tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-308081852012-01-18T20:19:20.320-06:00The musings of a girl from West Coast suburbia living out God's call in beautiful Central Cal. <br> C'mon in and read about the drama, the whining, the joy, and the irony <br>as she attempts to balance ministry, motherhood, marriage, and moving.Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.comBlogger2581100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-16190212831908461952011-09-02T11:14:00.005-05:002011-09-02T12:12:02.473-05:00

Here I sit writing and sipping coffee as the ocean breeze blows in the windows and as the morning marine air fills my happy lungs. What an Israelite-like journey it has been to get here...to this moment, to this location, to this reality. As I resurrected the blog this morning (again...this blog has been resurrected more times than Jesus), I was shocked to discover that there were only two

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-31794544652898325292010-05-18T22:57:00.006-05:002011-09-02T12:05:44.165-05:00

The topic of Word and Sacrament ministry and what it means has come up directly and indirectly during my time at my new congregation (which I have decided to term Elijah in Egypt). My predecessor was particularly skilled at empowering the laity and at delegating responsibilities for the ministries of the congregation. While this has created a cadre of talented and responsible leaders, it has

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-88909085881577712212010-05-12T15:45:00.004-05:002010-05-18T22:57:43.325-05:00

So let's see...it's been over a year?! Much has happened in the last 14 months, including:In July 2009, I accepted a call to an inner-city congregation in an actual city. Diversity! Traffic! Buildings taller than 3 stories! Cool congregation (haven't thought of a nickname for them yet)! This is such a good thing! It is a grown up call, complete with a grown up sanctuary and grown up

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-89407633835783164442010-05-11T21:22:00.003-05:002010-05-11T21:24:52.199-05:00

I have been pondering a return to the blog world for awhile. I need to write and have a creative outlet. For now, there are plenty of old posts you can read. Updates will follow soon. There's much to share since the last post, but alas...it is 9:30pm and I haven't had dinner yet. Must eat, then write.

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-53628430037640479802009-03-30T17:12:00.008-05:002009-03-30T17:23:37.720-05:00

I am a ship that sails on waters As smooth as broken glass. Scattered chaos fills the maritime skies and seas, Patternless, messy colors melt into one another. Stay. Go. Push. Pull. Drop anchor. Hold on tight. Weather the storm. WAIT. NO! no. Be. free. Be loosed from oppression’s heavy anchor chains. Sail. Beautifully complex. Reluctantly hopeful. Tentatively yearning.

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-68006743333738187742009-03-20T21:02:00.007-05:002009-03-20T21:27:31.601-05:00

Today, I attended a workshop entitled: Awakening the Soul of the Writer. Tomorrow, I'll hear Kathleen Norris speak. Then I'll stop at the outlet mall on the way home! It doesn't get much better than this...When the brochure for this workshop crossed my desk, the title instantly hooked me. After Dad died, the words seemed to stop flowing. It was as if the writing balloon deflated in a heartbeat

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-88887956291157664562008-09-10T09:10:00.004-05:002008-09-10T09:31:11.076-05:00

Sitemeter just sent me an email. Seems people still check this now semi-dead blog.Up until this day a year ago, I was pretty prolific. Then the bottom fell out. Actually, it was a year ago tomorrow that I received the phone call from my brother that our dad had died. The 10th, though, was the actual date of death. It's like there are two anniversary days to feel funky about.I'm chuckling to

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-28415197217496628512008-07-05T14:58:00.004-05:002008-12-09T15:15:13.072-06:00

It's the day after the high holy American Civil Religion holiday. I'm sitting here pondering the whole concept of the 4th and I'm finding that my emotions and thoughts are fairly mixed. Yes, I am thankful for many things about this country. At the same time, I have such disgust. That's a difficult thing for an ENFP.We live in a country that banters loudly "God bless America" yet we seem to

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-90020477279504417952008-06-20T10:06:00.002-05:002008-12-09T15:15:13.277-06:00

The other night, I came home around 10pm and Arwen was outside. Normally, we keep the cats inside at night.I got out of the van and tried to coax her toward me. She ran under Rab's truck.I went over to the truck and Arwen moved just out of my reach and lay down.I walked around to the back tire to reach her and she moved to the front tire.I walked over to the front tire - in my defense, the

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-64170802405510881732008-06-20T10:02:00.002-05:002008-12-09T15:15:13.416-06:00

Minky and I had a "date" the other night. We went to Culvers. That guy really knows how to party.On our way home, I was sharing with him that we have plans to go to Waterparkopia in June 2009. Minky responded, "So Sony will be 13 then..."Me: "Yep, I guess he will."Minky: (big wistful sigh) "They grow up so fast..."

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-74568994220689048272008-06-14T20:54:00.007-05:002008-12-09T15:15:13.879-06:00

So what's been going on with me? Well...We're undertaking a redecorating effort at Jordan. Depending upon the meeting, there are anywhere from 4-6 attendees who consider themselves team members. Therefore, there are nearly always 4-6 divergent opinions on colors, styles, money and taste. The male dominated Council that recently spent thousands on a new riding mower does not understand why $500

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-69691530399082587772008-04-26T10:30:00.001-05:002008-04-26T10:32:12.567-05:00

Rab was drinking this thing that is supposed to lower his cholestorol.  I asked him what it was and after he told me, Minky replied, "Too bad it doesn't make your hair grow back!"

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-33110897837183479942008-04-18T09:41:00.005-05:002008-12-09T15:15:14.239-06:00

I went to the Castle yesterday for continuing ed. I was able to hang around there after the event and visit with old friends. As I drove home, I mused about the trip.Being with people who truly know you and love you anyway is good for the soul. Really good for the soul.Along the same lines as #1, being with people who know you well enough to give you a hard time is refreshing.Occasionally

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-68380225429628998722008-04-10T20:14:00.004-05:002008-12-09T15:15:14.636-06:00

The boys were talking about my upcoming 40th birthday. I asked Minky what he was going to give me. Without pause, he responded, "Wrinkle cream!"

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-42246369225580098022008-04-10T20:03:00.010-05:002010-05-11T20:16:22.537-05:00

I just bought a new t-shirt from Zazzle.com! Here's what it says:Because I couldn't help myself, I wore it to my local clergy group. I affectionately refer to them as "the boys." The group is made up of pastors from the UCC, Methodist, Catholic, local fundy church and my congregation.The UCC'er, upon seeing the shirt, loved it. The Methodist tried to pretend he wasn't reading it. He also

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-20767747574426669192008-03-25T15:11:00.005-05:002008-12-09T15:15:25.495-06:00

I was warned about this - the return of grief that would come on with a vengeance about 6 months after Dad's death. I suppose, when I look back, it didn't surprise me. There have been warning signs the last few weeks - a bout with influenza and a subsequent virus attacking a suppressed immune system, I've been wearing my long hair up in a makeshift bun more days than not because I don't have

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-63913263714100497062008-03-09T18:11:00.002-05:002008-12-09T15:15:25.649-06:00

You know you're an ENFP when...you're laying in bed and your children's choir director calls you at 7:15...ummmm 8:15... to alert you to the fact that you forgot to change your clocks and to remind you that service starts in 15 minutes.

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-16453644477321854932008-03-03T10:35:00.007-06:002008-12-09T15:15:26.144-06:00

I love Mondays. I especially love Mondays when Jimmy Buffett tickets go on sale. The ice and snow are layered upon the pavement. The cool winter thermometer dips below 20 degrees and Ticketmaster.com and Ebay.com (unfortunately...) provide a light of hope at the end of the dark winter tunnel. Buffett? Jimmy Buffett?! As in, Margaritaville, paradise, pirates and parrots?! Could it be?! Yet another

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-68592022218257182672008-02-27T08:07:00.007-06:002010-05-11T20:17:34.486-05:00

It's been so long since I've consistently shared my daily musings... Here's just a few of the random thoughts clogging my brain:- Record snowfall. Here in Jerusalem, we've had over 70" of snow this winter. We've proudly beat the record set in 1978. Hint: if you want to hear about the winter of 78 (or 82 or 26 or 39...), just ask any local. They'll be glad to give you a play-by-play of each

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-37356566951833896132008-02-27T07:49:00.006-06:002008-12-09T15:15:27.242-06:00

Last night, I went to the big meeting about the hopes for a community center. There were 6 people there... These folks, along with 2 or 3 others who couldn't make it to the meeting, are hoping to arrange for a community center with a 400-person capacity. The two nearest towns have ones that provide 200-250 person capacity.On the one hand, the meeting was an interesting study is big city dreams/

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-11030094872235768852008-02-08T20:52:00.000-06:002008-12-09T15:15:27.420-06:00

Hey all you Old Testament scholars - did you hear the news? You can now publish a blog in HEBREW! Just thought I'd share the joy.Here's a keyboard layout to help your publishing efforts:

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-56823287700736876652008-01-24T09:33:00.001-06:002010-05-11T20:19:44.897-05:00

Shuffler came through our church doors one morning during coffee hour. Everyone pretended not to see him and his companion, Smiley. Shuffler and Smiley were different. Their clothes were a bit dissheveled, they were rough around the edges, they didn't fit in here. While we pray each week for new people to come through the doors, these are not the type of new people the congregation

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-5936849061329482242008-01-05T19:49:00.000-06:002008-01-05T20:05:22.464-06:00

After a week (well...beginning on Wednesday) of sprinting a ministry marathon including several multi-hour trips to and at the next town's hospital, two congregation deaths, a funeral, a major Minky meltdown this afternoon, the worst confirmation class ever, and a migraine (big surprise huh?), I turned on the Republican debate after a nap (or shall I call it an exhausted collapse?). Yep, I

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-9353397555835071312007-12-24T11:39:00.000-06:002007-12-24T11:42:54.184-06:00

If you save your credit card information and passwords on your computer, DON'T!!!!! My paypal account was heisted on the 22nd. Within the account, 2 bank accounts and 2 credit cards were listed. Luckily, the transactions were frozen and now I'm waiting for $500 to be replaced into my bank account. I froze the other accounts this morning.This is one of those "I didn't think it would happen to

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-11738208034748898962007-12-22T12:21:00.000-06:002008-12-09T15:15:29.182-06:00

I Don't Want Anything to ChangeBonnie Raitt Sleepless nights aren't so badI'm staying up, I'm staying sadI don't want anything to changeI don't want anything to changeI like it lonely, I like it strangeI don't want anything to changeYou left a messyou're everywhereI'd pick it up but I don't dareI don't want anything to changeI don't want anything to changeThere's nothing I would reaarangeI don't

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-71399723337459761212007-12-22T08:50:00.000-06:002008-12-09T15:15:29.368-06:00

The other morning, I was sitting in bed as Arwen the cat gave herself a morning bath. Her leg was up in the air, her spine was twisted as only a cat can contort and Minky walked in and said, "Look, Mommy, Arwen's doing yoga!"

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-15491711327006965412007-12-05T08:13:00.000-06:002008-12-09T15:15:29.701-06:00

As many of you know, I am notorious for losing my keys, my Palm Pilot, my remote control, my sanity...Years ago as I perused that cool mail order catalog found in the seat pocket in front of me, I came across the Sharper Image pages. Ever since, I have coveted the remote control finder thing. Last week, I finally gave in and bought one.It arrived yesterday and now I'm hooked! The remote has a

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-25170028175077372762007-12-04T20:41:00.000-06:002008-12-09T15:15:30.004-06:00

Talking to my dad's estate attorneys never ceases to amaze me. There's always some surprising twist or turn to throw my former assumptions off. Today was no different.This afternoon, I was talking to one of the attorneys and she mentioned the famous, on the way to the beach, cornball but ya gotta do it stop known as The Nation's Largest Sitka Spruce Tree (or as one website states: also known as

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-4206987301361998702007-12-04T20:34:00.001-06:002011-09-02T12:30:04.766-05:00

Oh, Minky! Even though I haven't been writing on the blog much in the past months, Minky and his antics have been going strong. Fred the Dog One day, Sony, Minky and I walked to the nearby gas station/mini-mart to get some treats. As we were heading out of the building, a rather large, somewhat intimidating man walked out behind us. We walked past an El Camino in the parking lot and the

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-22839927454190436472007-12-04T19:53:00.001-06:002007-12-04T19:55:12.623-06:00

Is anybody even checking for new posts any more? I can't say I'd blame you if you weren't!But if you are checking (and obviously, you are checking if you're reading this now...), you're in for a treat. I've got a bunch of posts just waiting to move from memory to keypad. Stay tuned - new posts are on the way momentarily.

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-82292998772652332082007-09-30T12:12:00.001-05:002007-09-30T12:45:18.045-05:00

From the get go of my journey into ordained ministry, one of the most important hallmarks and hopes has been authenticity. As a student, I was inspired by those who were truly themselves - those pastors who did not turn into "official, super-hero, formal pastor" upon donning their alb and stole. I was lucky and blessed to have numerous examples of authentic ministry during my journey. Today,

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-3988718680088056362007-09-29T17:28:00.000-05:002007-09-29T17:46:03.960-05:00

I guess the time has come to post something.  It's been awhile.  Lately, it's hard to get much of anything done.  I find that my thoughts drift and wander like never before.  I say things backwards (like, "Where are my keys car?" and "Did you mail the pick up?").  I head into one room and forget where I'm going and why before I reach the original destination.  I have a tough time getting out of

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-14653680007537492852007-09-12T11:28:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:30.484-06:00

In memory of my dad, Allen. August 20, 1939 - September 10, 2007.Phantom Of The Opera - Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again Lyrics You were once my one companion . . . you were all that mattered . . . You were once a friend and father, then my world was shattered . . . Wishing you were somehow here again . . . wishing you were somehow near . . . Sometimes it seemed if I just dreamed, somehow you

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-68761865950707882192007-09-08T22:04:00.002-05:002011-09-02T12:35:32.879-05:00

We've reached Day Two of training. I am absolutely loving this experience! It feels great to be so centered and filled. Here is last night's review (I didn't know I could get online until tonight!): Yes! Yes! Yes! Aaaahhhh…a night of laughter, of enjoying the company of the people around me, of seeking and experiencing God. I’m gonna love this spiritual direction stuff! The main leader,

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-46297348809622672512007-09-06T23:15:00.000-05:002007-09-06T23:22:14.730-05:00

For the last 2 days, Minky has been telling me he doesn't feel good. On Wednesday, he would have convinced you that he was on his last leg. Then, when he was waiting at the bus stop, I peeked out the window and saw him playing tag and acting happy as a lark. Today, I let him sleep in and drove him to school. He kept trying to convince me he was deathly ill. I took advantage of the teachable

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-86366773727116894332007-09-06T23:13:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:30.635-06:00

Anyone else want to order one of these? You can get t-shirts, bags, mouse pads...

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-63405747301393736732007-09-06T23:07:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:30.835-06:00

Tomorrow, I head to the Franciscan Spirituality Center to begin my training as a spiritual director.The kids, predictibly, are both sick with stomach flu. The dog needs to be groomed - he's stinky and no longer huggable. One of my favorite parishoners is in ICU. I could work all weekend and still not be 'caught up' on everything. And, instead of reveling in the glory of my life, I'm escaping for

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-30767229858595151012007-09-02T15:35:00.001-05:002011-09-02T12:37:56.826-05:00

After the week I've had, it was a little tough to head to church this morning. But, somehow, it also felt right. On the way there, I picked up one of my favorite little ladies and had a wonderful conversation over the next 8 blocks to Jordan. Then, during service, I looked out and saw all those grown lambs looking to me for leadership and words of grace. These lambs have no idea (or at least

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-34483369164577136752007-08-31T21:27:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:31.744-06:00

The boys and I went to the Castle today to visit friends and get away from the stresses of the week. After errands to the mall and Cancer Society (best clothes in town!), the boys bought new DS games. On the way home, with the boys deeply invested and involved in their DS adventures, I put on some full-tilt girl music.As the dramatic version of Somewhere Over the Rainbow hit it's finale with "if

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-50575658883293611642007-08-22T12:43:00.000-05:002007-08-24T13:51:34.672-05:00

Tuesday night at 9:40 p.m., we headed hurriedly to the ER. Again. Not for a parishoner. For Sony. He was having intense pain on his left side that doubled him over in tears and agony. Rab called our 24-7 nurse helpline and they said to take him to the ER. Rab volunteered to stay home with a very worried Minky (who desperately wanted to go and make sure his brother was ok) and I headed to

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-47824784617935350672007-08-21T07:59:00.001-05:002008-12-09T15:15:32.008-06:00

This morning, the Jerusalem Optimists invited me to speak and introduce myself. They've been asking me to come to speak at one of their 7 a.m. meetings since I moved here, but motherhood has trumped my morning availability to community groups. Now that Rab is home with the kids, I was available. So at 6:15 a.m. (ugh), my alarm went off and I dragged myself out of bed very unenthusiastically.

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-74096649681644266632007-08-20T12:05:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:33.802-06:00

On Navy Pier the other night, as Southern Wisdom and I shared our stories and souls, a butterfly came soaring out of nowhere. I thought it was a bat at first - a deceptive first impression. Then I looked again.I looked down at my feet and saw a wounded butterfly. It was hobbling around. It could no longer fly. It flapped its wings energetically but helplessly. This formerly vibrant

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-78005215926191589882007-08-19T21:35:00.001-05:002008-12-09T15:15:33.812-06:00

This weekend, Cartoon Network has hosted a million hour marathon of every Naruto episode ever made. The last one just aired. Thank God. That's all that's been on our TVs. Even Rab has been hooked.

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-10279886157561747922007-08-19T20:17:00.001-05:002011-09-02T12:45:40.636-05:00

During the summer, my UCC colleague and I share the preaching load. From July 4 - Labor Day, we split the Sundays and each preach at both our own and the other's church on our assigned Sundays. It's a great ecumenical experience that saves our churches some money, gives us a nice break and helps the congregations know the pastor who usually provides vacation coverage. This morning, preaching

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-6939131807583375812007-08-17T16:27:00.001-05:002008-12-09T15:15:41.753-06:00

On the way home today, I acquired an iPass. No more fumbling for change, no more slowing down to wait in line to pay a toll on I-90. What freedom!It felt great to just cruise on by each of those toll stations without slowing down. Yep, you're right, it doesn't take much to make my day.I might just need to go to Chicago more often.

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-88855529788658717522007-08-17T11:42:00.002-05:002011-09-02T12:48:42.266-05:00

What a great time. What a lovely night. I finally made it to Chicago around 3:15. Southern Wisdom had a meeting in the hotel lobby at 3:30, so I sorted briefcase contents and began this Sunday's sermon in the room (This week's text is a pistol by the way.). Around 5:00 or so, SW returned and we were free for the night. Heading into downtown, we were faced with surprisingly little traffic. Ahhh..

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-66123951876431310452007-08-15T21:53:00.001-05:002008-12-09T15:15:42.377-06:00

YAY! Tomorrow, Southern Wisdom arrives in Chicago and I get to see her and spend time with her! I can't wait. She arrives at 2pm, so we should be able to hit all kinds of fun spots. I'm thinking of taking her to Ed Debevic's for dinner - so not a Southern type place. She thought it sounded great. We'll probably also hit good ole Michigan Ave. We won't be able to go to my favorite Chicago

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-26795582748071716452007-08-12T22:30:00.001-05:002008-12-09T15:15:42.550-06:00

Jerusalem had their town festival this weekend. On our walk downtown (Yep, we're close enough to walk), we stopped at the library book sale. In addition to a bunch of books for Minky, Sony found a new book and Rab found a few too. To round us off to the $1.00 mark (the bargain price was 10 books for a buck), I picked up a copy of Marcia Clark's memoirs of the OJ trial. I'm hooked. I'm

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-23805934465759173692007-08-10T11:18:00.003-05:002008-12-09T15:15:42.694-06:00

Instead of watching the Today Show after the last post, the fam gathered around the computer and Simpsonized ourselves. Nothing like a little Friday morning family bonding. Here are the results:

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-57204152758140222082007-08-10T09:31:00.001-05:002011-09-02T12:52:27.940-05:00

Here in Jerusalem, we've turned country this week. Our VBS theme, Avalanche Ranch, has been littered with bad Southern accents, tons of food, and a bevy of willing and enthusiastic volunteers (if only the Stewardship committee could be so enthused....). 65 kids come through our doors each night - the most Jordan has seen in a long time. It's exciting to see all the frenzy and flurry - especially

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-67249003236762999332007-08-04T19:48:00.001-05:002008-12-09T15:15:43.548-06:00

Instead, I'm finding out what I'd look like as a Simpson's character.

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-85862612218373644262007-07-28T11:43:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:43.776-06:00

In the past week, I think I've spent over 6 hours on Facebook. This doesn't include time spent on the myfamily.com site for my graduating class, time spent on MySpace, and time spent with Cafe Mom (yeah...thanks for that, Bluejeangirl!).In my well spent hours, I have sent and received flowers and other items for my garden, found old friends from The Other Seminary, found out that John and I are

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-67648450119021764442007-07-27T13:38:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:43.909-06:00

Nobody thinks twice of offering an upset woman a ride when her husband is flipping out.Neighbors in the jammed post-concert parking lot are more than happy to pull up an extra chair, grab an extra dessert, pour you a cup of coffee, and invite you to sit down and chat as if you're an old friend while you all wait for the traffic to clear.If you find a dropped cell phone on the stairs, the person

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-17531645850976020502007-07-22T19:46:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:44.130-06:00

24 hours ago: Waiting for Jimmy Buffett to come on stage23 hours ago: Soaking in every moment of a great concert 12 hours ago: People watching with Rab on the Magnificent Mile and watching the sleepy city begin to stir10 hours ago: Having a great breakfast with friends 4 hours ago: Looking at and attemping to avoid the stack of bills on the dining room table3 hours ago: Sitting in the ER with

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-9059473627131642182007-07-10T14:54:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:44.461-06:00

Yesterday, an hour or so outside of Portland, Minky became a bit stir crazy. He asked for a pen and, assuming the best (what's wrong with me!), I gave him one. By the time we arrived at Rab's mom's, Minky had completely covered himself in ink - arms, hands, shoes, legs.... at least he's been swimming non-stop since we arrived. I'm sure the chlorine will eat the ink away. Click on the photo

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-55176727362689418522007-07-10T13:59:00.001-05:002008-12-09T15:15:47.765-06:00

For some reason, posting pictures to the last post became tricky. Instead, here are some pics and links from our adventures thus far.The BadlandsCorn Palace, Mitchell, South DakotaYellowstone National ParkBear CountryMount Rushmore Reptile GardensCooke City, Montana Needles HighwayFlintstone VillageDevils Tower

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-82200723004350277122007-07-10T13:02:00.001-05:002011-09-02T13:05:31.318-05:00

We set out Tuesday for our 3 week family vacation. After an appointment in the big city, we headed North to see Mark and his 3 legged dog, Pogo. On the way there, our brakes began to make ungodly noises but we made it there safe and sound. The boys were so thrilled to see the duo and they sheepishly presented Mark with a copy of Uncle Jim’s song, “I am a Three Legged Dog” just for Pogo. What a

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-22766675152302332642007-07-10T12:57:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:48.907-06:00

Driving through Yellowstone National Park, I exclaimed: “Look boys – there’s some bison!” TT responsed: “Hmmm…looks like buffalo to me.” Funny enough, just that morning, Rab and Sony had read the “Yellowstone Trivia” on the restaurant placemat. According to the as-reliable-as-the-internet placemat, there are only bison in North America – buffalo live in Africa and Asia. Also on the placemat, the

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-49930625715411224322007-07-10T12:50:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:49.069-06:00

As we were driving, TT exclaimed in Monty Python style, “Bring out your dad! Bring out your dad!” We all began laughing and TT responded, “Honestly, that’s what I thought they were saying the first time I watched it.”

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-59696288876737895462007-07-09T10:43:00.001-05:002008-12-09T15:15:49.172-06:00

Last night's plan had been to update you on our cross-country travels. But instead of sharing stories and insights about seeing Mark, visiting the Badlands and Black Hills, experiencing Yellowstone (complete with a grizzly sighting!!) and the Grand Tetons, today's post is brief.We had a bit of an adventure last night in Twin Falls, Idaho. The plan was to stay the night at the Holiday Inn Express.

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-49677451185847926172007-06-30T10:27:00.001-05:002007-06-30T11:44:04.128-05:00

It's a day of blog programming here at Skdo's!With the help of a new friend, I was able to tinker around until my blog shows up on my profile. Then, I finally cleared the annoying bright purple line from the header and the thick, ugly brown line from the footer.Then, if that wasn't enough excitement for the day, I was finally able to figure out a way to extend the tan background on the

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-63882110966105180612007-06-28T17:11:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:49.475-06:00

After the first day of archery camp, Minky jumped into the car full of excitement. “Every shot was a bullseye, Mommy!” he embellished. “I love archery! I’m really good at it!”The next day, Minky’s brother joined in the fun. He had been absent the first night with a bug. After that night, Sony was thrilled by the experience but Minky was out of sorts. During class, the coach had sought me out to

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-88259984247712605742007-06-23T14:20:00.001-05:002011-09-02T13:37:42.326-05:00

Here we are – 200 posts! Since my 100 post commemoration was so well received, I'm going to do another 100 post milestone: 100 things I've learned since ordination. I'm guessing I've probably learned 200 things but 100 seems good enough. We'll begin where we left off, and it will have to be a running list because I can’t seem to come up with 100 things just now. 100 things I've learned since

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-14515248853298328562007-06-23T09:56:00.001-05:002008-12-09T15:15:53.857-06:00

Today is Saturday. Saturday has always been one of my favorite days.As a kid, Saturday meant watching cartoons as my working-outside-the-house mom frantically cleaned the house from top to bottom. After Looney Tunes, my mom, sister and I would go grocery shopping at Fred Meyer, and I'd try to talk Mom into buying me all sorts of unnecessary snack food, toys and stuff.As young marrieds, Rab and

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-32835918140177151562007-06-22T17:54:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:54.011-06:00

Minky bought some long balloons today and has been blowing them up and creating swords and crowns. At one point, he came into the room waving a balloon and said, "All hail the ninja!!!" Then he ran out laughing and came back in with the balloon on his head, yelling, "All hail mighty Minky!!" Then he ran out, moved the balloons into a Miss America-style swag and stood on the bed yelling, "ALL

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-51379900287226072042007-06-19T20:52:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:54.210-06:00

This actually happened awhile back, but I keep forgetting to blog it.In conversation with Minky's psychologist, we decided to become more and more clear about consequences. When something great happened, we'd point out how it was a positive consequence from a good decision or action. When something crummy happened, we'd point out the situation that precipitated it. The week went on and we

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-34478239916472451672007-06-12T08:54:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:54.854-06:00

Attention all botanists!!! What is this organic gem growing all over my side yard?(Thanks to all who commented. I now know I'm blessed with hollyhocks along the side of my house.)

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-90644966080316488662007-06-01T19:07:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:55.074-06:00

7:00 a.m. came far too early this morning. I really did not want to leave my cozy, warm bed. Rab had come home Thursday night (yep, you guessed it...sick kids AGAIN!), so I had the morning off from any and all mom jobs. I stretched out with the bulimic, queeny cat and caught up on frivolous Today Show news. Before I knew it, it was 7:45, then 8:00. Finally, I got out of bed to begin my day.8

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-31109852024251887902007-05-26T21:03:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:55.275-06:00

Tomorrow is Pentecost. I can hardly wait. I am a huge language junkie. Pentecost is the day for us language people. We can get away with all kinds of stuff.In worship tomorrow, a youth will read the first lesson in Spanish, a retired pastor will read the second lesson in Norwegian, and I'll read the gospel in French. The hymn following the sermon will be Veni Sante Spiritus ("Come, Holy

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-18117769541791598382007-05-21T10:53:00.000-05:002007-05-22T17:09:24.685-05:00

What a week. A few times in the last few days, I've found myself thinking or saying, "Yep, that'll blog." So here you go, a bit of real life humor to get you through your Monday:Story One: Lock and KeyRab and I spent the better part of Sunday cleaning out and organizing the basement of the Cute Gray House. The basement has been a dumping ground for the last few months and, being hidden away

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-59065270833623194972007-05-15T07:54:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:55.391-06:00

Last night at Church Council, I presented a proposal asking that my continuing education funding/time be spent on spiritual direction training.  Normally, I wouldn't run continuing ed offerings before council.  In this case, though, the training involves three weekends a year - including Sundays.After having reviewed the written proposal and explanation in advance, the members of council asked a

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-66799130730572937152007-05-14T10:04:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:55.521-06:00

Yesterday was graduation at the Castle. I feel an affinity with the class that graduated because I transferred in at the same time that they began. It was so great to be with them as they reached this milestone. It was also so weird to realize that it has only been a year since I was in the same spot. It feels like a lifetime ago.Sitting on my old front porch afterward with Rab, it was easy to

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-29359971453278719372007-05-09T09:32:00.000-05:002007-05-09T09:37:43.397-05:00

Yesterday, Minky was feigning illness.  First, he woke up and said he had "the strep throat" (why the definite article, I'm not sure).  Then when I didn't buy it, he said his tummy hurt.  Then a headache.  Yet, somehow, he found the energy to play heartily with the dog outside.  I got him dressed and fed then we hopped in the car.  He thought he was going to a meeting with me.  When we pulled up

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-75898963305822127472007-05-06T17:31:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:55.833-06:00

In the last 4 weeks, 3 of my children's sermons have gone awry at the second service.A few weeks ago, the paperclip floated without any problems at the first service. At the second service, the paperclip didn't float until the 4th attempt (The children's sermon theme changed to a lesson in patience...). The week of Easter, the supposedly hard boiled egg was soft boiled and made a bit of a mess on

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-51025306782306553952007-05-01T20:48:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:56.829-06:00

Last summer, I would never have considered such a long period of time between posts. My how things change when one is gainfully employed!Life is good. It's also busy. Ear infections, strep throat and various illnesses (we're going on 14 consecutive weeks with one thing or another, folks!) for the boys, a commuting husband who is home Fridays-Sundays, and the continual mommy-pastor balance

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-86582630551362280122007-04-18T12:37:00.000-05:002007-04-18T12:52:55.410-05:00

If you are washing a car with your 8 year old and he accidentally fills the bucket with plain water and you say, "dump the whole thing"...make sure he understands that you mean the bucket of water and not the container of soap that's going into the water.I speak from soapy experience.

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-68445697705941248112007-04-13T12:20:00.000-05:002007-04-13T12:21:30.127-05:00

Minky had his 2nd progress check with his vision therapist yesterday. His visual processing speed and ability have increased tremendously over the last 30 weeks of therapy and his tracking ability is nearly where it should be. At his recent school conference, he was at or just above beginning 2nd grade levels for his reading and writing. The doctor told me that one of the tests in particular

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-51109626270982276662007-04-07T09:56:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:57.037-06:00

Our congregation's oldest member, Sweet Lady, is preparing to die. Rapidly throughout this week, her condition has continued to fail. I feel honored and lucky to have known her. She is a precious lady.Yesterday, with her consent, the family gathered around her as we prayed the Service for the Commendation of the Dying. Afterward, she held my hand and told me she loved me, she prayed and hoped

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-89337900970329639792007-04-07T09:50:00.000-05:002007-04-07T09:56:21.417-05:00

On Thursday, the kids had spring break. Since Holy Week is upon us, they came to work with me and hung out in the youth room while I worked. We brought some strawberries along with us for a snack...here's the conversation that transpired in the church kitchen:Me: Here's a bowl to rinse the strawberries in, and here are bowls for each of you. Make sure you bring them back to the kitchen and

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-6717489384137384282007-04-04T20:51:00.001-05:002010-05-11T20:22:12.090-05:00

I was just surfing around, catching up on friends' blogs and I came across this link on Jim's now deceased blog. He's more Lutheran than I - I think he scored in the 90s. Then again, he's in the midst of his final term at the Castle and is taking a course on Lutheran Church History. All the questions about Lutheran churches and their related initials hurt the score.Oh, the candidacy quip?

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-54325280607165142042007-04-04T19:42:00.000-05:002007-04-04T19:43:57.141-05:00

I just realized nobody has commented on my last 5 posts. Have you all abandoned me or are you all speechless? I know most of you love to talk. Are you out there?

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-22054025345707117722007-04-04T19:36:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:57.311-06:00

It can't be possible. C'mon. No way. This morning, Minky was diagnosed with strep and a possible ear infection. Once again, I worked from home (at least I wrote all my Holy Week sermons). Will my kids ever be consistently healthy?!Oh, and while I was home, I received our insurance settlement for Sony's recent tonsilectomy. Ends up we owe the hospital $858 in "co-insurance." I need a shot

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-58683050479064140932007-04-03T22:29:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:57.537-06:00

Minky and I were on our way home from Vision Therapy (a 3 hour drive each way). Tired and hungry, we pulled into a truck stop to grab a bite to eat at the Subway-inside-a-gas-station. A trucker was ahead of us in line and when he got to the cash register, he looked at Minky and said, "That little boy looks like he could use a cookie. Y'all want a cookie lil' fella?" Minky looked at me

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-52338630311112731842007-03-30T19:08:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:57.677-06:00

That's a play on words, folks.Today, we met up with some of the Hospitables in the Big Little City. After a Jamba Juice fix, we headed out for a walk under the misty skies and ended up touring the State Capitol. What an amazing building! Rab was practically drooling over all the marble (his dream kitchen includes marble countertops...). The kids, predictably, found their way somewhere other than

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-66633245862325563132007-03-28T15:34:00.001-05:002011-09-02T13:49:40.638-05:00

Today I received the most heart-warming, tear-creating feedback of my pastoral life. I went to visit a 98 year old parishoner who I just adore. Her 70-something daughter takes care of her. As I was getting ready to leave, the daughter and I talked in the kitchen for a few minutes about how she's holding up as her mom gets weaker and weaker. At one point, she hugged me and said, "I treasure

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-31581074003722409642007-03-27T22:34:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:58.491-06:00

Today I went to the Castle. Home. Of sorts anyway. I find it fascinating that the two places in my life where I am renewed, revitalized and re-energized are the beach and the Castle.I saw my girlfriends, visited with former classmates, connected with former professors, heard Yoda speak, and was known as skdo (not "Pastor Skdo"). Yay. I so deeply miss friendship, connection and being known as

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-43405985725579961942007-03-27T22:16:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:58.503-06:00

Last Friday, as I was walking up and down the aisles of Office Depot, I received a call on my cell phone. I have called ID and I saw that the school was calling. I sighed and guessed that someone was sick (afterall, not one week has gone by without an illness since 2007 began...).When I picked up the call, though, the principal's voice came across the lines. Principals do not call when your

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-73628468294943299122007-03-20T19:17:00.000-05:002007-03-20T19:21:12.060-05:00

Sorry...my blog posts are far from thrilling lately. I believe that I have suffered from anti-creative stress disorder in addition to rotovirus, a rat with skin irritations, a child with an ear infection, another child with some post-viral nasty, horrible cough thing, child with said ear infection barfing on the playground today, and various other familial ailments. Rab has intellegently fled

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-2259776190409039102007-03-15T13:19:00.000-05:002007-03-15T13:25:53.431-05:00

I just sorted through my mail. Millions of trees could be saved each year just from the junk mail that pastors receive. Today, I received the straw that broke this camel's back: an ad for solvefamilyproblems.com. This mailing has the following ad (caps are theirs):A couple comes in with Marriage Problems...You can see that Anger is part of the root problem. Instead of you taking several

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-19689103661438417272007-03-15T12:44:00.000-05:002008-12-09T15:15:58.743-06:00

How am I? Well, I'm trying to be good natured, pastoral, patient, creative and wise. Instead, I find myself overworked, in debt, and emotionally spent. I want my mommy to come and save the day. Instead, she's awaiting divorce mediation scheduled for the 23rd.Since beginning at Jordan in Jerusalem, not one week has gone by where my boys have been healthy. Each week, someone has stayed home

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-7979077025985653012007-03-03T22:19:00.000-06:002008-12-09T15:15:59.399-06:00

When Sony was about 2, Rab and I took him with us to a Jewish Shiv'ah for the father of a dear friend. It was the last night of the Shiv'ah and we remained in the kitchen during the brief service because so many folks were already in the living room where the service was to take place. After the service, the rabbi majestically brought in the lovely, sculptured menorah. The piece had a Star of

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-67373641098351309122007-03-02T21:32:00.000-06:002008-12-09T15:15:59.552-06:00

Woo hoo! Tickets are in my email for July 21 and July 28, and a supply pastor is in place. Buffett is coming to town, and I'm heading for the lawn! We had to change our vacation plans due to the concert schedule - not the first time we've scheduled vacation around Jimmy's appearances... All is well with my soul.

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-26369140651065252942007-03-02T20:45:00.000-06:002008-12-09T15:15:59.988-06:00

Today was a doctor day for the family. Sony had his tonsils removed at the hospital about 15 miles away. I was so impressed with the place. The doctors, nurses and staff were so friendly, competent and thorough. What a relief! Sony has had strep throat 5 times this winter. After the first time, in November, he began experiencing post-strep joint pain throughout his body. Some days, he

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-30794680958051401622007-02-21T10:42:00.000-06:002007-02-21T10:49:12.563-06:00

I'm preparing for my first Ash Wednesday. Question 1: So what do the ashes go in? Once again, google came to the rescue. I typed in "Ash Wednesday ash container" or something like that and boom, millions of hits. This one actually told me what I needed to know.There should be a class in seminary called All Those Practical Things We Haven't Taught You. The syllabus could include things like

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-3922192663371212552007-02-20T17:48:00.000-06:002007-02-20T17:53:03.838-06:00

Scene at the Cute Gray House: Music on the stereo, little boy playing Hotwheels on the floor, dog outside, Mom on laptop writing her Ash Wednesday sermon.Sammy Dog: Arf! Arf!Mommy: Minky, will you go let the dog in.Minky: Why don't you do it?Mommy: Because I'm working.Minky: Well, I'm working on my repaglarity (pron: repp-uh-glare-ity)Mommy: What's that?Minky: I don't know, but it's

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-9877031578583707342007-02-16T16:20:00.000-06:002008-12-09T15:16:00.225-06:00

Arwen the bulimic cat is at it again. Before I tell the story, I need to explain that Rab's office at the Cute Gray House has two doors - a slider that leads to the living room and a regular door that leads to the hallway. The doors are on the same side of the room, about 8 feet apart - one on the East wall and the other on the West wall.A few days ago, I closed the hallway door so the dog

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-81136394741716442782007-02-15T17:18:00.000-06:002008-12-09T15:16:00.854-06:00

The anticipation and preceding events prior to one's entry into ordained ministry are akin to labor - for some, it's all pain; for others, it is smooth sailing; for most, it's a mixture of the two. Along the way, midwives encourage, nurture, support, and gently guide us along while acerbic but necessary and indispensable nurses offend our sensibilities and goad us further along to the next

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-90598773381998309672007-02-13T16:47:00.001-06:002011-09-02T13:54:08.389-05:00

1. The sidewalk and driveway clearing wonder boy who lives 2 houses away! I've got him on standby - it snows, he shovels and plows, I pay. Worth every penny. 2. The 3 anonymous passersby who just pushed by van out of the snow pit I discovered - they saw my plight and didn't think twice about popping out of their cars and pushing away. This is a great little place. 3. The after school, calls

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-47839417886630543962007-02-10T20:55:00.001-06:002010-05-11T20:22:52.123-05:00

What I miss: going out to lunch and coffee with friendsknowing all my neighbors and living around people in the same boat as me and my familydaily coffee hour after chapelhaving a number of babysitters who understand and know how to deal with my boysthe kids' youth roombeing known by my first name instead of by "Pastor"the school and teachers from the boys' former school - knowing them and being

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808185.post-84982023057098686942007-02-08T21:11:00.000-06:002008-12-09T15:16:01.148-06:00

Today, I returned to the Castle to hear a wonderful speaker discuss Lenten and Easter Bible texts. In addition to learning a great deal and appreciating his take on the texts, I was able to see a few former profs and a number of former classmates. Yeah! It was so great to see everyone and to pick up where we left off. I shared a laugh with the gal who taught me about the concept of Midwest

Skdohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15740697723483566675noreply@blogger.com0