I'll have some pictures and more to say. For now, just read old posts.

You have to agree, they are cute!!! -- Part Two

2010-01-17T18:03:00.000-08:00

Christmas morning starts with a BIG breakfast. We had eggs, ebelskivers, sausages, fruit, sticky rolls and plenty of coffee, tea and juice. Once we finished filling up, it was time to open presents. There is no rush on Christmas morning so we thoroughly enjoy the process of sharing our gifts with each other. Since we didn't even start breakfast until around 9:30 a.m., then gifts beginning around 10:30, the morning was over before we finished. Then, it's a quite afternoon of playing with the gifts, taking naps, watching the game or whatever we choose before heading out to the Lindley family gathering. Here are some pictures from Christmas day.

The sign says "This is NOT a gift." Doug wrapped this gift, wrote the tag and can give you the whole story. It turned out that is actually was a gift and Jon loved it.

Presents are fun no matter if you really understand the whole concept or not.

Maddie was happy to share the doggy with Jo.

After gifts, Julie, Rachel and Amy talked Heidi into teaching them to knit. Heidi proved to be a good teacher and they all managed to knit the beginnings of a very short scarf. Rachel was getting the hang of it with just a little encouragement from Heidi. Hans had gone for a run and was now watching the game while Amy continued to practice knitting. A lull in the Christmas activites is the perfect opportunity for a nap and we now have the perfect couches for the above mentioned nap. Really, they are so CUTE!! Grandpa and Maddie Jo. I love the girls pigtails and applaud their mothers for getting those teeny tiny rubber bands into their hair. Second cousins Maddie and Sophie enjoying their gifts.

Christmas was SO fun!

You have to agree, they are cute!!!

2010-01-17T17:48:00.001-08:00

Uncle David and Aunt Rachel finally get to meet Josephine. She is very happy to have more people to love her and think she is one of the cutest kids anywhere.

When we went to the park one day and tried to get some pictures of Jo and Maddie together. Josie has quite the lower lip pout which comes in very handy to express her displeasure at life. Maddie is definitely not responsible for the pout and disclaiming all knowledge of whatever it is that made Jo unhappy. Three of my girls with their babies at the park and looking so cute. First, here is Heidi and Josephine, and then Julie and Madeleine, and finally, Rachel and Timber.

2010 - A New Year, A New Decade

2010-01-05T11:19:00.000-08:00

I love new beginnings. That means that I love mornings and Mondays and the first of the month and the first of the year. Each of these moments means that I can do better what I didn't do well yesterday or last week or last year. This is also the opportunity to continue and grow in those areas that are going well. This is the time for renewal.

One of my goals (I don't make New Year's resolutions because they just don't work) is to make this a year of renewal. The last couple of years have been filled with so much that my mind and emotions have been on overload. That has resulted in a dullness of spirit. I feel like there has been little that I have done to my best in the past couple of years. Mostly I've just been hanging on for the ride and dealing with what I could handle and letting everything else just percolate in the back of my mind. This year I want to move ahead with intention. I do have some plans such as reading through the Bible using my mom's favorite Bible filled with her notes and comments. I want to continue on my quest for better health and a lower weight. Family, church commitments and friends all are part of my intentionality. However, my goal is to keep a balance in my outside commitments. Enough to be involved and ministering but not so many that nothing is being done well. God has created me to be a creative person and I have learned that I need to be creating. This feeds my soul in a unique way so I plan to schedule time into my week to pursue my creative self.

When this year comes to a close and I look back I want to see renewal of spirit, soul, body, and mind. Although this is not a New Year's resolution, it is an intention that I plan to keep.

Family & Friends

2009-12-23T11:20:00.000-08:00

Do you remember the song from Sound of Music about favorite things? Well, two of my absolute favorite things are family and friends. Right now, at this very moment, my life is full of both. David and Rachel arrived from Washington last Friday and are staying with us and dividing their time between her family and ours. It is WONDERFUL to have them here. Jon, Julie and Maddie arrive this afternoon and will be staying through Monday. Heidi, Caleb, Josesphine, Amy and Hans are also coming as often as possible to be with us and their siblings. Last Sunday we were with some of Doug's family and we will be with the most of my extended family on Christmas night. My life is truly blessed with such an amazing family.

Next comes friends: Although I would say I am also blessed with many friends there are few dearer to me than those in my book club. The Traveling Book Club has become a secure harbor and a place of fun, friendship and belonging. We do read books, normally one a month. We do discuss those books and enjoy the process. But, we have morphed into much more than a book club, we have become true friends. Last Monday night was our annual Christmas dinner and ornament exchange. It was my privilege to host this event. Bev entertained us with a story about her Aunt Mary and the New Year's Day bra sale that had us in stitches. Best of all, it was a true story. She really needs to write a book about her Mennonite upbringing. We enjoyed a fabulous pot-luck dinner and then retired to the family room to exchange ornaments and discuss our December book. A great time was had by all.
The Traveling Book Club -- Back row: Vivian, Pat, Lesa, Beverlee. Front Row: Nancy, Judi, Sharon, Nancee, Dolores.

Duck, North Carolina

2009-10-17T17:49:00.000-07:00

Monday morning after the wedding, we all met at Jack and Joan's for breakfast and goodbyes to Amber, Dad and Marilyn. By late morning, we sisters were off for our journey to Duck, North Carolina. After some wrong turns and funny moments of getting headed in the right direction, we were off for a wonderful five days at the beach. Ginny's beach cottage is pictured below. Really, that is the right place. Three floors, 8 bedrooms with private baths, complete with a pool room, study, laundry, downstairs tiny kitchen, living room, dining room and huge kitchen. The main living space was on the third floor so we got our exercise just climbing stairs and wandering around the over 6,000 square feet of house. Even though the place is BIG, it has a very comfortable and cozy feel. Tuesday dawned cloudy and cold. The day was spent mostly in our pj's enjoying each other, lots of conversation, some naps, a walk around the neighborhood and to the beach, good food and more conversation. The perfect beginning to a great vacation. The view of the back of the beach house, with the pool and spa as well as views to the ocean from the upper deck. Joyce and I had the middle level to ourselves. She at one end and me at the other end in the princess room. Really, we each had our own suite complete with sitting area, bath and flat screen TV. It was rough but we managed. Wednesday was spent exploring Duck and some of the surrounding area. Of course, the day began with a leisurely breakfast, sitting around in pj's and talking and then finally getting dressed and heading for Duck, about 15 minutes from the house. The need to do some shopping was met first, then a really great lunch at The Point (pictured below), followed by driving south to Kitty Hawk and finally on to Roanoke Island. By the time we got to Manteo on Roanoake Island it was closing time for the shops and actually for the whole island it appeared. We did a little sightseeing and walked along the harbor. Back to the house, for dinner and talking and a movie.

Thursday was set aside to celebrate Jean's 50th birthday. The day began with bringing her coffee in bed and then breakfast was enjoyed on the top deck. After a leisurely breakfast we adjourned to the living room for more talking and relaxing before preparing for a day out. Turning 50 is nothing to take lightly so we wanted to be sure there was plenty of celebrating and enjoying this momentous occasion.

At the north end of the island in Corolla near the light house is a beautiful park. We took a gourmet lunch of turkey sandwiches, chips, hummus, grapes, and chocolate cake and toasted Jean with sparkling juice. The setting was absolutely gorgeous and the weather was perfect. After lunch we drove to the light house and wandered among the old houses and shops. One of the shop keepers instructed us in the proper way to pronounce Corolla and it's not the same as the car but rather with a southern twang...Coraaaalla.

Turning fifty really should be celebrated doing something reminiscent of childhood. How about a game of miniature golf including a train ride to the first hole? We had a blast. And the winner is ME!!! In case you're wondering if there is a future in this for me, the course was a par 42 and I won with an amazing score of 60! The four of us in front of the fireplace just before having to leave. Although we are all smiling, none of us were really ready to head home. Not being in a hurry for the trip to end, we stopped in Williamsburg, VA for a little shopping and dinner at Chownings Tavern. Dinner was great followed by amazing desserts, especially the peanut-butter chocolate pie. There was even a magic show that commenced not three feet from our table and we really could not tell how he managed to get the oranges under the cups. The night was spent at Joan's house. It was raining when we left for the airport on Saturday morning, an appropriate response from nature for the end of a wonderful sister's time away.

Jason & Jacky Get Married

2009-10-13T17:50:00.000-07:00

Family weddings are absolutely the best. I love every minute of the event. Below are some pictures which should give you an idea of the wedding. It was a wonderful event and I feel blessed that I was able to be there to celebrate with Jason and Jacky. Jason getting ready and looking good.
Jason and Jacky were married at the Washington Golf and Country Club in Arlington Virginia. It was a beautiful setting.

The Bride and Groom on the lawn following the ceremony.

Jessie was a bridesmaid. I'm not sure exactly what Kelly and Amber and talking about but it does look interesting.

Dad and his girls looking fine.

Dad and Marilyn meeting Edyn Jean Elwood, the 11th Lindley great-grandchild.

Kayla had a secret to tell grandma.

Amber and Kayla blowing bubbles for the departing couple.

Jason and Jackie as they head off for the honeymoon.

Cleaning off the camera, AGAIN!

2009-09-30T11:22:00.001-07:00

It's September 30 so I just made it under the wire to have at least one post per month. Maybe someday I'll get around to posting more often but for now, you can be glad I don't take very many pictures. If I did, this entry would be really tedious. As is, there are just enough pictures to fill you on the last month.

We start with Maddie's first birthday celebrated on August 29 in 106 degree heat, hence the swimming pool, a great way to keep the kids cool. Jon and Julie did a wonderful job of creating a circus themed party complete with popcorn and peanuts.

Maddie really enjoyed playing in the pool with her friends.
Julie made a sugar free avocado iced cake for Maddie. It was so cute watching Maddie decide what to do with it as she had never eaten any kind of cake. She eventually gave it a try.

Aren't they the best looking family? Jon and Julie and Maddie opening the birthday presents.

Do you think that Josephine understands Grandpa's jokes yet? He sure thinks it's funny.

Cousins -- Maddie has something to tell Josephine about her dedication service. Josie was in the nursery and missed the entire event.

This is my newest project, a mosaic table top. It is almost finished and I'll publish pictures once it is complete. I'm having a great time playing with broken pottery and adhesive. Very therapeutic.Having missed the opportunity for our annual Fourth of July party, we opted for a Labor Day gathering of the family. This was the first ever, and possibly annual, family cook-off. The food was fabulous. Joyce won the grand prize with her scrumptious blue cheese coleslaw but I don't have any pictures of that. Here is Heidi's prize winning side dish of beautifully presented jello cocktails.

Heidi and Miss Josephine, both looking beautiful.

The guys barbecued, played bocce ball and eventually went to the park for a rousing game of over-the-line.

The women talked, ate, went through hundreds (maybe thousands) of old family pictures and had a great time. There was plenty of laughter over old hair and clothing styles as well as remembering those awkward stages we all go through.

Lindley was helping out with feeding Maddie.

I recently had the privilege of watching Caleb, Lindley and Lincoln for an evening. Here are the two youngest playing dress up.

Okay, that should bring you up to date on the last month of my life. At least the parts that have pictures attached. Friday I leave for Virginia for Jason and Jacky's wedding and then time with my sisters in North Carolina. Surely there will be pictures and stories to share so check back by the end of next month.

I really should post more often...huh?

2009-08-19T18:19:00.000-07:00

Okay, I was just checking some other blogs and wondering why people don't write more often. Hmmm....I'm the worst offender. If there is something new on my blog every month I'm feeling pretty good about myself. However, it is time to post something new so read on.

The last entry ended halfway through our vacation. Well suffice it to say that the rest of the trip was as wonderful as the first half. We left David and Rachel's on Monday morning definitely feeling sad to say goodbye. Our first stop was Pike Place Market in Seattle. The nectarines we purchased there were the best I've every had. They were also the largest and most expensive but worth every penny. It didn't make sense to buy any fish since we had no way to cook it or get it home unspoiled but it was fun watching the guys slinging huge fish around as people picked what they were buying. It is worth stopping just to see the variety and quality of the food.

Just one of the vegetable and fruit stands. I'm not sure if the picture below does justice to the size of the lobsters, but one would feed more than one person. They were HUGE.Leaving Seattle we headed south for Mount St. Helen's. It was too foggy to see the mountain on Monday but we were staying in the area and the next morning proved to be clear and beautiful. It was fascinating to drive the 50 miles from Hwy 5 through the countryside once devastated by the volcano. It has been 29 years since the volcano blew and the area is still in the process of recovery. Forests have been replanted in many areas and some places have naturally regrown. The replanted forests looked so strange and we realized it was because all the trees are the same type and nearly the same height. It felt like a movie set. Once in the National Park, nothing has been replanted and the original destruction is still visible. Trees blown down, most areas with little or no vegetation, and areas of deep ash. The mountain itself is beautiful in it's barrenness. We spent half the day there and then once again headed south.

Monday we stayed near Multnomah Falls, the second highest falls in the US. Yosemite Falls being the tallest. It was a beautiful area. When we drove up to the B&B where Doug had made reservations my my initial reaction was...'let's find a motel.' However, it turned out to be a very nice place to stay and quite historic, nearly 100 years old and still owned by the original family.The rest of the week was spent visiting such places as Tillamook, Oregon, home to Tillamook Cheese and touring the factory. We spent time enjoying the beauty of the Oregon Coast and onto the majesty and quietness of the Redwood forests of Northern California. It was a restful and relaxing trip home.

Washington Vacation - Friday

2009-07-12T13:09:00.001-07:00

I know, this is out of order but so is my mind and I need to go back to Friday. Orcas Island was Saturday but Friday had fun all on it's own. David and Doug were up early and went to Twin Lakes. They hiked about 6 miles that day enjoying some fishing, photography and hiking. Evidently they also enjoyed mosquitoes as Doug can attest by his swollen right hand. They came back tired, happy and a little sunburned.

Rachel and I spent our time in Lynden at the antique/old stuff stores. Lynden does boast some amazing antique shops and I had to limit my spending. The prices are fantastic and the bargains for things I would actually like to buy were abundant. It was so much fun that I actually went back later in the afternoon after Rachel went to work. There was just one more thing to purchase. I knew if I went home without those little glasses I would kick myself later. We also ate lunch at Mother's Dutch Bakery. The food was good and the waitresses were so cute in their little flowered dresses, pig tails and dutch hats. The only thing missing were the wooden shoes.

Rachel had to work from 2:00 until 9:00. Doug, David and I barbecued chicken and cooked corn on the cob for dinner. Excellent! Part of my afternoon was spent making peanut butter chocolate chip bars which made everyone happy. It was a good day.

Washington Vacation - Orcas Island

2009-07-12T12:32:00.000-07:00

The jarring noise of the alarm woke us at 5:30 a.m., an hour after sunrise. There is no need to arise before daybreak to get an early start in Washington. Today we are off to Orcas Island, part of the San Juan Islands. The ferry leaves from Anacortes at 7:45 and we need to be there an hour early to board. Riding on the ferry is peaceful and beautiful. Islands of many sizes, from truly mini to large enough for farming and villages, dot the passageway. The trip took about an hour to arrive at Orcas Island.

Immediately after disembarking from the ferry we headed around the island to Mt. Constitution. Orcas Island had a number of mountains all over 1000 foot elevation with Mt. Constitution topping all the San Juan Islands at 2400 feet. The views were dramatic. We could see Mt. Baker, Bellingham, the many islands of the San Juans and even into Canada. After spending some time just enjoying the views we drove to Mountain Lake. David did some fishing as did Rachel. Doug and I both took naps in the car, just enough to refresh ourselves for the day. By this time it was almost noon and time for lunch.

Cascade Lake was our choice for lunch. The forest comes right to the edge of the lake except for a beach and picnic area. Although we saw more people here than anywhere else, it still was not crowded. People were swimming, kayaking and fishing. David did some fishing after lunch along the shore and caught and released one good sized trout. The walk along the shore was shaded by ancient growth forest and offered views of the lake. The perfect mid-day break.

After lunch, we drove to Cascade Falls which was a downhill 1/2 mile hike. That meant an uphill 1/2 mile hike back to the car. Next came Obstruction State Park at the end of the road with a 1.2 mile round trip hike to the beach. By then it was time to take the road back towards the ferry. We stopped in Eastsound for pizza in a rooftop restuarant with views out to East Sound. Everywhere we looked the views were spectacular. Orcas Island is so beautiful. After dinner, we drove a different road back to Orcas Village and arrived just in time to drive onto the ferry for the trip home around 7:30 p.m.

As we headed back from Orcas Island we had this amazing view of Mt. Baker in the distance. This looming inactive volcano dominates the landscape when not hidden in the clouds.

We arrived back at David and Rachel's around 9:30 p.m. just after dark. It was a long day but absolutely beautiful and fun. It is a good thing tomorrow is Sunday and we don't have to get up early or do anything strenuous. Although it will be time to begin packing and cleaning up as we leave Monday morning for the return home. We do have 6 days for the return trip giving us plenty opportunity to see and do and relax on the way back.

Washington Vacation Part One

2009-07-09T20:34:00.000-07:00

The only reason to ever get out of bed before daylight is to leave on vacation. Doug and I were up by 4:00 a.m. on July 3 so we could get out of town before the traffic was intolerable. It worked well and we were napping somewhere beyond Buttonwillow by 9:30 a.m. The drive that first day was just long but successful. Our destination was Medford, Oregon and we were there by 5:00 p.m. After dinner and a good nights sleep we covered the rest of the drive to Lynden, Washington on Saturday, leaving Medford around 7:00 a.m. and arriving at David and Rachel's before dinner and fireworks to celebrate the 4th of July.

Saturday and Sunday were hot and lazy. We napped, talked and walked to the park. Very relaxing and great to be with David and Rachel. Doug catching up on the sleep he lost doing the large majority of the driving. I was not much help this time taking turns driving. Every time we started to drive I fell asleep. Not a good idea to let me drive.

David fixing dinner for us on Sunday night, tacos with all the fixin's.

On Monday night, we drove out to Birch Bay and Semiahmoo. Since dusk is at 9:30 p.m., we were able to eat dinner after David came home from work and then drive out to see the bay. It was a beautiful evening, cool and clear. Here are Rachel and Timber balancing on the pilings. They are very talented.

Doug and David had a great time photographing the old boats and buildings at Semiahmoo. I just wandered around and collected shells.

On Wednesday we all drove into Canada and spent most of the day driving along the Fraser River in Fraser Canyon. It was a spectacular drive but we did end up with a little too much time in the car. Today Doug and I went to Bellingham and the coast. We started in historic Fairhaven. There are some great shops that sell beautiful local crafts and we especially enjoyed the woodworking shop with great furniture pieces. Of course, we could not purchase anything due to the exorbitant pricing but did enjoy trying out all the rocking chairs. Skylark Cafe provided a perfect spot for lunch and before leaving town we found the gelato place.

From Fairhaven we headed for Chuckanut Drive, one of the most scenic drives in Washington according to the signs. The drive meandered along the coast, passing large houses with ocean bay views, thick forests and intermittent views of the bay and San Juan Islands in the distance. Larrabee State Park was a nice stop. It sits on a little cove with the rock strewn beaches providing lots of tide pools to explore. Unfortunately we did not come prepared to tramp through the tide pools but did enjoy the views. The rest of the drive was just beautiful.

Don't we look great. Just like two people enjoying themselves on vacation. The day finished with a stop at The Woods Coffee Shop to visit Rachel, dinner here and some reading and TV.

Cleaning off the camera

2009-07-06T18:32:00.001-07:00

For some unknown reason, my camera had random pictures on it that were never deleted. We just downloaded them all and several were definitely worth posting here. So enjoy a look back at some great moments in the Hammer clan from the last few months.Maddie and her Grandfather. The toe will definitely fit in the mouth.

Aunt Amy and Maddie.

Anna and Guilia Martini at her sister Rachel's wedding. Guilia was born just two weeks after Maddie so Patty and I have granddaughter's the same age. I've been having a lot of fun making hand appliqued dish towels. Although they are made to be used, mostly they make great decorative additions to the kitchen. This first one I made as a set for Rachel and Mark Villalon as a wedding gift. They are both musicians. The next two I made for Christmas gifts; the flowered one for Amy and the tea cups for Patty's birthday. Pretty cool, huh!

These next pictures were taken at Christmas.

David and Maddie looking too cute for words.

Maddie and grandpa having a short conversation. I'm not sure who is giving advice to whom.

Hmmm...that pacifier looks good. Maybe Maddie will share.

June 2009

2009-07-06T12:54:00.001-07:00

After the busyness of May, June began with lots of naps and getting life back to a normal routine. Like that is ever going to happen.

On Tuesday June 2, I met with the surgeon who had been recommended to me by the doctor in the emergency room at St. Jude. My doctor had urged me to have the gallbladder surgery as soon as possible. The emergency room doctor had recommended doing it soon and now the surgeon made the same recommendation. There can be serious complications with a gallbladder attack and they didn't want that to happen. So, surgery was scheduled for Wednesday, June 10.

About 4:00 a.m. on Saturday June 6, Caleb calls to say they are at the hospital and Heidi is in labor. June 6th is her due date but she was so sure she would deliver late that she had not even packed her bags. The nursery was ready. She and I had spent a day earlier in the week finishing with some of the organizing that needed to be done. Caleb's mom, Pam, had made curtains and pads for the rocking chair. Caleb and Heidi with some help had done an outstanding job of painting the nursery. Everything looked great and ready for little Josephine Lois.

Doug and I went out to breakfast and then over to the hospital around noon. Heidi was doing okay but not progressing very fast at all. Around 1:30 Caleb called to say that the baby was in distress and they were doing a C-section. Doug was on his way to Foothills to set up a photo show. I waited for Amy to arrive and then she and I went to the hospital. Before we even arrived, Josie was safely delivered. She arrived at 2:00 p.m., June 6, weighing 6 lbs. 10 oz. and 19 1/2 inched long. Since it would a couple of hours before we could see her, Amy and I went to lunch and then did some necessary baby shopping at Babies R Us. Doug wanted to be sure that Josie had a Dodger shirt so she wouldn't be confused by all the Angel's paraphernalia the Weston's had given her. It was early evening when Doug, Amy and I were able to see Josie, Heidi and Caleb. What a BEAUTIFUL baby she is. Heidi was doing well, lots of pain med's and a beautiful baby make for a happy mother. Both she and Caleb looked tired and were tired but very happy. Heidi came home from the hospital on Tuesday the 9th. I was able to be at the house waiting for them. It was fun to welcome them home. Doug came over after work, I made dinner and we spent time with the new parents and our newest granddaughter. It is just amazing. The next day, June 10 was my surgery. It was an outpatient procedure. The surgery was scheduled for 1:30 and I was home by 8:30 or so. Very drugged and still in pain but happy to be laying on my own couch. The next few days are a blur. Doug stayed home on Thursday and I could not have made it through that day without help. I was on lots of pain medication which makes me incredibly sleepy and a bit loopy. By Monday, I felt good enough go to Heidi's and help with Josephine. Pam had stayed with them for the first few days. My dad drove me since I wasn't sure I could handle driving yet. I spent the week helping Heidi but not really feeling well. In fact, I kept feeling worse and weaker all week. Thursday morning my doctor's visit revealed that I was suffering from an infection. They began me on some heavy duty antibiotics which really affected me. I was weak and sleepy all the time. After a week on the antibiotics, the infection seems to be gone, my strength is returning but I'm still tired most of the time.

Now it is time to begin getting ready for vacation. Somehow I manage to do what has to be done but not much else. We leave on Friday morning, July 3 for a two week vacation. June is mostly a blur of pain and baby. Even though I was not up to par, I was able to spend my days at Heidi's. Mostly I held Josie so Heidi could take a nap or shower. It was hard not to be able to do all my mother's heart wanted to do for Heidi but at least I was there. Holding Josephine was a joy.

June is truly a blur. July has arrived, we are on vacation, I'm getting back to normal and maybe now life will return to a normal routine. You never know, it could happen.

May 2009

2009-07-06T12:15:00.001-07:00

Before I can write about our current vacation in Washington with David and Rachel, it is necessary for me to go backwards and catch up on the events of the past two months. So I begin with May.

The month of May included a wedding shower, two book club meetings, a baby shower, two birthday celebrations, two weddings, Mother's Day, on emergency room trip, visiting relatives and a college graduation. Our weekends were full.

The first Saturday of the month started with the FCC book club meeting and then I picked up Amy and she and I headed to a wedding shower for Rachel Purcell. It was fun to see Rachel, her sisters and their children, and Patty. The following weekend was the wedding. Dad and Marilyn went with Doug and I. Rachel was radiant and so very happy and Mark seems like a great man. The reception was in Dana Point at a beautiful restaurant and the party was fun and celebratory. Sunday was Mother's Day. It was the first Mother's Day without mom and I found myself really sad. But at the same time it was Heidi's first Mother's day. She and Caleb came for lunch, the guys went to Rubio's and bought us exactly what we wanted to eat. All my other children called and it turned into a nice day.

The third Saturday of May found us in San Diego for Amber's college graduation from Point Loma. We then went back to the Kaisers for dinner and presents and some good family time. The following Saturday, May 23 was Julie's 30th birthday. Jon and a friend threw Julie a great party at a park by the water in San Diego. The day was filled with more celebration (May held lots of celebrations), and great food; hamburgers, potato salad, chips, cookies and watermelon. Caleb and Heidi came with us and on the way home we stopped at Taco Bell for a quick and cheap dinner then to their house to watch the last few innings of the game. Early the next morning, Sunday the 24th, I woke with bad stomach pains. In the past year or so, I had experienced similar stomach pains but they were milder and lasted for much shorter periods of time. I thought it was just bad reflux/heartburn, took a number of Tums and we went to church. It was hard to sit through service and I just wanted to get home and lay on the couch. By evening I was ready for some real help and had Doug take me to the emergency room. It turned out I was having a gallbladder attack. Evidently all the high fat food from the day before had brought on the attack. Pain medication never felt so wonderful. I would have been glad if they had just taken the thing out right then and there. I spent two days on pain med's before the attack subsided. Then a couple of days getting some strength back. I also found myself avoiding eating any fat since I was willing to do whatever was necessary to never have this happen again.

By this point it's time to get my house and yard ready for the next wedding which was happening in our backyard on Saturday the 30th. My dad was getting married to Marilyn McNichols. David and Rachel were flying down on Friday, Jon, Julie and Maddie were coning up to stay for the weekend. There were 50 people expected at the house for the wedding and I was WAY behind in all I had planned to do. Of course, everything did not get done but the wedding was perfect none the less.

God's timing is perfect but interesting. I certainly don't understand what He is doing at times like this. However, the wedding, the way the house and yard looked were out of my control. God took control and I need to learn to lean more on Him and less on me.

Dad's wedding was so very nice. Just family. Both sets of children and spouses, many of the grandchildren and some of the great-grand children attended. Marilyn's son Ken and granddaughter Emily did the music. Bob and Jack presided over the ceremony. Jon did the photography. Brianna catered the meal. Marilyn's daughter's did the flowers. My sisters helped me get the house ready and looking festive. It was a family affair. It is good to see Dad happy. He and Marilyn make a good match and bring joy to each other.

The next day we celebrated Rachel's birthday with brunch. I then headed to an elder's meeting. From there, it was straight to Darcy's for a baby shower for Molly. Somehow, we managed to get everything done while the family was in town. What a busy but joyous weekend.

Monday David and Rachel left for home. Jon and Julie also headed home. The house was quiet and clean and I crashed. The illness and then the busy weekend left me exhausted.

May 2009 was one of the busiest months I can remember. Ahh, but then there is June. Read on!!

Liberia

2009-05-22T09:51:00.000-07:00

Life skips from one event to the next so quickly that some events never get chronicled. It has been almost two months since we returned from Liberia and still no details of the trip on this site. So here goes.

Liberia was an amazing experience. No place I have ever been compares to being in Yekepa. Although there are more remote places, this one is right up there on my scale of remoteness. Hours of flying and layovers and then a 7 hour jeep trip to get to the University. There is almost nothing left in this part of the country except lots of ruins and evidence of the war. People live here and eck out a living somehow. The school is here and rising restored out of the jungle. It is amazing to see God at work in this broken and battered place. What a blessing to be a small part of what God is doing at ABC University.

Here are a few of my pictures from the trip. I didn't take very many so there are gaps in the story but here goes.

This was a lunch stop on the way to Yekepa. Doug and Brad are conversing with a group of children walking home from school.
On the right is a 'gas station'. Just pick your bottle of gas and they pour it in your tank.

Caleb spent most of his time cloistered in this room setting up the computer lab. It was exciting to see students using these computers on our last day there after many long hot hours of getting it ready for them. A satellite dish and generator make computer use possible in this outpost of Liberia.

Dad and Doug discussing where all the books should go. It seems logical to place them on the shelves.

It took hours of work and lots of help from students to move all the books from the temporary library to this new space.

It was exciting to see the library take shape, be filled with books, desks, computers and eventually students. We all felt priviledged to be a small part of getting this accomplished.

There was both sadness to leave and eagerness to head home when our two weeks came to a close. We made friends at the school which were hard to leave but we also were eager to get back to our loved ones here.

James asleep in the airport in Brussels. It was a long time getting back to the US. We all took naps on these couches.
In case you ever wondered what Doug and I look like after almost three days of travel, well here you go. Pretty huh!!

Before leaving for Liberia I really wondered what I had allowed myself to be talked into doing. There were things that I was unsure if I could handle well. How would I do in the heat and humidity without the aid of a good shower? What about snakes? Would I ever be able to relax? Would I be able to interact with the students and staff at the school and be an encouragement? What would God teach me through this experience? There were lessons to learn. God can take a city woman and use her in the jungles. I never stopped looking for snakes as I walked across the campus but I did walk across the campus, alone. It was hot and the showers were cold. It was very humid. I slept great and managed to function regardless of heat and humidity. There were some great times with the students and faculty. The times with Del and Becky were precious. They are great friends and it was good to be with them where they are serving God. God taught me, once again, that He is faithful and I can trust Him. It is good to go where God leads.

Getting Older

2009-03-31T15:58:00.000-07:00

When one is young it feels like you can do anything and do it whenever you want. Playing or working all day and then staying up all night, no problem. The body responds well to more abuse than it should. Eat those nachos and finish off with a big bowl of ice cream with hot fudge sauce and no heartburn. Work in the yard or play a game of tennis and the sore muscles are back to normal in a day.

But then one begins to age and slowly it dawns on you that you can't do anything and surely not at anytime you want. What you eat and what is in that food becomes much more important. After all, we now need to watch saturated fat, sodium, fiber and sugar content. Work in the yard for very long and we're in need of a massage and at least a three hour nap. The thought of staying up all night, well, it isn't even a thought. We begin to think of how to finish life well. Retirement creeps into the conversation often and how will we live on a what was once a flourishing 401K but now has tanked with the economy.

Life has changed and I'm not always sure I like the changes. But just when I'm feeling the most frustrated with getting older God gives me the most amazing gift -- Madeleine and soon-to-arrive, Josephine. Grandchildren are God's gift that comes only to those who have lived past youth. The perspective of age brings new insight to the miracle of babies. There is great joy in watching Jon be a father to Maddie. Julie is a wonderful and loving mother. Experiencing Heidi's pregnancy and the joy of her anticipation of Josie's arrival is amazing. There is great joy in seeing my children as parents.

I look forward to sitting on the floor and playing with Maddie and Josie even if my muscles do complain. Playing games, eating pizza and staying up all night sound good if it means I'm enjoying my grandchildren. Praise God for grandchildren!!

We're Here

2009-03-10T12:51:00.000-07:00

Some time yesterday late afternoon we arrived in Yekepa. The seven hour drive here was the bouncyest ride of my life. Del drives quite fast for roads liberally speckled with deep potholes and then the dirt roads were even worse. We made it safely here in a timely manner and I guess that is what counts.

It is hot and muggy, really hot and really really muggy. The idea of showering, in cold water, every couple of hours sounds appealing. However, there is work to do and everyone is busy doing what they can. Doug and I spent most of the day trying to figure out the computer system for cataloging the library. We're still working on that. Everyone else was actually working in the library; James was hanging lights, Caleb was wiring for the computers, Brad was helping both as needed, Dad was supervising.

It is about 8:00p.m. and we had some hard rain early this evening. There is actually some cool air coming in. Heavenly!!

Being on the campus of ABC University is exciting. Seeing the library coming together is also exciting. This is a great tribute to mom and her love of ABC and the teaching of the Word. It is also a needed addition to the school. The students and teachers are eagerly looking forward to it's completion. I am grateful to be here and be part of this project.

Liberia

2009-03-06T09:49:00.000-08:00

Early tomorrow morning, really early, we leave for Liberia. I'll be up at 2:00 a.m. to shower and do my hair. It is a good thing to begin a long trip clean. We will arrive in Monrovia Liberia Sunday evening, spend the night and then the next day begin the 7 hour jeep trek to Yekepa. We have about 10 full days in Yekepa to accomplish what God is sending us to do. Although I understand the trip is more about people than work, I would like to see the actual compleletion of the library.

There have been moments, some of them long moments, when I've wondered how I was talked into going on this trip. But God has been at work on my heart. I find I'm excited about the trip. The long travel time and the hot humid weather don't excite me. Being with Del and Becky, seeing ABC University, interacting with the Liberians, these things excite me.

God has good plans for us and ABCU through this trip. With God's help we will be able to finish the library and have it usable by the time we leave. We will have time with Del and Becky and I pray we are an encouragement to them. Then, we will also be working with many Liberians on this project and there will be students to interact with. My pray is for God to use me in a special way in at least one person's life. I also pray that I will be open to what God wants to teach me through this journey.

Pray with me for God's plan to unfold in our lives and the lives of those with whom we interact.

Happy Birthday to Me

2009-02-20T08:01:00.000-08:00

Today I turn 59. WOW!! It used to be that every one I knew that was that age was really old. Now it just seems middle aged. Don't you think that 118 is a reasonable goal.

My grandfather (Ivan Butler, my mom's dad) was blind for the last 10 years of his life. During that time, on birthdays, he would call and recite a poem as his gift to us. Once he died, Mom would call and recite the same poem. She is now in heaven with her dad. I can hear them saying to me today,

Many happy returns
On the day of your birth,
May the good Father,
Prepare you on earth,
For a beautiful birthday in heaven.

Liberia

2009-02-13T07:05:00.001-08:00

Having been to Africa three times already, going to Liberia should not be a big deal. But it is a big deal. Liberia is very different from what I've known in Kenya. Actually, all I know about Liberia is from the stories of those who have already gone. And people do tend to exagerate their tales. So, I will make my estimation of Yekepa and African Bible College and Liberia once I've experienced it for myself.

There is no doubt in my mind that this is a trip that has been ordained by God. I don't think we would have pursued this trip if not for that certainty. Doug is still new at his job and it will be hard to be gone for two weeks. If I could choose anywhere to go right now it would be Washington to visit David and Rachel. However, God has other plans for us and it should be exciting.

Working on the completion of the Lois Lindley Memorial Library will be rewarding. To be able to be part of this is a blessing. I look forward to seeing Del and Becky and the work at the college. Education is key to helping Liberia rebuild. Providing a solid Christian education helps Liberia but more importantly, it helps build the kingdom of God. It is exciting to be a part of this effort. I'm sure that when I return, I will have my own stories to tell of adventures in the jungles of Liberia.

Pictured above is our team:

James Domingo, Caleb Weston, Brad Fielder

Judi Hammer, Verl Lindley, Doug Hammer

The Flu

2009-01-28T09:18:00.001-08:00

Okay, I'm not very good at posting to my blog but I do have good intentions. Now, here I am talking about having the flu. It's the pits. This is the first time in years that I can remember actually being sick. Sick enough to not leave the couch for three days, not really eat anything, not even shower until today. All who know me well and would be called on to care for me if I was ever truly sick for a long time, should pray that never happens. I make a lousy sick person. I tend to be whiny and grumpy. Please, just take it all away for me. Doug has been wonderful. Although he is the one who gave me this in the first place. He was sick first but seems to be mostly recovered. I am assuming I'm just a couple of days behind him and will continue to get better till I'm fully recovered by the end of the week. In the meantime, I lay on the couch, watch TV, sip tea and wait for this all to pass. (P.S. There will be no pictures to go with this because they would not be pretty!)

A New Year

2009-01-01T11:53:00.000-08:00

New Year's Day is one of my most favorite days. It is the quint-essential new beginning. All the things that I did not do well last year, I have the opportunity to do better in the coming year. Nothing is yet written for this year. Only God knows what is to come and I can depend on Him to help me navigate the paths before me. This year I can be better than I was last year. There is much to be learned from what went on before, but there is also opportunity to take those things learned and improve on them. I love fresh beginnings.

Saying that I have been looking forward to a new year would be simplifying my thoughts and feelings. Last year was filled with more emotion and turmoil than I want in any given year. Although last year would have been a great year to have kept a blog, I am starting one for this year and praying that the entries will be mundane and normal, except for the birth of our second grandchild. That's the kind of excitement I look forward to in the coming year.