Seasonal Changes

There is nothing like a cool, overcast late summer day to muse and reflect on the never-ending ebb and flow of life.  The temperature may find 60 today, but no complaints from this pilgrim!  After soldiering through the very hot and sticky summer, the miracle of seasonal change is underway.  Beside the cooler temps there are other markers of the march toward Autumn.  Finding the rake is my next job.  And, of course, hauling the spreader out for the annual application of turf builder.  Upon the recommendation of my yard “guru”, this year we will apply Scotts Turf Builder as we need a herbicide mixed in there with the nourishing fertilizer.  Like a slow, creeping, malignant disease, there is a silent invasion going on in my yard which has been resistant to my feeble attempts to just spray it away with some “wimpy” product from Lowes.  No mercy now!!  I’m pulling out the big guns!

Other signs of the changing seasons include the annual sweater, sweatshirt, flannel pajamas, and sweatpants Round Up!  Giving credit where credit is due, my Type-A, organized, and neat wife has a specific location for each of these items and this weekend seems to be a perfect time to: #1.  Locate the tote, #2.  Unload the tote, #3.  Re-load the tote.  Those stackable totes are a great invention and can store everything from clothes, old hand-me-down- nick-nacks, old photos, misc. documentation and paperwork from my 33 year DOC career, china and dishes that are never used (yes ladies, they are not all on display), and whatever else ones heart desires.  And down the way, we will have the annual “test the fireplace gas logs” day!  That’s when I volunteer to go outside and check the tank pressure while Karen gets down on “eye-level” with the beast and cranks her up.  Oh the blessings of a handy wife!

So, what’s Up you say?  Since May your humble pilgrim has shaken off the retirement cobwebs and started a part-time job as an Outpatient Therapist in Raleigh.  Karen and I share a generous apartment with Kala in Cary and off I travel each Tuesday morning.  My return to Morganton is Friday afternoon.  I love the work and am blessed to be able to serve in this unique and challenging environment.  The schedule is nearly perfect as I have a long and generous weekend with Karen, Brinks, Sadie, Emma, and Moses.  Sadly, we lost Moxie last week.  She was a sweet and loving pet of 13-14 years who succumbed to Kidney failure and a broken heart. Her mother, Bessie (or as Kala always reminded me, “Brownie”), died last March, and Moxie just never recovered.  A real treat is when Karen and the pets accompany me to Cary for the week.  We enjoy the sights and sounds of the area which include many visits to the Whole Food Market, shopping, or a visit  to one of our new favorite Mexican restaurants, “On the Border”,  where the wait staff are trained to prepare fresh Guacamole at your table as you salivate all over your chips in anticipation. 

Additional summer highlights include seeing old friends at my 42^nd High School reunion.  It is amazing to see the way God has transformed lives (including mine) over the years!  My good buddy, Jimmy Fortner, was there with his brother Mike.  In from California was Mary Pat O’Rourke.  Many thanks to the folks who are actively attempting to locate and “build bridges” to the ASI community through Facebook, telephone calls, visits, etc.  I could sit for hours and listen to testimony after testimony of the miraculous works of restoration and transformation underway in so many lives.  We truly serve a generous and loving Father who is actively at work in building His Kingdom.  I hope many more from the ASI community will attend next year’s reunion.  I will be the first to nominate my good buddy, Steve Ferguson, to provide the musical entertainment one night at the auditorium.  It seems he has been getting in a lot of practice lately so he should be ready to Rock and Roll.

The biggest highlight of the past couple months was our vacation to Europe.  Karen and I visited London, Brussels, and Paris.  Needless to say, it is impossible to share all the special moments we had together.  I loved all the people we met in London; from our “Beefeater” tour guide at the Tower of London, who, by the way, has the best job imaginable, down to the thoroughly entertaining  Bus Guide, Tony, who does a great Winston Churchill imitation!  Karen and I enjoyed Fish ‘n Chips all over London and marveled at the beauty of their Parks, Monuments, Cathedrals, and Palaces.  Leaving London on the Thalys high speed rail train was a real treat.  Coursing through the French and Belgian countryside at over 200 mph offered a unique view of a land rich in history, as well as the vicissitudes of many battles and conflict. Seeing the numerous “pill-boxes” in the middle of cow pastures reminded me of the many brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives so this pilgrim could enjoy the freedoms of travel and peaceful exploration.   While in Brussels over the weekend we attempted to eat as many waffles, chocolate, and kebaps as possible.  We lodged at the L’Carrefour, a tasteful and tidy 4 star hotel which had a luxurious breakfast buffet to start off a day of sightseeing and people watching!  And Paris….well, what can one say about this beautiful city??  Standing on the top of the Arc de Triomphe looking over this grand city was breathtaking to say the least.  And, believe it or not, being at the Eiffel Tower with your Lover is ever so special…even a 59 year old can fall in love all over again!

In the preview section, many events are on the upcoming agenda…Karen is planning a trip out to USMC base 29 Palms to see Staff Sgt. Stanton and his lovely wife, Crystal.  She hopes to hike at the Red Rock Canyon as well as spoiling the “grand-kittys”, Tiger and Chloe.  We are also looking forward to our nine week Read through the Bible study at Burkemont starting tomorrow night. 

And of utmost importance…your humble Pilgrim is predicting an undefeated season for the TarHeels and a trip to the Orange Bowl; and of course for UNC Basketball to be crowned as National Champions.  Life is Good!!

Spring Break In the Mojave

Yes, yes, you are right…spring breaks are typically enjoyed on the coast, but this year Karen and I thoroughly enjoyed ourselves in the California desert; specifically, the largest Marine Base in the world, 29 Palms.  Arriving at Palm Springs, Ca. courtesy of American Airlines, on Sunday Morning, 17 April, Karen and I were picked up at the airport by Staff Sergeant Adam Stanton and his lovely wife, Crystal.  For the next 6 days we enjoyed a Southern California Spring Break that will not soon be forgotten!

It is hard to describe the topography and climate of the region.  Twenty-Nine Palms is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and inhabited by Road-runners, Prairie Dogs, Tarantulas, and desert mice.  The easiest way to describe the landscape is to imagine yourself on the Moon.  The long range views go on forever.  It is flat and just absolutely beautiful.  The Base was established in 1951 as a remote training facility from Camp Pendelton.  How can I say “isolated” and “remote” to the extreme degree? 

Our Spring Break started in Palm Springs on Sunday with a delicious lunch at “Daily’s” restaurant.  Once again, true to my low-carb diet, I enjoyed their version of the Cobb Salad.  It is now #2, behind the Cobb Salad at Carrabbas.   Palm Springs is a very clean and attractive city in the desert, populated by a combination of retirees and business owners.  It was not unusual to see a variety of high-end sports cars and boutiques in the town with street names linked to various Hollywood stars such as Gene Autry, Bob Hope, Sinatra, etc.  I could imagine endless warm days of soaking in the sun, playing golf and tennis, and sampling the various restaurants.  I might finally get a real suntan! 

Monday we travelled west to Cabazon Ca. for sightseeing and shopping.  The weather was overcast and chilly. Needless to say, I was not dressed appropriately, and wondered what happened to the sunny warmth.   Lunch was enjoyed at a local Chili’s restaurant. Another Cobb Salad; this time only average.   On Tuesday we started a two-day mini-trip to San Diego, highlighted by a visit to the Zoo. After touring the parking lot for what seemed “forever”, we finally found a vacant spot.  I really enjoyed the zoo, but noted that the NC Zoo in Asheboro is almost on par.   That evening we toured the Gaslight District ending with a visit to the Yard House restaurant. Karen and Crystal enjoyed their homemade Macaroni and cheese entrée, and I had another Cobb Salad to keep the carbs away!    Wednesday we took a sightseeing trip up the California Coast ending at Malibu.  The highlight was a visit to the Santa Monica pier and a “Star-sighting” of last year’s American Idol winner, Lee Dewyze.  In  LA we stopped at an “In-N-Out Burger”.  I had the Protein Burger…Essentially a double burger without bread (and of course no fries, although they looked delicious.)  Wednesday evening Los Angeles hosted a visit from the Atlanta Braves and the New Orleans Hornets; therefore, we were stuck in LA traffic for nearly two hours as we travelled 15 miles! 

One of the more enjoyable aspects of our visit was exercise walks around the Base.  Close to Adam and Crystal’s residence was a golf course crafted right out of the desert.  True to the spirit of the Marine Corp, the golf holes were decorated with vintage tanks, artillery pieces, and other assorted military hardware.  I was consistently reminded of the honorable service our Military provides to this Country in some of the most inhospitable environments throughout the world.  In the middle of an isolated desert this Marine Corp Base has thrived and serves to train most of the brave and valiant Marines who eventually deploy to Iraq and Afghanistan.  I was totally humbled by the sacrifice that these men and women make to protect our Country.  Semper Fi--Always Faithful!

Our flight back to NC was filled with a new level of respect for our Country…we had the privilege to see young Men and Women engaged in defending our freedom and Way of Life.  I will forever be changed by this experience.  I will be hesitant to grumble over little things that don’t go my way.  I will be reluctant to complain about not having every comfort I want or feel I deserve.  And I certainly will appreciate the freedoms and privileges enjoyed by being a citizen of the greatest Country on this planet.  In spite of our flaws and petty squabbling, the USA continues to be the “land of the free and the home of the brave”.  If the USMC can flourish in the desert for 60 years under adverse and challenging conditions, we can all do the same. Without their commitment and sacrifice, the “Palm Springs” of this world would not exsist.

Spring break in the Desert was a study in contrast of the opulence of Palm Springs and LA and the isolation of 29 Palms in the desert.  One is about glorification of self and the other about self sacrifice.  I wish all young people could experience what I did.  It has a way of bringing focus to a life, a renewed sense of commitment and purpose.  Thank You Staff Sergeant Adam Stanton, and Crystal, for your service. 

Passion Play Observations

Every so often an event comes along which allows you the privilege to be part of something much greater than yourself.  Opportunities such as these are vital to the health and growth of a community, team, organization, or a Body of Believers.  Just what are the “essential ingredients” that foster this growth?

First, a major production such as this requires many, many “hands”.  The task of our gifted and very patient leaders was to mesh and synchronize these “hands” toward a common goal.  Therefore, we all served a greater purpose.  By this, we are able to see the building of something beautiful as we worked together in a spirit of cooperation and sacrifice. 

Another facet is stepping out of our comfort zone and accepting a challenge to perform a task or role.  Once again, this proves to be one of the “ingredients” of growth and health.  For example, my name would probably not be in the top ten if a cross-section of Burkemont folks were asked who they would pick to play the role of a brutal, tough, authoritative Roman Centurion.  But, with the help and encouragement of many friends, somehow I hope it was accomplished. 

This brings to mind an experience during Graduate School when I encountered Advanced Statistics…from Day 1 I just knew I would be a failure…math has never been a strength.  But, somehow I found the courage and hard work to not only pass, but do pretty well.  What a confidence builder!

Can you recall all the “little” helps along the way?  I recall, and appreciate, all those “hands” who helped me lace up the Centurion’s breastplate…the many “hands” who applied all that make-up…the “hands” who provided the needed props just in time…the “hands” who served the much needed Subway meal Saturday…the “hands” who help me with the microphone equipment…I could go on and on…

All of these acts of service build a community, an organization, a team, or a Body of Believers.  Serving others with a good heart is a “gift” which benefits both parties.  These reciprocal, “win-win” encounters are like a tonic to the human soul, and are the characteristics of winning teams.  As Lee who played the character of Jesus reminded us in the beautiful song, “I Have Come to Serve”!

Equally beneficial are the many smiles and laughs shared throughout this journey…from the Soldiers skirt that somehow ended up in the middle of the stage during the “Trial” scene, to a kind heart who gently informed me that my helmet was on backwards just prior to storming out on stage.  One afternoon a sweet little girl came up to me and remarked: “I’m not scared of you”!  The observation was encouraging and helped me “toughen-up”, but the look on her face was priceless.

There are so many people to thank for their service to this great undertaking…which may be another ingredient to such a great feeling I have in my heart today.  It may be a “month of Sundays” before I stop saying those often-forgotten words to my Family of believers…Thank You!  My emotional bank account is full and overflowing; with gratitude, love for my Savior and hopeful anticipation of growth and seeing what the future holds for our Body of Believers.  I know the Father is pleased…and that is the greatest reward of all. 

X-treme Camping

And so it goes….the first day of spring found the writer in a tolerable level of muscle and joint soreness after a CHALLENGING two-day hiking and camping adventure in the Pisgah forest.  Needless to say, for a man in the “late summer” of his life, this was quite an encounter.  The week-end excursion was advertised as an “ X-treme Mens Adventure”.  So, as men often do, we put ourselves “out there” to see if we still have what it takes.  Upon arriving at Table Rock base camp I surveyed the group and immediately calculated that I was probably the oldest “rat in the barn”!  Brad Powell did bring his faithful companion, Storm, along, so there was an outside chance he could claim the dubious title; but we quickly learned Storm was a 7 year old German Shepherd (49 in the Homo Sapiens table), so, YES, I was the oldest. 

Upon unloading our gear we quickly discovered that the Table Rock access was “officially” closed; therefore, our first challenge involved a 45 minute hike of approximately 1.5 miles with an incline of at least 40 degrees in order to access our trail to the campsite.  Praise God from whom all blessings flow!!  I made it and thought it would all be “down hill” from there.  And to a certain degree, it was.  The trail from the Table Rock Picnic Area to our eventual campsite was a beautiful, breath-taking, journey with superior views of the Gorge and surrounding regions.  Seeing God’s creation from that perspective placed the writer in his proper role; totally humbled and amazed at the splendor of His Creation.  From this location only praises and gratitude come from the soul.  And a certain amount of fear, as Brad Browning informed the group that the “Chimneys” area were home to Peregrine Falcons, who could reach speeds up to 300 M.P.H. as they dive-bomb their prey! 

Arriving at our campsite was a great feeling as we unloaded our burdens, foraged for firewood, and set up tents.  Joey Tallent packed in some “fire-starter” and we quickly had a roaring campfire.  And as you can imagine the next thing on our minds was…you guessed it…FOOD!  I can imagine that a group of ladies would probably meet in advance, organize, plan, and deliver a scrumptious evening meal; but, that was definitely not the case for us boys.  From sauerkraut to pop tarts, the variety and quantity of food that came to the table was simply stunning.  My vote for most efficient and delicious cuisine had to go to Brad Browning, who somehow managed to produce hot chicken burritos.  A close second would be Brian Skeggs “roast-on-a-stick” chicken breast!  Unfortunately, the stick burned prior to the breast being cooked; and I am not sure exactly how he managed to complete the task…as they say, necessity is the mother of invention.

After dinner, we enjoyed good fellowship and watched a beautiful moon rising on the horizon.  The moon actually was on its eternal journey and at that moment was the closest in would be to the Earth in 18 years.  I praised God again and again for the intricate and miraculous design of His creation.  Speaking of His creation, we also learned that we were sleeping in a Bear Sanctuary.  As I climbed in my sleeping bag  “under the stars” (as I shared with the group I had recently sold my tent in a FPU yard sale!) I wondered if being in a Bear Sanctuary meant the bears would be spoiled, thus tame, or if that meant they could do whatever the heck they wanted without impunity.  It really didn’t matter as I was totally awake for the entire night due to a gale force wind that blew for hours, and being on my best behavior to meet Smokey and his relatives!  I know Storm probably thought I was a “wimp”!

Upon arising at 0430, I discovered that other brave souls did not sleep so we rekindled the fire and enjoyed a small fellowship with hot Hazelnut Crème coffee and delicious baked sweet potato roasted in the fire.  As the other campers gradually awoke we mustered around the fire for breakfast.  Once again, the variety of entrees from instant oatmeal to tuna steak were enjoyed as we watched a slowly rising, orangish Sun climb in the east.  Tyler Jones kept us posted on all the NCAA basketball game scores as we watched in amazement at how quickly one could heat up canned  “A-B-C-‘s & 1, 2, 3’s” on the fire.

Breaking camp with lighter packs filled our spirits with anticipation of our journey back to civilization.  The best time of the whole adventure for me was walking along with friends, sharing, and observing the beautiful handiwork of our Father.  And then came “THE HILL”!  Having repressed the more painful aspects of “THE HILL”, the writer will try to capture the more salient features of this experience…IT WAS SHEER TORMENT!  A long, slow, winding, trail that went on FOREVER up, and up, and up…we would struggle by our comrades lying on the ground, moaning and begging for relief…dousing our hot sweaty heads and necks with our precious water…hanging on our walking sticks for support…and taking Tylenol and Goody’s powders to quash the pain.  Oh my friends, it was agony!!!  Even Storm gave me a look of compassionate empathy and understanding. 

After reaching our destination we ingested great quantities of raisins, tangerines, Cliff bars, and liquids, and, of course, acted like it was nothing.  We parted with our Bethlehem Baptist church brothers in Christ, and even planned another X-treme adventure for the fall.  Thanks to Brian Skeggs and Adam Speight  for inviting us to a point closer to death than I needed to see, but for the “oldest rat in the barn”, it was a thrill!   

Out Of The Retirement Cave

With spring rapidly approaching it is time to slowly stick my head out of the retirement cave and sniff the air for new adventures.  So, what is on the horizon, you say?  First, I am really, really enjoying a life of extreme leisure and contemplation.  My days are full of good books, close companionship, long walks, exercise, and just hanging out with Karen and the pets.  Karen and I have jumped in on a new slow carb  eating plan suggested by the author of the 4-Hour Body which includes a focus on three main food groups:  proteins (lots of chicken and steak on the George), lots of eggs, legumes, and vegetables/salads.  Absolutely no sugars, bread, potatoes, rice, etc.  With working out at the gym, daily walks, and no stress I have found my weight and body fat % declining steadily; time to head to the outlets for “skinny clothes”!

Karen and I have also “trimmed down” in other areas.  We both like simplicity, no-clutter, and being good stewards, so, recently we sold our 99 Volvo and the truck.  Believe it or not, both vehicles sold over one weekend by simply giving them a good “bath” and then parking them at Wal-Mart.  We were certainly blessed as our insurance bill is cut in half, and the new owners were friends from work.  The 95 Ford XLT truck was certainly a wonderful vehicle with only 38 K miles (and a 4x4 to boot)!  I do believe that transactions such as this epitomize our goal to always try and be a blessing in someone’s life if possible; it was truly a “win-win” encounter.

Mornings are really special times.  Our cat, Emma, wakes me around 4 a.m. to be fed and let outside.  She then hangs out with me while I enjoy coffee, facebook, reading, Bible Study, or just browsing on the Internet.  Today was a keen interest in the New River and a camping/fishing trip is on my calendar for April.  I found a cool web-site featuring a company in Minnesota who makes “custom” canoes specifically for fishing!  This is just down my alley as it combines low-tech, low-expense, and ease of operation.  No big bass boats for me!  Just one more thing to take care of and fix!  Yesterday I suggested to Karen that she and the Chihuahua’s would love to accompany me on camping trips.  This idea may need time to marinate.  BTW, awakening at 4 a.m. simply means long afternoon naps!

Retirement also has its demands, just in case you were thinking I am enjoying myself way too much.  Although always ready to help with the chores around the house, (I specialize in kitchen duty after meals), I have included new duties such as:  daily scooping the cat box, making the bed, vacuuming, light laundry, and spoon feeding the Chihuahua’s frequent meals.  A recent discovery is that Sadie loves any variety of fish, such as sardines and salmon cakes.  Sadie sleeps all day snuggled in front of the gas logs and only gets an appetite around evening;  in contrast to Brinks,  who could make a visit to Ryan’s buffet bar just about any time. 

Currently reading Tom Clancy’s new book Dead or Alive, Decision Points by President Bush, The Jesus I Never Knew by Phillip Yancy, as well as Bible reading with the Gideon reading plan.  In addition, Karen and I are doing the Beth Moore Study, David, Seeking a Heart Like Him.  Karen will be leading this study at church next week.  She is such a treasure and blessing in my life and an excellent teacher/facilitator!  We recently finished a Chip Ingram study with a neighborhood couple which proved to be a real joy getting to know them, sharing prayer requests, as well as the fellowship.  Danny and Brenda, our new friends, are Auburn fans and still own a home there.  It was neat to kindle our friendship during Auburn’s run to the championship. 

In the up and coming section of my life, yesterday I travelled to the post office and completed my very first passport application.  Karen and I are planning an extended trip to Belgium, France, and England over the summer.  She and Kala made the journey last summer and this year I get to enjoy Belgian waffles, French crepes, fish and chips, scones and tea, and much more.  I am really excited thinking about all the pomp and pageantry that awaits us.  We will have lots of fun…but that is the nature of our relationship.  We enjoy each other’s company a lot.  Having watched the children travel all over the world multiple times I guess it’s my turn. 

Also, I am excited about the upcoming Passion Play our church is presenting at COMMA this Easter; check it out!  My role is the Centurion.  I told Warren Daniel that he was a hard act to follow (you know he was a West Point grad)!  I pray many hearts are stirred, our Father is glorified, and our church blessed as a result.