DEO+ in CLKSVL on Soque #1
Friday, July 10th
NEW home town address:
125 Betty Street, Clarkesville, Georgia 3052
NEW “snail mail address”! Same cell phone #’s: DEO=770-402-7719;
BWO=678-447-2114; same e-mail: dwightogier@bellsouth.net
New e-mail for BWO: babso@windstream.net
Boxes, BOXES, boxes
All the Flat Rate cartons have arrived from STX; now finding a place for all the stuff is the chore or organization; then there are the cartons from the move!
In two Saturdays we will have a huge lawn-yard-garage sale: one man’s junk is another’s treasures; or sell, get rid or give away and excess “stuff” and unwanted things. Hopefully we pare down.
Sun Rise on the screen porch & Morning Coffee
Usually I am awake, up and puttering around near 5:30am; coffee in hand we greet the first light on our screen porch; there a lovely East view where the Sun shines thru the tall trees at his morning rise as we enjoy the new day with the local birds singing. There is a lively hymn from Lift Every Voice and Sing LEVAS): “Oh, what a morning! When the stars begin to fall and the Sun begins to shine!”
I read The Daily Office on the screen porch; after the Sun Rises, when there is enough light, then Forward Day By Day. It’s quiet time in the cool of the morning in North Georgia, which begins the day right.
Early morning walk
In good weather we walk near early light. Walking is our way to discover and SEE the new town and neighborhood. One block from our home is the green way that wanders from town onto the plane of public land along the Soque River bank. Wally our son-in-law has a garden plot growing veggies and flowers in the rich bottom land in the community garden. We enjoy the early morning hours before the sun heats up the humidity. Then home for healthy breakfast at 8am.
Grace-Calvary our new Church
We are two blocks from our Church; historic Grace-Calvary; white clapboard; Boxed pews; clear light infused windows; Colonial-style carpenter Gothic. Nice folks; Good music. It’s an active congregation with good outreach and a mission conscience.
Discover ministry and meaning
Now I am “home” I lie fallow and wait for some meaningful involvement in community and personal ministry. I pray for creative inspiration and people oriented interaction in some sort of ministry. Time will raise me up in some new calling.
“Chelsea” in Cat Heaven
She was an old lady cat rather lame and crippled beyond her years! Her kidney failure and back legs were too weak to stand or walk more than three or four steps; a sad ending for our cat of fourteen years. We adopted Chelsea from Nancy in Cumming, then loaned her back when we went to Saint Croix; Nancy delivered Chelsea to us the week of June 26th; I arrived home on July 1st to discover a thin light weight bag of bones still alive but not eating. She could no longer make it to the cat-box; puddles were frequent. It was a sad time for us, especially our loving Chelsea; so we had her “put down” at the vet. It was a time of sadness and grief. I choose NOT to bring the body home and forgo a burial in the back yard or over the fence in the woods. We left her in the arms of the vet assistant, weeping as we departed on Saturday, July 3rd.
“Lexie” our New Kitten
The Four Seasons hair saloon on the Square of Clarkesville had begun to feed a stray kitten; the owner, John Trapp, got the shots and spayed the baby cat; Cheryl is operator spread the word among her customers the kitten was available for adoption. Babs went to have her hair cut; the rest is history; we brought “LEXIE” home on Monday (7/5) in a barrowed Cat box transfer crate as she meowed and complained all the way home! We installed a cat-box in the second bath and she has adapted rather well; it’s fun to have a kitten and watch her play with cat toys and scratch on the card board claw box laced with cat-nip! We are cat people again!
Ham Radio Shack
Climbed onto the roof and strung a G5RV antenna in East-West direction; but threw a brick over a tree limb and it swung back breaking a window in Den! With home call the glass man will charge $200 for replacement of window; my new $200 antenna! Now set up a my Ham Radio “Shack”; so far I get good reception; heard in first few minutes: Arizona and Germany on 20 meters.
WINDSTREAM our server
We have a new e-server and have gone wireless in the home; a phone line-based broad band system sent out from a modem plugged into the telephone jack; we can use our lap tops anywhere in the house or on the porch! I am keeping: dwightogier@bellsouth.net until further notice. Babs now uses: babso@windstream.net
Walk to town and Post Office
We walk into town in three or four blocks; coffee shop with “wi-fi”; fancy antique stores; and décor gift stuff abound; Ingles the only food store just one mile way. I walk the outgoing letter mail just for the exercise.
NEXT find Doctors and barber
I need discover a GP, eye glasses Dr, Dentist & barber; Babs is one step ahead.
While I was still on STX, BWO already established herself with physician and dentist; now it my time for the adjustments of moving into a new hometown!
“Corry” our yard boy and handyman
We share a lawn mower-ride tractor with “Whissey” our across the street neighbor; Not real sure I will purchase a riding mower; 100 mows and we still will not have paid for a tractor mower! He’s a good painter and yard trimmer.
It’s easier for me to pay someone than do the drudgery myself, especially clean out the leaf filled gutters!
Ace is the Place!
Habersham Hardware (an Ace affiliate) or the big Ace Hardware on the Gainesville Highway gets our dollars; purchased a two front wheeled barrow,
replaced an Ace dating back to Mobile; some 24 years ago. Struts rusted on the wheel support system.
It’s quiet until week ends.
Garison Keeler would find this town his liking! Small town, slow, lovely trees.
Weekends we hear the roar of motor cycles riding thru town from “hot-Lanta.”
Weekender bikers discover the country; and we are it!
One block away from good BBQ and Cat Fish!
When the breeze blows in our direction, we smell BBQ; it’s rather pleasant. Delicious pulled pork, beef brisket and fried cat fish are the specialties for
The Hawg Wild BBQ and Cat Fish House is a popular spot for families and beer drinking country eat’in couples and single fellows looking for dates.
Tim, Robin, Wally & Phoebe for 5th July
With “Old Glory” flying in the wind and the Georgia State Flag hanging from the drive way tree; our family gathered for hamburgers, hot dogs, baked beans, potato salad, water melon, and fresh made peach ice cream.
We’ve changed our auto tags
Got new drivers licenses; registered to vote; and obtained a library card. We’re
Habersham residents and Clarkesville tax payers! We are beginning to settle into new home town.
New license plates
Now both autos have Habersham County plates; we both changed our drivers licenses to new address; we each have registered to vote; and both have a library card! We have joined the town!
We’re 17 miles from Helen and 26 miles from Gainesville; drive 30 miles we can be in North or South Carolina. Habersham County and Historic Clarkesville are North Georgia early mountain regions where our expanded cottage fits into the neighborhood under spreading tall oak trees. It’s a long way and different from the tropics of Saint Croix, but we remember and picture the people & friends we came to love and cherish.
Come See us! Stop for a visit!La Paz y Buen Camino!
DEO+
Friday, July 9, 2010
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
LAST Day on STX
DEO on STX
Last Day
30 June 2010
I’m leaving on a Jet Plane!
Flight confirmed; departing on Cape Air @ 7:20am to San Juan; then Delta
Non-stop to Atlanta leaving @ 9am; projected arrival Hartsfiled @ 1:30PM
Ready to fly out and off Island, back “home” to new residence in Clarkesville!
Maids clean up the Condo
Right on time, Amber and her sister arrived for heavy and deep cleaning; I disappeared and went to the Post Office for final mailing of Flat Rate boxes;
The women did a great job cleaning and leaving the condo ready for close-up and tighten-down all hatches and windows!
Car wash and interior detail
Following a last meeting with the Wardens @ St. Peter’s office; I delivered the Nissan to the public parking lot in downtown Christiansted, ordered a though wash and interior detail and returned one hour later! Lovely, neat job! Best $30
I spent, gave him Ten dollar tip. $40 bucks for a super clean car to leave.
Pack up and haul every thing
I fly light with as little as I can carry: in Two Bags (one checked and one carry-on) plus a computer bag over the shoulder. Thanks be to God for flat rate US Postal box service!
Gave away food
Cleaned out the refrig; and gave away condiments; frozen foods, mil and eggs;
Dried pasta and noodles; bread and butter and jam; left-overs and liquor.
Made the rounds began with neighbors next door then across to single bed-room units: Barkers, Christmons, Dendtlers, Colombos, etc. Really enjoyed sharing
Stuff; some went to secretary and sexton at St. Peter’s.
Friends gather at Cheney Bay for Wednesday hamburger nite; good bye with the “Reef gang.” Lots of great friends from The Reef joined me for a last night at The East End Bar and Grill for $5 burgers; cards and shell Christmas ornament; Fun group! Later stopped at Duggans for a Martini and good-bye to Frank and Shawn; nice folks and happy memories at the beach bar and restruant.
Last pool swim at before bed and another dip pre-dawn before departure!
Relaxed and final “dips” in the Reef Pool near mid-night and before dawn @ 4:30am; I will miss the cool swim before bed and after arising and just before sun-rise!
Wednesday final Ham radio “check-in”My radio friends and radio weather observers at 6:40am DAILY contacts were gracious upon my announcements on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of my departure on Thursday; I will miss their friendship and off beat observations;
Weather net 2 meter Island morning check-ins have been a DAILY ritual and
Invisible group of friends; I hope to link up with them on HF or 40 meters Ham Radio.
Come to Clarkesville to See (Me) Us!
La Paz Y Buen Camino!
DEO+
Last Day
30 June 2010
I’m leaving on a Jet Plane!
Flight confirmed; departing on Cape Air @ 7:20am to San Juan; then Delta
Non-stop to Atlanta leaving @ 9am; projected arrival Hartsfiled @ 1:30PM
Ready to fly out and off Island, back “home” to new residence in Clarkesville!
Maids clean up the Condo
Right on time, Amber and her sister arrived for heavy and deep cleaning; I disappeared and went to the Post Office for final mailing of Flat Rate boxes;
The women did a great job cleaning and leaving the condo ready for close-up and tighten-down all hatches and windows!
Car wash and interior detail
Following a last meeting with the Wardens @ St. Peter’s office; I delivered the Nissan to the public parking lot in downtown Christiansted, ordered a though wash and interior detail and returned one hour later! Lovely, neat job! Best $30
I spent, gave him Ten dollar tip. $40 bucks for a super clean car to leave.
Pack up and haul every thing
I fly light with as little as I can carry: in Two Bags (one checked and one carry-on) plus a computer bag over the shoulder. Thanks be to God for flat rate US Postal box service!
Gave away food
Cleaned out the refrig; and gave away condiments; frozen foods, mil and eggs;
Dried pasta and noodles; bread and butter and jam; left-overs and liquor.
Made the rounds began with neighbors next door then across to single bed-room units: Barkers, Christmons, Dendtlers, Colombos, etc. Really enjoyed sharing
Stuff; some went to secretary and sexton at St. Peter’s.
Friends gather at Cheney Bay for Wednesday hamburger nite; good bye with the “Reef gang.” Lots of great friends from The Reef joined me for a last night at The East End Bar and Grill for $5 burgers; cards and shell Christmas ornament; Fun group! Later stopped at Duggans for a Martini and good-bye to Frank and Shawn; nice folks and happy memories at the beach bar and restruant.
Last pool swim at before bed and another dip pre-dawn before departure!
Relaxed and final “dips” in the Reef Pool near mid-night and before dawn @ 4:30am; I will miss the cool swim before bed and after arising and just before sun-rise!
Wednesday final Ham radio “check-in”My radio friends and radio weather observers at 6:40am DAILY contacts were gracious upon my announcements on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of my departure on Thursday; I will miss their friendship and off beat observations;
Weather net 2 meter Island morning check-ins have been a DAILY ritual and
Invisible group of friends; I hope to link up with them on HF or 40 meters Ham Radio.
Come to Clarkesville to See (Me) Us!
La Paz Y Buen Camino!
DEO+
Monday, June 28, 2010
Last week! Coming to the END of the Ministry
DEO+ on STX #33
Summer Soltice
The first day of summer arrive with a modest Sunrise, partially blocked by the remainder of “L92”; the Tropical Wave, no-longer named nor followed as she dissipated over Haiti and Puerto Rico after dumping up to four inches of rain; we had storms for three days on Saint Croix; BUT she regrouped and now has been renamed “L93”! She is headed toward the Gulf of Mexico, across Cuba. Monday, June 21st will be the longest day of the year; earliest Sunrise and latest Sunset. Welcome summer wherever you are; it’s not new here as Summer is all year round, just days a little longer now!
Last Vestry Meeting
Leaving my “Last Vestry Meeting” on Monday evening as a great joy! St. Peter’s functions as a “Family Church” and does a lot of business in committee of the whole; few committees meet for business. I pray my guidance has directed their corporate decision making into a smoother process. I introduced a three step process for the Agenda: Items for announcement, Items for discussion, items for decision; then normal reports. It’s an orderly process similar to the motion steps for voting……our meetings are shorter and more concentrated.
Guest teacher arrives
Rev. Dr. Raulston Nembhart from the Diocese of Central Florida, retired Rector of St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church, Orlando; the Teaching Mission went full swing; we gather at 7pm, sang, prayed and listened to the speaker on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evening. Fr. Raulston was the guest key-note speaker at the Friday night banquet. Good turn out, we averaged 45 people each night.
Adopted Father’s Day presence
What a nice home made gift I received from Naya Turnbull, age five!
The youth presented a special poetic interpretation of the meaning of Fatherhood at the conclusion of the Mass on June 20th; the children and teens presented gifts to their Dads; those “without Fathers present” adopted another male to receive their gift; I was given a picture frame and DAD card from Naya!
How sweet and thoughtful!
More auto/taxi “names”
“Jesus Now”, PUSH, Nobody Knows Me, Tom Cat, Fordy, Rise Again, Joy Ride, One Bad Boy, Blessings, TEK DAT!, Cool Rider, Who Feels it Knows it, BBQ, Celebration of Completion, Success Implied, Centerlane, The Frame Up,
I will rise, The Maid, FONS
Local “road house” closes
Chicken Charlie’s has been an East End local tradition for years; on Tuesday night (6/22nd) they closed the doors after a well advertised week of $2 all beverages-drink-up-the-stock; On Saturday a giant “yard sale” for equipment, chairs, tables, etc. The sale continued all week at selected hours; stuff walked out the door! Another business goes “south” because of the economy: ie, raised the rent!
Come See Me Mon!
La Paz y Buen Camino!
DEO+
Summer Soltice
The first day of summer arrive with a modest Sunrise, partially blocked by the remainder of “L92”; the Tropical Wave, no-longer named nor followed as she dissipated over Haiti and Puerto Rico after dumping up to four inches of rain; we had storms for three days on Saint Croix; BUT she regrouped and now has been renamed “L93”! She is headed toward the Gulf of Mexico, across Cuba. Monday, June 21st will be the longest day of the year; earliest Sunrise and latest Sunset. Welcome summer wherever you are; it’s not new here as Summer is all year round, just days a little longer now!
Last Vestry Meeting
Leaving my “Last Vestry Meeting” on Monday evening as a great joy! St. Peter’s functions as a “Family Church” and does a lot of business in committee of the whole; few committees meet for business. I pray my guidance has directed their corporate decision making into a smoother process. I introduced a three step process for the Agenda: Items for announcement, Items for discussion, items for decision; then normal reports. It’s an orderly process similar to the motion steps for voting……our meetings are shorter and more concentrated.
Guest teacher arrives
Rev. Dr. Raulston Nembhart from the Diocese of Central Florida, retired Rector of St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church, Orlando; the Teaching Mission went full swing; we gather at 7pm, sang, prayed and listened to the speaker on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evening. Fr. Raulston was the guest key-note speaker at the Friday night banquet. Good turn out, we averaged 45 people each night.
Adopted Father’s Day presence
What a nice home made gift I received from Naya Turnbull, age five!
The youth presented a special poetic interpretation of the meaning of Fatherhood at the conclusion of the Mass on June 20th; the children and teens presented gifts to their Dads; those “without Fathers present” adopted another male to receive their gift; I was given a picture frame and DAD card from Naya!
How sweet and thoughtful!
More auto/taxi “names”
“Jesus Now”, PUSH, Nobody Knows Me, Tom Cat, Fordy, Rise Again, Joy Ride, One Bad Boy, Blessings, TEK DAT!, Cool Rider, Who Feels it Knows it, BBQ, Celebration of Completion, Success Implied, Centerlane, The Frame Up,
I will rise, The Maid, FONS
Local “road house” closes
Chicken Charlie’s has been an East End local tradition for years; on Tuesday night (6/22nd) they closed the doors after a well advertised week of $2 all beverages-drink-up-the-stock; On Saturday a giant “yard sale” for equipment, chairs, tables, etc. The sale continued all week at selected hours; stuff walked out the door! Another business goes “south” because of the economy: ie, raised the rent!
Come See Me Mon!
La Paz y Buen Camino!
DEO+
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Two weeks left!
DEO+ on STX
3rd Sunday after Pentecost
17 June 2010
More wind-shield “names”:
God Speed, White Fang, Rich Duffer-Poor Golfer, Gone Fish’in,
Man Sized, Fruit of the Loom, Nutty Fruit Cake, First & Last Nights,
Dark Horse, What see is what ya Get! I AM Here, 100% Fisherman,
Everyone Deserves Music, Good Bears Eat their Honey, Freeker,
Power to the Peaceful!, One Horn Butt Fish, Devine Beauty, 4x4,
Papillan, Dip, EZ@Home, Let them say, Better off Alone, My Lord and I,
Dream Catcher, Deadly Eyes, Ghost
Final Diocesan Clericus
Last Thursday (6/10) I met with the Bishop and clergy of the Diocese of the V.I.
For the final quarterly meeting before I depart from the V.I. +Ambrose calls the Deacons and Priests to meet together, pray, read Holy Scripture and share ones joys and sorrows in support with each other; we hear what’s on the mind of the Bishop and he listens to our concerns. I left the Diocesan Office a little sad; it was my last meeting on St. Thomas.
VEEP screws up air space
On Sunday, June 13th @ All Saint’s Cathedral, St. Thomas, a special Mass to honor the 39th anniversary of the Ordination as Priest, Canon Lionel Rymer; I was invited to participate; accordingly I did a “turbo Mass” in exactly One Hour;
Departing St. Pete’s @ 0930 and planned to fly over to STT via Seaborne Airlines, seaplane @ 10:20, allowing enough time to catch a taxi and make the 11:00 service at the Cathedral. The plane did not take off until 11:10am; held up by “the Presidential Aircraft” in the St. Thomas airspace! Vice President Joe Biden
Was flying in for a few days, spending fun and sun at a friend’s home! I arrived in time for the sermon, near 11:45. In a small space as the Virgin Islands, any different pattern always messes up other systems!
Last Trip to St. Thomas
On Sunday, I was invited to share in the celebration and Eucharistic service for the 39th Anniversary of Ordination; upon returning to STX from SST I realized this was my last flight over and back; all good things come to an end!
Clear horizon and Island View
The last few days have been exceptionally clear and stiff breezes cleared the horizon; the evenings and mornings brilliant with a Lovely Sun rise and Sun Set!
Sewing Machines set up in Parish Hall
Babs has returned to Clarkesville, but she would be right at home among the folks at St. Peter’s this week as they brought their sewing machines and set up a production of sewing chair backs and tie backs for the Patronal festival banquet; two of our men brought machines! In all seven people were sewing at the same time!
Two weeks till Georgia!
Today in two weeks I will be back home! I depart on July 1st; We’re on a down hill slide; I am mailing and giving stuff away; ship home via USPS in flat rate boxes.
Taking Holy Communion to shut-ins
On Monday and Wednesday (6/14 & 15) I delivered the Holy sacrament of Eucharist to eight shut-ins of the parish; this was my final visit with these faithful folks; many listen to the Sunday service over the radio broadcast. Pastoral care has been a top priority for me in this Interim Ministry task at St. Peter’s. My predecessors were unfortunately not that diligent and some even neglected the shut-ins! What a joy to sing and pray with our people, accompanied by two or three laity.
Come See Me Mon!
La Paz y Buen Camino!
DEO+
3rd Sunday after Pentecost
17 June 2010
More wind-shield “names”:
God Speed, White Fang, Rich Duffer-Poor Golfer, Gone Fish’in,
Man Sized, Fruit of the Loom, Nutty Fruit Cake, First & Last Nights,
Dark Horse, What see is what ya Get! I AM Here, 100% Fisherman,
Everyone Deserves Music, Good Bears Eat their Honey, Freeker,
Power to the Peaceful!, One Horn Butt Fish, Devine Beauty, 4x4,
Papillan, Dip, EZ@Home, Let them say, Better off Alone, My Lord and I,
Dream Catcher, Deadly Eyes, Ghost
Final Diocesan Clericus
Last Thursday (6/10) I met with the Bishop and clergy of the Diocese of the V.I.
For the final quarterly meeting before I depart from the V.I. +Ambrose calls the Deacons and Priests to meet together, pray, read Holy Scripture and share ones joys and sorrows in support with each other; we hear what’s on the mind of the Bishop and he listens to our concerns. I left the Diocesan Office a little sad; it was my last meeting on St. Thomas.
VEEP screws up air space
On Sunday, June 13th @ All Saint’s Cathedral, St. Thomas, a special Mass to honor the 39th anniversary of the Ordination as Priest, Canon Lionel Rymer; I was invited to participate; accordingly I did a “turbo Mass” in exactly One Hour;
Departing St. Pete’s @ 0930 and planned to fly over to STT via Seaborne Airlines, seaplane @ 10:20, allowing enough time to catch a taxi and make the 11:00 service at the Cathedral. The plane did not take off until 11:10am; held up by “the Presidential Aircraft” in the St. Thomas airspace! Vice President Joe Biden
Was flying in for a few days, spending fun and sun at a friend’s home! I arrived in time for the sermon, near 11:45. In a small space as the Virgin Islands, any different pattern always messes up other systems!
Last Trip to St. Thomas
On Sunday, I was invited to share in the celebration and Eucharistic service for the 39th Anniversary of Ordination; upon returning to STX from SST I realized this was my last flight over and back; all good things come to an end!
Clear horizon and Island View
The last few days have been exceptionally clear and stiff breezes cleared the horizon; the evenings and mornings brilliant with a Lovely Sun rise and Sun Set!
Sewing Machines set up in Parish Hall
Babs has returned to Clarkesville, but she would be right at home among the folks at St. Peter’s this week as they brought their sewing machines and set up a production of sewing chair backs and tie backs for the Patronal festival banquet; two of our men brought machines! In all seven people were sewing at the same time!
Two weeks till Georgia!
Today in two weeks I will be back home! I depart on July 1st; We’re on a down hill slide; I am mailing and giving stuff away; ship home via USPS in flat rate boxes.
Taking Holy Communion to shut-ins
On Monday and Wednesday (6/14 & 15) I delivered the Holy sacrament of Eucharist to eight shut-ins of the parish; this was my final visit with these faithful folks; many listen to the Sunday service over the radio broadcast. Pastoral care has been a top priority for me in this Interim Ministry task at St. Peter’s. My predecessors were unfortunately not that diligent and some even neglected the shut-ins! What a joy to sing and pray with our people, accompanied by two or three laity.
Come See Me Mon!
La Paz y Buen Camino!
DEO+
Sunday, June 6, 2010
2nd Sunday after Pentecost
DEO+ on STX #30
June 6th, 2010
Second Sunday after Pentecost
More auto/taxi/truck wind-shield “Names”:
Looks can Be Deceiv’in, Low Flying Angel II, Psalm 23, Little Man Big Feet,
A Child of Jesus, Son of the King, No Other Than Me, All One Krew, Gospel Train,
In My Charge, The Lord is my Shepherd, White Charger, Believe it!, Mi No Beg No Fern, God is Allah!, Dodged!, Jah Guidance, Tuff Country
Confirmation Class
The students build a note book of hand-outs. My goal is for each student to become friends with The Book of Common Prayer so using as a life resource, they will grow into their faith as they mature intellectually and spiritually. I hope each teen or adult to establish and make a personal relationship with Jesus as Lord and Savior. Deacon Gumbs taught the class on Saturday, June 5th, based on “prayer.” We practiced different postures and worked on the gestures of “making the sign of the cross” and genuflection.
Wednesday night $5 hamburgers
Chenay Bay, Mahi restaurant serves $5 hamburgers every Wednesday night;
$2 Budweiser Bottled Beer; the extras (cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, etc. are added on $) but it’s still a good deal and social outlet; many friends show up; always a group from The Reef! My bill is usually about $11!
Doctor Pepper and the Pool
When I was a little boy, we all knew that Doctor Pepper was made from prune juice! The ads and logo said: Drink Dr. Pepper: Ten, Two and Four!
There was a clock dial with 10, 2 & 4 highlighted. It has occurred to me, I swim two, three or four times per day, usually around or near: 10pm, 4 to 6:30am, maybe 10am, and 2pm. One can’t set the watch but I’m there late night before bed, just after or near sunrise, and mid-afternoon. It’ stimulating and refreshing.
The 80 degree+ water temp makes for great sleeping and awakening. I jump in like a “Dr. Pepper,” 10, 2 & 4! It’s a sweet dip without the prune juice!
40th anniversary planning committee
The well rounded and representative committee planning the 40th anniversary celebration has been working diligently and regularly; I attend when needed; the neat thing it’s moving along.
Just Me and Charlotte at Duggan’s
Sunday brunch at Duggan’s Restaurant is a “tradition” for Dendlters, Ogiers, Christmons, and “others” from our circle of friends at The Reef. Today it was just Charlotte and I as both our spouses were on the mainland and the Christmons had flown to Kentucky for a family emergency funeral.
Sunday first clear day in ten!“The African Dust” has blown over; the breezes are constant; the sun is high and hot; No rain the last 48 hours; seas are calm; slight breaking on the reef; winds out of the East North East; cumulus clouds billowing up after the Sunrise; Moon still up at quarter slice @ 5am: “That’s the weather observations from the North east end of Saint Croix, looking down on Teague Bay with Buck Island in clear view, this is W4DEO.” That was my radio report today on the TWO meter weather net @ 6:40am AST on 146.360 MHz frequency (St. John’s repeater). I’m on the air daily with regular Ham Radio friends and their familiar voices! We are very connected in the Virgin Islands.
ACOLYTES in “high heals”St. Peter’s has dedicated acolytes; the best are the females; our battle is for the young women to wear low black shoes with toes covered; some how they don’t seem to get the dress requirements; they look lovely in Sunday dresses with modern high heal shoes, but the semi-bare feet in dashing strapped high heal pumps takes away the dignity of their acolyte vestments! It’s not just an Island “problem” but everywhere I seem to go………….at least we have dedicated youth show up and serve at the Altar with us on Sunday morning! I think I’ll take the high heals even though some of the younger women topple and sway.
Come See Me Mon!
La Paz y Buen Camino!
DEO+
June 6th, 2010
Second Sunday after Pentecost
More auto/taxi/truck wind-shield “Names”:
Looks can Be Deceiv’in, Low Flying Angel II, Psalm 23, Little Man Big Feet,
A Child of Jesus, Son of the King, No Other Than Me, All One Krew, Gospel Train,
In My Charge, The Lord is my Shepherd, White Charger, Believe it!, Mi No Beg No Fern, God is Allah!, Dodged!, Jah Guidance, Tuff Country
Confirmation Class
The students build a note book of hand-outs. My goal is for each student to become friends with The Book of Common Prayer so using as a life resource, they will grow into their faith as they mature intellectually and spiritually. I hope each teen or adult to establish and make a personal relationship with Jesus as Lord and Savior. Deacon Gumbs taught the class on Saturday, June 5th, based on “prayer.” We practiced different postures and worked on the gestures of “making the sign of the cross” and genuflection.
Wednesday night $5 hamburgers
Chenay Bay, Mahi restaurant serves $5 hamburgers every Wednesday night;
$2 Budweiser Bottled Beer; the extras (cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, etc. are added on $) but it’s still a good deal and social outlet; many friends show up; always a group from The Reef! My bill is usually about $11!
Doctor Pepper and the Pool
When I was a little boy, we all knew that Doctor Pepper was made from prune juice! The ads and logo said: Drink Dr. Pepper: Ten, Two and Four!
There was a clock dial with 10, 2 & 4 highlighted. It has occurred to me, I swim two, three or four times per day, usually around or near: 10pm, 4 to 6:30am, maybe 10am, and 2pm. One can’t set the watch but I’m there late night before bed, just after or near sunrise, and mid-afternoon. It’ stimulating and refreshing.
The 80 degree+ water temp makes for great sleeping and awakening. I jump in like a “Dr. Pepper,” 10, 2 & 4! It’s a sweet dip without the prune juice!
40th anniversary planning committee
The well rounded and representative committee planning the 40th anniversary celebration has been working diligently and regularly; I attend when needed; the neat thing it’s moving along.
Just Me and Charlotte at Duggan’s
Sunday brunch at Duggan’s Restaurant is a “tradition” for Dendlters, Ogiers, Christmons, and “others” from our circle of friends at The Reef. Today it was just Charlotte and I as both our spouses were on the mainland and the Christmons had flown to Kentucky for a family emergency funeral.
Sunday first clear day in ten!“The African Dust” has blown over; the breezes are constant; the sun is high and hot; No rain the last 48 hours; seas are calm; slight breaking on the reef; winds out of the East North East; cumulus clouds billowing up after the Sunrise; Moon still up at quarter slice @ 5am: “That’s the weather observations from the North east end of Saint Croix, looking down on Teague Bay with Buck Island in clear view, this is W4DEO.” That was my radio report today on the TWO meter weather net @ 6:40am AST on 146.360 MHz frequency (St. John’s repeater). I’m on the air daily with regular Ham Radio friends and their familiar voices! We are very connected in the Virgin Islands.
ACOLYTES in “high heals”St. Peter’s has dedicated acolytes; the best are the females; our battle is for the young women to wear low black shoes with toes covered; some how they don’t seem to get the dress requirements; they look lovely in Sunday dresses with modern high heal shoes, but the semi-bare feet in dashing strapped high heal pumps takes away the dignity of their acolyte vestments! It’s not just an Island “problem” but everywhere I seem to go………….at least we have dedicated youth show up and serve at the Altar with us on Sunday morning! I think I’ll take the high heals even though some of the younger women topple and sway.
Come See Me Mon!
La Paz y Buen Camino!
DEO+
Monday, May 31, 2010
#29 Memorial Day
DEO+ on STX #29
May 31st 2010: Memorial Day
Trinity Sunday
The Sunday after Pentecost or Trinity Sunday was Memorial Day weekend.
The local American Legion came to St. Peter’s for fallen war soldier remembrance; they carried out and presented the American and V.I. flags during the singing of the patriotic Hymn of Praise and Offertory Presentation.
Confirmation Class on Saturday morning
On Saturday our theme was: Who is Jesus? The young people responded with enthusiasm and I felt good about the Confirmation Class and the teens (& one adult) as they defined Jesus in their personal lives.
Stormy weather
The weather patterns have changed as wind shifted to the South and S.W.;
Daily rain storms and night squalls keep one on the toes closing shuttered windows and not leaving windows open while away from the unit. Murky and hazy horizon keeps the visibility at a minimum; unable to see the North Islands! The South and S.E. winds are not as constant as the normal North East prevailing trade winds.
First Clear Day on horizon
Today, Trinity Sunday, was the first clear day able to see St. John’s the last few weeks .
Give it away!
I am paring down excess “stuff” acquired in our stay: Golf games & food.
After purchased a “ten-pack” of 10 golf games, paying for 18, receiving 20 games, I gave away last seven games, transferring to “Shawn” the bar-tender at Duggan’s Restaurant; for this I will receive 10 or 15 drinks! Good deal for both of us; it’s called “bartering.” Some needy folks at the Church have received some excess food stuffs. Still more “things” to give away. I am cleaning house! Paring down!
East End Social Club steak out
The normal Saturday evening social event was moved to Sunday because of severe weather; we gathered at Al’s for steaks and bring your own drinks and side dish; I prepared a tasty “wilted lettuce fruit salad,” which actually came out superb; bowl was cleaned out when I left!
The Moon is Full!
It’s been a beautiful Full moon the last few nights behind the cloudy skies; lovely and mystical.
Washing dishes and washing clothes
It seems every day I either wash up clothes or dishes. Doing the sheets takes planning since to conserve electricity I hang clothes, towels and sheets on the line in the back atrium walled patio.
Crabs are out searching
With all the night rains, the crabs walk ashore and can be seen on the roads or along the bushes; why and what they are looking for I can’t fathom. Local people go out with buckets to gather in the live crabs; feed them rice to purge the dirt and mud then boil to cook/eat.
Next Interim selection in process
St. Peter’s is in the process of review and selection of the Next Interim Priest
that will follow my ministry; I have been sitting in on the selection interview and telephone questions; I keep quiet and encourage the Vestry after the process.
Indy 500
On Sunday afternoon I watched the Indianapolis 500 motor speed way classic race; enjoyed the action but found the process rather long waiting for the changes and potential crashes; fun afternoon; I’d rather watch on TV than be there in the extreme noise! One Charlotte NASCAR race enough for my taste in person!
Dogs and people on Ha’Penny Beach and Sunday brunch
After Mass, which we got finished early since the numbers were low; I stopped at Half Penny Beach on the way home for a quick walk along and shore. Lots of Sunday young couples walking their dogs showed me where those without Church dedication will gravitate toward. After my shore refresher, met friends at Duggan’s for a Sunday brunch; a “tradition every Sunday” almost weekly to set one watch to; the number at the table varies but the fellowship is always a high mid-Sunday experience!
ECW to Diocesan Convention
40 women away; a hole in the worship on Sunday morning; Trinity Sunday our lowest attendance yet since I arrived! Even though numbers were down, we sang with gusto! Holy, Holy, Holy!
I am here just ONE more month! So,
Come See ME Mon!
La Paz y Buen Camino!
DEO+
May 31st 2010: Memorial Day
Trinity Sunday
The Sunday after Pentecost or Trinity Sunday was Memorial Day weekend.
The local American Legion came to St. Peter’s for fallen war soldier remembrance; they carried out and presented the American and V.I. flags during the singing of the patriotic Hymn of Praise and Offertory Presentation.
Confirmation Class on Saturday morning
On Saturday our theme was: Who is Jesus? The young people responded with enthusiasm and I felt good about the Confirmation Class and the teens (& one adult) as they defined Jesus in their personal lives.
Stormy weather
The weather patterns have changed as wind shifted to the South and S.W.;
Daily rain storms and night squalls keep one on the toes closing shuttered windows and not leaving windows open while away from the unit. Murky and hazy horizon keeps the visibility at a minimum; unable to see the North Islands! The South and S.E. winds are not as constant as the normal North East prevailing trade winds.
First Clear Day on horizon
Today, Trinity Sunday, was the first clear day able to see St. John’s the last few weeks .
Give it away!
I am paring down excess “stuff” acquired in our stay: Golf games & food.
After purchased a “ten-pack” of 10 golf games, paying for 18, receiving 20 games, I gave away last seven games, transferring to “Shawn” the bar-tender at Duggan’s Restaurant; for this I will receive 10 or 15 drinks! Good deal for both of us; it’s called “bartering.” Some needy folks at the Church have received some excess food stuffs. Still more “things” to give away. I am cleaning house! Paring down!
East End Social Club steak out
The normal Saturday evening social event was moved to Sunday because of severe weather; we gathered at Al’s for steaks and bring your own drinks and side dish; I prepared a tasty “wilted lettuce fruit salad,” which actually came out superb; bowl was cleaned out when I left!
The Moon is Full!
It’s been a beautiful Full moon the last few nights behind the cloudy skies; lovely and mystical.
Washing dishes and washing clothes
It seems every day I either wash up clothes or dishes. Doing the sheets takes planning since to conserve electricity I hang clothes, towels and sheets on the line in the back atrium walled patio.
Crabs are out searching
With all the night rains, the crabs walk ashore and can be seen on the roads or along the bushes; why and what they are looking for I can’t fathom. Local people go out with buckets to gather in the live crabs; feed them rice to purge the dirt and mud then boil to cook/eat.
Next Interim selection in process
St. Peter’s is in the process of review and selection of the Next Interim Priest
that will follow my ministry; I have been sitting in on the selection interview and telephone questions; I keep quiet and encourage the Vestry after the process.
Indy 500
On Sunday afternoon I watched the Indianapolis 500 motor speed way classic race; enjoyed the action but found the process rather long waiting for the changes and potential crashes; fun afternoon; I’d rather watch on TV than be there in the extreme noise! One Charlotte NASCAR race enough for my taste in person!
Dogs and people on Ha’Penny Beach and Sunday brunch
After Mass, which we got finished early since the numbers were low; I stopped at Half Penny Beach on the way home for a quick walk along and shore. Lots of Sunday young couples walking their dogs showed me where those without Church dedication will gravitate toward. After my shore refresher, met friends at Duggan’s for a Sunday brunch; a “tradition every Sunday” almost weekly to set one watch to; the number at the table varies but the fellowship is always a high mid-Sunday experience!
ECW to Diocesan Convention
40 women away; a hole in the worship on Sunday morning; Trinity Sunday our lowest attendance yet since I arrived! Even though numbers were down, we sang with gusto! Holy, Holy, Holy!
I am here just ONE more month! So,
Come See ME Mon!
La Paz y Buen Camino!
DEO+
Friday, May 28, 2010
May on Saint Croix
DEO on STX #28
28 May 2010
Returned to Saint Croix on April 28th
We returned to Saint Croix on Wednesday via the Delta non-stop Atlanta to STX. We overlapped with the Hays who were at the departing lounge waiting to board same plane back to Atlanta we arrived on! We talked thru the glass windo on cell phones; they were excited about their stay; we were excited to see them and return to STX!
In our absence: Atlanta Clergy couples
Fred and Julie Northup came for two Sundays supply at St. Peter’s; and Spurgeon and Judy Hays were on Saint Croix for one Sunday; both couples stayed in our Condo, separately and enjoyed their stay; the congregation liked the experience of a new face and new voice as celebrant and preacher. Both Priests did a great job and the people responded enthusiastically to their time.
It was a Good supply-exchange.
Nancy Forrest visited for L-O-N-G weekend
Our dear and long time friend, Nancy Forrest, across the Cul-de-sac, neighbor and original “mother” of our cat Chelsea, came to Saint Croix at our invitation for a four day weekend; we showed her all that time would allow; she wanted to be a “beach bum” and she kept her toes on the sand and Ocean the whole time! I took Nancy to the famous Isaacs Beach, the Sun rise at Point Udall; the three oo us drank rum and laughed about the changes in our “old neighborhood,” in Cumming, GA. When she departed, Babs and I were exhausted; we both said we couldn’t keep up with her energy and go at things full blast! Nancy is younger than our daughter, Robin! We love Nancy as our own daughter. She is a fine young woman of disciplined stature and strong moral posture; she hasn’t had all that a good experience with men; but that is just who she is! We can’t keep up with her! Nancy has temporarily re-adopted our cat and will keep her until I return in July. Then Chelsea moves to Clarkesville. Thanks, Nancy!
Babs got restless and “flew the coop.”
Returning to our “new home, Babs went back to Clarkesville on Monday, May 10th; she had had it with the Island life and missed precious Grand-daughter, Phobe who lives around the corner from our residence. So Babs packed up and went home early; really board being on Saint Croix. Like a hen roosting and nesting, she is happily back in Habersham County.
Nightly and dawn swim in The Reef Pool
I continue to jump in the pool and relax before going to sleep or take the plunge and awaken near dawn with the moon still shinning; it’s a climb up and own the 100 steep steps; I get the heart pounding before relaxing! I will miss this luxury!
Alone but not Lonely
I am batching-it thru my final days of Interim ministry with the good people of St. Peter’s. There is always something to do; I keep busy reading The Daily Office, study holy scriptures, lots of quiet time/prayer; and in projects of preparation, study, writhing, house cleaning, and walking. I have loads of friends in THE REEF Condos; Babs and I talk on the phone DAILY every morning before 7:30am and evening before 9:30pm. I keep myself occupied packing and cleaning up after myself. The Daily beach walks keep me rejuvenated.
Half Penny Beach and sea turtle tracks
My favorite beach is Ha’Penny Beach; a long stretch of uninterrupted deserted beach off the South Shore road; it’s thru the pink stone pillars; this week along the beach, I observed 12 sea turtle nests; and three newly marked tracks where she came ashore during the night to lay her eggs; the “tank-track-trail” revealed a slow climb from surf to dunes, digging a pit in the sand; laid her eggs and returned to the sea. The giant sea turtles return to the same beach, near the exact place where she was hatched! Amazing how “mother nature,” in her divine plan and the way creatures exist and the life cycle goes on; and death lingers around the corner of survival.
People of St. Pete’s very gracious about Babs
She is missed, already! What is part of the driving force Babs return to Georgia is her brother who is very ill in Savannah; Babs is one third of the care-team; her sister from Jacksonville and niece of Roswell; they divide up the weekends and mid-week “nursing” time with my brother-in-law, Tom. All these facts make Babs absence from St. Peter’s more acceptable. I still miss her!
Confirmation Class on track
Our blended group of teen and adolescents are rapidly growing into their faith;
I have spent most of the classes teaching the Book of Common Prayer as a resource and reference for our faith journey. We meet at 8am until 10am on Saturday morning; there is one adult who sits at the table with the teens; one sixteen year old; all the others are 12 to 14 years old.
Confirmation Lay Teaching Team
Before beginning the Confirmations Class, we established a Lay confirmation teaching team who will continue the process after I depart; next year the Confirmation teaching will not be dependent upon a Priest in Residence for confirmation preparation.
Paring down; living “without”So I have limited my surroundings and doing without a lot of the extra pleasures comforts! It’s amazing how little one can exist with and without!
Packing and shipping Flat Rate boxes
USPS personnel know my name and face! I am beginning to forward mail and change addresses; I pack up “stuff” we want to keep and mail home all the things we don’t want to carry aboard the plane of check the luggage. Why do I have so much junk/’stuff”?
Pentecost Sunday
“Whitsunday” was a day of red and excitement with two children for Baptism.
An attractive ten month old male all dressed in a white suit; and an eight year old girl dressed in a white princess dress with crown. Our numbers ran 180 with 100 communions.
The Bishop requested clergy referrals
Names, names, NAMES. The Next Interim will be different. The healthy process of continuing the Interim Ministry leadership during this transitional time will be a positive step for St. Peter’s. It is time for another leader/pastor/Priest to take the reins and work with the vestry and parish leadership.
All is focused on the 40th Anniversary
St. Peter’s Church is being spruced up; she is no longer delaying repairs and over due fix up projects! The Church is looking better! More cared for. The Parish maintenance and Interim Goals our top priorities during final month of ministry together.
Feeding the “sugar birds”
Bannaquits live in the tree and bushes on our front sea side patio; I purchased raw sugar which goes into a dish feeder every morning and evening attracting “the sugar birds.” These long beaked yellow and black tiny birds are fun to watch and encourage. They are God’s creations in flight and wing; chirping each morning before sun rise; happy in the rain and washing themselves in the bird bath. All a flutter!
Winds have shifted and blow in from the South
Weather patterns have now changed; visibility has reduced to a haze; seas are flat; overcast clouds prevail; it’s more humid and still; nights hot and muggy;
During the day it often rains. The haze is high humidity and NOT African Dust.
Lost power: It gets HOT!
WAPA is the Virgin Islands utility company; periodically we loose electric power;
Usually during the night; one feels the still air when the over-head fans cease.
One knows the electricity is off when one sees the blinking clocks as evidence of a power outage. Take off your shirt and sleep in the skives. Open the shutters and pray for a cross breeze!
Friends come and go
Mark and Vickie Baker Vickie returned on Friday, Bob left on Monday; both to check-on and assist with an ill adult son in Canton, Ohio; they live next door in Condo #432; Babs’ close friend, Vickie a nurse and neat lady; good buddy for Babs! They are responsible for the introduction to the owners of our residential Condo #433! Bob and Charlotte Dendtler who live across the fair-way; are here and gone again! Charlotte returned last week, Bob departed this week; they are/were responsible for the referral for my ministry introduction at St. Peter’s. Soon they will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary here at The Reef; it should be a nice party/affair. Robert and Leeslie Christmon returned from Kentucky; retired Fire-fighter, Robert and Nurse, Leeslie are back!
Soon will close out local bank account
Upon arrival on Saint Croix, we established a local bank account; which we really could have done without; it did make check cashing and Church deposits faster;
In the next few weeks we will close out the First Bank and conclude our financial link here on Saint Croix. Thanks for the Wachovia (Wells Fargo) bank-by-mail- deposit-system; we usually mail checks back to Georgia and Bank by Mail.
Clarkesville Home closing
Sent to Law office my “Power of Attorney” assigning Babs to represent us both at the final closing yesterday, for 125 Betty Street on Thursday, May 27th; we are home owners again! Mildly in debt; we doubled our living floor space and cut our mortgage payment in half! Life is good; thanks be to the God of all clergy; we have been taken care of by the Church and attempted in the process to be good stewards of all we have received as a Gift from God.
Nissan dealer in foreclosure
Still NO metal license plates for the Church auto; we have paper window sticker (temporary plates)! The Church owned car still is not registered even though the church paid all the tag fees and taxes. The dealer spent the money collected on other stuff! We are waiting out a judgment of foreclosure. The bank has our license plates. Lawyers.
Hike to Isasic’s Beach
Isolated and deserted; private and desolate; naked tourists; some show their “Cotton tails” with pink buns; they run and hide or prance and show it all! I keep up my drawers and still have my tan lines!
Give it away!
Fans and kitchen gear; food stuffs and can goods; “tackey gifts,” and excess “stuff” is being shared with friends, Church members and neighbors. It’s amazing how much “stuff” we have acquired since arriving in February 2009! Attemping just to get rid of the gear; share the abundance; don’t hoard; and unload! Get ready to move home.
Early morning SUN Rise at Point Udall
Lately the over-cast skies have blocked spectacular sun-rises; but the prelude before the big red ball rises on the horizon is a colorful sky of red, pink, green, blue and gray; the clouds are illuminated with back light; the sea squalls are visible all directions from Point Udall @ day break; I usually arrive at the Eastern point in the territorial US before first light; it’s a religious moment of unity with creation in the eternal cycle of day light; the Sun also rises! See Psalm 8:
“O Lord, our God, how majestic is thy name in all the earth! When I look at thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars which thou hast established; what is man that thou art mindful of him, and the son of man that thou care for him? … the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, whatever passes along the paths of the sea.”
Final sail on The Roseway
She returned to Boston via Bermuda then up to the Great Lakes for summer.
The red sails schooner departed on Sunday, May 23rd at 6am; her final “sun set sail” for the season on Saint Croix was Friday, May 21st; I signed on and enjoyed the swift winds and big waves; she took on the rough seas and as if just really getting started; full sail ahead; crew worked hard to manage the sails and keep her on course; a few passengers got sea sick which was not pleasant for them; the rail on the down wind side was their kneeling place of relief and prayer; I enjoyed the seat on the bench at the main-mast; lots of sea spray and some wave wash; lots of misty breezes and wet glasses. I loved it! Babs would NOT have been happy! I am thinking about signing on for the South bound voyage from Boston to Bermuda to Saint Croix in November????? Ahoy,Roseway!
More “windscreen titles”We continue to see autos, trucks and taxi with “names” on their windshields;
So here are some recently observed vehicle titles: Humble & Wise, To God be the Glory, Category 5, What’s up Doc?, Only One Life II, Rockers #1, G9Deva,
Female Baller, Tap Out, Traumatize, Let dem Wonder, The Intiminator, The Sunnami, Out of My Way, Victorious, Mean Green, Sea Flight, Albino Rhino,
Givenchy, Petoly Oil, Jimmy in Paradise, A Son of the King, and White Angel.
Five weeks today
I return to North Georgia on July 1st! In the mean time, there is still time for anyone wanting/needing a visit to STX; there is a nice quest room available. So,
Come see us Mon!
La Paz y Buen Camino!
DEO+
28 May 2010
Returned to Saint Croix on April 28th
We returned to Saint Croix on Wednesday via the Delta non-stop Atlanta to STX. We overlapped with the Hays who were at the departing lounge waiting to board same plane back to Atlanta we arrived on! We talked thru the glass windo on cell phones; they were excited about their stay; we were excited to see them and return to STX!
In our absence: Atlanta Clergy couples
Fred and Julie Northup came for two Sundays supply at St. Peter’s; and Spurgeon and Judy Hays were on Saint Croix for one Sunday; both couples stayed in our Condo, separately and enjoyed their stay; the congregation liked the experience of a new face and new voice as celebrant and preacher. Both Priests did a great job and the people responded enthusiastically to their time.
It was a Good supply-exchange.
Nancy Forrest visited for L-O-N-G weekend
Our dear and long time friend, Nancy Forrest, across the Cul-de-sac, neighbor and original “mother” of our cat Chelsea, came to Saint Croix at our invitation for a four day weekend; we showed her all that time would allow; she wanted to be a “beach bum” and she kept her toes on the sand and Ocean the whole time! I took Nancy to the famous Isaacs Beach, the Sun rise at Point Udall; the three oo us drank rum and laughed about the changes in our “old neighborhood,” in Cumming, GA. When she departed, Babs and I were exhausted; we both said we couldn’t keep up with her energy and go at things full blast! Nancy is younger than our daughter, Robin! We love Nancy as our own daughter. She is a fine young woman of disciplined stature and strong moral posture; she hasn’t had all that a good experience with men; but that is just who she is! We can’t keep up with her! Nancy has temporarily re-adopted our cat and will keep her until I return in July. Then Chelsea moves to Clarkesville. Thanks, Nancy!
Babs got restless and “flew the coop.”
Returning to our “new home, Babs went back to Clarkesville on Monday, May 10th; she had had it with the Island life and missed precious Grand-daughter, Phobe who lives around the corner from our residence. So Babs packed up and went home early; really board being on Saint Croix. Like a hen roosting and nesting, she is happily back in Habersham County.
Nightly and dawn swim in The Reef Pool
I continue to jump in the pool and relax before going to sleep or take the plunge and awaken near dawn with the moon still shinning; it’s a climb up and own the 100 steep steps; I get the heart pounding before relaxing! I will miss this luxury!
Alone but not Lonely
I am batching-it thru my final days of Interim ministry with the good people of St. Peter’s. There is always something to do; I keep busy reading The Daily Office, study holy scriptures, lots of quiet time/prayer; and in projects of preparation, study, writhing, house cleaning, and walking. I have loads of friends in THE REEF Condos; Babs and I talk on the phone DAILY every morning before 7:30am and evening before 9:30pm. I keep myself occupied packing and cleaning up after myself. The Daily beach walks keep me rejuvenated.
Half Penny Beach and sea turtle tracks
My favorite beach is Ha’Penny Beach; a long stretch of uninterrupted deserted beach off the South Shore road; it’s thru the pink stone pillars; this week along the beach, I observed 12 sea turtle nests; and three newly marked tracks where she came ashore during the night to lay her eggs; the “tank-track-trail” revealed a slow climb from surf to dunes, digging a pit in the sand; laid her eggs and returned to the sea. The giant sea turtles return to the same beach, near the exact place where she was hatched! Amazing how “mother nature,” in her divine plan and the way creatures exist and the life cycle goes on; and death lingers around the corner of survival.
People of St. Pete’s very gracious about Babs
She is missed, already! What is part of the driving force Babs return to Georgia is her brother who is very ill in Savannah; Babs is one third of the care-team; her sister from Jacksonville and niece of Roswell; they divide up the weekends and mid-week “nursing” time with my brother-in-law, Tom. All these facts make Babs absence from St. Peter’s more acceptable. I still miss her!
Confirmation Class on track
Our blended group of teen and adolescents are rapidly growing into their faith;
I have spent most of the classes teaching the Book of Common Prayer as a resource and reference for our faith journey. We meet at 8am until 10am on Saturday morning; there is one adult who sits at the table with the teens; one sixteen year old; all the others are 12 to 14 years old.
Confirmation Lay Teaching Team
Before beginning the Confirmations Class, we established a Lay confirmation teaching team who will continue the process after I depart; next year the Confirmation teaching will not be dependent upon a Priest in Residence for confirmation preparation.
Paring down; living “without”So I have limited my surroundings and doing without a lot of the extra pleasures comforts! It’s amazing how little one can exist with and without!
Packing and shipping Flat Rate boxes
USPS personnel know my name and face! I am beginning to forward mail and change addresses; I pack up “stuff” we want to keep and mail home all the things we don’t want to carry aboard the plane of check the luggage. Why do I have so much junk/’stuff”?
Pentecost Sunday
“Whitsunday” was a day of red and excitement with two children for Baptism.
An attractive ten month old male all dressed in a white suit; and an eight year old girl dressed in a white princess dress with crown. Our numbers ran 180 with 100 communions.
The Bishop requested clergy referrals
Names, names, NAMES. The Next Interim will be different. The healthy process of continuing the Interim Ministry leadership during this transitional time will be a positive step for St. Peter’s. It is time for another leader/pastor/Priest to take the reins and work with the vestry and parish leadership.
All is focused on the 40th Anniversary
St. Peter’s Church is being spruced up; she is no longer delaying repairs and over due fix up projects! The Church is looking better! More cared for. The Parish maintenance and Interim Goals our top priorities during final month of ministry together.
Feeding the “sugar birds”
Bannaquits live in the tree and bushes on our front sea side patio; I purchased raw sugar which goes into a dish feeder every morning and evening attracting “the sugar birds.” These long beaked yellow and black tiny birds are fun to watch and encourage. They are God’s creations in flight and wing; chirping each morning before sun rise; happy in the rain and washing themselves in the bird bath. All a flutter!
Winds have shifted and blow in from the South
Weather patterns have now changed; visibility has reduced to a haze; seas are flat; overcast clouds prevail; it’s more humid and still; nights hot and muggy;
During the day it often rains. The haze is high humidity and NOT African Dust.
Lost power: It gets HOT!
WAPA is the Virgin Islands utility company; periodically we loose electric power;
Usually during the night; one feels the still air when the over-head fans cease.
One knows the electricity is off when one sees the blinking clocks as evidence of a power outage. Take off your shirt and sleep in the skives. Open the shutters and pray for a cross breeze!
Friends come and go
Mark and Vickie Baker Vickie returned on Friday, Bob left on Monday; both to check-on and assist with an ill adult son in Canton, Ohio; they live next door in Condo #432; Babs’ close friend, Vickie a nurse and neat lady; good buddy for Babs! They are responsible for the introduction to the owners of our residential Condo #433! Bob and Charlotte Dendtler who live across the fair-way; are here and gone again! Charlotte returned last week, Bob departed this week; they are/were responsible for the referral for my ministry introduction at St. Peter’s. Soon they will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary here at The Reef; it should be a nice party/affair. Robert and Leeslie Christmon returned from Kentucky; retired Fire-fighter, Robert and Nurse, Leeslie are back!
Soon will close out local bank account
Upon arrival on Saint Croix, we established a local bank account; which we really could have done without; it did make check cashing and Church deposits faster;
In the next few weeks we will close out the First Bank and conclude our financial link here on Saint Croix. Thanks for the Wachovia (Wells Fargo) bank-by-mail- deposit-system; we usually mail checks back to Georgia and Bank by Mail.
Clarkesville Home closing
Sent to Law office my “Power of Attorney” assigning Babs to represent us both at the final closing yesterday, for 125 Betty Street on Thursday, May 27th; we are home owners again! Mildly in debt; we doubled our living floor space and cut our mortgage payment in half! Life is good; thanks be to the God of all clergy; we have been taken care of by the Church and attempted in the process to be good stewards of all we have received as a Gift from God.
Nissan dealer in foreclosure
Still NO metal license plates for the Church auto; we have paper window sticker (temporary plates)! The Church owned car still is not registered even though the church paid all the tag fees and taxes. The dealer spent the money collected on other stuff! We are waiting out a judgment of foreclosure. The bank has our license plates. Lawyers.
Hike to Isasic’s Beach
Isolated and deserted; private and desolate; naked tourists; some show their “Cotton tails” with pink buns; they run and hide or prance and show it all! I keep up my drawers and still have my tan lines!
Give it away!
Fans and kitchen gear; food stuffs and can goods; “tackey gifts,” and excess “stuff” is being shared with friends, Church members and neighbors. It’s amazing how much “stuff” we have acquired since arriving in February 2009! Attemping just to get rid of the gear; share the abundance; don’t hoard; and unload! Get ready to move home.
Early morning SUN Rise at Point Udall
Lately the over-cast skies have blocked spectacular sun-rises; but the prelude before the big red ball rises on the horizon is a colorful sky of red, pink, green, blue and gray; the clouds are illuminated with back light; the sea squalls are visible all directions from Point Udall @ day break; I usually arrive at the Eastern point in the territorial US before first light; it’s a religious moment of unity with creation in the eternal cycle of day light; the Sun also rises! See Psalm 8:
“O Lord, our God, how majestic is thy name in all the earth! When I look at thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars which thou hast established; what is man that thou art mindful of him, and the son of man that thou care for him? … the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, whatever passes along the paths of the sea.”
Final sail on The Roseway
She returned to Boston via Bermuda then up to the Great Lakes for summer.
The red sails schooner departed on Sunday, May 23rd at 6am; her final “sun set sail” for the season on Saint Croix was Friday, May 21st; I signed on and enjoyed the swift winds and big waves; she took on the rough seas and as if just really getting started; full sail ahead; crew worked hard to manage the sails and keep her on course; a few passengers got sea sick which was not pleasant for them; the rail on the down wind side was their kneeling place of relief and prayer; I enjoyed the seat on the bench at the main-mast; lots of sea spray and some wave wash; lots of misty breezes and wet glasses. I loved it! Babs would NOT have been happy! I am thinking about signing on for the South bound voyage from Boston to Bermuda to Saint Croix in November????? Ahoy,Roseway!
More “windscreen titles”We continue to see autos, trucks and taxi with “names” on their windshields;
So here are some recently observed vehicle titles: Humble & Wise, To God be the Glory, Category 5, What’s up Doc?, Only One Life II, Rockers #1, G9Deva,
Female Baller, Tap Out, Traumatize, Let dem Wonder, The Intiminator, The Sunnami, Out of My Way, Victorious, Mean Green, Sea Flight, Albino Rhino,
Givenchy, Petoly Oil, Jimmy in Paradise, A Son of the King, and White Angel.
Five weeks today
I return to North Georgia on July 1st! In the mean time, there is still time for anyone wanting/needing a visit to STX; there is a nice quest room available. So,
Come see us Mon!
La Paz y Buen Camino!
DEO+
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