got up - ow, the squatting down in the garden - pulling weeds = some stiff legs
going to go out and get in the hot tub - seems the water is a little murky - tested = chlorine is very low
so, I come back in - darn - where is my other shoe!! And how come I am missing one of each pair that is at the back door.
looked everywhere = confused first thing in the morning
oh dear - seems I wore one of each upstairs when I first got out of bed = laughing at myself!!
(how does one wear one of each shoe and NOT know??) = early morning lol
boiled water - french press = good cup of coffee
good chair - quiet space to think, and journal and blog = happy person
decision to pull some weeds - visit by friend who is heading up our garden plan = smiles all around
Maxine comes with not only garden tools but also her parents who are awesome gardeners = gardening begins (after a quick lunch at Half Moon :)
pulling weeds - hot sun - hot black soil - some swet beads rolling down forehead = a sense of accomplishment
cold ice water - cold watermelon - good conversation = sweet afternoon
moving wooden pegs - the sound of buzzing - being chased by wasps = 1 sting (not happy)
the waterfall is pegged out - hugs all around - and thank-you's = garden has begun
potatoes in baking - meat is barbecuing - and supper is shared with some of our kids = I am happy
hugs and cuddles with grand baby - a short visit and a wave good-bye = bedtime for Mattie
clean up the kitchen - and spend a quiet evening at home = we love being together
relax
sleep
repeat tomorrow - slightly different but all the more thankful that God gives us such snipets in each day!!
also posted at www.thisGRANNYcan.blogspot.ca
God has me on a journey - and as I travel it, this blog reflects the thoughts and musings (and the odd butterfly) from the heart of a senior woman, who is learning how to love with all my being, live fully and with no regrets, embrace life with my husband,kids and grandkids, and to let God lead in the dance of life that He has me learning!
Wednesday, July 17
Friday, July 12
.... ah Michael - are you still home?
Yesterday, after Alvin kissed me good-bye, and left for work, I did as I usually did (unless there are retreaters here and then I am usually up at 6) ... but yesterday I set the alarm for another almost two hours (Alvin gets up for work at 5:45) and I laid down. Then I heard it.
It is hard to describe in writing - but it was like someone was scratching a plastic cup. At first, I thought it was my old alarm clock, having a little struggle turing the numbers as each minute passed by. No, didn't seem to be that. It would be a little intermittent, but I had soon decided that it was likely a mouse in my nightstand drawer. (Okay, in Anola, we had the occasional country mouse in our house!) And sometimes they were in the strangest places - checking it out, nibbling here and there until we caught them efficiently on a sticky trap! (sorry, I do not want any mouse activists protesting on my blog now!! lol) Micky and Minnie Mouse ... they are cute. Little mice with long tails in your house - NOT so cute! ANYHOW back to yesterday morning.
I by this time, was sitting on my bed - listening. I tested Alvin and said - "I think there is a mouse in my nightstand drawer" to which he texted back. "Open the drawer" to which I then replied "I can't" ... and his next text was "just do it."
SO I texted my favorite son-in-law Michael (ya, I only have one s.i.l ) and asked him if he was home?
He texted back - yes did I need something. I told him I thought I may have a mouse, and next thing I knew he was over and downstairs to my aid!!
Well - not to draw this out any longer. I opened the drawer - and he shook it a bit - nothing.
But then we heard it again ...
I moved some tissue paper off the top of my stand, and took the plastic cup in my hand and then I noticed it, AND heard the sound. There in the bottom of the cup was a bug - a beetle of some sort (not sure if a mouse would have been nicer lol) and we realized it was HIM making the noise, trying to get up the sides and out. (which you have to wonder how he got up the sides and IN - wouldn't he get out the same way.)
So I laughed sheepishly. Michael laughed and went home. Later my daughter called and asked if I could come help her cause there was a mouse in her drawer!! LOL
It seems really stupid doesn't it. That a grown woman - would be held hostage by the fear that there was a MOUSE potentially, and sitting on her bed with her feet up!! Unbelievable!! But there I was.
I realize that I am easily held hostage by my fears. Fear of heights (hate roller coasters). Fear of water (my feet have to touch all the time, and since I almost drowned once, I am not a lover of swimming in the water). Fear of trying new foods (I am kind of a plain jane eater). What is it that keeps us fearful of situations/circumstances/new experiences?
13 years ago - God called me to something. He laid the vision for the ministry on my heart. He spelled it out - what He was thinking - and seemed to be entrusting his vision for retreat ministry to ME.
At the same time - I was reading in Exodus - where Moses was called to lead the people out of bondage. Moses - he sounded fearful to me - "God - maybe you could ask my brother Aaron? He is much more eloquent than I am " ...
Later, God used a few scriptures to continue his call to me -
One of them was this one, and seriously when God gives you this verse - You just have to trust and obey!
It is hard to describe in writing - but it was like someone was scratching a plastic cup. At first, I thought it was my old alarm clock, having a little struggle turing the numbers as each minute passed by. No, didn't seem to be that. It would be a little intermittent, but I had soon decided that it was likely a mouse in my nightstand drawer. (Okay, in Anola, we had the occasional country mouse in our house!) And sometimes they were in the strangest places - checking it out, nibbling here and there until we caught them efficiently on a sticky trap! (sorry, I do not want any mouse activists protesting on my blog now!! lol) Micky and Minnie Mouse ... they are cute. Little mice with long tails in your house - NOT so cute! ANYHOW back to yesterday morning.
I by this time, was sitting on my bed - listening. I tested Alvin and said - "I think there is a mouse in my nightstand drawer" to which he texted back. "Open the drawer" to which I then replied "I can't" ... and his next text was "just do it."
SO I texted my favorite son-in-law Michael (ya, I only have one s.i.l ) and asked him if he was home?
He texted back - yes did I need something. I told him I thought I may have a mouse, and next thing I knew he was over and downstairs to my aid!!
Well - not to draw this out any longer. I opened the drawer - and he shook it a bit - nothing.
But then we heard it again ...
I moved some tissue paper off the top of my stand, and took the plastic cup in my hand and then I noticed it, AND heard the sound. There in the bottom of the cup was a bug - a beetle of some sort (not sure if a mouse would have been nicer lol) and we realized it was HIM making the noise, trying to get up the sides and out. (which you have to wonder how he got up the sides and IN - wouldn't he get out the same way.)
So I laughed sheepishly. Michael laughed and went home. Later my daughter called and asked if I could come help her cause there was a mouse in her drawer!! LOL
It seems really stupid doesn't it. That a grown woman - would be held hostage by the fear that there was a MOUSE potentially, and sitting on her bed with her feet up!! Unbelievable!! But there I was.
I realize that I am easily held hostage by my fears. Fear of heights (hate roller coasters). Fear of water (my feet have to touch all the time, and since I almost drowned once, I am not a lover of swimming in the water). Fear of trying new foods (I am kind of a plain jane eater). What is it that keeps us fearful of situations/circumstances/new experiences?
13 years ago - God called me to something. He laid the vision for the ministry on my heart. He spelled it out - what He was thinking - and seemed to be entrusting his vision for retreat ministry to ME.
At the same time - I was reading in Exodus - where Moses was called to lead the people out of bondage. Moses - he sounded fearful to me - "God - maybe you could ask my brother Aaron? He is much more eloquent than I am " ...
Later, God used a few scriptures to continue his call to me -
One of them was this one, and seriously when God gives you this verse - You just have to trust and obey!
Joshua 1:9
New International Version (NIV)
9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged,for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
You see - God doesn't call the equipped, but equips the called! He knows what he is calling us out of - or in to. We don't always see the whole picture. We may just hear a little "nibbling" and have a whole other story concocted in our imagination - and become fearful. But God - he just says "trust me" "be strong and courageous" "don't fear" "I am right here with you!"
When I look backwards at the call to ministry - 13 years ago - I stand in awe!
Honestly, the call I received - hearing God speak - it was so clear - and was the beginning of many many MANY conversations with God - conversations that literally changed my life, along with that of my husbands and my kids.
Sure - several times I was very fearful. "God? you really want me to quit my job of 25 years?" "God? Now what? I am done this work - so here I am ... waiting." "God? You are asking me to do that? I need you to confirm please Lord." "God, you have called me in so distinctly - please call me out when the time comes - just as clearly." "God - do you really think I can do this?"
Those are just a smidgen of my thoughts/my remarks to Jesus - my Lord and God. And in return - He gave peace during the waiting times. He gave courage. He gave trust especially when I could not see the steps ahead. He gave strength when I felt weak. He gave me assurance when I was anxious.
He gave me encouragement when others were doubting what we were doing.
BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS
DO NOT FEAR
I AM WITH YOU
PEACE I GIVE TO YOU
Today, I am still on this journey - the one where my seatbelt is still fastened and I am still sitting on the edge of my seat. We are opened, and the ministry is going - and I am not sure who will come - or how many - or how often or ??
But thing is, I am really quite good with how God is bringing them in. And, in the midst of all I am learning, and doing, and being stretched in ... there is peace, and strenght and encouragement and no fear!!
NO
FEAR
....
oh, except for themouse or, ah, the beetle. (oh I am so embarrassed!)
I thank God for giving me a son-in-law that runs to my aid
(it helps that they are living in our yard while they build their house -
so he didn't have to run as far!!)
O Lord, thank you - for all you give me ...
family who run to my aid
experiences that stretch me
but most of all - your strength, your courage given to this 55 year old granny who wimps out at the sound of a mouse in the drawer.
Gotta love it!! Ah, country living. (and a great sense of humour to go along with it!)
You see - God doesn't call the equipped, but equips the called! He knows what he is calling us out of - or in to. We don't always see the whole picture. We may just hear a little "nibbling" and have a whole other story concocted in our imagination - and become fearful. But God - he just says "trust me" "be strong and courageous" "don't fear" "I am right here with you!"
When I look backwards at the call to ministry - 13 years ago - I stand in awe!
Honestly, the call I received - hearing God speak - it was so clear - and was the beginning of many many MANY conversations with God - conversations that literally changed my life, along with that of my husbands and my kids.
Sure - several times I was very fearful. "God? you really want me to quit my job of 25 years?" "God? Now what? I am done this work - so here I am ... waiting." "God? You are asking me to do that? I need you to confirm please Lord." "God, you have called me in so distinctly - please call me out when the time comes - just as clearly." "God - do you really think I can do this?"
Those are just a smidgen of my thoughts/my remarks to Jesus - my Lord and God. And in return - He gave peace during the waiting times. He gave courage. He gave trust especially when I could not see the steps ahead. He gave strength when I felt weak. He gave me assurance when I was anxious.
He gave me encouragement when others were doubting what we were doing.
BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS
DO NOT FEAR
I AM WITH YOU
PEACE I GIVE TO YOU
Today, I am still on this journey - the one where my seatbelt is still fastened and I am still sitting on the edge of my seat. We are opened, and the ministry is going - and I am not sure who will come - or how many - or how often or ??
But thing is, I am really quite good with how God is bringing them in. And, in the midst of all I am learning, and doing, and being stretched in ... there is peace, and strenght and encouragement and no fear!!
NO
FEAR
....
oh, except for the
I thank God for giving me a son-in-law that runs to my aid
(it helps that they are living in our yard while they build their house -
so he didn't have to run as far!!)
O Lord, thank you - for all you give me ...
family who run to my aid
experiences that stretch me
but most of all - your strength, your courage given to this 55 year old granny who wimps out at the sound of a mouse in the drawer.
Gotta love it!! Ah, country living. (and a great sense of humour to go along with it!)
Tuesday, July 9
Yay Jesus!
I grew up with a song that my mom used to sing to me, and I think we may have sang it in Sunday School although I am not positive. I know I have blogged about this song before (or am pretty sure I have). The thing is - it has never left me! I love it although it is an "oldie" (like this granny!) I began singing it to our little E. when he was a baby. I remember singing it to R. too. And now I am singing it to little M.
It seems to have the same effect on all the kids when they were little. It would stop them from wiggling or fretting, or crying. They would stop and look at me and listen. Mattie is no different, although I noticed something very obvious when I sing it to her. At first I thought I was just imagining it, but then I mentioned it to Ashley. And then we tried a few rounds and laughed when our "imagination" proved to be true.
You see, it goes like this:
The birds upon the treetops sing their songs
The angels chant their chorus all day long
The flowers in the garden blend their hue
So why shouldn't I
Why shouldn't you
Praise Him too!
But then I always add something.
I go "Yay Jesus" and clap my hands and put them in their air
(it is not a part of the song originally lol)
Well a little while ago, I realized that Mattie knows exactly when to start getting excited and actually says "Yay" and like I said at first I was thinking I was imagining it, but NO!!
Mattie gets excited right at the time when it is TIME to say YAY JESUS!!
It is so simple.
So sweet.
But so exciting.
As Grandparents, we pray for our sweet grandchildren, that when they are old enough to understand, that they would give their heart to Jesus Christ too. I watch them loving Jesus already in very simple ways, and stand amazed at how their hearts are already turned toward Him. Jesus said that a little child will lead them. I think if we all got excited so simply by the name of Jesus - oh my heart - our lives would be turned upside down. Jesus makes my heart stand in awe - and I thank Him for all that He has done for me, and my family and my extended family and beyond. I do not take for granted that I was raised in a christian home. I do not take for granted the legacy of faith passed down - from Grandparents (my side being THOMAS an Alvin's side - KLASSEN) and down to our parents (Dolly & Geri Thomas/ John & Olga Klassen) and then to us (Alvin and I) and down to our kids and our grandkids. Great Is YOUR faithfulness!!
YAY JESUS!!
ps. I also posted today on one of my other blogs
www.thisGRANNYcan.blogspot.ca
It seems to have the same effect on all the kids when they were little. It would stop them from wiggling or fretting, or crying. They would stop and look at me and listen. Mattie is no different, although I noticed something very obvious when I sing it to her. At first I thought I was just imagining it, but then I mentioned it to Ashley. And then we tried a few rounds and laughed when our "imagination" proved to be true.
You see, it goes like this:
The birds upon the treetops sing their songs
The angels chant their chorus all day long
The flowers in the garden blend their hue
So why shouldn't I
Why shouldn't you
Praise Him too!
But then I always add something.
I go "Yay Jesus" and clap my hands and put them in their air
(it is not a part of the song originally lol)
Well a little while ago, I realized that Mattie knows exactly when to start getting excited and actually says "Yay" and like I said at first I was thinking I was imagining it, but NO!!
Mattie gets excited right at the time when it is TIME to say YAY JESUS!!
It is so simple.
So sweet.
But so exciting.
As Grandparents, we pray for our sweet grandchildren, that when they are old enough to understand, that they would give their heart to Jesus Christ too. I watch them loving Jesus already in very simple ways, and stand amazed at how their hearts are already turned toward Him. Jesus said that a little child will lead them. I think if we all got excited so simply by the name of Jesus - oh my heart - our lives would be turned upside down. Jesus makes my heart stand in awe - and I thank Him for all that He has done for me, and my family and my extended family and beyond. I do not take for granted that I was raised in a christian home. I do not take for granted the legacy of faith passed down - from Grandparents (my side being THOMAS an Alvin's side - KLASSEN) and down to our parents (Dolly & Geri Thomas/ John & Olga Klassen) and then to us (Alvin and I) and down to our kids and our grandkids. Great Is YOUR faithfulness!!
YAY JESUS!!
ps. I also posted today on one of my other blogs
www.thisGRANNYcan.blogspot.ca
Wednesday, July 3
2000 .... and the years following! The saga continues!
Well, I had the best of plans - to sit and recall the years of my life, and as a result - the goodness of our God!! But well, time has a way of going by and I did not finish - so I think tonight is the night. Let's start with 2000!!
2000 - this is the year I turned 42. This was also the year that God began to entrust HIS vision to me - for Women Refreshed at the Well. (for more info, go to www.womenrefreshed.com and read the earliest posts). Joshua graduated from MBCI this year!! The class of 2000. Leah also graduated and was becoming more and more a part of our family.
2001 - my 43th year. I knew God was calling me out of the daycare of which I was the Founder and Exec. Director. He made the time very clear, and I resigned and worked my last day on Dec. 31st, 2001. My friend told me to "fasten my seatbelt cause you are in for a ride" and I did, and have not looked back. It was the right time to leave early childhood education - a 25 year chapter that was closed and not re-read. Sugar-N-Spice Kiddie Haven Inc - daycare - continues to operate. Josh began fire college in Brandon.
2002 - turning 44 - what would this year hold? My church (McIvor MB) called me into ministry. Me ... what a surprise - what a call. It began with an interim position while they searched for someone with seminary. My son graduated from Fire College in June.
2003 - what? now I am 45!! This was the year for celebration. I was still working at McIvor and God made it very clear I needed to apply, so I did. Ashley graduated from MBCI. Josh and Leah got married. This was all in the same week!! It was a wonderful month of celebration. Josh and Leah bought their first house - a very old fixer upper! Ashley went to CMU's OUTTATOWN in fall. I applied for the permanent pastoral position - in obedience to what God was saying to me. The retreat vision continued to perk on the back element! We got remarried this year - in a backyard Hawaiian themed party. About 150 came!! It was our 25th. Our kids put on a great party for us.
2004 - I am now 46. We went on our first mission trip to the Dominican Republic. We got to meet our little sponsored child through World Vision. What a meeting!! I was "ruined for the ordinary" by God during this trip! In May, I was asked to accept a position to ministry as the permanent Pastor of Church Ministry. (ask me sometime about how God gave me the exact number that the vote would be!!)
I will admit that I think God knew I needed that exact number. He gave it to me almost a year before the vote took place, but I had told my family about it. I think I needed that because if truth be told, some of my relatives thought I was doing the wrong thing by accepting a position in leadership, being a woman. I am NOT a rah, rah - go women go - when it comes to women in leadership. HOWEVER I COULD NOT ARGUE WITH GOD. There is way more to this story - but I would love to tell you sometime. This is the year that Ashley came home from OUTTATOWN and then had her jaw surgery. She taught me so much about being courageous during the 6 weeks she was wired completely shut!
2005 - turning 47 - I loved working in pastoral ministry. Absolutely loved it. Alvin and I took the kids to Florida - which is my favorite place. First time Leah was on a family trip with us!! It was great fun. Disney and all. We bought a house on Mulvey so that Ashley and her friends could live in it while she was going to CMU for Music Therapy. In June I ended up in the hospital - and was out of commission for a couple weeks!!
2006 - now I am 48. We went on our second mission trip to the D.R. This time our kids joined us, and my mother's heart was overflowing!! What a wonderful experience. We also got to visit Berlin one more time! Our mission trip was in January and in March I ended back up in emergency with the same thing as 2005. I actually had a near death experience during this time, which I do not take lightly ... God obviously was not done with me yet! I had a complete hysterectomy in May. As I was getting better, my father-in-law was dying. I loved Dad K. He passed away July 1st - entered into his heavenly home as the fireworks were going off in the background! Josh and Leah lived with us in Anola from June to the end of Sept while they built their barn/loft.
2007 - turning 49 - Alvin fell off the second floor while building Josh and Leah's house. He had rotator cuff surgery in November - and we were so thankful for a sister-in-law who could pull some strings and get him into the best surgeon around. It was during the end of this year, that I felt like God was changing things up in my heart - and "gently removing" me perhaps, from ministry. Time would tell.
2008 - turning 50! This was the year for celebration! Alvin and I both turned 50. We did a trip along with a few others, to Thailand to serve alongside of our friends Dave and Louise Sinclair-Peters and Team2000. It was so amazing to be there!! In March we took our kids to Cuba - and it was such an amazing and beautiful time. Michael came with us, and had our permission to propose to Ashley. A wedding was set for September. Our kids threw us a big party to celebrate everything. It was also our 30th anniversary in September. After our anniversary - we celebrated Ashley and Michael's wedding! A great day. One of the greatest joys of that year was we were becoming grandparents for the very first time - and we knew he would be a grandson. However, our hearts were shattered, when Jay was born silently. It is still so painful to think back almost 5 years to that day. How we went from great joy and excitement to the deepest of sorrows. It was a year where I walked the "dark night of the soul" often. However during this deepest sorrow, God spoke to me, and also to Josh and Leah about the ministry - and we knew we needed to get going on it. God is Sovereign - this became my mantra. This Christmas was the hardest one we have ever gone through. We spent the day as our little family.
2009 - I turned 51 in the midst of still trying to "feel" again after Jay's silent birth. We bought land on Henderson Hwy and began to meet with our architect to design the ministry house. I took an unpaid 3 months off. (unfortunately I was hoping for my sabbatical, but it wasn't to be). This year is a painful year to recall, on top of last 6 months of the past year). The time spent in my pastoral ministry was coming to a close, as God made it very clear my time was done. I resigned in June, and worked till Sept. We had a prayer event at the new land - and began to clean and purge stuff in our Anola house, so we could put it up for sale in spring. This fall I went to sit under the tutorage of Dr. Larry Crabb, with NewWay ministries - at School of Spiritual Direction class no. 33 WOW. After I resigned, I spent days walking in our back 40. The most exciting thing was hearing that Leah and Josh were expecting in. Of course our hearts were mixed with excitement and also fear. We welcomed December little Everett John on Dec. 18th - and our Christmas was one of great joy.
2010 - the year I turned 52 was a year of change. We sold our house. Moved into transitional living in the top of the kid's barn. Mom K. got sick, and I spent day after day after day with her - and watched as she got closer to heaven with each day. She passed away in October, just two weeks after coming home from the hospital. I did her service and then we left with our kids and grandson Everett - for Los Cabos, Mexico. It was such a wonderful time away, after a very stressful time. We built our barn, and began the house in October. I started working for Canadian Blood Services as a Donor Services Rep.
This is also the year that we knew we needed to find a new church - one of the hardest decisions we ever made.
2011 - we continued to build. I turned 53. We moved into Mom's condo, as we had not sold it yet. God sold it for us (honestly, ask me ... only God!!) and then we moved into our loft to live while we worked on the house. I loved working at CBS. I made friends whom I love to this day! We found out that Leah and Josh were expecting again. It was a full year of working, and family, and more working!! We started a new care group in our new church and felt such peace at Eastview. We thank God for that.
2012 - 54 years old this year!! We began the year celebrating our grandson Roger's birth! And then we found out in March that Ashley and Michael were expecting too!! Both kids would be born in the same year - just different ends of it. We went away as a family - and it was such a wonderful time!! We went to my favourite place - and rented a 7 room house, complete with pool and hot tub! It was such a great time!! Florida - I think I could live there!! Ash and Michael had their little girl in November and I was able to be in the room with them until Dr called an emergency c-section. This year is the year we formally joined Eastview. We have been so blessed by our friends there, and our new care group. We also thank God for the friends we love and have in our life - so many - and we do not take those relationships for granted. Alvin and I moved into our house !!
2013 ... Joy's saga continues!! I thank God for all he has in store for me. I cling to Jeremiah 29: 11-13
For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord .....
This year began with sorrow, as I was at the bedside of my friend Audrey - who went to be with Jesus in January, and within three weeks, when my niece Keri also went to be with Jesus.
I realize there is such a fine line between joy and sorrow. I also know that God has it all in his hands.
I know God is faithful - no matter what. I also know that our life here - is truly "but a vapour" so we need to be ready.
I don't take life for granted. We do not know what the day holds - no matter how hard we think we have it planned. However we do know who holds the day!! I gave my life to Jesus Christ as a youngster - and I thank Him for growing my faith. I love the Lord Jesus Christ with all my heart - and want to be a vessel through which He pours out onto people. I am not religious. I am a woman madly in love with her Lord - and her Saviour. It is about relationship. I am not perfect (ask my family) BUT I know that I am forgiven, covered by grace and washed clean through the blood of Jesus! I also know that Jesus speaks, and I thank Him for the ways He is changing me!! I hope that through my life - others will smell the fragrance of Jesus!! I want to be a woman that can influence the world for Jesus!! I want to be a woman who leaves a legacy of faith for my kids and grandkids. I want to live all out - embracing each day for all it is. My life - It is all about him. ALL ABOUT HIM!! Great is your faithfulness O God my Saviour!! Thank you Jesus.
2000 - this is the year I turned 42. This was also the year that God began to entrust HIS vision to me - for Women Refreshed at the Well. (for more info, go to www.womenrefreshed.com and read the earliest posts). Joshua graduated from MBCI this year!! The class of 2000. Leah also graduated and was becoming more and more a part of our family.
2001 - my 43th year. I knew God was calling me out of the daycare of which I was the Founder and Exec. Director. He made the time very clear, and I resigned and worked my last day on Dec. 31st, 2001. My friend told me to "fasten my seatbelt cause you are in for a ride" and I did, and have not looked back. It was the right time to leave early childhood education - a 25 year chapter that was closed and not re-read. Sugar-N-Spice Kiddie Haven Inc - daycare - continues to operate. Josh began fire college in Brandon.
2002 - turning 44 - what would this year hold? My church (McIvor MB) called me into ministry. Me ... what a surprise - what a call. It began with an interim position while they searched for someone with seminary. My son graduated from Fire College in June.
2003 - what? now I am 45!! This was the year for celebration. I was still working at McIvor and God made it very clear I needed to apply, so I did. Ashley graduated from MBCI. Josh and Leah got married. This was all in the same week!! It was a wonderful month of celebration. Josh and Leah bought their first house - a very old fixer upper! Ashley went to CMU's OUTTATOWN in fall. I applied for the permanent pastoral position - in obedience to what God was saying to me. The retreat vision continued to perk on the back element! We got remarried this year - in a backyard Hawaiian themed party. About 150 came!! It was our 25th. Our kids put on a great party for us.
2004 - I am now 46. We went on our first mission trip to the Dominican Republic. We got to meet our little sponsored child through World Vision. What a meeting!! I was "ruined for the ordinary" by God during this trip! In May, I was asked to accept a position to ministry as the permanent Pastor of Church Ministry. (ask me sometime about how God gave me the exact number that the vote would be!!)
I will admit that I think God knew I needed that exact number. He gave it to me almost a year before the vote took place, but I had told my family about it. I think I needed that because if truth be told, some of my relatives thought I was doing the wrong thing by accepting a position in leadership, being a woman. I am NOT a rah, rah - go women go - when it comes to women in leadership. HOWEVER I COULD NOT ARGUE WITH GOD. There is way more to this story - but I would love to tell you sometime. This is the year that Ashley came home from OUTTATOWN and then had her jaw surgery. She taught me so much about being courageous during the 6 weeks she was wired completely shut!
2005 - turning 47 - I loved working in pastoral ministry. Absolutely loved it. Alvin and I took the kids to Florida - which is my favorite place. First time Leah was on a family trip with us!! It was great fun. Disney and all. We bought a house on Mulvey so that Ashley and her friends could live in it while she was going to CMU for Music Therapy. In June I ended up in the hospital - and was out of commission for a couple weeks!!
2006 - now I am 48. We went on our second mission trip to the D.R. This time our kids joined us, and my mother's heart was overflowing!! What a wonderful experience. We also got to visit Berlin one more time! Our mission trip was in January and in March I ended back up in emergency with the same thing as 2005. I actually had a near death experience during this time, which I do not take lightly ... God obviously was not done with me yet! I had a complete hysterectomy in May. As I was getting better, my father-in-law was dying. I loved Dad K. He passed away July 1st - entered into his heavenly home as the fireworks were going off in the background! Josh and Leah lived with us in Anola from June to the end of Sept while they built their barn/loft.
2007 - turning 49 - Alvin fell off the second floor while building Josh and Leah's house. He had rotator cuff surgery in November - and we were so thankful for a sister-in-law who could pull some strings and get him into the best surgeon around. It was during the end of this year, that I felt like God was changing things up in my heart - and "gently removing" me perhaps, from ministry. Time would tell.
2008 - turning 50! This was the year for celebration! Alvin and I both turned 50. We did a trip along with a few others, to Thailand to serve alongside of our friends Dave and Louise Sinclair-Peters and Team2000. It was so amazing to be there!! In March we took our kids to Cuba - and it was such an amazing and beautiful time. Michael came with us, and had our permission to propose to Ashley. A wedding was set for September. Our kids threw us a big party to celebrate everything. It was also our 30th anniversary in September. After our anniversary - we celebrated Ashley and Michael's wedding! A great day. One of the greatest joys of that year was we were becoming grandparents for the very first time - and we knew he would be a grandson. However, our hearts were shattered, when Jay was born silently. It is still so painful to think back almost 5 years to that day. How we went from great joy and excitement to the deepest of sorrows. It was a year where I walked the "dark night of the soul" often. However during this deepest sorrow, God spoke to me, and also to Josh and Leah about the ministry - and we knew we needed to get going on it. God is Sovereign - this became my mantra. This Christmas was the hardest one we have ever gone through. We spent the day as our little family.
2009 - I turned 51 in the midst of still trying to "feel" again after Jay's silent birth. We bought land on Henderson Hwy and began to meet with our architect to design the ministry house. I took an unpaid 3 months off. (unfortunately I was hoping for my sabbatical, but it wasn't to be). This year is a painful year to recall, on top of last 6 months of the past year). The time spent in my pastoral ministry was coming to a close, as God made it very clear my time was done. I resigned in June, and worked till Sept. We had a prayer event at the new land - and began to clean and purge stuff in our Anola house, so we could put it up for sale in spring. This fall I went to sit under the tutorage of Dr. Larry Crabb, with NewWay ministries - at School of Spiritual Direction class no. 33 WOW. After I resigned, I spent days walking in our back 40. The most exciting thing was hearing that Leah and Josh were expecting in. Of course our hearts were mixed with excitement and also fear. We welcomed December little Everett John on Dec. 18th - and our Christmas was one of great joy.
2010 - the year I turned 52 was a year of change. We sold our house. Moved into transitional living in the top of the kid's barn. Mom K. got sick, and I spent day after day after day with her - and watched as she got closer to heaven with each day. She passed away in October, just two weeks after coming home from the hospital. I did her service and then we left with our kids and grandson Everett - for Los Cabos, Mexico. It was such a wonderful time away, after a very stressful time. We built our barn, and began the house in October. I started working for Canadian Blood Services as a Donor Services Rep.
This is also the year that we knew we needed to find a new church - one of the hardest decisions we ever made.
2011 - we continued to build. I turned 53. We moved into Mom's condo, as we had not sold it yet. God sold it for us (honestly, ask me ... only God!!) and then we moved into our loft to live while we worked on the house. I loved working at CBS. I made friends whom I love to this day! We found out that Leah and Josh were expecting again. It was a full year of working, and family, and more working!! We started a new care group in our new church and felt such peace at Eastview. We thank God for that.
2012 - 54 years old this year!! We began the year celebrating our grandson Roger's birth! And then we found out in March that Ashley and Michael were expecting too!! Both kids would be born in the same year - just different ends of it. We went away as a family - and it was such a wonderful time!! We went to my favourite place - and rented a 7 room house, complete with pool and hot tub! It was such a great time!! Florida - I think I could live there!! Ash and Michael had their little girl in November and I was able to be in the room with them until Dr called an emergency c-section. This year is the year we formally joined Eastview. We have been so blessed by our friends there, and our new care group. We also thank God for the friends we love and have in our life - so many - and we do not take those relationships for granted. Alvin and I moved into our house !!
2013 ... Joy's saga continues!! I thank God for all he has in store for me. I cling to Jeremiah 29: 11-13
For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord .....
This year began with sorrow, as I was at the bedside of my friend Audrey - who went to be with Jesus in January, and within three weeks, when my niece Keri also went to be with Jesus.
I realize there is such a fine line between joy and sorrow. I also know that God has it all in his hands.
I know God is faithful - no matter what. I also know that our life here - is truly "but a vapour" so we need to be ready.
I don't take life for granted. We do not know what the day holds - no matter how hard we think we have it planned. However we do know who holds the day!! I gave my life to Jesus Christ as a youngster - and I thank Him for growing my faith. I love the Lord Jesus Christ with all my heart - and want to be a vessel through which He pours out onto people. I am not religious. I am a woman madly in love with her Lord - and her Saviour. It is about relationship. I am not perfect (ask my family) BUT I know that I am forgiven, covered by grace and washed clean through the blood of Jesus! I also know that Jesus speaks, and I thank Him for the ways He is changing me!! I hope that through my life - others will smell the fragrance of Jesus!! I want to be a woman that can influence the world for Jesus!! I want to be a woman who leaves a legacy of faith for my kids and grandkids. I want to live all out - embracing each day for all it is. My life - It is all about him. ALL ABOUT HIM!! Great is your faithfulness O God my Saviour!! Thank you Jesus.
Saturday, June 22
Remembering the 90's ....
Well, I have been procrastinating on writing down these thoughts - but here goes.
I am wanting to write down some of the things from the 90's that stay in my heart!! So here are some of them - and remember - I am not making you read my blog post!! These years were hard years. Very very hard years!
1990 - the year I turned 32. I started journalling this year ... it was haphazard - but journalling none the less! Ashley began Kindergarten this year - my car rides into the city were pretty quiet every other day!! This is the year we did our first invitation only craft sale/open house! It was a great success!! A few days later, Alvin and the kids and I took our first big trip - to Florida!! Walt Disney World - Busch Gardens - it was an amazing time!! That began my love for FLORIDA! As my little grandson said tonight, Granny - I want to go with you again to your favorite Florida!! This is really dumb - but I actually cried when I saw the castle!!
1991 - I turned 33 this year. Sugar-N-Spice celebrated its 10th anniversary!! We did another craft sale this time it took up most of my house and garage!
1992 - 34 years old in June. My mom had her first heart attacks this year! And began a downward spiral with her health. this is the year that I first heard the audible voice of God. This literally changed my life! I thank God for that experience that morning! It made me hunger and thirst for more of Him. I have not ever heard it audibly OUT LOUD like it was that morning since that time. I figure that God knew exactly what I needed and when. Another craft sale - each year it was getting better and bigger!
1993 - This year was my 35th birthday. Some of our involvements were - being wife (we celebrated our 15th anniversary this year!) Josh turned 11. Ashley turned 8. Alvin and I were deacons at McIvor Avenue M.B. Church. I was running the daycare, and also formed a mom's prayer group - praying for our kids, their teachers, the school board, and the bus drivers. We met weekly. It was called MOMS IN TOUCH. We did another craft sale - and once again, Alvin and I and the kids went back to Florida. This time we combined it with a 3 night cruise into the Bahamas. Josh was involved in hockey. Ashley took skating for a while. Both kids were in school in Anola. It was a great experience. Alvin continued on at the firehall - loving the crew he was working with.
1994 - I turned 36 this year. my mom ended up in the hospital for a very long long time - we actually thought we were going to lose her - but God spared her for another two years. Ashley started singing with Winnipeg Mennonite Children's Choir. It was a huge commitment - but one that had so many adventures! I got really really sick this December, with a bronchial infection that the doctor said was almost pneumonia. I was so sick. I still remember that time. Joshua got baptized this year, at the age of 12. Josh had given his heart to the Lord when he was just 5 years old.
1995 - 37! I took a year off of work, unpaid, LA due to depression. My mom ended up back in the hospital, and while in, fell and broke her hip. At the same time, my sister Mary-Ann was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. She was in the hospital for her surgery at the same time as my mom. It was quite the year! This summer Ashley went to Israel, Germany and London with Menn. Children's Choir. She was just barely 10! I began my year off on September 1st. Ashley got baptized this year! She was 10 years old. Ashley also gave her heart to Jesus as a young girl!
1996 - this is the year - May 5th, that I kissed my mom good-bye! She had been in the hospital for a week (Sunday to Sunday) and we surrounded her as she very quietly breathed her last and passed into the presence of God!! It was the week before Mother's Day. I was only almost 38 years old. Way too young to lose my mom! She was the most amazing woman in my life! Our Christmas without mom was so hard! I returned to work in September of this year. This year I was diagnosed with low thyroid and also with fibromyalgia. Not good.
1997 - I turned 39 this year. It was a year of change. Our daycare got moved into a brand new facility that the School Division built for us, attached to the Riverbend School. It was so nice. My dad remarried in August of this year, and was married only 3 months to the day when he had a massive heart attack and died. We became orphans. Once again we celebrated our second Christmas without a parent! My dad passed away in November 2nd. Later that month, Alvin and I and the kids went back to Florida - this time spending some time in Fort Meyers first, and the over to Kissimmee. It was a good time, but hard. We went just in time to see Christmas decor in Florida! Alvin's mom and Dad lived with us from Father's Day until the end of September - while Alvin built their house right through the bush from us! I loved having mom and dad k out there!! So did the kids.
1998: This is the year I turned 40! Not sure what all happened ... funny, it seems that there was so much stress, that I have eliminated the events!! lol. Obviously I made it through! Celebrated our 20th this year!
1999: 41! hmmm.... so this is the year that my son turned 17 and began dating his future wife Leah. I love Leah so much! Ashley turned 14 this year. More choir. Both of the kids were attending MBCI.
These were the 90's .... hard years. Painful years, and yet years where I saw the faithfulness of God on my life - and the life of my family. They were years of travel with our kids - and I would not give that back for anything!! I LOVE TO TRAVEL!!
Those were the days my friend, we thought they'd never end .... I think there is a song for this line!
Stay tuned ... the last decade is yet to come!!
I am wanting to write down some of the things from the 90's that stay in my heart!! So here are some of them - and remember - I am not making you read my blog post!! These years were hard years. Very very hard years!
1990 - the year I turned 32. I started journalling this year ... it was haphazard - but journalling none the less! Ashley began Kindergarten this year - my car rides into the city were pretty quiet every other day!! This is the year we did our first invitation only craft sale/open house! It was a great success!! A few days later, Alvin and the kids and I took our first big trip - to Florida!! Walt Disney World - Busch Gardens - it was an amazing time!! That began my love for FLORIDA! As my little grandson said tonight, Granny - I want to go with you again to your favorite Florida!! This is really dumb - but I actually cried when I saw the castle!!
1991 - I turned 33 this year. Sugar-N-Spice celebrated its 10th anniversary!! We did another craft sale this time it took up most of my house and garage!
1992 - 34 years old in June. My mom had her first heart attacks this year! And began a downward spiral with her health. this is the year that I first heard the audible voice of God. This literally changed my life! I thank God for that experience that morning! It made me hunger and thirst for more of Him. I have not ever heard it audibly OUT LOUD like it was that morning since that time. I figure that God knew exactly what I needed and when. Another craft sale - each year it was getting better and bigger!
1993 - This year was my 35th birthday. Some of our involvements were - being wife (we celebrated our 15th anniversary this year!) Josh turned 11. Ashley turned 8. Alvin and I were deacons at McIvor Avenue M.B. Church. I was running the daycare, and also formed a mom's prayer group - praying for our kids, their teachers, the school board, and the bus drivers. We met weekly. It was called MOMS IN TOUCH. We did another craft sale - and once again, Alvin and I and the kids went back to Florida. This time we combined it with a 3 night cruise into the Bahamas. Josh was involved in hockey. Ashley took skating for a while. Both kids were in school in Anola. It was a great experience. Alvin continued on at the firehall - loving the crew he was working with.
1994 - I turned 36 this year. my mom ended up in the hospital for a very long long time - we actually thought we were going to lose her - but God spared her for another two years. Ashley started singing with Winnipeg Mennonite Children's Choir. It was a huge commitment - but one that had so many adventures! I got really really sick this December, with a bronchial infection that the doctor said was almost pneumonia. I was so sick. I still remember that time. Joshua got baptized this year, at the age of 12. Josh had given his heart to the Lord when he was just 5 years old.
1995 - 37! I took a year off of work, unpaid, LA due to depression. My mom ended up back in the hospital, and while in, fell and broke her hip. At the same time, my sister Mary-Ann was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. She was in the hospital for her surgery at the same time as my mom. It was quite the year! This summer Ashley went to Israel, Germany and London with Menn. Children's Choir. She was just barely 10! I began my year off on September 1st. Ashley got baptized this year! She was 10 years old. Ashley also gave her heart to Jesus as a young girl!
1996 - this is the year - May 5th, that I kissed my mom good-bye! She had been in the hospital for a week (Sunday to Sunday) and we surrounded her as she very quietly breathed her last and passed into the presence of God!! It was the week before Mother's Day. I was only almost 38 years old. Way too young to lose my mom! She was the most amazing woman in my life! Our Christmas without mom was so hard! I returned to work in September of this year. This year I was diagnosed with low thyroid and also with fibromyalgia. Not good.
1997 - I turned 39 this year. It was a year of change. Our daycare got moved into a brand new facility that the School Division built for us, attached to the Riverbend School. It was so nice. My dad remarried in August of this year, and was married only 3 months to the day when he had a massive heart attack and died. We became orphans. Once again we celebrated our second Christmas without a parent! My dad passed away in November 2nd. Later that month, Alvin and I and the kids went back to Florida - this time spending some time in Fort Meyers first, and the over to Kissimmee. It was a good time, but hard. We went just in time to see Christmas decor in Florida! Alvin's mom and Dad lived with us from Father's Day until the end of September - while Alvin built their house right through the bush from us! I loved having mom and dad k out there!! So did the kids.
1998: This is the year I turned 40! Not sure what all happened ... funny, it seems that there was so much stress, that I have eliminated the events!! lol. Obviously I made it through! Celebrated our 20th this year!
1999: 41! hmmm.... so this is the year that my son turned 17 and began dating his future wife Leah. I love Leah so much! Ashley turned 14 this year. More choir. Both of the kids were attending MBCI.
These were the 90's .... hard years. Painful years, and yet years where I saw the faithfulness of God on my life - and the life of my family. They were years of travel with our kids - and I would not give that back for anything!! I LOVE TO TRAVEL!!
Those were the days my friend, we thought they'd never end .... I think there is a song for this line!
Stay tuned ... the last decade is yet to come!!
Saturday, June 15
Recalling the 80's ... the saga continues!
So, the next fifth of my life - the late seventies and eighties! At this point in my life - I was in my 20's to 30's. A great time of life!!
1979: 21 years old! Alvin and I bought our first house in Valley Gardens area of Winnipeg. It was quite something to move into our own place and become home owners!! I was still working as an ECE at Care-A-Lot daycare. I was a room Supervisor in charge of the TODDLERS. We bought our first house for $48,000. Alvin did some renos on it!
1980: Turned 22 this year. I was working as the camp registrar for Faith Bible Camp - it was an unpaid job! But, I loved being involved! Don't remember a ton about this year - I think we were both just busy working. I did resign this year from Care-A-Lot and worked part-time with Parks and Rec - City of Wpg. I ran the Parent/Child Drop-In, as well as the Toy Lending Library. My dad and I also began to dream about opening a daycare center in North Winnipeg. He would supply the funding - and I would supply the Early Childhood Educator experience.
1981: We opened the daycare - Sugar-N-Spice Kiddie Haven Inc. - 2400 Main Street. The place is no longer there - but there used to be an old school. We began privately - with three children - two being my nieces! By fall - we were full and became an official non-profit, government funded daycare centre! We also added a school-age program.
I turned 23 this summer, and found out that we were expecting! We were very excited. It was before the days of knowing what the sex of the baby was, however I had strong feelings that the baby was a boy, and we only had one name picked out - one BOYS NAME!!
This fall - Alvin and I, Mary-Ann and Nelson and our two dogs went to BC - gold panning. It was a great holiday - although having the two dogs was very interesting!!
1982: Our firstborn, a SON - Joshua Gerald was born early - January 21st, 1982. Becoming a mom was one of the most amazing things I have ever experienced!! I turned 24 this June!
1983: Right after Josh's first birthday - we put the house up for sale - and we moved into a Seniors apartment - Sarina Apartment - on Henderson Hwy. at Springfield. It was quite the time there - we stayed there from March to the beginning of August. Alvin began building our home in Anola the end of March, and we moved in the 6th of August! I turned 25 years old this year!!
1984: The year I turned 26. I also found out that we were expecting another baby. Once again, I had strong sense that I would be having a DAUGHTER and this time around, we had NO boys names - just a girls name!! I was also working on getting my ECE III as the government was tightening up requirements regarding daycare directors. So I was working at getting some courses in at night. My sister Mary-Ann and Nelson moved into live with us for a while while they built their house right next door to us!! I loved having them as neighbours!!
1985: Once again, God gave us the delights of our hearts - this time, a daughter. Ashley Marie came early as well. She arrived half an hour after I got to the hospital! I had just finished a course at RRC and she came shortly after - so I was able to put the courses on hold for a while! Joshua was thrilled with getting a sister. I turned 27 this year!
1986 - this is the year I turned 28. My parents resigned from the daycare - and I moved up from Assistant Director to Director, along with my sister-in-law Ruth as the assistant dir. Both of the kids came to the daycare with me. This is also the year - that Alvin began on the City of Winnipeg Fire Department! He started in Sept, and graduated in November, the night of a snowstorm!!
He graduated at the top of his class!! We were so surprised about that!! Alvin and I started as deacons this year. My dad and mom came and blessed us in this capacity!
1987 - 29 years old this year!! We worked in the city and also attended church in the city. Joshua began kindergarten this fall - and he went to school every other day - full days.
I continued to study - and at some points I had a couple correspondence courses going PLUS was taking some courses at Red River and also a couple at U of M. It was a full time of my life!
1988 - the year Alvin and I both turned 30 and also had our 10th anniversary! To celebrate our anniversary we went overnight to the Fort Garry Hotel! I was getting close to achieving my ECE III ...
it was a very crazy time of life - with kids and trying to get my designation for ECE. I had until the next year.
The eighties were a time of big hair - lets see - it involved bad perms, some hair colouring, a lot of hair product and then there was stirrup pants, and panda sweatshirts and tights ...
What can I say - apparently I must have thought I was a babe!! lol The panda motif was prevalent in the 80's as Winnipeg Zoo hosted the panda's ... and it was literally panda mania!
1979: 21 years old! Alvin and I bought our first house in Valley Gardens area of Winnipeg. It was quite something to move into our own place and become home owners!! I was still working as an ECE at Care-A-Lot daycare. I was a room Supervisor in charge of the TODDLERS. We bought our first house for $48,000. Alvin did some renos on it!
1980: Turned 22 this year. I was working as the camp registrar for Faith Bible Camp - it was an unpaid job! But, I loved being involved! Don't remember a ton about this year - I think we were both just busy working. I did resign this year from Care-A-Lot and worked part-time with Parks and Rec - City of Wpg. I ran the Parent/Child Drop-In, as well as the Toy Lending Library. My dad and I also began to dream about opening a daycare center in North Winnipeg. He would supply the funding - and I would supply the Early Childhood Educator experience.
1981: We opened the daycare - Sugar-N-Spice Kiddie Haven Inc. - 2400 Main Street. The place is no longer there - but there used to be an old school. We began privately - with three children - two being my nieces! By fall - we were full and became an official non-profit, government funded daycare centre! We also added a school-age program.
I turned 23 this summer, and found out that we were expecting! We were very excited. It was before the days of knowing what the sex of the baby was, however I had strong feelings that the baby was a boy, and we only had one name picked out - one BOYS NAME!!
This fall - Alvin and I, Mary-Ann and Nelson and our two dogs went to BC - gold panning. It was a great holiday - although having the two dogs was very interesting!!
1982: Our firstborn, a SON - Joshua Gerald was born early - January 21st, 1982. Becoming a mom was one of the most amazing things I have ever experienced!! I turned 24 this June!
1983: Right after Josh's first birthday - we put the house up for sale - and we moved into a Seniors apartment - Sarina Apartment - on Henderson Hwy. at Springfield. It was quite the time there - we stayed there from March to the beginning of August. Alvin began building our home in Anola the end of March, and we moved in the 6th of August! I turned 25 years old this year!!
1984: The year I turned 26. I also found out that we were expecting another baby. Once again, I had strong sense that I would be having a DAUGHTER and this time around, we had NO boys names - just a girls name!! I was also working on getting my ECE III as the government was tightening up requirements regarding daycare directors. So I was working at getting some courses in at night. My sister Mary-Ann and Nelson moved into live with us for a while while they built their house right next door to us!! I loved having them as neighbours!!
1985: Once again, God gave us the delights of our hearts - this time, a daughter. Ashley Marie came early as well. She arrived half an hour after I got to the hospital! I had just finished a course at RRC and she came shortly after - so I was able to put the courses on hold for a while! Joshua was thrilled with getting a sister. I turned 27 this year!
1986 - this is the year I turned 28. My parents resigned from the daycare - and I moved up from Assistant Director to Director, along with my sister-in-law Ruth as the assistant dir. Both of the kids came to the daycare with me. This is also the year - that Alvin began on the City of Winnipeg Fire Department! He started in Sept, and graduated in November, the night of a snowstorm!!
He graduated at the top of his class!! We were so surprised about that!! Alvin and I started as deacons this year. My dad and mom came and blessed us in this capacity!
1987 - 29 years old this year!! We worked in the city and also attended church in the city. Joshua began kindergarten this fall - and he went to school every other day - full days.
I continued to study - and at some points I had a couple correspondence courses going PLUS was taking some courses at Red River and also a couple at U of M. It was a full time of my life!
1988 - the year Alvin and I both turned 30 and also had our 10th anniversary! To celebrate our anniversary we went overnight to the Fort Garry Hotel! I was getting close to achieving my ECE III ...
it was a very crazy time of life - with kids and trying to get my designation for ECE. I had until the next year.
The eighties were a time of big hair - lets see - it involved bad perms, some hair colouring, a lot of hair product and then there was stirrup pants, and panda sweatshirts and tights ...
What can I say - apparently I must have thought I was a babe!! lol The panda motif was prevalent in the 80's as Winnipeg Zoo hosted the panda's ... and it was literally panda mania!
Thursday, June 13
Next 10 years of my life ... part 2!
So let's see - seems like I need to finish my post birthday thoughts - for all they are worth!!
1969: This is the summer that I turned 11. I decided I wanted to be baptized, and after speaking with the elders, it was decided I would get baptized by Uncle Bill Orr at Missionary Camp at FBC.
I remember exactly what I was wearing that day! It was such a momentous day for me. The waves were big, and there was a wind, but I was baptized in the lake!!
This fall I went into Grade 6 at Beausejour Junior High. It was either a walk, or a bus ride from our new house on Third and James. My teacher was Mrs. Zielke. We were in huts on the high school grounds. It was quite something. I began cheer leading this year - and loved it! I was still best friends with Josie, and my cousin Debbie.
This is the first year that FBC took place on the mainland! It was quite a change. There was something special about the island all those years!
1970: This is the year that I turned 12 and I was able to start working at camp as a waitress - not during kids camps but during the teen and youth camps and missionary camp. I loved working at camp - it was really all I knew!! My summers were spent here.
This is the year that we had a grade 6 grad in June! I went to this grad with Paul - my neighbour and my childhood crush from down the street!! The grad was at St. Mary's Hall. My mom bought me a new peasant dress - it was a long one - and I just remember this evening being a mixture of fun and nerves. Remember - I was raised in the day when it wasn't common for christian kids to go to dances or shows!! But I had permission to go to the grade 6 dinner and dance - and it was good.
In fall, I went into Grade 7 and had Mr. Michelo as a teacher (not sure if I spelled his name right). He was such a great teacher! I loved going to the sockhops that happened at lunch hours. I also still enjoyed cheer leading. This actually was a passion of mine right up to the end of grade 10. (if you can imagine!!)
1971: When I finished Grade 7 in summer, I went off to camp. I was now 13 and able to be a junior counsellor at FBC. I LOVED IT. I will never forget the day though, that I found out we would be moving to Peterborough, Ontario. My dad had to close up the Polaris Plant in Beausejour, and then got a job with Arctic Cat, however they wanted him in Ontario for a year. SO we went.
I was in my grade 8 year - and started it off in the High School... to be honest, I can not remember my teacher's name. My best friend Josie went into school in the city - to MBCI. Deb and I still hung out. I only attended school in Beausejour until the weekend of Thanksgiving when we left and headed to our new home in Peterborough, and our new school.
While most kids would find this hard - I actually recall this year with fond memories - except it was the year that I got into a little trouble - i.e. got caught smoking. Most of my friends smoked. I had a mixture of friends - and to begin with I hung with the cool kids - but then realized that well, I just didn't belong with them - and made some changes in friendships. My closest friend at this time was Jeannette Lonsberry. I started a cheer leading team - and it was a great year.
We went to a new brethren church in Peterboro and I got involved in youth.
That year at Christmas, my dad was involved in a car accident on the Trans Canada while we were returning to Beausejour for Christmas. We spent our Christmas day between the hospital and the hotel. It was a Christmas to be remembered. My dad went home in a wheelchair, with a leg cast on. Having only one real leg (my dad was a war amputee) meant that this caused quite a hassle!!
1972: I turned 14 and finished Grade 8 with a "grad" and then I had to say good-bye to my new found friends! I had several who I was so sad to leave behind. My mom and brothers and I took the train back to Winnipeg and once there, we met my soon to be brother-in-law Greg.
I was a bridesmaid that summer, and worked at camp. I went back to Peterboro with my dad, and got to visit with some friends for a week or so. It was a good visit.
That year I returned to Beausejour High Shcool - and entered Grade 9 with Mrs. Donohue as my teacher. The year does not stand out too much for me.
I continued to get involved in cheerleading, and school was okay :)
1973: this was the year I turned 15. I went into Grade 10. Can't remember my teacher again. But I really struggled with some things at school. I did not fit into many things - as a Christian kid - I did not go to the parties. Cheer leading took up slot of time - and it was fun. It was during this year - that my parents told me if I wanted to go into school at MBCI, for grade 11, that they would send me.
My first niece Keri was born this year!! Loved being an auntie.
I worked at camp all summer!
1974: I turned 16!! I got my beginners and I finished grade 10 and went to camp for the summer. ALL SUMMER.
I was accepted into MBCI for Grade 11. Good-bye Beausejour - Hello MBCI
Josie and I lived together in the WHITE HOUSE ...
This fall I took driving lessons with JOE VINE DRIVING SCHOOL :) and passed first try at my license!
On the first day of school - I met Alvin, and well - the rest is history!
We began going steady (that is what we called it then) on November 21, 1974
1975: continued dating ... went on our Quebec/Ontario tour in June. My granny whom I loved with all my heart - she died in March of this year. That broke my heart. She was the only grandparent I knew.
That summer I worked the full camp season. The school told us we could not live in the WHITE house so Josie and I, had to find other accommodations. I lived with Mary-Ann and Nelson during the week and went home on the weekends. I got a job at Smitty's in Garden City mall. Alvin worked at Angelo's pizza. We would put our tips together and share A&W root beer floats!!
1976: TURNED 18! Graduated High School. Worked at camp all summer. Went on one last family trip with my brothers and parents, in our Boler Trailer!! Yep - all 5 of us!
Got a job working at Care-A-Lot daycare in October of this year.
My parents moved from Beausejour into the city - onto 42 Summerfield Way.
This is the year my niece Melissa was born.
1977: Turned 19. I worked as an early childhood educator. I also began getting my e.c.e certification.
I continued to attend church at Arlington Street Gospel Chapel, where I taught SS and went to youth. I loved camp - and worked as the camp registrar for a few years.
1978: Alvin proposed in January. I was in Josie and Wayne's wedding in June. We got married in September. It was a great year!! I turned 20 and had been dating my sweet man for almost 4 years.
We moved into an apartment for the first year of our married life. We began attending together at Alvin's church - McIvor Avenue M.B. Church. I was accepted into membership there that year in the fall. My dad gave me some of the wisest advice - he said "Whatever you do, go to church together - get involved together." He blessed me over and over again.
Yep, the 70's were good too!!
1969: This is the summer that I turned 11. I decided I wanted to be baptized, and after speaking with the elders, it was decided I would get baptized by Uncle Bill Orr at Missionary Camp at FBC.
I remember exactly what I was wearing that day! It was such a momentous day for me. The waves were big, and there was a wind, but I was baptized in the lake!!
This fall I went into Grade 6 at Beausejour Junior High. It was either a walk, or a bus ride from our new house on Third and James. My teacher was Mrs. Zielke. We were in huts on the high school grounds. It was quite something. I began cheer leading this year - and loved it! I was still best friends with Josie, and my cousin Debbie.
This is the first year that FBC took place on the mainland! It was quite a change. There was something special about the island all those years!
1970: This is the year that I turned 12 and I was able to start working at camp as a waitress - not during kids camps but during the teen and youth camps and missionary camp. I loved working at camp - it was really all I knew!! My summers were spent here.
This is the year that we had a grade 6 grad in June! I went to this grad with Paul - my neighbour and my childhood crush from down the street!! The grad was at St. Mary's Hall. My mom bought me a new peasant dress - it was a long one - and I just remember this evening being a mixture of fun and nerves. Remember - I was raised in the day when it wasn't common for christian kids to go to dances or shows!! But I had permission to go to the grade 6 dinner and dance - and it was good.
In fall, I went into Grade 7 and had Mr. Michelo as a teacher (not sure if I spelled his name right). He was such a great teacher! I loved going to the sockhops that happened at lunch hours. I also still enjoyed cheer leading. This actually was a passion of mine right up to the end of grade 10. (if you can imagine!!)
1971: When I finished Grade 7 in summer, I went off to camp. I was now 13 and able to be a junior counsellor at FBC. I LOVED IT. I will never forget the day though, that I found out we would be moving to Peterborough, Ontario. My dad had to close up the Polaris Plant in Beausejour, and then got a job with Arctic Cat, however they wanted him in Ontario for a year. SO we went.
I was in my grade 8 year - and started it off in the High School... to be honest, I can not remember my teacher's name. My best friend Josie went into school in the city - to MBCI. Deb and I still hung out. I only attended school in Beausejour until the weekend of Thanksgiving when we left and headed to our new home in Peterborough, and our new school.
While most kids would find this hard - I actually recall this year with fond memories - except it was the year that I got into a little trouble - i.e. got caught smoking. Most of my friends smoked. I had a mixture of friends - and to begin with I hung with the cool kids - but then realized that well, I just didn't belong with them - and made some changes in friendships. My closest friend at this time was Jeannette Lonsberry. I started a cheer leading team - and it was a great year.
We went to a new brethren church in Peterboro and I got involved in youth.
That year at Christmas, my dad was involved in a car accident on the Trans Canada while we were returning to Beausejour for Christmas. We spent our Christmas day between the hospital and the hotel. It was a Christmas to be remembered. My dad went home in a wheelchair, with a leg cast on. Having only one real leg (my dad was a war amputee) meant that this caused quite a hassle!!
1972: I turned 14 and finished Grade 8 with a "grad" and then I had to say good-bye to my new found friends! I had several who I was so sad to leave behind. My mom and brothers and I took the train back to Winnipeg and once there, we met my soon to be brother-in-law Greg.
I was a bridesmaid that summer, and worked at camp. I went back to Peterboro with my dad, and got to visit with some friends for a week or so. It was a good visit.
That year I returned to Beausejour High Shcool - and entered Grade 9 with Mrs. Donohue as my teacher. The year does not stand out too much for me.
I continued to get involved in cheerleading, and school was okay :)
1973: this was the year I turned 15. I went into Grade 10. Can't remember my teacher again. But I really struggled with some things at school. I did not fit into many things - as a Christian kid - I did not go to the parties. Cheer leading took up slot of time - and it was fun. It was during this year - that my parents told me if I wanted to go into school at MBCI, for grade 11, that they would send me.
My first niece Keri was born this year!! Loved being an auntie.
I worked at camp all summer!
1974: I turned 16!! I got my beginners and I finished grade 10 and went to camp for the summer. ALL SUMMER.
I was accepted into MBCI for Grade 11. Good-bye Beausejour - Hello MBCI
Josie and I lived together in the WHITE HOUSE ...
This fall I took driving lessons with JOE VINE DRIVING SCHOOL :) and passed first try at my license!
On the first day of school - I met Alvin, and well - the rest is history!
We began going steady (that is what we called it then) on November 21, 1974
1975: continued dating ... went on our Quebec/Ontario tour in June. My granny whom I loved with all my heart - she died in March of this year. That broke my heart. She was the only grandparent I knew.
That summer I worked the full camp season. The school told us we could not live in the WHITE house so Josie and I, had to find other accommodations. I lived with Mary-Ann and Nelson during the week and went home on the weekends. I got a job at Smitty's in Garden City mall. Alvin worked at Angelo's pizza. We would put our tips together and share A&W root beer floats!!
1976: TURNED 18! Graduated High School. Worked at camp all summer. Went on one last family trip with my brothers and parents, in our Boler Trailer!! Yep - all 5 of us!
Got a job working at Care-A-Lot daycare in October of this year.
My parents moved from Beausejour into the city - onto 42 Summerfield Way.
This is the year my niece Melissa was born.
1977: Turned 19. I worked as an early childhood educator. I also began getting my e.c.e certification.
I continued to attend church at Arlington Street Gospel Chapel, where I taught SS and went to youth. I loved camp - and worked as the camp registrar for a few years.
1978: Alvin proposed in January. I was in Josie and Wayne's wedding in June. We got married in September. It was a great year!! I turned 20 and had been dating my sweet man for almost 4 years.
We moved into an apartment for the first year of our married life. We began attending together at Alvin's church - McIvor Avenue M.B. Church. I was accepted into membership there that year in the fall. My dad gave me some of the wisest advice - he said "Whatever you do, go to church together - get involved together." He blessed me over and over again.
Yep, the 70's were good too!!
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