Wednesday, September 13, 2006
Willie Rising from the Grave
Strange things happen when Willie comes around. Here we were in a cemetary where Willie found his tombstone. It says that he died like 4 years ago. Boy were we surprised!
Here he is, rising from the grave. What a rare image indeed!
(by the way, for all of those people who say willie is a figment of my imagination, there he is--alive and well!!!)
Here he is, rising from the grave. What a rare image indeed!
(by the way, for all of those people who say willie is a figment of my imagination, there he is--alive and well!!!)
Enoch?
Ok, I think I remember reading that Enoch walked with God, and he was not. But then, today, I was walking through town with my dad and Willie, and I think I might have found a confusing piece of that ancient puzzle. Perhaps this was an Ebenezer stone that Enoch's family left.
Who knew?
Who knew?
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Therapeutic Space?
I could make this a rant about the western sensibility when it comes to a word like therapy, but I will resist. I will simply state that in looking at this space I don't get a strong sense of healing.
And yet . . .
As I think about this little 6x10 room with a curtain for privacy (look at the right edge of the picture to see the curtain), and the IV drug hanging coatrack I realize that healing does take place in this room. With its pseudo comfy chair for the patient receiving the semi-specific toxins that target the cancer cells, this room is a bizarre space.
As I sat in this little room with my mom, I started thinking about the hundreds of people who have sat in this little room before us. I think about all of the fear, anxiety, and sadness that has dwelt in the hearts and minds of the people who have sat in this space. I wonder how many tears have been shed in this little cubicle with it's semi-private curtain.
I wonder what happened to the other people who shared this space with my family. They have no idea that we are even here, and I don't know who any of them are either. I wonder, if, amid the tears, they had hope.
I realize that the space doesn't scream out therapy and healing, but then maybe that's our job. You see, when we bring the light of Christ into a space, no matter how sad, dark, and dismal it might be, it becomes a place of healing and hope.
We don't often take time to reflect on the space which we inhabit, or our call to transform that space into a place where heaven and earth meet. Where are you sitting right now? Who has sat there in the past? We don't think about these things often. But maybe, if we did, our hearts might become a little more soft toward the people who are hurting all around us.
Maybe then we could bring just a little more healing into our world. And maybe, just maybe, the place in which we dwell would become a therapeutic space--wherever it is.
And yet . . .
As I think about this little 6x10 room with a curtain for privacy (look at the right edge of the picture to see the curtain), and the IV drug hanging coatrack I realize that healing does take place in this room. With its pseudo comfy chair for the patient receiving the semi-specific toxins that target the cancer cells, this room is a bizarre space.
As I sat in this little room with my mom, I started thinking about the hundreds of people who have sat in this little room before us. I think about all of the fear, anxiety, and sadness that has dwelt in the hearts and minds of the people who have sat in this space. I wonder how many tears have been shed in this little cubicle with it's semi-private curtain.
I wonder what happened to the other people who shared this space with my family. They have no idea that we are even here, and I don't know who any of them are either. I wonder, if, amid the tears, they had hope.
I realize that the space doesn't scream out therapy and healing, but then maybe that's our job. You see, when we bring the light of Christ into a space, no matter how sad, dark, and dismal it might be, it becomes a place of healing and hope.
We don't often take time to reflect on the space which we inhabit, or our call to transform that space into a place where heaven and earth meet. Where are you sitting right now? Who has sat there in the past? We don't think about these things often. But maybe, if we did, our hearts might become a little more soft toward the people who are hurting all around us.
Maybe then we could bring just a little more healing into our world. And maybe, just maybe, the place in which we dwell would become a therapeutic space--wherever it is.
Monday, September 11, 2006
Potluck thoughts
So I was thinking about this whole potluck thing. You know, I had no idea so many people had crock-pots. I think I might need to invest in one. There was so much good food at this thing--it was amazing. This summer I decided that I needed to learn to cook, but I have not mastered the art of the crock pot yet. I hear it makes cooking easier, but I just don't understand how it works.
Sometimes people just use them to heat stuff. Other times they actually cook the food in the crock pot. Why is it called a crock pot? I thought a crock was a bad thing, but then I ate some of the food people had cooked last night, and these crock pots aren't bad things at all. I just misunderstood them.
Sometimes I think a lot of our problems today come from just that problem. We misunderstand each other. if people just took time to listen to one another, our misunderstandings would be minimized.
And maybe we would find out that some people are more like crock pots, and less like crack pots. We might misunderstand them, but then we find out when we spend time around them that they really aren't all that bad.
Chillin'
These are some cool cats who kick it down at so.zo. I just met Jonathan, but JR, Ricky and Andrew I've known for a while. (left to right)
Andrew is actually my newest roommate.
I just love this place. It is filled with life. I think it might be because the people who frequent it are also filled with life.
Andrew is actually my newest roommate.
I just love this place. It is filled with life. I think it might be because the people who frequent it are also filled with life.
connecting
I think this is one of my favorite pictures, although it is a little blurry. I forgot my ultrapod III that my brother bought me. People are talking, people are eating, people are surfing the web, and most importantly, people are connecting.
This week at h2o, we talked about our desire for relationships. Here people are embodying the message. Beautiful stuff!!!
This week at h2o, we talked about our desire for relationships. Here people are embodying the message. Beautiful stuff!!!
So.zo potluck
I've forgotten my camera on many excursions recently, and I've developed a habit of blogging photos. I feel like it makes things a bit more interesting.
Anyhoo, this is a sweet shot of our community space coming alive with food. There was plenty for everyone, and no one went away hungry.
But, there weren't 5000 people there . . .yet.
Anyhoo, this is a sweet shot of our community space coming alive with food. There was plenty for everyone, and no one went away hungry.
But, there weren't 5000 people there . . .yet.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Spider
I'm finally getting a handle on how to use the macro function on my camera. Yesterday, while out galavanting through the woods (and climbing) a small group of us came upon this spider (about a foot below this spider and web is an identical spider and web that I couldn't capture in the same photo).
I'm not sure what kind of spider this is, but it definitely looks cool.
It is amazing the complexity and intricacy that spiders weave into their webs. When I see the discipline of a spider in making this amazingly intricate and beautiful web, I am awestruck.
Something so small is capable of such intricacy, and I often feel that I am all thumbs when I attempt to be artistic.
Somehow though, we are all like this spider. We have such a capacity for creativity, and we rarely grasp it. We are so busy being productive that we miss out on virtually any opportunity to be creative.
Take some time today, and be creative. Write, paint, draw, even re-arrange your room or clean it. Slow down, and be an instrument for ushering beauty into the world.
I'm not sure what kind of spider this is, but it definitely looks cool.
It is amazing the complexity and intricacy that spiders weave into their webs. When I see the discipline of a spider in making this amazingly intricate and beautiful web, I am awestruck.
Something so small is capable of such intricacy, and I often feel that I am all thumbs when I attempt to be artistic.
Somehow though, we are all like this spider. We have such a capacity for creativity, and we rarely grasp it. We are so busy being productive that we miss out on virtually any opportunity to be creative.
Take some time today, and be creative. Write, paint, draw, even re-arrange your room or clean it. Slow down, and be an instrument for ushering beauty into the world.
Secret Hideaway
I am always taken aback by this sight when I stumble upon it at Cooper's Rock. After climbing and crawling through narrow channels in the rocks, all of a sudden the rocks give way to this open space. It is such a pronounced change in the atmosphere that it always gives me a feeling of discovery when I see it.
Have you ever experienced this "openness" when you walk into a space?
I think these spaces function like natural cathedrals. They point us upward and make us realize that the world, and the Creator are much bigger than we imagine them to be.
Big spaces can be intimidating, or they can be comforting. I am not sure what leads one to perceive things in these different ways, but there is something that embraces you in the comforting spaces, and there is something that seems to be cold and unwelcoming in the intimidating spaces.
Have you ever discovered a comforting secret hideaway in your journeys through wilderness?
Have you ever experienced this "openness" when you walk into a space?
I think these spaces function like natural cathedrals. They point us upward and make us realize that the world, and the Creator are much bigger than we imagine them to be.
Big spaces can be intimidating, or they can be comforting. I am not sure what leads one to perceive things in these different ways, but there is something that embraces you in the comforting spaces, and there is something that seems to be cold and unwelcoming in the intimidating spaces.
Have you ever discovered a comforting secret hideaway in your journeys through wilderness?
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Mom After a Week
My good friend Ryan Brown was heading to Parkersburg today, so he and I left Morgantown around 7AM this morning.
I didn't tell my mom I was going to be there, I wanted to surprise her. Well, she surprised me too. She was feeling the best she has since before her chemo. Her spirits were up, and she just looked full of life. When I wrote this, I was sitting in the living room with her. She was a little tired, but that didn't stop her from cooking some meatloaf for lunch.
We had some salad and breadsticks from Olive Garden (supplemented with fresh tomatoes from the garden), and home cooked meatloaf for lunch.
Mom is doing great, and I am so proud of her! She is still knitting, and crocheting, and most recently she has begun exploring making turbans, scarves, and wraps for people who lose their hair during chemotherapy.
To everyone who is praying, I want to thank you--it is making a difference, and God is using those prayers to sustain and carry us through this challenging time.
I didn't tell my mom I was going to be there, I wanted to surprise her. Well, she surprised me too. She was feeling the best she has since before her chemo. Her spirits were up, and she just looked full of life. When I wrote this, I was sitting in the living room with her. She was a little tired, but that didn't stop her from cooking some meatloaf for lunch.
We had some salad and breadsticks from Olive Garden (supplemented with fresh tomatoes from the garden), and home cooked meatloaf for lunch.
Mom is doing great, and I am so proud of her! She is still knitting, and crocheting, and most recently she has begun exploring making turbans, scarves, and wraps for people who lose their hair during chemotherapy.
To everyone who is praying, I want to thank you--it is making a difference, and God is using those prayers to sustain and carry us through this challenging time.
Monday, August 28, 2006
Sky Rock
I was having a really rough day after leaving my mom last wednesday. My friend Mark had just rented a cabin at dorsey's knob in Morgantown, and he had invited me out to check out the place.
Last fall, I went up to this place with my parents. At the time, there was a lot of work being done on the area. I can remember looking down the hillside with my dad as my mom sat in the car a little further down the slope.
You can see a lot of Morgantown from this hillside. it's pretty wild, seems like big views and big water have always helped me to see beyond my circumstances.
When I see views like this, I start to think about how big my God is.
It was a hot day on the knob, and really humid in Morgantown so I left after a while. After all, we can't always stand on the hilltop--sometimes we need to journey through the valleys.
Last fall, I went up to this place with my parents. At the time, there was a lot of work being done on the area. I can remember looking down the hillside with my dad as my mom sat in the car a little further down the slope.
You can see a lot of Morgantown from this hillside. it's pretty wild, seems like big views and big water have always helped me to see beyond my circumstances.
When I see views like this, I start to think about how big my God is.
It was a hot day on the knob, and really humid in Morgantown so I left after a while. After all, we can't always stand on the hilltop--sometimes we need to journey through the valleys.
Mourning Dove
I was sitting on top of Dorsey's Knob and I had just gotten off the phone with my best friend on the planet, Willie, and I saw this bird fly by me. It landed in a tree about five feet away.
It was a mourning dove. I don't know a lot about mourning doves except that they are also called raincrows. That was my old chief's name.
I don't know if you believe in such things, but I kind of felt like God might have sent that bird to me to let me know that I'm not alone and that everything is going to be alright.
That little bird was such a comfort to me that afternoon. I can't really explain it, but when I left that hilltop, and I left that bird, I felt tender but comforted. It was beautiful.
It was a mourning dove. I don't know a lot about mourning doves except that they are also called raincrows. That was my old chief's name.
I don't know if you believe in such things, but I kind of felt like God might have sent that bird to me to let me know that I'm not alone and that everything is going to be alright.
That little bird was such a comfort to me that afternoon. I can't really explain it, but when I left that hilltop, and I left that bird, I felt tender but comforted. It was beautiful.
Mom the day after
I got a little smile out of mom the day after her chemotherapy. She's staying pretty upbeat through it all. It was pretty scary going in the first time, but we all made it through alright. Mom has the hard part. We've got it really easy.
I've been wanting to put this picture up for a while, but just haven't had time. It seems like I have been burning the candle at both ends with lots of irons in the fire and all of those other proverbial quotes about being busy.
But we're all hanging in there.
Thanks for all of the praying that is happening. I believe it is prayers of friends that God has used to sustain us.
I've been wanting to put this picture up for a while, but just haven't had time. It seems like I have been burning the candle at both ends with lots of irons in the fire and all of those other proverbial quotes about being busy.
But we're all hanging in there.
Thanks for all of the praying that is happening. I believe it is prayers of friends that God has used to sustain us.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Survivors
After my mom's first dose of chemotherapy, I went down to my favorite place in parkersburg with two of my uncles. Uncle Bill and Uncle Kenny. Kenny just survived aggressive treatment for bone cancer, and my uncle Bill just came out of treatment for colon cancer.
We watched the sun set over the Ohio River this evening, and I can't help but think this is something that our family and other shawnee people have done for many many generations.
As I sat there with them, I was filled with hope. It was good to spend time with family, and it was also good to see people who were so close who are cancer survivors.
Things are going to be alright. Mom is going to be part of this legacy of survivors. It's one thing that Indian people do well--survive.
Its also something that followers of Jesus do well, we survive.
Thanks again for praying.
We watched the sun set over the Ohio River this evening, and I can't help but think this is something that our family and other shawnee people have done for many many generations.
As I sat there with them, I was filled with hope. It was good to spend time with family, and it was also good to see people who were so close who are cancer survivors.
Things are going to be alright. Mom is going to be part of this legacy of survivors. It's one thing that Indian people do well--survive.
Its also something that followers of Jesus do well, we survive.
Thanks again for praying.
Sunset on the Ohio
Here is a shot of the area where I grew up. This is my river, my sanctuary. My dad found this cool park and cool view and wanted me to see it. I want you to see it too. I am usually closer to the water when I visit the mighty Ohio, but on this evening we were able to look at it from a hillside (hills are rare in Parkersburg). The French called this river La Belle Riviere (The beautiful river). I imagine you can see why they might call it that. And possibly, you can see why it has been such a special place for my family, and other Shawnee people for generations.
Me and Mom
Yesterday, I hung out with my family in Parkersburg. My mom started chemotherapy today, and fortunately, I have been able to do a good bit of work from down here. It has been good just being around. I think the pace of the past week caught up with me yesterday afternoon. I fell asleep on my parents couch in the afternoon, and probably had the first decent night of sleep I’ve had in over a month. I actually slept for eight hours too—I never do that! Mom’s chemo seems to be gong well. Right now, she is knitting as the drugs enter her chest to eliminate the invasive carcinoma that is trying to spread in her right breast. Emotionally, as a family we have been doing our share of weeping and laughing together. Spiritually, we are going to the source of our hope, Jesus. Mentally, we are staying sharp and hopeful. Mom’s doing really well physically too.
Any prayers you can lift up on her behalf would be appreciated!
Any prayers you can lift up on her behalf would be appreciated!
Inhabitation
And we did it! Three days, and lots of sweat, energy, and sacrifice, and we pulled it off. We transformed the space. I think Ben Harper’s song is appropriate.
I can change the world
With my own two hands.
Make a brighter place,
With my own two hands.
When we step out in faith, when we are willing to work hard, God meets us, and does the unbelievable through people like you and I.
What amazing feats have you been part of? What amazing feat is God calling you toward right now?
I can change the world
With my own two hands.
Make a brighter place,
With my own two hands.
When we step out in faith, when we are willing to work hard, God meets us, and does the unbelievable through people like you and I.
What amazing feats have you been part of? What amazing feat is God calling you toward right now?
Pleasant Painting
Thursday night, we began to put finishing touches on the walls, as we transformed the atmosphere through the use of paint, lights, and prayer. Jeremiah was among the many smiling faces who spent lots of time in our little café space this week.
Sacred Sunbeam
Wednesday night, we gathered to pray and plan for the future of the new space. It has been cool to gather and pray and dedicate this space. Very much prayer has gone into this space, and very much celebration as well. Actually, on the night of this gathering, one of the people present made the comment—“we’re planning to be in here Friday? That’s pretty ambitious!”
Ambitious indeed.
Ambitious indeed.
Brotherly Love
I just love this picture of Cameron and Duncan King. These two brothers were present almost every day, and were among the 20-25 people who sacrificed time, sleep, and meals, to make this dream a reality.
The Labor Begins
So many people came together, and we commenced a tremendous undertaking. These are just a few of the many who dedicated long hours and lots of work to transforming the space.
Sozo deconstructed
Well, there has been a lot of work going into the development of so.zo. This little image gives a good idea of our starting point. It’s hard to believe that we got it finished in time for open mic Friday night. There was a professional crew doing demolitions on the space, and when I talked to them Tuesday afternoon when we started, they were convinced it would take them at least a week, but it could take up to a month to restore the space—we had 3 days to restore it and inhabit it.
Monday, August 14, 2006
So.Zo
Last week we signed a lease on a storefront along high street in Morgantown. Eventually, this will be the home of a cafe/coffeehouse/cereal bar, but for now it is a pretty empty space.
Over the course of this week, we will be slowly transforming this space to prepare it for the debut of an open mic Friday night.
Whlle it is hard to say goodbye to the dream and vision we had for the waterhouse, we could potentially do more, and do it better in this new location.
It's fun to jump into new projects too. I will have to post some pictures as we make progress in this new space.
Over the course of this week, we will be slowly transforming this space to prepare it for the debut of an open mic Friday night.
Whlle it is hard to say goodbye to the dream and vision we had for the waterhouse, we could potentially do more, and do it better in this new location.
It's fun to jump into new projects too. I will have to post some pictures as we make progress in this new space.
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Mom and Dad
Well, earlier today I had a conversation with my mom, I knew something was wrong, but I wasn't sure quite what. She and my dad went to the doctor yesterday as a result of swelling she had in her right arm.
She thought it was related to a cortisone shot she recently received for knee pain.
It wasn't.
Over the next couple of weeks, my mom will undergo a series of tests to deal with a multiplicity of health issues that emerged during her recent doctor's visit. Its kind of sad, because my mom had no idea that anything was wrong, she just assumed it was a part of getting older. My mom and dad are both tough as nails, so I think they are as shocked as I am about what they heard.
Here are the problems which were discovered yesterday.
She has a consistent cough
She has fluid in her lungs--not sure if it is bronchitis, pneumonia, or something else.
She has a chest x-ray and follow up exam monday for this
She has an infection in her right breast
the infection has been draining into her right arm, and causing her entire arm to swell.
her right breast is also swollen
She has a lump in her right breast
next thursday she will have a biopsy done to find out more about it
She has fluid around her heart--not sure if it is congestive heart failure, or something else
she has a echocardiogram and follow up this thursday.
So, I would really appreciate prayer for my moms health. Pray that all of the problems would go away, pray that the doctors would be granted wisdom to find the source of the problems, and they would be taken care of quickly. Pray for my mom to be courageous, and for everything to turn out ok. I am sure she is pretty scared, and upset, and so I would appreciate prayers for all of that.
Thanks for taking the time to read this, and giving this situation a couple of minutes of your time. I know we are all busy, but I really appreciate your prayers for this.
As I find out more info, I will try to keep everyone in the loop.
She thought it was related to a cortisone shot she recently received for knee pain.
It wasn't.
Over the next couple of weeks, my mom will undergo a series of tests to deal with a multiplicity of health issues that emerged during her recent doctor's visit. Its kind of sad, because my mom had no idea that anything was wrong, she just assumed it was a part of getting older. My mom and dad are both tough as nails, so I think they are as shocked as I am about what they heard.
Here are the problems which were discovered yesterday.
She has a consistent cough
She has fluid in her lungs--not sure if it is bronchitis, pneumonia, or something else.
She has a chest x-ray and follow up exam monday for this
She has an infection in her right breast
the infection has been draining into her right arm, and causing her entire arm to swell.
her right breast is also swollen
She has a lump in her right breast
next thursday she will have a biopsy done to find out more about it
She has fluid around her heart--not sure if it is congestive heart failure, or something else
she has a echocardiogram and follow up this thursday.
So, I would really appreciate prayer for my moms health. Pray that all of the problems would go away, pray that the doctors would be granted wisdom to find the source of the problems, and they would be taken care of quickly. Pray for my mom to be courageous, and for everything to turn out ok. I am sure she is pretty scared, and upset, and so I would appreciate prayers for all of that.
Thanks for taking the time to read this, and giving this situation a couple of minutes of your time. I know we are all busy, but I really appreciate your prayers for this.
As I find out more info, I will try to keep everyone in the loop.
Thursday, August 03, 2006
God Roept You
This morning I was reading Psalm 81 in the Message, and this verse stuck out to me. It has really captivated me today. And it made me think about my many friends at the Zolder, and around the city of Amsterdam.
"I hear this most gentle whisper from One
I never guessed would speak to me"
When I read this, I thought that's what we need, and we don't expect. We often go through life unexpectant that the One would speak to us, in our circumstances, in our routines, in our decadence, in our depravity, and in our clutter. And yet, He does. He speaks gently and softly to us. It is a whisper like the wind--refreshing on a hot summer day.
Why did I think of my friends in amsterdam? Well, here is a little background on the city. People come from all over the world to visit amsterdam. Most of those visitors are either looking to find themselves or lose themselves in the city. Across from the Centraal Station there is a building that has the words "God Roept You" and "Jesus Loves You" written in giant neon letters. Many people are looking for someone to love them and the second phrase speaks into the hearts of those people seeking to lose themselves in the wilder side of the city.
And then there is the phrase, "God Roept You." It means "God Calls You." Imagine leaving the train station and seeing that sign. You are about to immerse yourself into the depths of drugs and prostitution and excess of all sorts, and you see this neon beacon. God calls you. And He calls in the most unexpected times and places. He calls gently in a whisper.
The One who made the universe calls to us. May we listen intently. And may we hear freshly amid the circumstances and distractions of everyday life.
"Hoe gaat het?" to all of my Amsterdammer/Nederlander friends!
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Secret Space
this attic space was totally dark and dismal, but when I stuck my flash ready camera into the space, it opened up a whole new world. I just like the pattern that the wood makes in this attic space of an old elementary school.
Although it looks pretty cool, it doesn't appear that this attic space has a whole lot of viability.
Thinking about this attic space just made me realize something. I have lived in my house for three years, and I have never checked out the attic. It may be time to do a little exploring . . .
Then again, maybe not. We are in the middle of some record high dog days temperatures here in Morgantown. I think I will stay in air conditioning and comfort, for now . . .
Although it looks pretty cool, it doesn't appear that this attic space has a whole lot of viability.
Thinking about this attic space just made me realize something. I have lived in my house for three years, and I have never checked out the attic. It may be time to do a little exploring . . .
Then again, maybe not. We are in the middle of some record high dog days temperatures here in Morgantown. I think I will stay in air conditioning and comfort, for now . . .
Living Room School
Wiles Hill Elementary is being transformed into a community and senior center for Morgantown. I just thought this living room looked cool.
National Night Out
Last night was National Night Out. From what I gather it is meant to be a celebration of neighborhood and community. I was pretty excited about the event myself. I guess my neighborhood has the best one of these events in all of morgantown, or so I heard.
I live on Wiles Hill. I have lived here for 3 years, and yet, I do not know any of my neighbors. I met tons of people, including several city government representatives.
I met a preacher who works in a church down the street from me, and I met the parents of my friend and co-worker, Mark Byrer.
It was really cool to finally connect with people in the neighborhood. There is one guy, who every time I have ever walked by his house, he has greeted me. he has lived in the neighborhood for 50 years. His name is Charlie Williams (which is also my dad's name!). Mr. Williams sees everything that happens in the neighborhood, and reminds me a bit of some of the older people who watched out for trouble in the neighborhood where I grew up.
Over 100 people came out for the festivities, but unfortunately there weren't many people close to my age. It appears that either the neighborhood is an older neighborhood, or younger people just don't value the idea of community as much.
I think we miss out on so much by not being rooted in a neighborhood community. This get together was probably the first event I've been to in a long time where people didn't have a microphone and a PA system. It was refreshing to see a simpler way of living and being.
I hope this won't be the last opportunity I have to interact with my neighbors until next year.
Do you know your neighbors?
I live on Wiles Hill. I have lived here for 3 years, and yet, I do not know any of my neighbors. I met tons of people, including several city government representatives.
I met a preacher who works in a church down the street from me, and I met the parents of my friend and co-worker, Mark Byrer.
It was really cool to finally connect with people in the neighborhood. There is one guy, who every time I have ever walked by his house, he has greeted me. he has lived in the neighborhood for 50 years. His name is Charlie Williams (which is also my dad's name!). Mr. Williams sees everything that happens in the neighborhood, and reminds me a bit of some of the older people who watched out for trouble in the neighborhood where I grew up.
Over 100 people came out for the festivities, but unfortunately there weren't many people close to my age. It appears that either the neighborhood is an older neighborhood, or younger people just don't value the idea of community as much.
I think we miss out on so much by not being rooted in a neighborhood community. This get together was probably the first event I've been to in a long time where people didn't have a microphone and a PA system. It was refreshing to see a simpler way of living and being.
I hope this won't be the last opportunity I have to interact with my neighbors until next year.
Do you know your neighbors?
Tree and lake
When I took this picture, I felt like I was in a very surreal place. I was only 20 minutes from Morgantown, but along the shore of a mountain lake. It felt like I was in canada, or new england, but that wasn't the case.
The tree kind of haunted me the entire time I was at this lake, so I had to photograph it. No leaves are on the tree. It looks like it has given up its life to stand by the waters.
At the same time, after it's death, it appears to be living in an unexpected way. Standing vigilently by the shore. And living on in this photo as well.
I wonder what will stand as a legacy in our lives long after we have spent our years on earth?
The tree kind of haunted me the entire time I was at this lake, so I had to photograph it. No leaves are on the tree. It looks like it has given up its life to stand by the waters.
At the same time, after it's death, it appears to be living in an unexpected way. Standing vigilently by the shore. And living on in this photo as well.
I wonder what will stand as a legacy in our lives long after we have spent our years on earth?
Beauty in Bloom
I've been trying to learn how to use the macro function on my camera, but I don't think it works all that well (or I am incompetent)!
It's kind of weird because I usually associate blooms with April and May, but on a walk through my neighborhood I saw this. I have no idea what the flower is, but it was really captivating.
My friend Cameron and I have been talking about this book we have been reading by N. T. Wright called "Simply Christian". Write says that our appreciation of beauty is an echo of the voice calling out to us from beyond, the true image of beauty. Have you ever noticed how a picture, with all of it's technology and image capture abilty, can never seem to capture the majesty or beauty that we experience all around. I noticed this first after a trip to the grand canyon. My photo's were lame compared to what I experienced.
More than photo's though, maybe our heartbeat should be similar to the Navajo beautyway prayer, then maybe we would appreciate the beauty in bloom all around us.
It's kind of weird because I usually associate blooms with April and May, but on a walk through my neighborhood I saw this. I have no idea what the flower is, but it was really captivating.
My friend Cameron and I have been talking about this book we have been reading by N. T. Wright called "Simply Christian". Write says that our appreciation of beauty is an echo of the voice calling out to us from beyond, the true image of beauty. Have you ever noticed how a picture, with all of it's technology and image capture abilty, can never seem to capture the majesty or beauty that we experience all around. I noticed this first after a trip to the grand canyon. My photo's were lame compared to what I experienced.
More than photo's though, maybe our heartbeat should be similar to the Navajo beautyway prayer, then maybe we would appreciate the beauty in bloom all around us.
Friday, July 28, 2006
Dependence
You know, I think one of the hardest things for us to learn when it comes to our faith is a sense of dependence. In America, we have virtually all of our physical needs met, and it is really easy to do that on our own. By on our own, I mean without thinking about other people.
Almost universally, when I talk with people they love to help other people. But most people don't like asking for help. It requires humility. It is a confession of need. I think we are addicted to being self-sufficient. It's like it is part of what being an American is about.
As I walk through my second week without a car, I am starting to feel the addiction I had to it. I can't just get up and drive somewhere on my own. I can't take a drive out to cooper's rock in the middle of an afternoon just to chill. I can't run out of town to get away from things. I am here. And if I go somewhere, somebody is probably going with me.
Don't get me wrong, I appreciate that dependence. But there is part of me that really doesn't like it. I like being addicted to my car. Cars give us a degree of autonomy. But I don't think we are meant to be autonomous.
We kind of take it for granted that cars are a natural part of what we need to get by. 8% of the world's population owns a car. 85% of americans own one or more cars.
And it isn't just about the car. I have a big yard at my house. I am quickly realizing how overwhelming it is to try to care for this house and yard to the extent it needs it. It's really big, and I am just one little Indian. And largely, I don't fully understand a lot of this home and yardcare stuff. My dad took care of things growing up, and we had a number of neighbors who chipped in to help with big projects. I don't even know my neighbors. Slowly I am learning that if we are meant to look out for one another, I have to be willing to let people look out for me. I thought I had this down, and i do to a degree, but there are still vast areas of my life where i am learning how to trust, and how to swallow pride and be dependent on others.
People have been really great, understanding, and helpful with regard to my car situation. But there is a part of me that wrestles with being a "burden" on others. There is a part of me that wrestles with an automobile autonomy, and my addiction to being able to do it myself. I am really looking forward to the work God is doing with me, as He reminds me that I am a branch, He is the vine, and apart from Him, I can do nothing. He reminds me also of all of the "one another" verses that I can't fully obey, unless I am able to admit my need for other people.
I wonder how addicted we in the West are to our own autonomy? I wonder how isolated self-sufficiency makes us? Tribal people have an understanding of this kind of dependence, but do we?
Almost universally, when I talk with people they love to help other people. But most people don't like asking for help. It requires humility. It is a confession of need. I think we are addicted to being self-sufficient. It's like it is part of what being an American is about.
As I walk through my second week without a car, I am starting to feel the addiction I had to it. I can't just get up and drive somewhere on my own. I can't take a drive out to cooper's rock in the middle of an afternoon just to chill. I can't run out of town to get away from things. I am here. And if I go somewhere, somebody is probably going with me.
Don't get me wrong, I appreciate that dependence. But there is part of me that really doesn't like it. I like being addicted to my car. Cars give us a degree of autonomy. But I don't think we are meant to be autonomous.
We kind of take it for granted that cars are a natural part of what we need to get by. 8% of the world's population owns a car. 85% of americans own one or more cars.
And it isn't just about the car. I have a big yard at my house. I am quickly realizing how overwhelming it is to try to care for this house and yard to the extent it needs it. It's really big, and I am just one little Indian. And largely, I don't fully understand a lot of this home and yardcare stuff. My dad took care of things growing up, and we had a number of neighbors who chipped in to help with big projects. I don't even know my neighbors. Slowly I am learning that if we are meant to look out for one another, I have to be willing to let people look out for me. I thought I had this down, and i do to a degree, but there are still vast areas of my life where i am learning how to trust, and how to swallow pride and be dependent on others.
People have been really great, understanding, and helpful with regard to my car situation. But there is a part of me that wrestles with being a "burden" on others. There is a part of me that wrestles with an automobile autonomy, and my addiction to being able to do it myself. I am really looking forward to the work God is doing with me, as He reminds me that I am a branch, He is the vine, and apart from Him, I can do nothing. He reminds me also of all of the "one another" verses that I can't fully obey, unless I am able to admit my need for other people.
I wonder how addicted we in the West are to our own autonomy? I wonder how isolated self-sufficiency makes us? Tribal people have an understanding of this kind of dependence, but do we?
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Automobile Woes part II
So it has been about a week since the incident. I am alive and well, but currently my car is not. According to my mechanic friend, it is looking bad. Apparently, the 2000 model of the Dodge Intrepid, and especially the Canadian model (which I own), is known to have a common problem of engine failure at around 100,000 miles. My car had 107,000 miles on it, so I guess I was on borrowed time. As a result of the commonality of this problem, the market for engines is a seller's market. They are very expensive, and used engines have a good chance of failure at around 100,000 miles too.
Right now, I am thinking that I am going to take some time and enjoy public transit. When all of the students come back to morgantown, cars become problematic. Traffic is highly congested. I went to the bus depot yesterday, and found out that the bus goes virtually everywhere I would need to go in town. For now, I am going to be without a car--from what I have gathered (and the impulse I too have felt), many people rush into buying a new car when their car dies. For the next month, my work necessitates me being around Morgantown, so there isn't a real need for a car. I have a bicycle. Cycling is better for my own health, and the good earth God has given us. Public transit also offers a similar degree of environmental stewardship.
One thing I am impressed by in Europe is that not many people have cars. Amsterdam is called the city of bicycles--900,000 people and 500,000 bicycles call the city home. For now, I will do without. I will carpool, and chip in for gas or trade meals for wheels or something like that. If i really need a car, I believe God can come through with just exactly what I need, so i am going to wait, research, get council, and trust God and His provision and guidance.
Last summer when I let one of my friends borrow my car for six weeks while in Orlando, I realized something that made me a little uncomfortable. I was addicted to my car. I could leave and go anywhere any time I wanted when I had it. Without it, I lost my mobility. I had to be dependent on other people. Maybe we could all learn to be a little more dependent on one another. Maybe we need to experience a little bit of helplessness to understand our true state of dependence.
Right now, I am thinking that I am going to take some time and enjoy public transit. When all of the students come back to morgantown, cars become problematic. Traffic is highly congested. I went to the bus depot yesterday, and found out that the bus goes virtually everywhere I would need to go in town. For now, I am going to be without a car--from what I have gathered (and the impulse I too have felt), many people rush into buying a new car when their car dies. For the next month, my work necessitates me being around Morgantown, so there isn't a real need for a car. I have a bicycle. Cycling is better for my own health, and the good earth God has given us. Public transit also offers a similar degree of environmental stewardship.
One thing I am impressed by in Europe is that not many people have cars. Amsterdam is called the city of bicycles--900,000 people and 500,000 bicycles call the city home. For now, I will do without. I will carpool, and chip in for gas or trade meals for wheels or something like that. If i really need a car, I believe God can come through with just exactly what I need, so i am going to wait, research, get council, and trust God and His provision and guidance.
Last summer when I let one of my friends borrow my car for six weeks while in Orlando, I realized something that made me a little uncomfortable. I was addicted to my car. I could leave and go anywhere any time I wanted when I had it. Without it, I lost my mobility. I had to be dependent on other people. Maybe we could all learn to be a little more dependent on one another. Maybe we need to experience a little bit of helplessness to understand our true state of dependence.
Monday, July 24, 2006
Bead 4 Life
Yesterday, after h2o, we had a bead for life party at the Waterhouse. This is similar to a tupperware party with beads. The beads are hand-rolled in Uganda by women who have been victimized by the evils of civil war in that country. Many were raped as children, and have contracted hiv. Others have had their children abducted to serve in secret militias. Several have lost much of their family through the war.
So yesterday I sported some beads, bought some beads, and gave away a lot. If you get the chance, you should check out their website.
www.beadforlife.org
So yesterday I sported some beads, bought some beads, and gave away a lot. If you get the chance, you should check out their website.
www.beadforlife.org
Not Quite Home
As I walked along the boardwalk in Wilmington, NC along the Cape Fear River, I felt like I was back home in Parkersburg for a bit. Maybe it is the combination of bridge and sternwheeler that does it.
I imagine anyone who has grown up along a major river town sees this as a familiar image. Once, all of the major waterways of the US were covered with these sternwheelers. But now, they are an icon of the past used mainly for touring.
My senior prom was on a sternwheeler. So was my class reunion. We used to take rides to blennerhassett Island on them when I was a kid. I imagine anyone who sees an image like this gets taken back to adventures along the river, and being a pirate, or a sailor, or some other such hero or villain of yesteryear.
Feel free to post a memory you have of sternwheelers if you grew up in a rivertown like me.
I imagine anyone who has grown up along a major river town sees this as a familiar image. Once, all of the major waterways of the US were covered with these sternwheelers. But now, they are an icon of the past used mainly for touring.
My senior prom was on a sternwheeler. So was my class reunion. We used to take rides to blennerhassett Island on them when I was a kid. I imagine anyone who sees an image like this gets taken back to adventures along the river, and being a pirate, or a sailor, or some other such hero or villain of yesteryear.
Feel free to post a memory you have of sternwheelers if you grew up in a rivertown like me.
Holy Water
When I took this picture, I didn't notice the sunbeam. I just thought it was a cool fountain in Wilmington, NC. It sits in front of the courthouse downtown.
Don't sunbeams seem like a special gift from God? I can remember seeing sunbeams in the summertime and feeling like it was like He was speaking and revealing Himself through the light.
Don't sunbeams seem like a special gift from God? I can remember seeing sunbeams in the summertime and feeling like it was like He was speaking and revealing Himself through the light.
For All You Smokers
Every time I drive by this sign, I crack up. King and Tobaccoville are actually two different towns, but it looks like one place.
For a long time Tobacco was king in America. Particularly in the Winston-Salem area of North Carolina and regions of Southwestern Virginia, the crop was grown.
Tobacco has lost its royal standing in America, but the sign still remains.
For a long time Tobacco was king in America. Particularly in the Winston-Salem area of North Carolina and regions of Southwestern Virginia, the crop was grown.
Tobacco has lost its royal standing in America, but the sign still remains.
choke cherries
I thought these cherries looked interesting, so I took a picture of them. At first I wasn't sure that I had accurately identified the choke cherry, but then I nibbled on one, much to the dismay of my friends who thought I might be poisoning myself.
I'm still alive, and the edible yet bitter taste of the choke cherry is just a memory now.
Sometimes life seems similar to a bowl of choke cherries--edible, but bitter.
How do you respond to those difficult times, do they make you bitter, or do you emanate a sweetness that overpowers the bitterness?
I'm still alive, and the edible yet bitter taste of the choke cherry is just a memory now.
Sometimes life seems similar to a bowl of choke cherries--edible, but bitter.
How do you respond to those difficult times, do they make you bitter, or do you emanate a sweetness that overpowers the bitterness?
Ain't That America
During my hike through Cathedral State Park with Morgan and Karen, we discovered this field and farm. Once again, I was captivated. It looked like something out of Little House on the Prairie, or some such thing, and just spoke to me about a different way of living. There aren't any Superstores near this house, and no sign of major corporations. Just fields and forests to be seen all around. Caring for a piece of land like this takes a lot of time and energy. I think most of us would be crushed under the weight of the responsibility.
At the same time, looking at this pastoral scene points me to a way of living that stands much less complicated in comparison to the rat race kind of life most of us get caught up in. This is a different side of america than we read in neon and on billboards, and it is a refreshing perspective.
Couldn't we all use a bit of simplicity in our lives?
At the same time, looking at this pastoral scene points me to a way of living that stands much less complicated in comparison to the rat race kind of life most of us get caught up in. This is a different side of america than we read in neon and on billboards, and it is a refreshing perspective.
Couldn't we all use a bit of simplicity in our lives?
Rhododendron Bloom
I went for a hike through Cathedral State Park last Sunday and saw this beautiful bloom. I am still trying to figure out how the macro works on my camera, but this seemed to come out really well.
The Rhododendron is the state flower of West Virginia, and gives a great dose of appalachian beauty.
Where do you find beauty in your world?
The Navajo have an interesting prayer about beauty called the beauty way prayer. I think it is a good reminder to both see beauty and be beauty. Enjoy it
In beauty may I walk.
All day long may I walk.
Through the returning seasons may I walk.
On the trail marked with pollen may I walk.
With grasshoppers about my feet may I walk.
With dew about my feet may I walk.
With beauty may I walk.
With beauty before me, may I walk.
With beauty behind me, may I walk.
With beauty above me, may I walk.
With beauty below me, may I walk.
With beauty all around me, may I walk.
In old age wandering on a trail of beauty, lively, may I walk.
In old age wandering on a trail of beauty, living again, may I walk.
It is finished in beauty.
It is finished in beauty.
The Rhododendron is the state flower of West Virginia, and gives a great dose of appalachian beauty.
Where do you find beauty in your world?
The Navajo have an interesting prayer about beauty called the beauty way prayer. I think it is a good reminder to both see beauty and be beauty. Enjoy it
In beauty may I walk.
All day long may I walk.
Through the returning seasons may I walk.
On the trail marked with pollen may I walk.
With grasshoppers about my feet may I walk.
With dew about my feet may I walk.
With beauty may I walk.
With beauty before me, may I walk.
With beauty behind me, may I walk.
With beauty above me, may I walk.
With beauty below me, may I walk.
With beauty all around me, may I walk.
In old age wandering on a trail of beauty, lively, may I walk.
In old age wandering on a trail of beauty, living again, may I walk.
It is finished in beauty.
It is finished in beauty.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Burning Down the House
If you lived here, your house would be burnt down.
It's been pretty weird being in Morgantown this summer. All summer, I have been watching houses burn down. The area known as the loop at the bottom of falling run road has been quickly becoming transformed. It is really strange.
You know, we are in such a hurry to build new spaces, we don't really even salvage anything. We just burn it all up. Doesn't this seem a bit wasteful. it's like, if we had the time, or would just take the time, we could be providing for other people with some of the building materials in these old houses. Instead, they are reduced to rubble in a matter of minutes.
And then, just being in Morgantown this summer, it is pretty wild to see how much the area has been transformed in just the last two months.
New restaurants and businesses have emerged, and now homes are disappearing. I guess this is what progress looks like . . .
It's been pretty weird being in Morgantown this summer. All summer, I have been watching houses burn down. The area known as the loop at the bottom of falling run road has been quickly becoming transformed. It is really strange.
You know, we are in such a hurry to build new spaces, we don't really even salvage anything. We just burn it all up. Doesn't this seem a bit wasteful. it's like, if we had the time, or would just take the time, we could be providing for other people with some of the building materials in these old houses. Instead, they are reduced to rubble in a matter of minutes.
And then, just being in Morgantown this summer, it is pretty wild to see how much the area has been transformed in just the last two months.
New restaurants and businesses have emerged, and now homes are disappearing. I guess this is what progress looks like . . .
Monday, July 17, 2006
automobile woes
Saturday night I drove my car up route 40 from uniontown to farmington. That's a tough climb for any car, but especially a car like mine that is getting up there in mileage. Well, the strain proved too much. It didn't make it. I had to leave it on the side of the road. Thankfully some really nice people offered to take me to my friend Nic's parents house in Connellsville. Nic and his wife Tara gave me a ride to morgantown the next morning. God took care of me, and I am very thankful.
In the meantime, I have a little problem. The engine, she don't sound too good. I had to get the car towed from Farmington, PA to Fairmont, WV. My friend Bryan is looking at it right now, and the prospects are dismal. So I am asking myself a few questions.
How badly do I need a car?
Do I repair the car or look for a new one?
In terms of new ones, do I get one that is really new, or just new to me?
Should I look into a pilot's license instead?
This car has served me well. It got good gas mileage--30mpg on the highway.
any thoughts?
In the meantime, I have a little problem. The engine, she don't sound too good. I had to get the car towed from Farmington, PA to Fairmont, WV. My friend Bryan is looking at it right now, and the prospects are dismal. So I am asking myself a few questions.
How badly do I need a car?
Do I repair the car or look for a new one?
In terms of new ones, do I get one that is really new, or just new to me?
Should I look into a pilot's license instead?
This car has served me well. It got good gas mileage--30mpg on the highway.
any thoughts?
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Pirates the second time around
I went to see the movie again with my buddies ryan and ryan, and my newly made friend E-bo. It was fascinating. I watched the original movie two nights ago, so many images were still fresh in my mind. After watching this one a second time I saw a number of themes and bits of foreshadowing that I missed the first time around. It's funny because many viewers miss all of the signs that point to something a little deeper than the surface of the story.
I am not going to share those with you though--go see the movie yourself! I am anxiously awaiting the third episode though.
Isn't it interesting that we have a little foreshadowing in our lives too? I mean, we get to experience beauty and community here and now. But we don't experience them fully. We get to experience awe and wonder right now, but just as an echo. But the foreshadowing in our story points to something even more epic than we could imagine.
Are you looking at the foreshadowing of what is to come in eager anticipation, or are you missing out on all the signs and living along the surface of the most compelling and deep story ever written?
I am not going to share those with you though--go see the movie yourself! I am anxiously awaiting the third episode though.
Isn't it interesting that we have a little foreshadowing in our lives too? I mean, we get to experience beauty and community here and now. But we don't experience them fully. We get to experience awe and wonder right now, but just as an echo. But the foreshadowing in our story points to something even more epic than we could imagine.
Are you looking at the foreshadowing of what is to come in eager anticipation, or are you missing out on all the signs and living along the surface of the most compelling and deep story ever written?
Monday, July 10, 2006
Fire
Well, i don't have a chimineya anymore thanks to somebody driving through my yard and destroying it. So, in order to burn anything I have to wait until 4PM and burn it on the open ground.
So this fire is the reduction of a bunch of prunings. The branches were gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. They were dead. Lifeless. They were not bearing fruit.
My yard looks somewhat transformed. Probably nobody would notice other than me, but the fact that I notice means something. It means that all of that hard work has some tangible result.
When our branches don't bear fruit, they are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. I don't like the thought of anything I do being burned up. I don't like the thought that there are things in my life that need pruning. I don't like the thought that I have decaying, dead, and rotting branches.
But at the same time, it is good to have someone go through and remove them. Are there branches in your life God needs to prepare for fire. Will you submit to the gardener and let Him do the difficult but necessary work?
So this fire is the reduction of a bunch of prunings. The branches were gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. They were dead. Lifeless. They were not bearing fruit.
My yard looks somewhat transformed. Probably nobody would notice other than me, but the fact that I notice means something. It means that all of that hard work has some tangible result.
When our branches don't bear fruit, they are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. I don't like the thought of anything I do being burned up. I don't like the thought that there are things in my life that need pruning. I don't like the thought that I have decaying, dead, and rotting branches.
But at the same time, it is good to have someone go through and remove them. Are there branches in your life God needs to prepare for fire. Will you submit to the gardener and let Him do the difficult but necessary work?
Pruning
So yesterday at h2o we were talking about the place in the gospels where Jesus says He is the true vine. I got a little convicted by the whole idea of pruning, because I really need to prune all of the trees at my house. So today I started working on it.
I cut my grass, and then started pruning a couple of trees. I started by cutting some low branches out of an oak tree, and then I proceeded to work on a hawthorne tree. They have two to three inch thorns that stick out of the branches. One ran through my shoe and about a quarter inch into my foot. I have two huge piles of brush from the day's work. And I have lots more to do. But for now, I have made some progress. I think I am going to pile the wood up into a heap and burn it tonight.
Whatever does not bear fruit is cut off and thrown into the fire. So I am going to toss this stuff into a fire.
The Hawthorne tree is looking pretty cool. Actually, my yard looks really cool as a result of the work. But there is lot's more to go.
Isn't that the way life is--just when you think you are catching up, more comes along!
Is there anything in your life that needs pruned right now?
I cut my grass, and then started pruning a couple of trees. I started by cutting some low branches out of an oak tree, and then I proceeded to work on a hawthorne tree. They have two to three inch thorns that stick out of the branches. One ran through my shoe and about a quarter inch into my foot. I have two huge piles of brush from the day's work. And I have lots more to do. But for now, I have made some progress. I think I am going to pile the wood up into a heap and burn it tonight.
Whatever does not bear fruit is cut off and thrown into the fire. So I am going to toss this stuff into a fire.
The Hawthorne tree is looking pretty cool. Actually, my yard looks really cool as a result of the work. But there is lot's more to go.
Isn't that the way life is--just when you think you are catching up, more comes along!
Is there anything in your life that needs pruned right now?
Friday, July 07, 2006
Pirates of the Caribbean
Last night I saw the debut of the second Pirates of the Caribbean movie. Don't worry, I am not planning on giving any spoilers. The movie had some interesting themes though, including some very overt references to Christianity. It seemed like the dominant theme had a lot to do with character, and how circumstances and life experience can affect character. Unexpected heroes and villains emerge throughout the film, and the whole time one can't help but get immersed in the story. Aren't we in a story similar to this one. Heroes and villains pop up in unexpected places. If we aren't careful, circumstances can transform our normal way of living and doing things. Heroes can become touched with moments of villainy and villains can become heroic. All along I think the goal is to be proactive in living out our own story as heroes, and we can only do that if we enter into the larger heroic story of God.
Anyhoo, the film was beautiful, and the local theater ended up selling out two theaters for midnight showings. I think it is going to do quite well at the box office. If you are able, i recommend seeing this movie. The ending is so cool, it . . .
Anyhoo, the film was beautiful, and the local theater ended up selling out two theaters for midnight showings. I think it is going to do quite well at the box office. If you are able, i recommend seeing this movie. The ending is so cool, it . . .
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Morning in Minnesota
Well, after all of this time together we have no pictures of fish, and no pictures of the three of us together—until the morning of my departure. We were truly fortunate to be able to spend the last few days together. We made memories, we shared stories, and although physically fatigued, I would like to think that we refreshed each other’s spirits. I know that my spirit was refreshed by the time I spent with my friends Liz and Steve Powell in the Northern Wilderness.
Looking Out the Backdoor
Would you look at that yard? Pay no attention to the first fence; it is just for the dog. Waaaaaaay back is the end of Steve and Liz’s yard. They have a fire-pit back there, and as luxurious as that lawn (and garden) are. Don’t be fooled. Minnesota is the land of 10,000 lakes, and the land of 10,000,000,000 mosquitoes. If you don’t spray down with off, you will be eaten alive. As the sun goes down, they come out to feed. They aren’t so bothersome on large bodies of water, but as one approaches the bank, they begin to examine humans as fresh meat.
There is a lot that can be learned from a mosquito. They are pretty powerful creatures. Although tiny, they can drive a human being out of an area and they seem to exert their influence in such a way that people have little choice but to wear repellent, or become a victim of their dominion.
I am so glad we don’t see so many mosquitoes in the hills of Morgantown.
There is a lot that can be learned from a mosquito. They are pretty powerful creatures. Although tiny, they can drive a human being out of an area and they seem to exert their influence in such a way that people have little choice but to wear repellent, or become a victim of their dominion.
I am so glad we don’t see so many mosquitoes in the hills of Morgantown.
Last Day O' Fishing
Windburnt, Fatigued, and heading for a couple of last weedbeds to catch some Northern, our fishing experience finished July 3rd at around seven pm. Everybody had a turn at driving the boat, and we wrangled our way through rough waters all day as a storm was blowing in.
English River
This fine site became the location of our shorelunch. We cooked up six Walleye, potatoes and onions, all cooked in lard. It was delicious. We worked together to build a fire, prep, the food, and then we enjoyed a scrumptious meal of fresh fish. I love the sound of waterfalls. Liz caught our sixth fish out of those falls in a pool to the left in the picture. Other people caught snags—Liz caught fish.
Eagle in Flight
Unfortunately, my camera does not have the lens necessary to bring these eagles into sight. Eagle’s were commonplace along this lake. Although we didn’t see any moose, they are often seen along the rivers that feed into the lake.
The Eagle is a pretty majestic bird. It is also the totem of my tribal clan. It was amazing to watch one of these winged ones dive into the water with its talons outstretched to acquire a fish, and to see another carrying away some other small object (probably a squirrel) to it’s lofty nest.
There is something really special about the Eagle. It was definitely a treat to see eagle’s every day I was on the water. Lot’s of times people call every big bird in the sky an eagle, but Eagle’s are unmistakeable.
I remember hearing this quote once. “The eagle never lost so much time as when he stooped to learn from the crow.” It’s weird, as I meditate on that quote, I can’t help but think that there is much to learn from both for us. But that probably isn’t what the quote means at all.
The Eagle is a pretty majestic bird. It is also the totem of my tribal clan. It was amazing to watch one of these winged ones dive into the water with its talons outstretched to acquire a fish, and to see another carrying away some other small object (probably a squirrel) to it’s lofty nest.
There is something really special about the Eagle. It was definitely a treat to see eagle’s every day I was on the water. Lot’s of times people call every big bird in the sky an eagle, but Eagle’s are unmistakeable.
I remember hearing this quote once. “The eagle never lost so much time as when he stooped to learn from the crow.” It’s weird, as I meditate on that quote, I can’t help but think that there is much to learn from both for us. But that probably isn’t what the quote means at all.
Canadian Stone Wilderness
This is an image of the cove where our boat (Liz’s Grampa’s) was docked. This stand of evergreens is a remnant from the last timbering of the lake. The entire lake is stone. And yet, these trees grow thickly on top of the stone. I can only imagine what this place must have looked like before the lumber mills came in and turned these woods into paper.
Bearly Photographed
There was a bear wandering around our camp. We caught it on film as we traveled down the highway. I really had to resist the temptation to get out to try to get a better photo. My mom would be so proud of me for not walking up to the bear as I might have felt compelled to do at other points in my life. I’m either getting smarter or more fearful (probably of what my mom would do to me—after the bear was done she would have her turn at knocking some sense into me haha).
Moth at Sioux Lookout
As we were leaving the only store open in Sioux Lookout (July 1st is Canada’s Independence Day), Liz spotted this beautiful moth. I think I finally figured out how to use the macro function on my camera. The image on the wings looks like it is three dimensional. What a sight in the middle of this little Anishnabe Indian Town in the Canadian wilderness.
Sandy River
This was the place I was introduced to fishing for Northern Pike. I didn’t fair so well in this little river, but the next day I caught Northern on what seemed like every third cast. They fight hard, and they have several rows of vicious teeth.
They aren’t supposed to be as delicious as the Walleye, so we focused on catching our limit of meal sized Walleye’s 13’’—15. Actually we had two great meals catching these Walleye’s. Liz’s brother, Luke Smith, should open a guide service. Nobody was catching fish, but he told us where we should go before we left for the lake. Everywhere he told us to go—we caught fish. Lot’s of fish.
This river is fed by a set of rapids that I tried to photograph. The land was impassable when I attempted to get a good shot of the rapids. The river was pleasant, none-the-less.
They aren’t supposed to be as delicious as the Walleye, so we focused on catching our limit of meal sized Walleye’s 13’’—15. Actually we had two great meals catching these Walleye’s. Liz’s brother, Luke Smith, should open a guide service. Nobody was catching fish, but he told us where we should go before we left for the lake. Everywhere he told us to go—we caught fish. Lot’s of fish.
This river is fed by a set of rapids that I tried to photograph. The land was impassable when I attempted to get a good shot of the rapids. The river was pleasant, none-the-less.
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Here are my Dad and my closest friend, both fellow Shawnees from the Eagle clan looking down upon the Pelewa theepi (Ohio River).
The river was called La Belle Riviere by the french. Even on an overcast day like today it still reflects some of that beauty.
It's almost like they are looking into the past as they look down the river. My family has come to this river to sit, reflect, and pray for generations.
It truly is a beautiful river.