An Exciting Opportunity

I am so pumped because I am going to be a judge at the 65th Annual State Science Day at St. John Arena! I loved the science fair when I was in school. The most memorable fair was when I was in 8th grade at St. Philip, the year my science teacher, Miss Chapin, reluctantly sent me on to the state science fair. I think she believed my project on prisms was too simple for the state competition. Imagine her surprise when my project received a "Superior" award! A childish vanity has that report and ribbon stowed safely away  in a box in the basement.

Can't wait to meet the clever young people at this year's state science day!

On a Mission to Learn about Urban Missions

11:36 p.m. -- It was an inspiring day. Very cool seeing so many folks from across the state (and some from outside of Ohio) gathered together at the all-day conference (see earlier post below), which was sponsored by Christian Community Development and City Vision. Really enlightening. I think one of the most thought provoking challenges issued by Dr. Bob Lupton was to not do for the poor what they have the capacity to do for themselves. Definitely something to chew on.

The entry below was from earlier 12:36 p.m. today ...
In Cleveland today to learn more about how to be truly impactful in the urban mission/ministry arena. The keynote speaker encourages us to remember we can help best through empowerment - a hand up and not a hand out - planting the seeds for sharing the message of Jesus' love and forgiveness. Sitting in now on a discussion about jobs and workforce.


Pics o' the moment: Opening of the conference at Elizabeth Baptist Church. The second photo is of Dr. Lupton who spoke on his book, Toxic Charity.

Things to Smile about on Rainy Days

I am a slug this morning. The rain, and my golden girl, keep me in my cozy bed. I have read my devotional, said my prayers, and contemplated the day ahead. It is time to get moving, yet here I sit typing. I think, too, that my absence from Bosomundheit has left me with a torrent of creative writing thoughts that are pressing against the floodgates. They will have to wait a little longer.

Until then, I will share some recent photos that bring a smile to my face this rainy day. The first is of my great-niece, sitting in a rocker from her Great Aunt Laura, enjoying a book - a child after my own heart. The second shows some sweet blooming roses given to me by dear friends (sorry about the photo being turned sideways), and the third is a snapshot from a recent evening of service at Jericho's Lightclub where there was good food, fellowship, and music.

Tormentiversaries

Just as I did four years ago, I made it through the day.

Just as I did four years ago and one day, I made it to tomorrow.

Just as I did four years ago and one day, one week, one month, one year:
I made it here with God's hand holding mine.

Still missing you, Jonesy, but surviving -- me and our golden girl.

My loving man

September 27, 1957 to April 8, 2009

13

The Power of One: that's the name of the memorial quilt bearing Ron's quilt square. Creating that quilt square was one of my therapies back in early 2011 and was made using one of Ron's old flannel shirts. Being there for the unveiling was good, but it was an emotion-filled day.

Why "13" for a post title? The Power of One is the 13th quilt put together since Lifeline of Ohio began commissioning these patchwork testimonials back in 1985.

Collage o' the Event

Lindsay's memorial quilt was also on display ...

A Thoughtful Day

I am at Lifeline of Ohio's annual donor family recognition event. This year is extra special as they are dedicating the memorial quilt with the block I made in Ron's honor - kind of appropriate as tomorrow marks four yrs since he gave the gift of life through organ donation.

More pix to come.

They just had the unveiling and here is the quilt. RJ's square is in the 2nd row, far right side.