STEVE

When I was ten years old I played a game called "Kick the Can" with some kids from our
neighborhood. There were two boys named Steve who played the game at times. One
Steve had trouble with his school work while the other ended up graduating at the top of
his class may years later.
A few months ago I learned that one Steve died as a lonely man. Last night, the other
Steve became the Governor elect of the State ofKentucky. While I haven't seen either
Steve for many, many years, I've wondered where they were and what they were doing.
Now I know, and so do you.
As I was about to sign off from this Blog, I just thought of another Steve. Our Son is
named Stephen. He is good looking like his father and is works hard from day to day.
Three guys named Steve stand tall in my mind. I thank God for each one.

Yesterday

I had a date with my mate yesterday afternoon so we went out to eat and then we went to
Barnes & Noble. While she read one book, I read two. While she read, I drank Starbucks
strong coffee and watched people. Some sat all alone. Some were with others. Some worked
at the lap tops and drank their cups of coffee.
As we were leaving, I happened to see a book that I must go back and read, How Starbucks
Saved My Life. Really? I've read three books about Starbucks already but I don't recall
anyone saying it saved their lives. Leonard Sweet's book might mention how Starbucks
can help save souls but I haven't come across saving lives yet. I'll get a cup of Starbucks
and see what this man has to say about how his life has been saved. I'll let you know when I
know what he knows. Know what I mean?
I read some thoughts about solitude and the soul as I drank my cup of coffee yesterday. I
wasn't all alone, yet I was refreshed as I was reminded of my need for more "time out"
with and for God. I think I will try to "get lost" today while my wife is out and about. The
silence of the soul allows God to whisper to me in ways that I other wise might miss. It's
in times like this that I feel closer to God. What is it for you? What works best?

ON CALL

Who can you call at 3:30 in the morning if you need someone? Would that person get mad
and hang up on you or say, "I'll be right there"? I hope you have a list of people who would
want to help you if asked. St. Paul had a list of people he could depend upon. When he was
in prison he depened upon a young man named Timothy. He was assured that Timothy
would come through for him. Who is your Timothy? Are you a Timothy for someone else?
When I think back, I don't remember the services at churches I've pastored as much as
the people who served the Lord with gladness. When I'm gone, I hope people remember
what I've done more than what I've said. And, I hope that they are grateful that I was
there for them when they needed me most. While my name isn't Timothy, I want to be
a Timothy for someone in some way. What about you? Are you on call?

SIGHT SEEING

While my wife was shopping at RiverGate Mall in Nashville yesterday, I watched as people
passed by. What caught my eye was that so many walked by as they talked on their cell
phones. Also, most of them were not alone. Someone was with them. In fact, one group
of guys that passed by had three people who were on their cell phones. It was a sight to
see!
Then there were the people who passed by without any packages in their hands. Maybe
they couldn't find what they wanted or they couldn't afford what they wanted. But only
one or two had sacks showing they had bought something at one of the stores. It made
me wonder why they had even shown up in the first place.
When my wife showed up, she too didn't have anything for her troubles. Since she didn't
say much about it, I kept my big mouth closed. Now that was a sight to see!
(Maybe she hid my Christmas present or put it on lay away. I didn't dare ask. After all it
was out of my sight seeing.)

THIS IS WHAT I KNOW

This morning while I was swinging on our front porch, I heard a familiar sound from behind
me. I didn't have to turn around to see who it was, I knew. I knew it was the sound of the
muffler on the mail man's mail truck as he approached our house. Sure enough, I was right.
After placing the mail in the mail box he headed ond own the street delivering mail.
All of the sudden the thought came to me, I wonder if people know when I am coming by
the sounds I make. I walk with a limp due to my M S. I talk alot and that may give me off.
Who knows, there may be something else. (don't go there!) And, are they glad to see me go
on my way? I hope I leave something worth while behind, a laugh, a smile something I said
or did. I don't know, but if you know me, you know I won't wish you "Happy Holloween" but
I wish you wish you well on this last day of October. That's what I know.

IN HIS SERVICE

My Pastor has asked that I concencrate the Communion elements at the 8:15 a.m. service this
coming Sunday. At first I was going to say that I couldn't because I had planned to
attend another service at another church near by and hear a friend preach. When I stopped
to think about what to do, I realized that I was being asked to not only serve the Lord's
Supper, but the Lord. I also realized that this is my way of serving my Pastor. It is my way
of helping him help others.
There is a beer commercial that says, "This Bud's for you." Well, this Sunday I can say to
those who are being served Communion,"This bloods for you." The body and blood of our
Lord Jesus Christ was given for us that we might be saved from our sins. I want to do my
small part in being sure others are blessed as I have been blessed. I can't wait to be at
the service Sunday serving Communion.

Forward March!

A few minutes ago I ran some papers through the shredder. While I was watching, I saw
the reverse button. So, I turned it on. When I did, some of the papers I had shredded a
few moments before, were returned to me. But I couldn't make sense out of any of it. I
knew what I had shredded and that no one else can make sense of it either. That's what
I needed and wanted to know.
When I confess my sins, what I need and want to know is that they are gone. I need to
get on with my life. The past is past and the future awaits. So it is, "forward march!" By
the way, something else doesn't make sense to me. How in the world can God love and
forgive me. While I don't comprehend it, I sure am glad God's grace still takes away my
sins and my guilt. That's why on this gloomy, rainy day, the SON is shining so bright!
Can't you see the SON? Can't you march forward in faith with me and so many others?
Forward March!

A GLIMPSE OF GOD

I took the dogs out at 5:00 this morning. While I was outside I looked up at the dark sky. As
I was looking I saw the stars high above. I thought to myself, how long it had been since I
last looked at the stars.? Sad to say, it has been a long, long time. I stood and stared at the
stars for a few minutes in awe.
It is so easy to miss seeing something that is right in front of us because we have our mind
on other things. We fail to see something or hear something because we have tuned them out of
our minds. Maybe we need to try a little harder to see and hear what is all around us. In doing
so, we just might see or hear something special, like a four leaf clover. We might even get a
glimpse of God. Talk about awesome!

Sunday Silence

This afternoon I sat on the swing on our front porch for awhile. I looked and listened instead
of reading a book. I was amazed at how few sounds there were over a minute or two. Dogs
barking and cars passing by were it. Then then there were the whispers of the winds. They
were so soft and yet enough for the human ear to hear them blowing in the leaves high
above my head.
I spent a good while just being still and silent. It was a Sunday afternoon well worth having.
It didn't cost me anything except a little bit of my time. I was well rewarded for allowing
something so ordinary to be extraordinary for me from my front porch swing. I'll have to
do it again soon. Real soon. It was a Holy hush that spoke to my soul.

THE LAST LAUGH IS ON ME

I got lots of laughs when I took Derby, our daughter's cocker spaniel, out back to play. One
of his favorite things to do is chase a tennis ball. While he was going to get it, I poured some
water in the water bowl from a milk cantainer. Then I tossed it down to do something else.
Little did I know that Derby would chase after that milk bottle as if it were his very best
toy! He ran and ran after it. He had it in his mouth by the handle. Whenever he hit it with
his small body, it went flying from him. He would go grab it and take off with it as if to say,
"Got Ya!!"
Isn't interesting that this toy wasn't some exspensive something from some store, but an
empty, plastic milk bottle? Just for the fun if it, I tossed another one out today and off
he went, chasing after it. I laughed so much that my tummy hurt.I know if someone saw
me out back laughing like that they thought I was crazy. Well, maybe, just maybe, they
are right! You see, I'm crazy about a dog named Derby who thinks I' m a great guy!! The
little feller is right about that, if I say so myself!

THOUGHTS

They showed up again today. It happens every three years. Three men in a white truck got
out and started cutting tree limbs from two trees in our back yard. The electric lines run
through that part of our yard. The three men didn't ask for permission, they didn't have too,
it belongs to the city. They went to work while I watched the tree limbs falling to the ground.
After they had cleaned up the tree limbs and leaves, they left, leaving me with less shade to
sit under when I read under the shade tree day after day.
I put the two chairs in place and started thinking about what had happened. That's when it
hit me that there just might be somethings in my life that need to be removed so I can get
the power of God into my heart. After giving that thought some thought, I thought that it
would be wise to trim things from life that hinder me from growing as a Christain, as a
husband, as a father and as a friend. Just like the white truck and the three men that show
up every three years, the Holy Spirit shows up and trims away things that keep me from
keeping in touch with God. When that takes place, I think it makes me a better person.
That's what I think on this mid-October day.

"What On Earth Are You Doing Here?"

When I went to get my flu shot at the Health Department earlier today ,I thought there
would be long lines and lots of cars. Not! I had an appointment for 9:30 but was back in
the car by then. One woman told me that it will be after 10:00 that the long lines show
up. I'm glad that I showed up when I did.
I've finished reading, Settling In. I highly recommend Richard Morgan's book because
it shows how things can be in a retiremnet community. I saw my dad on almost every
page in one way or another. Dad has been a resident for a number of years and yet he
too says and does some the same things that this book mentions. While you see the
good ,the bad and the ugly, it's "home" for those folk. One of these days, way down the
road I hope, I'll call such a place"home.
When one woman was asked what she was doing in such a place, she said, "I'm aging in
place." Wise words. We're all "aging in place", aren't we? We're not getting any younger,
that's for sure. I just hope I age well. You too.

A GREAT GIFT

Our daughter has a birthday tommorrow. Monday night we will take her out to eat
after she gets home from work. We will even let her pick the place where we will go.
We will even pay for whatever she orders. After all, isn't that what parents do?
Jennifer is such a blessing to her family and friends. I'm astonished at how many
friends she has from so many places. Some people have to "rent a friend" but not
Jennifer! She has so many that she can't count them all up. I think it's because they
can count on her. I know her parent's can.
I love to look at her smile and listen to her laugh, both are so very precious. I love
to hear her sing in praise worship. I love to see her hold her hands up to God as she
offers such sweet music to Him. You see, I love this great gift God gave us so many,
many years ago. I won't say how many years that was. I will say that they better
have something to put out the candles with when we wish her, "Happy Birthday!"

A DOUBLE TAKE

After attending the 9:30 service today, we ate with a couple from our church. We had
great food and great fellowship both. When we got home , I went to the backyard to read
and have a couple of cups of coffee. Several pages into a small book, I saw my wife working
with her flowers .
When she walked my way, I told her something that she didn't know. I told her that when
I saw her with her flowers, it was as if I was seeing my mother. My mom loved working with
her flowers after she and dad bought a house when he retired, many, many years ago. Mom
had lived in homes provided by the churches dad served throughout the years. Now she had
her own house and her very own rose garden.
That's why I see my mom in my wife whenever she is outside in our own yard and own
flower garden. It's as if I'm seeing my mom all over again. It's as if I've been given two gifts
in one as I stop and smell the roses on an October Sunday afternoon. I've been blessed by
a double take.

That Settles That

I bought a book for my father while I was in Lexington for a few days this week. Settling In ,
by Richard L. Morgan. After I started reading it I realized that it is a book for my father's
son's. It deals with settling into a retirement community. Dad settled into a retirement
community a few years ago and is now 95 years old. I'm 63 and hope this helps me prepare
for the time when I might move it into such a community.
On my way home from Lexington yesterday I stopped to see dad. We ate together and had
a long talk about living and dying. We went across the hall to see his sister (last one) for a
few moments. When I left dad, I whispered a prayer for the residents of that enclosed
community, as well as those who attend to them day and nigt.
Dad shared that he feels like a nobody rather than a somebody from time to time. He feels
forgotten and forshaken by friends and family. Morgan mentions much of the same feeling
as well. If this book does anything for me, it will be awakening a sense within my soul that
there are people all around the world who feel forgotten and forsaken, and that I need to
do more to make more people feel that they haven't been. I know dad felt better after I
visited him, and so did I.

A CELEBRATION OF FRIENDSHIP

My wife and I had dinner tonight with a cute couple from our church. We taked so much we
could hardly eat. We laughed so much we could hardly eat.We enjoyed being with them so
much that we would love to do it again some time in the future. It was a great way to celebrate
Christian friendship.
I think I would feel free to share secrets with these two people and feel that whatever I say
would stay a secret with them. Again, it's all about Christian conduct and character. I even
think they would think the same about my wife and myself. Sad to say, it''s hard to find
that kind of friendship these days. Like St. Paul, I thank God for the gift of freindship.

LOOKING BACK INTO THE FUTURE

I spent some time out in our back yard today. While the three dogs played, I prayed.
While they chewed on their bones, I chewed on the Word of God. To be honest, the
Word of God chewed on me. I felt some pokes in my spiritual ribs from time to time.
The Message is the translation I'm reading along with one or two other books.It is
amazing how often I find myself refering to one book or another as the Spirit moves
within my soul.
Today's readings have led me to take a look in the rearview mirror of my ministry over
42 years. While it has been a pleasure, it as also been a pain. I see my successes but I
also see my failures. But most of all, I see God in the rearview mirror of my ministry,
from start till now. That's why I can safely say, this hasn't been my ministry, it's been
God's. For better or for worse, God's footprints cover my mistakes and God's grace
gives me a spiritual shove to keep on keeping on. So, looking back into the future, I
say, "next."

This Is My Story...

After breakfast at McDonald's, my wife and I went to the eye Doctor.Then we went to see my
two buddies, Barnes & Noble where I bought yet another book.This time I bought, What on
Earth Have I Done? by Robert Fulghum. It's 308 pages about people in places and what they
do with their lives. I want to read it because I'm sure it will raise questions about what I am
doing whileI'm living on this Earth. And I will have to wrestle with what my answers will look
like.
I read 49 pages back at Barnes & Noble. Now that I'm home, I can start all over and make
marks on each and every page if I want. And I will. I will digest this book as I look at who I
am and what I'm doing with my life. I've already laughed and I'm sure I will shed a tear or
two before I get to page 308.
Walking out of Barnes & Noble I told my wife that I should of written this book. But I didn't, did ? That's why I write these Blogs from time to time. They help me tell my stories like a
fellow named Fulghum. I hope they make you think, laugh and shed tears if they help you
live your life upon Earth. Thanks for taking the time to read what I have to say from time
to time.

WHO KNOWS?

I took my daughter's dog out back this morning and let him play while I sat back and did very
little of anything. That's something new for me and it is something hard for me to do. I have to
be busy or I get bored. I admit that I adapted to doing nothing real quick! I guess I'm for the birds
because I looked at the birds and listened to the birds. I studied the sky with what few clouds were
forming and flying around way above my head. I put in several prayers as I sat
still for a few minutes. It was then that I realized how tired I am from a very busy past few
days. Who knows, maybe I needed to be good for nothing.
Tomorrow I will meet a friend at McDonald's for an early breakfast before going to see my
eye Doctor. Then, if I'm lucky, my wife will take me out for lunch. (She has to drive) I don't
know if I can stand such a busy day or not. I'll give it my best. I may need a nap after such
a busy morning. Who knows?
I plan to get The Daily Guidepost for 2008 either this afternoon or tomorrow. I know it
sounds strange, but I'll start reading it after I get home. Last year I counted how many times
the word "coffee" is mentioned in the 2007 edition. Sixteen times unless I missed one. There
may be more coffee in this new book. Who know?
Jesus loves me this I know. Do you know He loves you? I know He does, and so do I.

BUSY BUT BLESSED

When I stood before Chris and Katie last night to share a short sermon, I wasn't real
sure what I was going to say to or about them. Before I knew it, I was speaking about
how Katie loves to knit. Knitting takes patience, time and a pattern to produce the
finished product. Marriage must have the same skills if it is to succeed. I think and I
hope I got my point across because I left everyone in stitches.
This was one of the best wedding ceremoines I've ever conducted. It was a delight
from start to finish. One of the delights of the ceremony was getting to hear our
daughter sing a solo while I served Chris and Katie Holy Communion. Although I
was exhausted last night, I enjoyed serving Communion at the 8:15 service at our
church this morning. To top all these things, it was good to hear Bishop King at
a District service tonight as well as the choir from a small church where my youngest
brother plays the piano for them. I've been busy but I've been blessed. I just hope I've
been a blessing to someone in Jesus' name.

FAVORITE THINGS

After performing at a wedding Saturday night, I have to be up early to serve Communion at
Church Sunday morning at 8:15. These are two of my favorite things to do as a Pastor. If I
were to take the time to count how many times I've done both things, it would take awhile.
The truth of the matter is, it's been awhile since I last did either. So, it's good to be back to
doing them once again.
September has been busy for me. I preached three times at a revival and then once at a
small church last Sunday morning. Now I'm performing a wedding and serving Communion
all in the same weekend. I will be serving Communion to the couple I marry Saturday night
and then I'll be back at Broadway where I was as Pastor for five years, several years ago.
So, I will be doing a few of my favorite things with a few of my favorite people. What a
blessing.

A GOOD SPIRITUAL SOAKING

This morning when I went to see my two best buddies, Barnes & Noble, I had no intentions
of buying a book. I simply wanted to sneak a peak at some books and magazines. But when
I walked out I had bought a book. I bought, Living the Message: Daly Help for Living the
God-Centered Life by Eugene Peterson.
This 378 page book has daily Scriptures to study as the daily Scriptures study the reader.
He has a way of digging down deep into the text and then taking that text down deep into
one's soul. This small study will have a big impact upon my spiritual walk as I read page
after page. The trouble is, I'm like a child at Christmas I can't wait till then. I have to get
a head start on things. I bought a book last year to read this year but I had it read before
the end of 2006. I will have this Living the Message read before October is finished. I
know I that this daily help will help me without a doubt. What are you reading along with
The Bible that feeds your soul? Let it soak in deep and wide.

AN UPDATE ON THE DATES

Well, the weekend has come and gone. I preached four times within the past few days. The
three night revival was wonderful. There was a great spirit throughout the services each
evening. I met many people who knew my father when he pastored Whiley's Chapel so
many, many years ago. Dad had told me I would love the people there and he was right.
This morning I was back at Sugar Grove to preach my 12th sermon for them since I've
been back in Bowling Green. We love this small church in a big way. They people are
always so gracious to us.
I am very tired after all this running back and forth and all that was involved with it. But
I'm spiritually refreshed from having these opportunities given to me. It is always an
honor to preach anywhere to anyone. I hope I get to do it again soon. This weekend I
perform a wedding in Nashville so that means going there two times to accomplish this
task. I look forward to having this high honor of marrying a cute couple.
A number of months ago I thought that these days would never come. Now that they
have, it's hard to believe that four of them have come and gone. It's hard to believe
that our daughter and son have birthdays next month and that my oldest brother turns
even older in October. My, how times flies!

OUTSTANDING.

The first revival service went well last night. I was very well pleased with the attendance
and the response of the people to the spirit of things there. The music was good and the
preaching was outstanding. Which is to say, I stood out in front of the pulpit rather than
behind it. I didn't use any notes whileI preached so that I could have good eye contact
with the people. I hope to be an out standing preacher again tonight.
Wiley's Chapel was one of my dad's first churches in he early 1930's. There were a few
elderly people present last night who shared stories with my wife and myself that kept
our full attention. Dad must of made an outstanding impression upon these people because
they bragged and bragged about him. This doesn't catch me off guard at all becasue he
has served the Lord and the people in outstanding ways through out the years. It is an
honor to follow in my father's footsteps in preaching where he preached so many years
ago.
The one thing that troubled me was that I was told by two of the elderly people that I
look just like my dad. Hey! Dad is 95!! I guess I'm a clone of John Coomer. "Like
father, like son", they say. That's ok with me. I could look like one of my other brothers
and that would be bad. Very bad! Right, Harold?

REVIVE US AGAIN

A woman from a small country where my father pastored several years ago has been after
me for years to preach a revival at their church. Well, tonight I begin a series of services at
Wiley's Chapel. I have spent hours and hours in prayer to know what to say to these dear
souls. I have searched the Scriptures and asked the Lord to lead me in in leading them in
the way God would have me to do.
I have hundreds of sermons that I can turn to but I feel led to preach a sermon I've yet
to preach. I must admit that this sermon has helped me in my own spiritual walk over
the past days. I find myself coming back to it whenever I turn to something else. My
mind is made up that this is the sermon I must preach tonight. I'm preaching about
things that we fail to use and are the worse for it. The greatest thing is the gift of grace.
"God's Grace Is Still Amazing" What amazes me is the way we fail to allow Amazing
Grace to transform our lives. My prayer for tonight is that someone will take God's
Amazing Grace and allow it to soak into their soul and remove whatever it is that
should be discarded.
It is a high honor to be invited to preach. I do it, not for myself, but for God's
glory. I just ask that lives be touched where they need a Divine touch during
these services. May the Lord "Revive Us Again."

DANCING WITH THE DOGS

We are in the process of having new flooring placed in our Living and Dinning rooms. What
is so funny is to watch the dogs walking on the new floor. Their paws sound like they are
tap dancing with the stars. They can't tip toe through the room without us knowing right
they are at that very moment. The trouble is, now my wife will know when I sneak in
the Living room to take a nap on the couch. What will I do?
There is much work to be done to get things back in place. All three dogs look at us as if
to say,"why are you doing this again? Will it ever end!!!" I wish I knew the answer myself.
I do know that it will be a big improvement after it is all done. For now, I'll just sing, "I'm
Walking the Floor Over You" as I walk through the room. Hey! I wonder if I can teach
the three dogs to dance to that!

A LASTNG IMPRESSION

I was trying to tell my daughter something I had read in the morning newspaper when all
of the sudden she started laughing. I wondered what I had said or done to get her going.
I was trying to tell her about a Tattoo artist who had died in Louisville. But before I said
who it was she said, "Tattoo Charles! Did he die?" That's when I said, "He died of a
sudden issue." I meant to say, "He died of a sudden illness." What amazed me was that
she knew his name at all. She then informed me that her brother had gotten his tattoo from
"Tattoo Charles" several years ago.
When I took the time to read what the newspaper had to say about "Tattoo Charles", I
was impressed what all he had accomplished in his life. This man has left alot of
lasting impressions on a lot of lives, our son's included. It's only a tattoo but it lasts for a
long, long time.
All this makes me wonder what kind of lasting impression am I making on the lives of
others, not with a tattoo but with the words I speak and deeds I do. What kind of
lasting impressions are you making? That's the real issue, isn't it? And, it's no laughing
matter.

"YOUR MOVE"

I finished reading When the Game Is Over, It All Goes Back in the Box, by John Ortberg
this week. I wasn't looking forward to the conclusion of the book because it is so good. I
know that this book won't go on the shelf to draw dust. It is one of those books that I will
read many more times. Ortberg has a way of saying serious things in funny ways. While
you are laughing, you find yourself taking a look down deep in your soul. Often I found
myself thinking, "why didn't I think of that?"
As I read the pages of this book I found myself remembering the games I've played with
my family throughout the years. I can still see my father and siblings sitting at the table
playing Monopoly. Most of the time dad was winning. He was so serious about a game
that went back in the box after it was all over. At 95 he stillplays Scrabble that way, so
watch it if you ever play against him.
This book gives some great guidance in how to win and how to lose. It also alerts us to
the fact that we need to know what's worth keeping and what's not worth much at all
in life. It's your move.

WHO CHANGED THE CHAIRS?

This morning I went with my wife to have some blood work done. As we were walking
into the waiting area, she wondered why they had rearranged the chairs. She said she
didn't like the way they were. As different people came in, they were saying the very
same they she had said. I told the 6 or 7 others there (only two men) that it was to
get people to talk to one another. well, it worked! They were talking to each other
about how they didn't like the new arrangement at all.
Isn't that the way with most of us, we don't like change? Even I find myself sitting
in the same seat from Sunday to Sunday. I double dog dare anyone else to take my
seat! Routine is what it's all about. This morning my wife discovered that the old
has become new and even though she didn't like, she still sat down. So did. Since
I hadn't seen the chairs any other way, I like them just the way they are. And, I
double dog dare anyone to go and change them. That includes my wife unless she
changes my mind. That's one thing that hasn't changed for 38 plus years. Why
would she go and change things now?

THANKS FOR THE THANKS

As I was walking across the parking lot of the place I'd been, I heard someone calling out
my name. When I stopped to see who it was, I realized it was a member of the church I
last pastored. We hadn't seen one another for a long time. After we greeted one another,
I asked about her son. Without asking for it, she started thanking me for the influence I
had on him over five years. She said that he even still talks about me from time to time.
When she told me that he's 16 now, I couldn't believe my ears!
This dear soul didn't have to thank me for helping her son. She could of talked about
a number of other things but she wanted me to know that I had done some good as
their pastor, especially for a little boy. It makes me feel good when I learn that my
ministry and my life has helped someone else. I'm sure you feel that way too whenever
someone pats you on the back. I thank God that I've planted some seed and the harvest
if shooting forth from it. I'm sure you feel the same way whenever you can say or do
something to influence others. To God be the glory.

"LET'S EAT!"

My wife and I are having dinner tonight with some friends who have just moved to town.
In the morning, I'll be having breakfast with two minister friends. Last Tuesday I had
lunch with a minister friend at MacDonalds. I say all this to say this, I love to eat with my
family and my friends. Jesus found fellowship at the table again and again.
Labor Day will be a day when our extended family will be together for a meal. We will
share stories and spend the time just talking and listening to one another. We will say
about the same things we said last time, but that's ok with me. I can't help that they have
such short attention spans.
We invited my youngest brother over to eat with us one Tuesday night. It was good
to see Wayne because he has been busy with his church and another country church, So
we miss seeing him even though we live less than six miles from one another. Strange,
he always shows up when there is food on the table. Takes after one of his three brothers
but I won't say which one. You gotta watch him!

FAITH FILTERS

I just removed the air filter for our air conditioner. No wonder the air flow wasn't flowing
as well as it should, the filter was filthy! I think I've found Jimmy Hoffa's body hidden
under our house! Either that or the three dogs hair has clogged things up pretty much.
We had put a new filter in a couple of weeks ago and it looked like it had been in use for
months.
Our souls are a lot like that, aren't they? They get grime and dirt on them and need some
attention. It's called confssion. I know from personal experience that whenever I confess
my sins and forsake them that I feel so much better spiritually. I must do a better job with
my faith filters that keep sins from staying in my life and clogging things up. I also know that
I can't do this every two weeks, I have to do it daily. So should you. Christ takes our soiled
souls and wipes away our sins and sends us on our ways telling us to "go and sin no more."
But when we do, He is always ready to remove the filth from our souls if we would ask Him
again, daily.

I MISS MY SWING

This afternoon I did something I haven't done very often this summer, I sat out on our
front porch swing. Sad to say, it didn't last long. There had neen a breeze but before I
could get comfortable, the breeze blew right on by.
I look forward to Fall when once again I can be a real swinger again. I miss my time all
alone as I pray. I miss my reading while I excerise my legs. I miss my observing of our
world. I am already wondering what the fall leaves will look like. I doubt the display
will be as brillant as I'd like it to be. Unless we get soem rain soon, I wonder if the trees
will survive the Summer very well at all.
For now, I'll have to stay inside as I look out our windows at a hot, dry world. I guess I
could get in my car and take a drive to some of the other States where things are in a
state of flooding. Instead, I'll do as I said in a blog awhile back, "this too shall pass." I
just wish it would speed up some.

"Snap, Crackle,Pop"

"Snap, Crackle. Pop" These three sounds seem to announce every move I make day or nigh.
It's my body's way of announcing that I'm getting older. I sure would hate to hear the "Snap,
Crackle, Pop" of my brother's, whose names I won't write down for you. Last I heard,
they are under the witness protection program.
John Ortberg says it so well in his new book, When the Game Is Over, It All Goes Back in
the Box, " The days go slowly, but the years go by fast." My father would affirm that thought
without having to think about it. Dad is 95 years old and unless he has someone to keep him
company each and every day, he reads and sleeps until night time when he sleeps most of the
night away. But there are times when the times moves so slow, so very, very slow.
I had a retired pastor in my last church who was so lonely after his wife died that he could
hardly stand living. He yearned for friends to stop and stay awhile and just talk. Whenever
I went to see him, he would talk my head off with things he had already told me many times
before. But that was fine with me because I knew what he wanted and what he needed, a
friend.
"The days go slowly, but the years go fast." Amen and amen! Whenever I see pictures of
my family from years ago, I realize that the years have gone by far, far to fast for me. I
also realize that the man in the pictures with his family sure has gotten older quick. Poor
fellow! I think there is a scripture about that somewhere, "And"Snap, Crackle, Pop" shall
follow me the days of my life. " Ouch!!

CHALK ONE UP

Yesterday my wife wrote some words on our bathroom wall with chalk just to see how it
looked. This morning, I saw where my daughter wrote me a note reminding me to read
The Upper Room. So, being the smart person that I am, I wrote these words right above
the throne, "Are you on pot?" I think we have a contest going on in our bathroom to see
who can out do the other. Beats just sitting there staring at a blank walls!
Try these on for size:
"You make me flush!"
"It's time to get up!"
I'm going to pot!"
* " John is in the John"

Say, that's enough chalk talk for today!

*I always wanted a building named after me.

CHANGE

While I was having breakfast with a friend this morning, I kept watching out the window
at some workers building a new Starbucks. It seems like it hasn't been that long ago that
it was an empty corner lot. Beside Starbucks there is a new drug store being built as well.
It reminds me of one day a few years ago when my wife and I were driving around looking
for a house to buy. One of the streets was overlooking a field with trees and grass. I told
her that I would enjoy looking at that field from time to time as I passed by. Today that
once empty field is full of new houses, hundreds of them for as far back as one can see.
Nothing seems to stay the same very long anymore, does it?
Nothing stays the same very long, does it? Wow! When I look at the man in the mirror I
know that for a fact. All I have to do is take a look at the wrinkles and the changes of my
body to know that I'm not the same man I was when we moved into our house a number
of years ago. My ears are even getting bigger! The better to hear you with, if I have on my
hearing aids.

SOUNDS LIKE A SOUND PLAN TO ME

I met a minister friend at MacDonald's for breakfast this morning. We hadn't been getting
together for awhile due to being busy. It was great to simply share ome things with each
other over coffee. I don't know who did the most talking but I have an idea that I win. I
talk way too much at times. I take it from my father.
I always enjoy hearing what's happening with my minister friends. I miss being a pastor
at times and yet, I'm glad I dont have all thatadministrative stuff to do. I enjoy being with
people and preaching. That's why I look forward to next month when I will be preaching
at a small church one Sunday and also doing a three night revival for another. Then to top
that, I'm doing a wedding in Nashville toward the end of the month. That's enough to wear
me out!
There are plenty of things to do around the house, so I best be getting back to doing some
of them before my wife tells me what to do. The first thing I need to do is take a nap after
lunch. Now, that sounds like a sound plan to me! I din't know meeting at MacDonald's was
so tiring.

SERMON STUFF THAT WILL PREACH

Something I'm always saying is,"That will preach." The trouble is, I often forget what I thought
would preach before I preach it. That is, I fail to make a note of it and then I forget it. I have a
habit of jotting down "S S" in a book when I see something that I think is sermon stuff. I can go
back to the book and refresh my memory so that something can come from that simple note to
myself. It works. I've done it so many times that ought to write a book entitled SS: Sermon Stuff
That Will Preach.
I'm 76 pages into When The Game Is Ovr It All Goes Back In The Box by John Ortberg as
of this morning. The more I read of Ortber's stuff, the more I ask myself, "why didn't I think
of that?" Instead of thinking it myself, I find myself having to give credit to another guy named
John, not myself. But that's ok with me. He has a way of making me think and then do. He has
a way of poking his thoughts into my spiritual ribs. It doesn't hurt as much as it helps. So, I'll
keep looking for places to place yet another "SS" before I put his book back on the shelf to
take down again some day when I need it for some reason or another. I just hope I don't
forget where I put the book! By the way, "SS: That Will Preach!"

"AND IT CAME TO PASS..."

When I was reading from The Bible a few minutes ago I came across five words that stopped
me in my tracks, "and it came to pass..." Why would that be? About an hour ago as I walked
outside to pick up the mail from the mailbox, I couldn't believe how dry the grass was beneath
my feet. I wondered when it would ever rain again. Then I read five words that refreshed my
soul, "and it came to pass..." You see, one of these days it is going to rain on my yard again
and the grass will grow and grow and... then I will have to mow it again.
There are times in our lives when we wonder if something will ever start or stop. We wonder
with doubt more than with faith. We tend to give up rather than go on. I know from personal
experience. A number of months ago I was down in the valley of dispair wondering why things
had gone has they had gone. I had a pity party that just about got me down and stomped on
my soul. But then, these same five words lifted me up and jump-started my soul so that I
wouldn't stay down and out. Sure enough, " it came to pass..." Whatever you are going through
right now, just remember, this too "shall come to pass." That' s why I'm passing on this promise
to you. Take it for what's it's worth and see if something does happen that will lift up your
drooping spirit.

"IT'S HOT, DON!"

When we lived near Owensboro, Ky there was a tv commercial for a car dealership that
always caught my attention. Somone would yell out, "It's hot, Don!" Well, today I can yell
out, "It's hot, Don!!" It's 106 outside right now. I feel so sorry for peoplewho have to work
in this heat. I offer a prayer for their safety during these Summer days when it is very hot.
One of the reasons why my wife and I cut short our trip this week was the heat. It is too
hot to be outside, even if it is in the swimming pool. I rather be home watching tv where
it's cooler.
Before we know it, snow will be falling and we will be complianing. I think it's best just to
take it as it is and live life as best we can. There's always someone, somewhere worse off
than we are. All I can safely say today is,"It's hot, Don!"

GOOD TO BE BACK HOME

I was up early each morning while we were at Dale Hollow State Park Tuesday and Wednesday.
I watched the sun come up while drinking my morning cups of coffee. I watched the small animals as
they searched for food. I watched the water begin to stir as boats passed by the
shoreline. But most of all, I watched for signs of God. They were on Divine display all around
me. I gave God a standing ovation each morning before leaving the balcony.
One morning we went swimming in the outside pool but when it became too hot to stay, we
went back in and read. Needless to say, we enjoyed the food morning, noon and night. It was
a great get-away but we came home a day early. On our way, we stopped at two or three
antique stores just for the fun of it. While I hate that kind of thing, I'm glad that my wife was
able to get her jollies from it. While we were there, I bought an old book to make the stop
worth while. I shall see as I read it one of these days in the near future.
This was part of our 38th wedding aniversary celebration. It was nice to be near my wife
while we were away. We shared stories and talked about what we want to to do for the next
38 years or so. Her list is longer than mine.

GETTING LOST

This afternoon my wife and I are headed to a State park for a few days. I'm taking two books
to read while she is taking all kinds of other things. I think I will need a U-Haul trailer before
much longer! All I want to do is rest and read. She says she will read and relax as well. Well,
I'll let you know after we get back home.
This is our 38th wedding anniversary get away and it's not too far off from where we live. We
knew we don't need to go out of State and don't need to drive far. Going to a State park is one
of our favorite things to do. It's too bad that it is going to be so hot all week. I'm sure we will
go swimming some each day just to cool off. I'm also sure that we will love the lodge where
the food is so very, very good.
The three dogs know something's up by the way they stare at us. I don't know if they are
sad to see us go or can't wait for us to drive on off. Our son and daughter will take care of
them while we're gone, so I'm sure they will be just fine. As long as they are cool and fed,
they wag their tails behind them with delight.
I love to "get lost" like this from time to time. I don't have to dust, run the vacumn cleaner,
do dishes, make my bed or even pick up my socks. I hope you know who, doesn't come up
with some "to do" list all of the sudden that stops me in my tracks. After all, All I want to
do is enjoy the thrill of the chill.

PUPPY LOVE

My wife fixed me an egg sandwhich for supper tonight. When I put my plate down to reach for
a napkin, our daughter's dog, Derby, decided he wanted some of the sandwhich. Before I knew
what was happening, he had grabbed a big bite of it. I got after him for two things: not praying
first and for not asking me if he could have some of it.
Every once in awhile you have to really be on guard with Derby or he will do a sneak attack.
I've learned to never leave something where he can get to it. He loves to grab my cap and
carry it off.He has been doing that since he was just a littel pup. I've been told he has had help
from a friend. I wonder who that is. I think they call it puppy love. I love the puppy and
the puppy loves to get his teeth into anyting he can.
Derby loves to have a ball thrown into the air to see if he can catch it. The thing is, he starts
running without watching to see where the ball is headed or if it's even been thrown. Then
he stares into the sky wondering where the ball went. After I show the ball to Derby, he has
a great time playing with it while I catch my breath. Dog sitting is hard work!

WE

The best thing that took place on our 38th wedding anniversary yesterday were the hugs
and the kisses. There were hugs and kisses from my wonderful wife and then there were
the hugs from our two wonderful children. While one gave a gift of money and the other a
gift of mowing our yard, the best gifts were just being with the two of them!
I took my wife out to a resturant where we were ate a great meal. The waiter was aware
of our anniversary and took special to take care of us. He suggested some very good food
as well as a great desert. We enjoyed our time together while we reflected upon 38 years
as husband and wife. We plan to go to a State Park for a few days next week as part of
our own going celebration.
I just realized how many times I've used the word "we" in this Blog. That's it! Marriage is
about "we", not me. It takes two to make a marriage work and while we still have lots of
work to do, the two of us are looking forward to the future. Happy anniversary to the
two of us indeed!

I WAS JUST THINKING

After going to see my two best friends, Barnes & Noble, I made a mistake and returned home.
Before I knew what had hit me, I was helping run the vacumn cleaner in the family room. We
even moved a few things around while we were at it. While I was being the good husband I
am, I kept thinking that this was a great way to celebrate our 38th wedding anniversary,
house cleaning. When I sat down to rest at the computer I saw where our daughter had placed
our wedding picture on her Blog. It sure is a cute couple even if I have to say so myself.
Our daughter gave us the gift of paying for our meal at a resturant tonight. She sure is
sweet like her mom. By the time we get our house duties done, I'll be ready for a big meal
even if it means I have to throw in a buck or two! The problem is that we won't be going
out to eat till this evening. Well, I better get back to work or I might be eating all by myself.
That's what I think on this Thursday afternoon.

FAMILY MATTERS

My daughter and I went to Starbucks for coffee this morning after we dropped her car off
for some repair work. We shared so many things that I can't remember them all. We saw
two staff members from our church and chatted with them before leaving.
Our son called from work to ask if our wedding anniversary is tomorrow or not. I told him
that it is his mother's wedding anniversary, mine is Friday. I just hope he gets me really
nice present that I can share with his mom.
I've told them that I plan to take their mother out to a realy nice resturant tomorrow night
with high hopes and great expectations that she will pay for it! I'll give the tip. I will tell the
waiter to brush his teeth or floss them daily.
Well, I better be going since I have places to go, people to see and things to do.

DOG DAY'S OF SUMMER

It is so hot that yesterday I saw a tree chasing a dog!

A REAL CUT UP!

What does a husband give his wife of 38 years for a present? A paper shredder, that's what!
I went all out to give my wife something she has wanted for a long, long time. Now, if I can
just figure out why she wanted a paper shrededer. Here are some things I think she might
shred: our marriage license, wedding pictures, love letters, etc. Not!Never!!
This is the gift that keeps on giving. It gives her assurance that she can shred papers she
wants done away with forever and ever, amen! It gives her assurance that she can shred
old pictures of her drivers license.It gives her assurance that she can shred hush-hush things
that are for her eye's only.
When she wakes up from her nap, I hope she doesn't shred me. It might hurt! If you don't
hear from me again, look in the bottom of the trash can and you might see a real cut up! Me!!
Don't call 911 since I'll be a real cut up up in Heaven! Enough said about the dread of the
shred! I'm going to bed and cover my head.

CRAVINGS

This morning I dropped by our insurance company to pay a bill, got gas for the car,
got a hair cut, shopped at a Christian bookstore and walked awhile at the Mall. Then
to top that, my wife and I took a look at our calendars to see when we might get away
for a day or two to celebrate our wedding anniversary. By the time we were through,
I was ready to take a nap. Thinking is hard work!
If it wasn't so hot, I would be out mowing my yard. If it wasn't so hot, I would work in
our garden. If it wasn't so hot I would go shopping for a gift for my wife. I already know
what I want to get her, all I have to do is go get it. But it's too hot! Maybe I should stay
inside and watch tv, sleep some or chase the three dogs for exercise, mine and theirs.
The trouble is, it's going to get even hotter by mid-week! Maybe we need to take a
tour of Mammonth Cave where it is cool down deep under ground. Maybe we need to
go swimming where the water can cool us off. Maybe we should give thanks that the
air-conditioner is working as well as it does day after day after day.......
This morning I bought, Soul Cravings by Erwin McManuus. Now I'm craving to
find a soft spot somewhere here in the house to see what he has to say to soothe my
soul. I know it can do a soul good to take a good look within and see what needs to be
tossed out so the soul can develope in a more mature way. So, I think after I have lunch
I'll be fed spititually before taking that nap. That's what I'm craving after a busyMonday
morning.

A GREAT THIRTY-EIGHT

My wife and I will celebrate our 38th wedding anniversary this coming Thursday unless she
leaves me before that. We are still trying to decide what to do to celebrate. We want to take
a trip somewhere but can't decide where to go. I want to travel a short distance while she is
wanting to travel many more miles than I. Since she is always telling me where to go, I 'll go
where she tells me to go this time too.
We have had our good times and we have had our hard times throughout these thirty-eight
years. We moved nine times before moving back to Bowling Green a few years ago. We are
glad to call this our home after all the moves we've made. When my father retired, my mom
had her very own yard to plant her flowers in without having to get up and move again. I'm
not retired but, my wife feels the very same way about having her garden and flowers in her
own back yard.
I'm sure we will be going somewhere this Thursday to celebrate since it is too hot to sit in
our own back yard and look at the pretty flowers or pluck beans. (God is good!) Maybe I
can take her to a nice resturant in Bowling Green since it is less than three miles from here.
To be honest, I'm looking forward to going off with my wife because that will be a wonderful
way to celebrate a great thirty-eight!

TWO BOOKS

I've just completed reading The Starbucks Experience by Joseph Michelli. Like another
book about StarbucksI've read, I kept wanting to drink cups of coffee while reading it. The
book offers five principles for turning ordinary into extraordinary. As a Pastor, I can see
how churches would benefit from following these principles to reach and minister to people.
The amazing thing to me is that these are simple solutions that anyone, anywhere can try
on for size. If the shoe doesn't fit, don't wear it!
At the first of the year I read The Gospel According To Starbucks by Leonard Sweet.
Sweet speaks of the spiritual things that we should put into practice while Michelli comes
at things from a different perspective all together. Side by side, these two books offer so
much that need daily application. These principles would work anywhere if we would but
use them.
I am astonished that the subject of Starbucks gets so much attention. Starbucks has
so much to teach those who will take time to drink in their words of wisdom. There is
an even better book that needs to be read daily and applied, it's called The Holy Bible.

WONDERFUL WORDS OF LIFE

In 2001 I read a book by Bob Russell entitled, When God Builds a Church. Rev.
Russell has since retired after serving a church where over 14,000 people attend
worship each Sunday. When the new worship center was built, hundreds of people
wrote words on the flooring before carpet was put in place. He mentions that day
in his book.
Last night, several souls met in a small chruch to worship and to write words on the
floor before it is to be covered with carpet soon. After a mini-message, we went to
work writing our words on the floor. I wrote: Acts 4:20. "But we cannot but speak
of the things we have seen and heard." The words that were written last night give
evidence of how God's Words have spoken to our souls through the years. When I
went around the room to read what had been written by those there I came across
what my wife and daughter wrote on the floor. It was a moving moment for me to say
the least.
I have preached from the pupit of the old church and hope to have the opportunity
to preach at the new pulpit area some day. If I do, I know that written beneath the
pulpit are the words from John 3: 16. I will be standing on the promises along with
others who proclaim God's word. Our hope is that lives will be tranformed for years
to come through wonderful words of life. It has worked for 2000 years so I have
no doubt that God's word will work in the lives of others far, far into future. That
would be simply great.

PUT IT ON PAUSE

Wednesday night I will lead a Bible study on the subject of "A Survival Guide for Grief."
It seems strange to deal with death during this Summer but I feel that this is a topic that
is much needed. Most of the people who attend these studies are on up in years and have
a great deal of experience on dealing with death. They have lost family members and friends
through out their many, many years. I'm sure they could tell me more than I can tell them
The past few weeks have been busy with preaching and teaching. While I've enjoyed the
preparations, preaching and teaching, I'm ready to rest. For example: yesterday my wife
and I went to visit my dad because I put it off far too long. I couldn't wait any longer. We had
a great visit for a few hours before heading back home. I am behind in my book reading so
I started reading a new book last night. While there are places to go, things to do, and people
to see, just being at home sounds good to me. This is the pause that refreshes unless someone
wants something done. And I'm sure she will.

A GUIDE FOR GRIEF

Next Wenesday night I'll be conducting a Bible Study in the chapel of a near by church. The
topic will be: "A Survival Guide to Grief." Grief is something that we all have to deal with at
one time or another, for one reason or another. Some grief is so great that we wonder if we
can survive it at all.
Yesterday I found myself in a conversation with someone dealing with the death of a son
and the aging of a parent. This person shared so much pain with me that I hurt for her. I
wanted to say something to help her but I thought the best the thing to do was to just
listen. There is a house for sale right down the street from our house because a wife and
mother died of cancer not too long ago. The family needs a new start without staring at
all the many memories that the house holds. Grief can grab and strangle our souls if we're not
able to deal with it, can't it?
I don't have a "tip of the day" that can make things all better. What I do have is God's
guide for dealing with death, disease and difficulities. It comes from the experiences of
others who have survived the storms of life with God's help. I hope what I share with
this small group helps in a big way.

Been Busy

I've been busy preaching and teaching over the past few days. Last Sunday I preached for
a friend who is on vacation and will do so again this coming Sunday. Last night I conducted
a Bible study for another friend who is on vacation. I will teach again next week at State
Street. I enjoyed preaching and teaching at both churches. One is very small and one is very large.
The amazing thing is that both churches seemed to survive my being there.
While I miss the week to week preaching and teaching, I sure don't miss all the administrative
things that a pastor has to do week after week. I rather hit & run. Being a pastor is hard work
if the pastor does all the things that have to be done. I know that both Gary and Paul needed
some time off to rest. I'm tired this morning but it's not from preaching and teaching, it's from
going shopping with my wife all morning. I forgive her since she bought my breakast
(with my money) at a good resturant. I just hope she gives me the rest of the day off for
good behaviour.

ON A COOL DAY THINGS GET HOT

When I saw that today was going to be cooler, I knew that meant I would be hotter. Boy, was
I ever right! Because of the hot days we've been having, we have put off cleaning out our
garage until a day like today. It's easier to work with the things that need to be tossed and
the things that need to go here or there, up or down. So, my wife and I spent most of the
morning throwing things away and putting things in there proper places.
The trouble is, it seems like me just did something like this not too long ago. It amazes me
how something so neat and nice can look like a tornado hit it hard over night. Where does
all this stuff come from? Does someone slip into the garage while we're sleeping and mess
things up? Is there a monster in the attic that comes out at night and shuffles it all around?
I don't know exactly who or even why, I just know that on a cool day like today, I get hot
under my collar and need a nap. The trouble is, I'm afraid that the things we're worked with
will get all messed up again while I'm sleeping on a Summer afternoon. Then I'll have to get
hot on a cool day like today.

A BOOK THAT READS ME

I am almost finished reading Eugene Peterson's book, The Jesus Way. I have spent several
hours thus far digestng what he has to say. It is writings such as this that remind me that I
am ignorant of the Scriptures. Even with a Master's Degree from Seminary, I find myself
scratching my head when I read some scholars. This is one such scholar.
The Jesus Way is one of those books that makes me want to know more than I do about my
Lord Jesus because the more I know of Him, the more I know myself, for better or for worse.
As I read Peterson's book, I ask myself question after question about my relationship with
Jesus and the Gospel. This is good for my soul because is gives my soul a good shaking and
allows me to firm up my faith. I don't want to put this book on the shelve and leave it alone.
And, know what it has to say to my soul, it won't leave me alone for very long. It has already
gotten me to look at some scriptures that I had forgotten or forsaken. So, The Jesus Way is
having it's way with me as I let the book I'm reading, read me.

"Me & My Shadow"

Our daughter's dog, Derby, is just like a shadow. Everywhere you go, Derby goes. If you
get up to go to another room, he will meet you there. If you get up to get a drink of water,
he will look up at you as if to say, "where's mine?" If you go outside, he will be out the door
before you open it. If you want to simply stop and rest, he will be up in your lap before you
can get comfy.
One of the problems with this puppy is that he will be at your feet when you are working at
the computer, asI am right now, and if you aren't watching what you are doing and what
Derby is doing, you will step on him or move the chair and make him whine as if to say,
"watch what you're doing there big guy!"
I can ask Derby if he wants to take a nap around 3:00 in the afternoon and he will head to the
bed without being prompted. The trouble is, when he is on the bed, he wants to play or watch
out the window. Until or unless Derby is out of the room, I don't get much rest at all. But that
is ok with me. I know my little buddy by my side knows he is loved. And, so am I. While he
may be our daughters dog, Derby has brought lots of love to our house even if you have to
watch where you are going or you might trip over him. I also know this, the shadow knows
that his owner thinks he is the best dog in all the whole wide world. He is!

FLAG DAY

Early this morning I put the American flag out at the front porch. I try to do this most mornings
as my way of remembering the freedom I have. I see so few flags as I drive around the area. At
times I wonder why more people don't do as I do. Maybe it's because they just don't think to do
it. Maybe it's because they are too busy to be bothered by doing it. Maybe it's because they are
not sure about things that go on in America or don't agree. For them it is a form of protest. That
is why I love being an American. Soon and very soon, we will celebrate the 4th of July. We will
see flags flying in the wind just about everywhere that day. But what about today and every other day?
For me, every day is flag day. May God bless Amercia!

UP DATE

I preached twice yesterday at a church in Bowling Green. The two servies were very different.
One was traditional and one contemporary. But both services seemed to have one high purpose,
to worship God. I was impressed with the people and proud to preach the faith at Faith.
Last night we had ice cream with a couple who just recently moved to town. We shared stories
and laughed so much that my stomach hurt. It wasn't the ice cream, it was the humor and fun.
It feels so strange to not be up and at it today after such a busy week last week. I discovered
that couldn't carry out the role of Pastor of Congregational Care as I had wanted to do. So I'm
doing things around the house to help my wife have a good day. If I get a call to visit someone
I will hop right to it asp. For now, I'll relax and read the morning newspaper. I just hope it's
all good news. Ha!

PREACHING

Last Sunday I preached to 789 people in the three services at Broadway. It was a real honor
to share some thoughts about being a father. Several people have said how much the message
meant to them. That is what I wanted to hear. Any sermon should say something that people
need to hear.
This coming Sunday I will be preaching two times at Faith UMC in Bowling Green. My twin
brother was pastor of Faith when it was known as Kerr Memorial UMC. It has merged with
another church since he served there many years ago. I preached at Faith a few months ago
and look forward to being back again Sunday. I'm going to talk about some ways the church
can minister to the needs of people through what they say and what they do.
I enjoy preaching from time to time and I enjoy hearing sermons that help me in my faith
journey. I can recall many messages that I have heard throughout the years of my life. If
I can say something Sunday to help others grow in the faith, it will be worth it all and God
will be glorified.

F Y I

F Y I: I am no longer Pastor of Congregational Care at our church. After a few days of walking
the halls of three hospitals (Bowling Green and Nashville), visiting rest homes and homes, I've
realized I'm not up to the job. Besides, I am on disability and am restricted in what I can and
cannot do. Yesterday wore me down as I put in a long and busy day. I will still see people as
asked by the church but it will not be in the role of Pastor of Congregational Care. I will say
more in the coming days.

DON'T HORSE AROUND

While I was at the eye doctor's office last Friday, I noticed that they team who worked there
all had on white shirts and black pants. Knowing that the woman who was helping me didn't
like the Friday dress code, I asked her what she had worn the day before. She told me that
she hadworn bluejeans. I asked her if she rode her horse to work. Without looking up at me,
she said, "No. That's to far out of town for me. Besides, we're just now get her broken in." It
then hit me that she wasn't kidding me. She was serious. She simply hadn't caught my joke.
I told my wife as we were leaving that I sure hoped this woman wouldn't wonder later how I
knew she even had a horse. And, that I hoped she didn't think I was starking her! I had asked
her on my previous visit who all the staff were dressed with the same outfit. She had told
me then and there that she hated the white and black outfit. I was just trying to carry on a
converation with her about what I had said before. From now on, I think I'll just keep my
big mouth shut and not horse around so much! I rather be safe than sorry.

EARLY THOUGHTS

When I went outside at 5:00 this morning to water the front yard, I found myself doing much
more. Before I knew it, I was bending over and pulling weeds, walking around and picking up
trash that had been thrown in the yard and looking up at the sky. It was so calm so early in
the morning. No traffic and people passing by seemed to silent things considerably. But before
I finish typing this Blog and drinking my first cup of coffee, I will begin to hear the sounds of
the day coming alive and loud.
I love getting up early in the morning before anyone else in our house. It's my time to hear
the sounds of silence. It's my time to think aboutthe things that I need to get done before I
go back to bed tonight. Right now I am busy with writing the sermon I'll be preaching three
times on father's Day. I am finding this sermon to be difficult due to the fact that some who
will hear it aren't fathers. Or, if they are, some have lost their children through death. What
do you say to soothe them as you seek to inspire and instruct others? I know it will all come
together since I still have several days to be ready, but I sure wish I had a better idea of
where I'm going with it all. Time will tell. These are my early thoughts so early in the morning.
I need to get some more coffee and start working with the sermon since my mind and soul
seem to want to get going.

TRY THIS ON FOR SIZE

I am very busy working with what to preach on Father's Day, I find myelf almost over dosing
with what to say. In other words, I can't say everything I want to say in one sermon on the
topic of Dad At The Half. So I find myself working with a jigsaw puzzle as I try to see what
piece fits and which piece doesn't. The trouble is, about the time I throw something away, I
think of something else.The hard work is deciding what's worth keeping and what's
not. I think this is one reason why I love to preach. It's allowing the Holy Spirit to put the
pieces of the puzzle in their proper places and then go forth from there.
Many memories of fatherhood are jumping around down deep inside my soul as I work
with this sermon. There are more good than bad memories, thank God! The wonderful
thing is that I'm adding new pieces to the puzzle day by day and I'm not even half way
through with what I will say on a very special day. I just hope I can get through the three
services without stopping half way through. Now that would be something, wouldn't it!

SAFE PLACE

My workouts are wearing me out! I was out digging in the dirt in the garden before six this morning.
While it wasn't warm, I was starting to sweat after just a little turning of the dirt. Like a
good boy, I drank lots of water without being told to do it. I even rested every few minutes.
Derby, our daughter's dog, was with me as he tried to help me get the digging done.
Now Derby digs digging. He also is in need of a warm bath. So am I!
I think my wife thinks Memorial day is a day to remember to do yard jobs, lots of yard jobs!
When she told me last night all the things that need to be done today, I knew then and there
that I would need to get up early and get with it. The early bird gets the worm, they say. I
didn't see any worms trying to exit stage right as the pick hit the dirt. Maybe they hear my wife
last night and got on a bus for Safe Place, Ky. I sure wish they had told me where it is because
I would of gladly diven the bus! As I've said, workouts wear me out! Rather than being out,
I prefer the lazy-boy for a lazy man on hot days like today. Hey! Maybe that's Safe Place, Ky!

The rest of the story: I didn't get to stay in Safe Place very long. Before I knew what was
going on, I was going outside to dig dirt, move this plant to this place and move this plant to
that place. Then we were busy with bushes that needed to be thrown away. That's when I
felt like running away! This will be a Memorial Day I'll remember for a long, long time
because it will take a long, long time for my bones to stop hurting so much! Speaking of
the rest of story, that's what I need, a rest and lots of it! Now if I can sneak off to Safe Place
again, maybe, just maybe, I can rest in peace.

MEMORIES OF KAREN

I was shocked when I read the obituaries in yesterday's paper. I came across the name of a
lady whom I knew when she was just a girl. I served as youth director of the church that
her father was pastoring at the time. I served the same church two times while I was
working on my Master's Degree.
I remember Karen along with her sister and brother as PK's (Preacher's Kids). They were
always so supportive of their father and mother's work. I saw them throughout the years
from time to time. Then I was invited to help perform Karen's wedding with her father. It
was such an honor for me. A few years ago I saw the Clark family when the three siblings
invited people to their parent's 50th wedding ceremony. I didn't know that that would be
the last time for me to see Karen and Richard.
Karen died of cancer last Sunday in Louisville. I wish I had known about how bad she was,
I would of gone to see her. I regret that a conflict and late notice prevented me from being
at the funeral Thursday. I've spoken to her mother in order to convey sympathy from my
preacher family. We kidded about eatingc corn on the cob together some day soon as a way
of remembering a little girl who sat at table with us so many, many years ago. And, we look
forward to the Great Banquet with Karen and her Lord one of these days. This is my own
Memorial remberance of the Karen I knew and loved as I write these words on this
Friday afternoon before Memorial Day.

MEMORIAL WEEKEND

Being the nice guy that I am, I took my wife out for breakfast this morning. After we ate, we
went to an apple orchard. We didn't buy any apples but she bought flowers for the yard. She
even bought me a hanging basket arrangement for the front porch. As I held it, I felt like a
blooming idiot. I looked like one too!
When we left the orchard we had to go pay the water bill and go buy her her own hose. The
one we have keeps getting lost. This will be her hose and no one else is to touch it! That's ok
with me, I don't want to water all these new flowers she just brought home. I have enough to
do jobs already and I can only handle so much at my age. I don't want to over do my doing, if
you know what I mean. Since it's Memorial weekend, she thinks that stands for remembering
all the things that have to get done around here. I wonder what would of happened if I hadn't
been such a nice husband this morning? Maybe I would be taking things easy. she can't wait
till Labor Day!!

ON BROADWAY

I will be preaching at the three morning services at our church on Father's Day. The theme
deals with Mid-Course Corrections: Dad At The Half. Since my wife and I have two grown
children, I quess I qualify as an expert. Ha-Ha! I do have a lenghty list of the corrections I
have made as Dad. The trouble is, it keeps expanding. After all these years, it looks like I
would get this thing down instead of it getting me down. But everything and everyone keeps
changing on me. Just when I think, "I've got you where I want you!", they or things move on
me. But that's life, isn't it? One thing is for certain, things are uncertain!
I look forward to being back at Broadway to preach again. The last sermon I preached was
way back in 1992. Jennifer would soon start college in Evansville and Stephen would soon
start school in Louisville after we moved. My mother-in-law soon would move in with us for
a brief time. Now we've moved back to Bowling Green, bought a house, Jennifer works in Nashvile
and Stephen has his own business. And, there are three grand-dogs to take care of.
With all this, I can't wait to see what I want to be when I grow old. I just hope I don't crash
before I can make the right mid-course corrections

THE LAST LAUGH

The seven decades of life: Spills, Drills, Thrills, Bills, Ills, Pills and Wills.

Question: What time of day was Adam created?
Answer: A little before Eve.

Question: What Bible character could talk within 24 hours of his birth?
Answer: Job. He cursed the day he was born.

Man 1: When I go to bed at night I see yellow lights and green dots before
my eyes.
Man 2: Have you seen a psychiatrist?
Man 1: No, only yellow lights and green dots!

Ministers don't get much respect. I was in the church restroom this morning,
washed my hands and went to turn on the hand dryer. There was a note on it"
"Push here for the latest word from our preacher."

BLEST BE THE TIE

Since Saturday is a neighborhood yard sale, even if the price of gas is high, I'm high-tailing it
out of town! I think I'll go see my Father since I haven't seen him in awhile. If I stay here, I'll
have to help carry stuff out before the sale and then carry stuff back in after the sale. This
is one of those days when everyone from everywhere shows up. While they don't buy alot,
they sure look alot. They will walk up and down the streets, go into this yard and that yard
but end up taking very little of someone else's stuff home with them. Come to think of it,
we may of ended up with more in the yard than when the sale started! Now that I think
about it, I still have some nice neck ties that are for free. Maybe someone will take them
this time. I only wear a tie when I preach somewhere. Other than that, they are seldom
seen on me. It's the tie that binds! "I'm free, thank God, I'm free at at last!" Last year I
threw in some of my sermons. Trouble is, they threw them back at me!

Keep On Keeping On

Isn't it amazing how things can pile up so fast? Most of the time I have plenty of time to get
things done. But all of the sudden there seems to be a tsunami of things to get done. There
isn't even a "get- out -of - jail free" card for the asking to help me. So I have to to face the
music and get it all done as best I can.
I have two Bible studies to prepare for and the conduct. I have two sermons to prepare and
then preach, not to mention always having a sermon ready just in case I get a SOS. Lastly, I
have a to meet with a couple in counseling and then their wedding to perform. I feel as if I'm
back in the saddle again. Truth be told, it's a great ride! I miss these things since taking my
disability due to my M.S. a few years ago. I think the more I'm asked to do, the more I want
to do. This doesn't take me by surprise. A Minister never retires in the real sense of the
word. He or she has an inner feeling that there's always something more to be said or to be
done. My Dad is a retired 95 year old Minister who would get up out of wheel chair and go
preach if he had to do it. Like Father, like son. Me too. I look forward to giving God my best
for as long as I can because God's given me the very best He had to offer, His Son Jesus.

BACK TO SCHOOL

I have been asked to participate in a study on aging by the Department of Psychology at Western Kentucky University. I have a couple of questions as to why I've been asked. First, I am not a grad of WKU, while my wife has a Masters Degree from there and she is sixty. She didn't get the invitation, I did. Second, how did they get my name? I think they made a mistake. I doubt I do the study because I'm too old. I can't remember to remember. However, I can offer a couple of names of people to participate. My father is 95 and remembers just about everything I did wrong when I was a kid. Then there's my twin brother. Talk about a case load, he qualifies! If I can remember his last name I'll contact the University ASAP. For now, it's nap time after I eat my mid-day meal. No, I'm not going back to school. I'm afraid I would fail. Again!

WHAT DID YOU SAY?

I just returned from an appointment with the place I bought my hearing aids a few years ago.
The same young man gave the same old man the same test he had given me a few years ago.
When he said that nothing had changed I said, "What did you say?" He just looked at me and
walked on off. That's when I told him that I made a mistake getting dressed in the dark this
morning and put on my wife's glasses and that now I see things from her point of view.
I'm delighted and thankful that I can hear and see as well as I do. I just wish I could see
and hear things that weren't so ugly or so bad. It's a shame that people put up with what
others say and do as much as they do. Yet, I know we have to be on guard as to how some
might respond. It could be a ugly sight! What do you say when someone says something
that is ugly or does something so wrong? Nothing at all? Act as if it wasn't said or done?
At times a prayer said to God is enough. A prayer for the other person can do wonders
when we feel that we shouldn't speak or do anything to the other person. What do you say?

I'M TOUCHED

On Father's Day I will be preaching at a church I left 15 years ago following five years as their pastor. All three services will give me an opportunity to say some things that I've wanted to tell them. When we moved back to Bowling Green four years ago, we went back to Broadway. When I was pastor, we would have around 250 for one service each Sunday. Now they are running over 1200 with three services each Sunday. It is exciting to see such great growth in worship and in witness. My family attends the contemporary service since we like the flow of it as well as hearing our daughter sing with the Praise Team. I'm always touched when I see so many people whom I don't know as they pass by on Communion Sunday. I'm also touched by how many people pass by whom I took into the church membership and whom I married while I was their. But the thing that touches me most is when I see so many men and women involved in ministrywho were just teenagers way back in 1987 and the years following. I'm also amazed at how much they have changed while I haven't changed at all. I'm still a wild and crazy guy!

THE JESUS WAY

I started reading The Jesus Way while my wife and I were in the Smokies last week. Most of
the time I read a book like using a microwave. Quick. This time though, I read 67 pages of the
book as if it was a crock pot. Slow. Real slow. This 300 page book will take time because I'm
in no rush to finish it. I want to allow each and every word, each and every sentence to soak
down deep into my soul. You see, this book is reading me. It is as if my soul is being scanned
by a MRI to detect the good, the bad and the ugly so that my soul can be cleansed The Jesus
Way.
I haven't picked up Eugne Peterson's book since arriving home Monday. I need some down
time before looking up again. I might miss something if I simply start reading just to finish
yet another book. I don't want that to happen. I rather go slow than go too fast this time. I
have an idea that this might not happen to everyone who reads The Jesus Way, but it is the
way it works for me. There are so many good books that you can read that will touch your
soul like this one has me. I have several on the shelves of my study that I treasure. Now I
have one more to add to them along with the best book of all, The Bible. Talk about a book
that knows you, it knows you from cover to cover! It's all about the One who covers your
sins and mine The Jesus Way.

SCAT!

My wife and I returned home yesterday afternoon after a week in the Smoky Mountains.
The chalet were we stayed sat at the top on a steep moutain. I had to use 2nd gear to drive
up to the top. I was afraid of meeting another car on some of the narror turns. You couldn't
back up or pull over to the side of the road in most places. Going down was like a rolly
coaster but more fear than fun! The key: Going up: keep the foot on the pedal.
Going down: Keep the foot on the break. Most of all: PRAY!
There are warnings of bears in them there hills so we were always on guard. My wife took a
walk one morning and kept seeing evidence that a bear had been there. There was scat all
over the gravel road. Scat is a nice way of saying bear poop. Lots of bear poop! Scat is what
she did! We didn't know that scat is the word for bear poop until we read it in a book about
bears in the Smoky Mountains. While we din't see any bears, we were always alert that there
might be.
We ate at Applewood Farm Resturant two times because the food was so good and the
cost not as high as the mountain where we were staying. We went shopping at a Mall,
took a Sunday afternoon drive high into the woods of yet another mountain where we
could hear the river roaring over the rocks. Most of all, we were in and out of the hot tub,
took in the view from the porch swing and chilled!
They say, there's no place like home. Back to taking out the garbage, mowing the yard and
being with the people we could BEARLY wait to see! Best of all, no scat!

OFF LIMITS!

After attending worship at the 9:30 contemporary service this morning, my daughter and I
headed on over to Walmart while my wife was in a Sunday School class. SinceI had never
been to Walmart at that time of the day on a Sunday, I was shocked to see all the people.
They were coming out of the wood work! They would almost run over you to get where they
were going. If I ever go back on a Sunday, I'm wearing a helmet!
While I didn't walk all over the store, for a man my age who walks with a cane, I walked
enough to wear me down. I was ready to go get my wife and then go get some lunch after all
the fast-track shoppers tried to stomp on my Sunday go - to Church shoes. The next time I
need something, I'm ordering over the internet! As far as I'm concerned, Walmart on a Sunday
is off limits for me! It's a jungle out there!! I think I even saw a couple of monkeys buying
bannanas and a couple of snakes slipping through the asiles after their prey. So, I pray you
don't enter the Twilight Zone. You will get dizzy from doing such a thing on a Sunday. I did!

GETTING AWAY TO GET AWAY

One of the hardest things about taking a few days off for vacation is know what to take and what not to take. If I start packing stuff too early, I find that my wife will come right behind me and
take this or that out of the suitcase or other boxes of things. What amazes me is that she will
take a bunch of things with her that she plans to read or do and most likely will not even get
around to it. There will always be something else to do or somewhere else to go. Before you
know it, it's time to load things back in the boxes or suitcase and head home. It's always been
this way. Why should I expect things to be different this time?
I know she laughs at me when she see's what I take with me. It looks like work, not relaxation.
But for me, reading a new book, working on a new sermon or Bible study is what helps me chill.
Sure, I get in the hot tub or take in the sights of the Smokies, but most of all, I'm seeking some
down time away from downtown, while I'm away. Got that?
I just hope I can get all of these things in the truck of our car. Maybe I should of rented a
U-haul instead!

Memory Lane

As my wife and I prepare to leave Monday morning for the Smoky Mountains, many memories of my childhood come flooding into my mind. Like the times when my parents took four young boys off to the Smokys for a few days. We rode in an old un-air conditioned car along two lane roads. There were no interstates to travel and to top that, there were no McDonalds and very few motels along the way. But we had a ball each and every time. We wouldn't have been very far down the road when I started asking Dad if we could stop and get a motel because I said I was tired. Then, whenever we did stop and get a motel, I'll be the first one out of the car and running up and down the lawn. Whenever I saw water by the side of the road , I'll ask if we could stop and go swimming. To this day, I can't understand why Dad didn't pull over and take me up on the idea! I guess that's enough of Memory Lane for now. But I have an idea I will be taking a long look back down Memory Lane before much longer because there's still plenty of time to make plenty more memories.

TWO OR THREE THINGS

While we were in Nashville yesterday I bought a new book to take with me to Pigeon Forge next week. It is by Eugene H. Peterson, The Jesus Way. While I'm there, I plan to work on a Bible study I'll be doing for three Wednesday nights in July at State Street United Methodist Church. The theme of the study will be: "Survival Guides for the Soul." I can hardly wait to get there and get to work. It may seem strange to use the word work while being away to relax, but that's the way I relax. I pretty well know what I want to say in the study, so it won't be difficult to do. Besides, it gives me a good excuse not to go down the mountain with my wife to go shopping. Like Nehemiah, I can say, "I can't come down, I've got work to do." I'll let you know how things go if I don' go. For now, I hope to get two or three things done at the chalet: read, work on the study and relax. Sounds like a plan to me. Now if I can just do it.

DO YOU STAND OUT?

My wife and I were shopping in a bookstore in Nashville today when I heard a laugh. I knew who it was without even looking. Although it has been awhile since last seeing her, I knew her laugh. When I turned to look, I saw my wife was talking to this lovely young lady. I was right. It was exactly who I thought! Is there something that identifies you in a crowd? Your giggle? Your sneeze? Your talk? Family and friends know you so well that you can't hide if they are around. I have a brother who has a cough that lets me and others know he is around. My Father has a sneeze that shakes the room he is in. As for myself? I was with someone today I hardly even know and she called me a clown. Maybe. Maybe not. All because I said something funny doesn't mean that that's how I'm identified. Yet, it's strange that this stranger may have it the target. What do you say?

LOOK WHAT I FOUND

On April 28, 2003 I wrote some words in a book I was reading. I was sitting in a rocking chair at a Chalet we were renting for a few days. After LEAVING the day to day routine I found myself: LOOKING, not at my watch, but at the mountains, sky, etc. I also found myself LISTENING to the sounds of silence. As I LOAFED, I relaxed in body and spirit. I found myself LAUGHING a lot. I was able to let the Lord take a LOAD OFF for He is the greatest weight lifter of all! After a few days and nights, it was time to LEAVE. The title of the book I was reading is, OVERCOMING OVERLOAD. It was a tool in my hand that helped heal a hurting heart. God provided the space and the scenery, all I had to do was "be still and know that God is God." When I wasn't working it worked for me. What words would you write down for where you are and how you feel right now? Maybe you need to let the LORD help you overcome the overload in your LIFE. Start now, not tomorrow.

A MAY GET - AWAY

In a few days my wife and I are taking a few days to stay at a chalet near Gatlinburg, TN.. Just give me a rocking chair, coffee and a couple of good books to read and I'll be a happy camper! I can't count the hours I've spent looking out at the mountains from a porch in the Smokys. It is so relaxing for reading, reflecting and just slowing down. Before I can slow down though, I've got to go get a new book or two to read while away. That won't be much trouble since I already have a book I want to buy and read asp. My problem is wanting to read it before we even get to Gatlinburg! I will have to hide it from myself or put a "Wet Paint" sign on it to remind me to keep my hands off it till I'm in the right place, at the right time. I think I can wait till Monday when we will get to Gatlinburg. It won't take long for me to settle in and start looking at the mountains and sky and digging deep into yet another book. Since it will be May, I may even get up off the rocking chair and go some where with my wife if it means getting a good meal. You know, reading and relaxing can get a man real hungry!

INSIDE AND OUT

After preaching for a friend yesterday, my wife and I ate at a near by restaurant. We almost failed to find it due to front of the building. It is located downtown near the courthouse and other buildings. It isn't much to look at from outside. It isn't decorated to draw people to it at all. But inside, it is like being in a fine restaurant in New York City. The food is what draws people to this tiny place to dine. It was well worth the price and the trouble to find it. A number of years ago I met a man who wasn't all dressed up in his Sunday's best. He wore faded blue jeans and a flannel shirt. He wore a cap to cover his gray hair and old worn out shoes. But when I sat down with him over coffee I learned things that I had never known before. While Marvin hadn't finished school, he was one of the smartest men I've ever met. I could listen to him for hours as he shared from the School of Hard Knocks. To hear him talk about things, you would of thought he was at the top of his class. He proved what that small restaurant offers, you can't always tell a book by it's cover. I'm sure glad I didn't miss meeting Marvin!

A POST IT NOTE

My wife told me this morning that the clothes lines out back needed to be painted black. After I had painted one of them I was cleaning the brush when she asked if I was going to paint both of them. I had done only one. Job done. right? Wrong! Half a job doesn't get the job done. I got out the paint and brush and finished the job. I have to admit that it does look lots better than it had. I know there is a "to-do" list somewhere around here but I keep covering it up so I will forget the other things that need attention. Speaking of attention, I'm sure I will get more than I want if I don't get up and get these black spots off my face, arms and hands. Sure hope we have something to do that job! Her list includes: repair and put the bird house back up (on a pole), paint the door coming in from the garage, get the whirly birds out of the gutters, etc. My list includes: take a nap, read a book, take the puppy to the dog park, take a nap, etc. I like my list more than hers because hers has more of the more.

"I'M BACK!"

I need a GPS so I can find my blog. When you get my age you forget where you leave things. It has been awhile since I’ve done a blog because I couldn't remember to remember. My daughter served as my GPS so that I could get back to blogging. I've missed it even if you haven't missed me. So much has happened since I wrote my last post. My wife turned sixty and got a tattoo. I have preached twice. I have taken lots of nice naps. You know, a man has to do what a man has to do. I just can't remember what I was going to do. Not really. This is just a test to see if anyone out there in Blog Land reads my stuff. If so, let me know or I will stop stuffing the stuff. If you like what I say, be nice and tell me...........sooooon!

A LIFE WELL LIVED

I took my wife and youngest brother to Columbia to celebrate my Dad's 95th birthday Monday.
While we were there, Dad read his birthday cards, welcomed family and friends, ate and sang
some songs. It is an amazing thing to see a man who was told a few years ago that he needed
heart surgery, still surviving without it and, going strong for the shape he is in. His youngest
sister is across the hall and having a tough time staying alive.
My Dad's Dad died when he was 94 and five other siblings have died over the past years. Dad
has a desire to live a good life more than a long life. He wants to give God teh glory with how he
lives his life. Hundreds of people who echo the words of Jesus, "Well done, thy good and faithful
servant." My desire is to live my life like Dad is doing because I feel that is what being a Christ
like person is all about. Happy Birthday, Dad!

CATCHING ON

One of the three dogs that dwell at our house ran away last night. I've tried to catch her five or six times but she always walks off. I'm too slow to catch even a walking dog! This morning I tried to lure her by feeding two other dogs some food. They were begging for it so much so that they were jumping up for it. While she watched what was going on, she chewed on an artificial bone while the other two dogs had the real stuff. Beats me! She is a stubborn dog with a mind of her own which says to me, "I'll let you catch me when I'm good and ready, old man!" News flash! Even while writing this my wife just informed me that the dog is in her crate! She simply walked up to her and she held up her wet paws as if to say, "I surrender! Don't shoot!" Maybe I need to stop trying to catch these dogs whenever they take off on me. They sure don't let me catch them! Maybe I'm catching on! Now I need to catch some rest after all I've had to do already this morning. I just hope my wife doesn't catch me before I can fall back in bed!

COLUMBIA, WE HAVE A PROBLEM

My Father will turn 95 next Monday. His Father was 94 when he died. Dad has a younger sister who lives across the hall from his room the retirement home. Dad expects his four sons to show up Monday to celebrate his birthday in Columbia. Columbia, we have a problem! Two of the four can't be there then due to circumstances. And the two of us who live in Bowling Green can celebrate Dad's birthday on Dad's birthday. So, we will spread out the celebration. It seems to me that Dad would like that since he’ll have more visits over more days. One son's daughter is to deliver a baby either on Dad's birthday or close to it. One son's wife works and can't get away on Monday, so they will see Dad on Sunday. All in all, all of us will celebrate in Columbia the birthday of someone who will just have to wait awhile longer. Columbia, the problem will go away before Dad can blow out 95 candles. That's what I would worry about if it were me turning 95!