Short brisk walk to start the day – then worked both Pinnacle stores. Rege and I had a great conversation about the climate of our country. He’s very versed in this and I appreciate hearing his POV. I did laundry, ate lunch, ran a short errand, looked through the new LTD catalog (danger!!!), and picked up some tickets from Diane for the zoo. She gave me some healthy snacks – I ate part of the one and it was tasty (as Logan would say). I pulled weeds on the hill, picked a few hydrangea for a vase, and saw 2 deer walk through the back yard! I tried to get a photo but they kept ducking behind shrubs. It was really cool to see them so up close! They just looked at me – no fear!
Christmas LTD CatalogYummy snacks from DianeHydrangeaweedless stones!RIGHT in the MIDDLE – by the first round green shrub to the left, is the deer’s butt!
I listened to Bill (filling in for Bram) at First Baptist. It was entitled Tell the Towns that God is coming! It’s great news, and we need to be ready – we don’t know when He will return. Sometimes it’s hard to stay focused, but God is BIG – he has vast size and power, and if we trust He will renew our faith and our strength. We should walk each day with God – Isaiah 40:31 – He WILL come back – so let’s share it from the mountain! Be ready!
Bill – guest pastor for Bram at First Baptist
On this day in 1776 Nathan Hale (colonial spy) arrested, and in 1937 JRR Tolkien’s THE HOBBIT is published in London. Perry Mason premiered in 1957 – my mom’s favorite show. She LOVED Raymond Burr! H G Wells, sci-fi author was born in 1866, Stephen King in 1947, Bill Murray in 1950, and Faith Hill in 1967.
TOMORROW September 22 is:
THE FIRST DAY OF FALL! It will take me some time to adjust to that. I’m in mourning…. But also it’s:
Nothing very exciting to report today. Took a cool walk this morning, watched Paul and Rod to hear their messages, ate scones for breakfast, and then went outside to pull weeds left-handedly. It was cool but sunny and I loved being in the fresh air. The right side of the hill garden is looking good! Even the gerbera daisy that I bought back in May is still blooming. I purchase one every year; it blooms once and dies out. This one has been blooming all summer! I’m so excited!
Gerbera Daisy
It got sort of cool in the house last night, but not cool enough to turn on the heat. It will take the thermostat to register about 67* before I switch to heat! I did turn on the little heater downstairs to keep the chill off my toes!
welcome heat!
Paul’s message from River Hill was ‘Postcards from the Bible’ – meaning, the smaller books of the New Testament that are small in length but have powerful content. Today was Philemon – about forgiveness. Philemon’s servant ran away, and ended up with Paul in prison. Paul was able to share Jesus with Onesimus and then persuade Philemon to forgive him for leaving. The points were that we all need love and forgiveness; from others and from God. 1) We all need an advocate 2) We have an unpayable debt 3) Our debt has been fully paid. Forgiveness makes us want to do more than asked for or expected. As Jesus unconditionally forgave so should we forgive. Our lives should be refreshing to those around us.
On this day in 1519 Ferdinand Magellan set off on his 1st successful circumnavigation of the globe. In 1881 Chester A Arthur was sworn in as 21st president (My sister’s dog was named for him….) In 1904 Orville and Wilber Wright flew a circle in their Flyer II, and in 1967 British liner Queen Elizabeth II was launched. In 1980 Blizzard of Ozz – solo debut album of Ozzy Osbourne – was released (This one’s for YOU Nate!!). Jacob Grimm (wrote Grimm’s Fairy Tales died at age 78 in 1863.
Do you see the resemblance? Chester A ArthurOzzy Osbourne
Three friend birthdays today. Brandon Yeager from Hempfield Church is celebrating, A good friend I met at Seton Hill – who attends Maplewood church! – Katy Doran has a birthday today, and Keepville Bible Church pastor Byron’s wife Abby Lea Gurnee is celebrating today too! Happy birthday to all of you! Enjoy!
Katy and her grands!Brandon (center) and his familyByron and his wife Abby
How do you describe ‘cousin love’ in nine words? Gail, Karen O, Connie, Karen V, Colleen, Gwen, Beth, Kathy, and Marge! It would have been ten (Holly) but she was unavailable and we missed her! The Skunk Hollow cousins had a great time at the bonfire at Beth’s on Friday night. It was a very cool, windy evening but the fire was blazing and we were content.
Blazing fireBeth and Harold’s beautiful back yard!Sharing around the fireBack row: Kathy, Marge, Karen V, Beth Front row: Gwen, Connie, Karen O, Gail, Colleen
We had the traditional hot dogs, chips, mountain pies, s’mores – but Connie made apple crisp that was one of the best I ever ate! Yum! I even had to forgo the s’mores for a second bite of the crisp! As is tradition, I had a short essay that I read, one that included Susan, so it brought her into the group in a special way. Hard to believe it’s been over a year since she has been gone. After we ate, we went around the circle and updated everyone on what was happening with our families, jobs, homes, life in general. It was great to catch up and see what everyone has been doing, especially factoring the pandemic into the equation!
We never lack topic to discuss, never have a lull in the conversation, never leave without being able to share what is on our hearts and minds. It was great to hear so many positive comments and so many good things happening, despite the topsy-turvy year of 2020. Kathy, Karen O, and I even wore our Skunk hats!
Marge, Kathy and Karen O (sitting)
Even the trip back to Greensburg from Indiana went smoothly (no deer or roadkill to contend with, and no strange weather to buffet us around), and we arrived home in almost no time (even staying within the speed limit!). Our Skunk Hollow Women’s Fest events keep us fueled and content until the next one, which in this case will be Christmas. I thank God for these wonderful women, for their faith and love and steadfastness, for their support and their generosity. Can’t wait until December, but in the meantime, my fuel tank will run on memories! Love you girls!!
Micah did not post his message this week, so I will quote a line for the book I am currently reading. Layla, the main character, is struggling with a big decision, and is talking to her pastor about her indecision. He says: “It’s hard to act without knowing what will come. Sometimes we get hurt; sometimes we fall. Sometimes we get lost. But no matter what, we’re never worse off when we act in faith.” Stay true to your faith and to God’s direction and He will keep you in his Hands.
I had ordered a new star light for my flag room (spare bedroom) and also a pen holder for my desk (I saw Mary Ann’s and was sinfully covetous and ordered one!) and they came today! Small things, great joy! It’s my consolation for giving up summer for fall weather 🙁 .
Star floor lampTypewriter pen holder
I picked up Chrissy this afternoon and we ran a few errands – went to Miller’s Crossing fleatique (She got a tiny Ty beany baby and a Ty Dori – from Finding Nemo) and stopped at Walmart really quickly (she got Dove chocolate – her favorite!). I got lettuce. How boring… But good! We had fun together and I was glad to see her for a while.
On this day in 1796 George Washington gave his farewell address as president. In 1893 New Zealand became the first country to grant all women the right to vote, and in 1960 Chubby Checker’s ‘The Twist’ hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Jimmy Fallon was born in 1974 and in 1881 James Garfield (20th President) died at age 49. Orville Redenbacher died at age 88 in 1995, and in 1945 Shirley Temple (age 17) married John Agar (age 24). In 2016 Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt filed for divorce.
What a change in the temperatures. Sunny skies, cooler weather. Thankful for the sun but missing the higher temps.
Today was a catch-up day. I made a batch of scones to bake in the morning, sewed some seams in a woven rug that were coming apart, researched some things online. Also received the Pioneer Woman Salt and Pepper shakers that I ordered for Kelly. She’ll be excited! I marinated chicken breasts for tomorrow or Sunday.
But I’m still basking in the afterthoughts of last night’s PEEPs get together. Liz and I met at Joelyn’s house for an evening of Chinese food, warm chocolate chip cookies, deep friendship and lots of conversation. A few deer even wondered out of the woods and across the yard – fun! We talked about work (we are all in the same line of work!) and the challenges, inconsistencies, and injustices of the profession. I felt very blessed as I listened because again it’s driven home to me how fortunate I am to work for a group of extremely nice, professional, and strongly ethical men! I thank God for them!
Liz and Joelyn – we missed you April!
We did have a great time – sharing funny stories, some struggles and heartaches, some excitements. Joelyn’s daughter is a Freshman at a college in Arizona, so she’s doing the empty nest thing. Liz is knee-deep in college classes for a para-legal plus working full time. We all have a lot going on, but again how thankful I am, for my flexibility of schedule, the love and support of family and friends, and for these two ladies who love and support without judgement. And the icing on the cake is that Liz and I got to take home the leftover General Tsos! Yum! Thanks, Joelyn, for a wonderful night of fellowship and friendship!
Tonight will be another blessing. Eight of us are getting together at Beth’s house for our annual Skunk Hollow Women’s Fest bonfire – social distancing in place of course! But this fellowship of cousins is precious and special, and I will share that tomorrow!
Last year’s SHWF!!!
Today I listened to Mike at Hempfield Church. He was back in Acts, following the apostles as they taught and preached everywhere they went. Christianity starts out for most of us being easy, a natural part of community and of life. But America has made it difficult – so much ridicule and abhorrence for God and for Who we stand for. Life today can break our hearts. We may find that following Jesus may get very real – it could mean persecution or punishment, and definitely discomfort. We have a lot to do as we live to honor God. But He can turn bad circumstances into something good, so we cannot give up. God is still on the throne and it’s not the end of the story! Keep sharing Jesus with a starving world!
Mike from Hempfield
On this day in 1793 US President George Washington laid the cornerstone of the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. I Dream of Jeannie premiered in 1965, and Jimi Hendrix died at age 27 in 1970. Two friend birthdays today: Liz’s mom Gretchen Pahel (who previously worked at Smail’s) and Marilee Pletcher, part of the historical society and very instrumental in my involvement with the Stahlstown Flax Festival and writing the Middle Grade historical fact-based fiction book FIELDS OF BLUE. Happy birthday to both of you – enjoy your day!!!
I looked onto Vanderbilt church and instead of Greg Pelc there was Greg Voss – the new director of Camp Christian. He shared his excitement about camp and his work there – what has happened so far, and what to look forward to. Camp is so important. It’s a place to share the gospel, reach lives, and change lives. It brings the community together in a way that few other things do, because the impact is spiritual and eternal.
Greg Voss and his family
Greg and his family, with the help from support churches, have already done lots of work to improve the buildings and the grounds. Just last month all of the toilets on the grounds were functional at the same time – probably the first time (and possibly the last??) in the history of camp! (haha) There are new trails and paths, and lots of noticeable clean up to the grounds and streams.
As for the future of camp, next summer’s theme will be LEGACY. It will be the 80th anniversary, begun in 1941. The hope is to build on the purpose and foundations that began in 1941 to carry into the future. Camp will be a vital part of making the world what it needs to be. We need to be a light! LEGACY: anything handed down from the past, as from an ancestor or predecessor. Or as one website described it: Where life stories live on.
Where life stories live on….
Greg shared John 3:16 – and named it the Bible’s version of the declaration of independence. We need to live that verse and live like we believe it so others know for certain God loves the world and Christ died to save it.
Our declaration of independence
So for today I thought I’d focus on camp. I didn’t have time to look through my hundreds of photos to find ones of my years at camp — that will have to be for another time (maybe a winter’s day when staying inside surrounded by memories would be the warmth I need!). But here are a few from my first few years as a camper at Camp Christian.
I first went to camp the year I was in 7th grade. Judy Oplinger and I from Hempfield Church were the only ones to attend that summer. We must have brought back a glowing testimony, because as the years grew Hempfield often had the highest number of attenders for a give summer!
My first year at camp – July of 1962Judy Oplinger – my companion and cabin mate!
It was tradition for our family that when we pulled onto the dirt road off the blacktop back to camp that we turned off the radio, and later, anything electronic. It was a time for quiet, reflection, and anticipation. And we respected that. Even to this day.
I will tag the photos – and if you went to camp, maybe you can take time to think about the friendships, experiences, spiritual nutrition (which was infinitely better than the meals, in my humble opinion!), and lost socks and underwear. My son was baptized at camp with Danny Miller one year, and my daughter spent several of her college summers living on the grounds as staff. She met her husband at camp! If God had to live anywhere else other than Heaven – it would be Camp Christian!!! (He does spend a LOT of time there already!)
Ron Buschek – everyone’s favorite! Always had a laugh to liven things up – but had a true heart for God and for the kids. I had a crush on Ron for YEARS!!! But don’t worry – Patty knows….The old Mill House – notice the stone pillar in the drive that housed one of the BELLS of Camp ChristianOriginal Chapel and MillhouseEric Fulmer – my first camp crush (Can’t remember who he’s with…)Peggy McGowan – my first cabin mom
On this day in 1787 the US Constitution was signed by delegates at the Philadelphia Convention. Harriet Tubman first escaped slavery in Maryland with 2 of her brothers in 1849. In 1916 WWI Flying Ace The Red Baron won his first aerial combat – and it wasn’t against Snoopy!!! The Lord of the Flies was published in 1954. Hank Williams was born in 1923.
The Red Baron – he’s sort of cute!!!!
And for additional birthdays: Dennis Shafer (my good friend Ron’s Florida brother!) is celebrating today, as is Greg Saldi – missionary (with his wife Nikki and daughter Ophelia) to France and a good friend. So is distant cousin Karen Lee (New Jersey) and one of my very first Sunday School teachers Eleanor Morris. Happy, happy birthday to all of you – may it be SWEET!
Eleanor Morris (who was also a huge supporter of Camp Christian!)
National Hug Your Boss Day – Changes Annually – Friday, September 18, 2020 – Too bad I don’t work tomorrow. But are we even ALLOWED to hug????
A writer friend of mine, Tom, shared many experiences that he had a camp – his father in law Bud Morrison was a caretaker in the initial years. He often posts pictures from that time. Tom’s wife was raised there.
The Chapel – Tom’s old photoMillhouse – Tom’s old photo
My mother was a regular attender at Woman’s Retreat; my sister attended every year she could as a camper, and was staff in as many camp weeks/weekends as she could manage, including Dean of different weeks throughout the year. I believe camp blood runs through her veins! I’m glad to have camp memories – far too many to share – to bring a smile to my face and a continual blessing to my heart! Have a great weekend – and God Bless…
I was crazy lazy this morning – Didn’t even set an alarm and just got up whenever and didn’t walk early. I kept busy all day, cleaning and doing household business. I had to run into work for a few minutes to help Rege with something. Kath and I went to see Mom – it was in the community room but we were still distanced. She didn’t say anything and wasn’t entirely engaged but she looked good and smiled often. The visits are always too short.
My little mom….
Right now I am watching/listening to the ACM’s. It is so STRANGE to see everyone performing with no audience. It’s eerie! They just announced duo of the year award and Dan and Shay won! They beat out Brooks and Dunn! Amazing! I actually jumped up and shouted, clapping and bouncing around the room. Dan and Shay are Pittsburgh natives so naturally they were local favorites! It’s only just begun – can’t wait to see the other winners!
Dan and Shay
I listened to Steve’s message from Maplewood. He talked about Joseph, and compared it to the story of the prodigal son – and then Joseph’s life is a parallel with Jesus. The main theme came across as ‘What you meant for evil, God meant for good!’ He also shared the parable of the master who forgave his servant, then that servant did not forgive his own servant. We need to forgive and offer grace. Life is full of injustices but God makes all things new – and all things work together for God to those who love and believe!
Steve from Maplewood
On this day in 1968 Richard Nixon appeared on Rowan and Martin’s LAUGH-IN!! Seems appropriate… In 1990 Dennis Quaid and Meg Ryan were married. James Cash Penney (founded J C Penney’s) was born in 1875 and Magician David Copperfield was born in 1956. And my dear friend Janie Close Ball is celebrating a birthday today. We were in youth group together at Hempfield Church — back in the day! I won’t say which day 🙂 Hugs, Janie, and happy birthday!
It was definitely a cool morning at 6am when we went senior shopping! I was glad for my jacket. I reversed my schedule a little; did not walk in the morning but put groceries away then ran the sweeper and tidied up a bit before work. I didn’t take an actual walk but was on my feet all day except for being at my desk at work. Snoopy has good advise today for us – Most of all, LET LOVE guide your life!
Snoopy’s scripture verse for today
Switched out cars today – am driving a little Buick Encore. I love it! Just perfect for me; nice size and great optional equipment. I’m very comfy in it – thanks, guys!!! After lunch I mailed a package to Kelly at the post office uptown, got gas, and went to one of my favorite little fleatique malls in Adamsburg. I seldom buy much and never spend over $5. Today I stayed with the patriotic theme! Once I got home I made a pot of veggie soup – looks more like stew since the rice soaked up most of the broth. Still tastes yummy. I spent an hour weeding the right side of the hill. Not done, but again making progress.
My fleatique treasure findsSoup
Kelly got good news from both of her surgeons today (she had appointments in Pittsburgh). The cyst on her kidney was benign! Best news ever, to quote her txt to me! Dr Amy says her forehead is looking really good and she doesn’t have to go back until the end of October. So she’s moving forward happily! God is good, all the time!
I am sharing Paul’s message from River Hill. God will use whoever is willing! We need to keep our eyes on Jesus and He’ll lead and direct us. Have a servant’s heart, and He can make an ordinary day extraordinary. Just be willing and He’ll do the rest!
Paul from River Hill
On this day in 1254 Marco Polo was born – he’s probably still playing blind man’s bluff… James Fenimore Cooper was born in 1789, William Howard Taft – 27th President of the US – born in 1857, Agatha Christie in 1890, Dan Marino in 1961, and London’s Price Harry in 1984. In 1794 James Madison – 4th President of the US – married Dolley Madison. I think she makes pretty good snack cakes.
I am in mourning for the absence of my hot weather! Right now it’s sort of a compromise but really, I know what’s coming 🙁 . Took a brisk walk this morning before work, delivered Kathy’s Mums to her, and then between laundry loads I pulled weeds (with my left hand!) on the hill. I still have a bit to do on the other side but I’m in good shape right now. Well, the gardens are in good shape. My back is reminding me that two hours balancing on the hill pulling weeds lop-sidedly is not good shape!
On my walk this morning I saw the cutest sign! In these days of people-less parties and cyber celebrations, there has to be a bit of creativity to make life’s occasions extra fun. I don’t know who Camden is, but he apparently likes dinosaurs, monster trucks, fire trucks, camping, and s’mores! I snapped a pic of the contact info as well – seems like a great idea for these pandemic times!
What a cute and creative way to celebrate!Remember this when you need to celebrate!
I finally got my chocolate chip cookies made, and as with everything else, the finished product doesn’t quite give the thrill that lives up to the expectation. They are just – – – cookies! But another project finished! Laundry is still tumbling away.
I listened to the substitute preacher (Mac) for First Baptist of Greensburg, as Bram is still recovering. He had quite an in-depth presentation of some of the events leading up to the tribulation as described in Revelation. But when it comes down to it, here’s the bottom line: Jesus is coming back! We need to be ready, as no man knows the day and time. Keep your lamps lit, my friends! The time is right ….
On this day in 1741 Handel finished “Messiah” after working on it non-stop 23 days in a row. In 1814 Francis Scott Key wrote what would become the Star-Spangled Banner while witnessing the bombardment of Ft. McHenry from a ship in Baltimore Harbor (It’s a great story, an amazing part of our history. Check it out!). In 1901 Theodore Roosevelt was sworn in as the youngest man to serve as a US President after the death of William McKinley. In 1985 the Golden Girls debuted – and are still running strong! Aaron Burr – our 3rd US Vice President who killed Alexander Hamilton in a pistol duel, died at age 80 in 1836. In 1901 US President Willliam McKinley died from being shot 8 days earlier, and in 1982 Grace Kelly, Princess of Monaco, dies at 52.
My morning started out (after a brisk walk) with a surprise txt message from Autmn, wishing me happy grandparents day! It made my day! Haven’t seen her in a few weeks and hope to catch up maybe next weekend or so. She’s busy with school, watching her little sister Josie, and working. After my walk I checked the weeds on the bank (oh, disaster! too many!) and saw that my early summer-blooming rose bush had a flower blooming. COVID 19 is affecting everything…
Autmn’s sunny day!September spring (?) rose
On the way to Kelly’s I listened to Rod at Martin’s Ferry. His message was about being thirsty. Jesus offered the woman at the well living water so she would never thirst. That didn’t mean she would never BE thirsty – just that she would have unlimited access to the living water and never stay thirsty. There is a place inside us that only God can fill, and no matter what we try to do or pursue it won’t help unless we seek God and let Jesus offer us the living water.
Rod from Martin’s Ferry
Kelly is improving quickly and aside from some restrictions and still some back/incision pain she is feeling pretty good. So good to see my little daughter smiling! Nice to spend some time with her, as well.
A few of us ordered Mums from the Martin’s Ferry Bible Bowl fundraiser and I brought them back. They are huge and will be beautiful when they all bloom! We were standing on the porch and looked in the yard and a young turkey was wandering around – It looked like it was trying to get in the van. I think it saw its reflection. It came pretty close to us and didn’t seem to scare off.
Bible Bowl Mums“Can I catch a ride? Can’t seem to find my group…”Turkey walked right past me!
The ride home was about 30 minutes worth (half the trip) of torrential downpours. I could barely see the lines on the road. Glad to be home, inside, and safe and sound.
On this day in 1503 Michelangelo began work on the statue of David. In 1997 Mother Theresa’s State Funeral was held in India, and in 1857 Milton S Hershey was born (Yea for Chocolate!!!) And today is my son-in-law Matt’s birthday (Kelly’s husband). Happy, happy birthday Matt, (and to his twin bother Mark as well!). Have a wonderful, healthy, blessed year!
Today was Ladies Fall Retreat at Camp Christian in Mill Run PA. I have gone very often over the last several years, and presented workshops as well. This year was no exception. Kathy, Deb (my cousin) and I left at 7:45am and arrived in time to register and settle in for the program. My long-time friend Lynn (Pelc – Greg’s wife from Vanderbilt Church) presided over the first half of the day and led in several worship songs. Janet Drown (Kyle’s wife from Hempfield Church) gave a workshop in keeping with the day’s theme: I GIVE UP! Surrender to God! She talked about hanging on to the ‘it’ in your life that gives you the most stress and grief. We are afraid to open our hands and give it to God, when he is bigger and wiser than we are. We can trust him to make it right! Do we actually think we could figure this out better than God?
Lynn PelcJanet Drown
Ashly Staley, a young friend that used to be my prayer partner when she was in elementary school, portrayed woman of faith Rahab from the old testament. She did such an excellent job! She talked about Rahab being willing to change her whole way of life because she trusted that God had a better plan. After lunch (which was yummy, by the way) my sister Kathy (also the wife of Paul Eisaman, River Hill Church) gave a workshop about Jehoshaphat, who had made several mistakes as King, and had to go to God for forgiveness. When enemy armies charged toward their cities, Jehoshaphat fell on his face before God and said: “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You.” God fought and won the battle for them without their armies even going to war. All of the people, including children and little ones, had a praise service to the Lord.
Ashly StaleyMy sister Kathy Eisaman
My portrayal of Queen Esther was the last presentation. I have done Esther so many times, and love sharing her story. It was easy to tie the theme of the day into Esther’s story, because when she went before the king, she had to ‘give up’ and surrender everything to God. Their earthly situation definitely required heavenly intervention. She was brave enough to go before the king with her request to save her people – the Jews – and he granted her request. She had been made queen for a time such as this. We all have defining moments in our lives; how will we handle them?
Queen Esther
Kathy and I took a walk up to Vesper Rock (outdoor chapel) and talked about all the times we had sat there on those wooden seats and heard vesper speakers at our weeks of camp. We walked past the creek and found peculiar mushrooms that looked like golf balls! There was a quiet little oasis in the rock to sit and contemplate and rest. Back in the indoor chapel we admired the brand new stained glass window just installed a few weeks ago. It was donated by a man that had grown up attending camp and wanted to pay forward. Beautiful work!
Vesper Rock – Preach on!!!vesper seatsA place to restThe creekGolf Ball Mushrooms….The new stained glass windows, and the theme of the retreat
It was a lovely day, filled with motivation, God’s spirit over us, and the sharing and renewal of old friends. We are so blessed to be in that Place Set Apart!
On this day in 1981 the Smurfs debuted on TV, Johnny Cash died in 2003, and in 1953 John F Kennedy married Jacqueline Bouvier.
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