4/19/26

 

Dear family,

               I feel so blessed again and again to have you in my life. My church, relatives, and friendships are truly a blessing. Your impact on me is great and I feel thankful. Each season has its beauty, hardships and joys. Spring can bring excitement for new life, the joy of seeing perennials and hardy plants come back is expected but still a surprise. Oh that’s where you ended up at. Oh, now there are two of you! How fun.

               Weeds also grow in this weather. How many years of angst I have cried about this. So far this year I have only had a grumpy hangry morning about weeds. No tears this time. Bobby came out to help find a tool I had lost in two steps time. Literally – I pruned a bush, two steps away I dug up some weeds from the vinca minor and poof – the pruner disappeared. How frustrating! Thank goodness Bobby is good at finding things. It didn’t take long – he just had to listen to about 3 or 4 sentences of complaints. “The weeds are taking over our garden (no, the world) and my life is over etc”. Then poof, there the pruners were, laying on top of the vinca minor. Sigh, Bobby agreed we could poison everything. We don’t need vinca minor at all. This was a viable choice. But my body only lets me do 15 min of yard work a day and it was time to go inside.

               Tuesday night Bobby asked the middle schoolers what they thought a picture was. The only guess was a, “VHS thing?” – our youngsters may never know what a cassette tape is – and that’s OK. Using a pencil on those was rough. Although, purposefully taking the string out just for fun, was entertaining. Hopefully no one will die from some odd chemical that came out while we did that.

               Yet I digress 😉. The lesson had a fill in the blank that included who people think Jesus is today, “Prophet, historical figure, - - - - - teacher, crazy lunatic.” The guess for this blank did include a “math” teacher. Although they did get it right eventually (moral) one person did say, “Math makes the most sense.” No, I don’t think Jesus came to earth to teach math. Sorry professors and other math teachers – Morals are more important to God. Prove me wrong if you think otherwise.

               The high school group was also fun. Bobby found a creative way to say, “Don’t talk while I am talking,” Bobby said, “We really love your tongue, but please keep it in your mouth.”

What really warmed my heart to overflowing with tears was the Sunday school presentation from one of our high schoolers and his mother about their school mission trip to Guatemala. Hearing about God working, man, He really is at work all around us – their stories – the mom was like, “OK, guys, you gotta stop crying.” How can we help it? Those are happy tears.

               And then the baptism service, two of our youth were baptized by Bobby – such tall young men! And I couldn’t believe my ears, they are 12 and 13 – so young, so tall, so spiritually mature. How fun to watch as their faith grows, is tested and matures. I am so blessed to be part of that. Yet, we will have to help them as the weeds grow around them too.

               Thursday after work I went to do my 15 min. of yard work. Bobby helped and even grabbed a bunch of weeds out of the vinca minor with the statement, “I don’t want you to have to kill the vinca minor.” I felt very cared for. We reminisced that the original vinca minor came from his dad’s old place. I mentioned we could give dad some back but Bobby said he’s in a different climate so probably wouldn’t want any he has to water (in the Bend area). It was still a blessing though – having some help.

               May God bless you with help when you need it, a hand when you are down and a boot when that would be appropriate. God knows our hearts, our wills and our ways. May we find peace in knowing Him and doing His will.

               Love and hugs,

 

 

Cristy

4/13/26

 

Dear Family,

I must admit a disturbing conversation I had with Seth on the way to Portland. I asked him to promise to never get a mullet hair cut. Seth refused. He wants autonomy for this simple act. I still feel a little nauseated thinking about it.

Celebrating is fun and can be dangerous. Bobby Seth and I enjoyed going to Portland to celebrate Adriel turning 25 and graduating from college. She thought turning 25 was a huge deal. College – meh, she’s just glad it’s over and the diploma came in the mail. I remember feeling the same way. It was funny.

The danger started when Adriel wanted to get food from a restaurant and then sit on a pier. I started applying sun screen after we ordered and before we left. I asked Seth, “Do you see any white on me?” and pointed to my skin. Seth was not impressed, “Mom, you are white, I don’t think I can help you with this one.” I smiled and took some more sun screen and smeared it on my neck without rubbing it in. “How about any white like that?” Seth replied, “Oh.” He looked more analytically and then, “No, I don’t see any, you are good.”

I believe Adriel was sharing a favorite, special place with us. Boy was it scary. We walked past many people who don’t have homes and several who were bathing in a water fountain. We went down a narrow ramp to a pier that was broken in several places. It was a beautiful view as long as we didn’t look behind us to those poor people – humans – who are unfortunate. I was very glad to get back to Adriel’s apartment before sundown.

               While in Adriel’s apartment one thing we entrusted Adriel with were her medical records. Interestingly she went through the documents page by page and reminisced about each incident. “Oh, this is when I bit the dentist.” Immunizations had a comment from me, “The look of betrayal in your baby eyes was so traumatic dad had to take you to the rest of your immunizations. Seth’s were also all handled by dad.” Adriel even mentioned, “So that’s how much it cost to have a baby back then.” She looked at prices, events and then commented how fortunate she is to have such a small file. She used to look through medical records as a paralegal for insurance. It sure was interesting to go through them all again. It was like reliving her life. Frame by medical frame.

               The next day was middle school group. Bobby spoke about how Onesiphorus found Paul in Rome and how it isn’t easy to find people in new places. This brought up a story about how he found my Uncle in Italy while we were there on vacation. One student thought that was very creepy. Bobby had to mention he did know the name of the building they were staying at so that helped. The student insisted on their first take – still creepy that Bobby found a person – stalker like.

               Since we were talking about Italy a story of how my desire to be frugal, my lack of the language and my desperation led to a misunderstanding. I wanted water from the tap. I didn’t want to pay $3 for a bottle. The waiter did not understand. Finally I mentioned, “Toilet water?” That only brought a huge look of horror on the waiters face. Bottled water it was. Sigh. Our youth enjoyed that story.

               The game time was fun as well. “Will you be my friend?” “No, all my friends . . . . wear black, have crocks on. . . and my favorite . . . all my friends aren’t as cool as Rich.” We all knew to jump up and grab a new seat – it was unanimous and fun.

               The high school group was also enjoyable. When Bobby asked, “Does anyone know where Ephesus is?” One person shouted out, “Japan!”

               Later when Bobby mentioned we were going to talk about “Onesiphorus.” Someone said, “I love that name, I’m going to call my kid that!” Another countered with chagrin, “No, you can’t name your kid that! Everyone will nickname them ‘Onsie!’”

               And a favorite of mine – the fill in the blank. The answers came rapid fire for this one, “Onesiphorus visited Rome while Paul was i_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _.” The firs answer seemed right to me “Incarcerated” but it didn’t fit. Next was, “In jail” but that’s two words. Imprisoned was the right word. l

               It’s really fun to watch people grow. Today Seth took some time out to cook lasagna with me. He wanted to get a ruler out and do precise measurements. He was OK with my – pouring ½ of this and 1/6^th of that. He would do it differently though – but since we were cooking together (and we already know he likes my lasagna) he was fine with my ways. If he does this alone though – he will do it more precisely.

               I’m so thankful for friends and family. Thank you for your love and interest. May God’s words always be a gentle guide for your actions and words. Hugs,

 

Cristy

              

4/5/26

 

Dear family,

 

               Words are so fun. I enjoyed several mis – sayings and for some reason it’s – I don’t know. Maybe you can delight with me in how fun things can get when I am well meaning yet misinformed. Adriel told me this week what she wanted for her Birthday and Bobby and I were happy to oblige. I mentioned to co-workers that I was excited to buy my daughter something she wanted. “Oh, What does she want?” I lack details so I mentioned, “Something for water boarding.” My friend said, “That’s torture.” I had to reply, a little chagrined, “Well, water sports aren’t that bad.” “No,” my friend insisted, “Water boarding is torture – you must mean something else.” I looked into my purchase history, “Oh, it’s a pump for paddle boarding.” This made more sense to my friend but set me into a fit of laughter. No, Adriel doesn’t torture people for fun.

               But the word play doesn’t end in the family, our youth are fabulous at this as well. Bobby’s lesson was about God helping us out. He asked the youth, “What’s the definition of ‘Providence?’” One student had to say, “It’s a health care.” And technically, they are right. Sometimes Bobby hand’s out prizes for right answers. One student got it right but Bobby had to ask, “Can you have bubble gum?” The student was like, “Yes?!” Bobby had to add, “Sorry, just trying to be respectful.” And this is for all those poor souls who have braces and are restricted in a great many foods.

               While reading a verse a student read Romans 12:13 this way, “Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hostility.” No one snickered or laughed. Bobby and I just mentioned, “It’s hospitality.” But later, on Saturday, I did have to mention to Bobby as he was heading out, “Remember to practice, ‘hostility.’” He mentioned how he loves his job – said that 2 or three times this week. We truly do enjoy our youth.

               During High school group when it was time to fill in blanks a student wanted to add, “Watermelon,” to this blank.  “Lydia was a God w_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _.” Watermelon doesn’t fit at all but worshiper does 😊.

               I also must mention my new to me favorite label printer. Its name is “n” after my friend Ian who was on a mission trip to the inner city. He said his name and a young person asked, “N, is that your name? Just a letter?” I love that story and n’s little nose is an “n” so it fits perfectly.

               Easter was fun and good Friday was meaningful. We are so blessed to worship a RISEN savior. May you delight in your life and don’t forget to practice hostility.

Love and hugs,

 

Cristy

3/22/26

 

Dear family,

 

Happy Spring! I love how the cherry blossoms decided to make it in time for the festival. It seems the world is bursting with color and new life. Speaking of, I went to a birthday for a two-year-old and half the women there were large with child. It was exciting to see that people are willing to bring new ones into the world. Bobby and I don’t miss that stage of life, but it was fun to be around everyone for a while. And it was really fun to give a book written by me and illustrated (mostly) by Adriel. I delight in that.

Bobby had to share with me that he dreamed half the sanctuary collapsed. I replied, “Oh yeah? I dreamed our cat would only eat Cheetos.  She refused to eat cat food anymore.” We agreed dreams are weird and left it at that.

               Other lovely and fun occurrences. The middle school group was sitting with boys on one end and girls far on the other side of the room.  Bobby said, “Why don’t you mingle.” This was met with incredulity. “Why would we do that? Boys have cooties and might wipe their boogers on us.”

               I have this habit of enjoying talking with Adriel then putting a bit of news into the prayer requests that are handed in and passed out to pray about. After Bobby heard, “Adriel was in Hawaii and for safe travels back home,” He mentioned, “I don’t like hearing news about my daughter that way.” A High schooler got it, “Yeah, but now we know who the favorite parent is.”

               Sunday morning prayer requests had many family members sick. Bobby was concerned and said, “Agh, I’m surrounded by sick people!” One student had to pipe in with, “I caught my brother blowing his nose! Only sick people blow their noses.”

               A funny thing about spring break is that Bobby is keeping, “Dinner and a movie night” a secret. Youth want to know so badly! One even said, “What if someone has allergies?” Bobby asked, “What allergies?” The student went on to say, “Shrimp.” Bobby assured them dinner would not include shrimp. The student insisted, “But, my friend is allergic . . . to . . . . the unknown.” Bobby said that friend could bring their own dinner.

               I delight in our youth and in our kids. Some friends from work came over Friday evening and commented how polite Seth was and how clean our house was. I am so blessed for both of those facts. It takes work and God gave me just enough to do my part in cleaning, but he also provided a son and husband who do their part as well.

               May you continue to be productive in society. May you find strength in knowing our Lord and may you find delight in how Spring is popping out of the ground all around us.

 

Love and Hugs, Cristy

PS the picture is, bowling . . . with humans.

3/16/26

 

Dear Family,

               Sometimes we make our own joy. I have a friend who gifted me fingernail polish. Normally I don’t bother but I have another friend who said, “It only takes five minutes.” By golly, this is my St. Patrick’s celebration! I hate cooking but painting my nails didn’t take long and it’s fun to look down and see a bit of color. Finding four leaf clovers on the other hand.  That’s one of my hobbies. I’ll give this one to my Irish friend. Maybe she will like it as much as the youth who called one I gave him, “Epic.” How fun to have joy and then to spread it.

               I have been contemplating what gives me joy. What makes me thrilled inside. I’ll list a few and would love to hear yours. My cat purring is a big one. I truly enjoy petting her and getting the instant gratification of the best sound on earth. “Purrrrrr.” I also delight when I win yet another phone game level. They are easy (for the most part) and cute characters dance on the screen for a bit with delight, “Good job!” How fun. When someone decides they want to follow Jesus, that’s very special. I enjoy seeing God at work. I also enjoy looking at pretty landscapes, people smiling, and laughing with others (Just for laughs is on YouTube). I am delighted when I call someone and they pick up with a desire to chat. I enjoy cuddles, little people are sweet but for now Bobby is the only one who is there for that. Good food, yes that’s huge. Seeing others be happy and visiting people I love. I may hate travel but it’s worth seeing family. What about you? What gives you joy?

               I also delight in the youth of our church. When they say fun things, I love laughing with them. Our lesson this week was about the Roman Centurion and how Jesus healed his servant. An interesting concept is how the “Jewish elders” were advocating for this man. They were asking Jesus to help because the man helped them out. Bobby posed the question, “What are Jewish elders?” On student answered with a question, “Old Jews?” And Bobby said, “Yes.”

               Another interesting question Bobby posed, “Did Adam and Even have belly buttons?” He mentioned churches could split over that one. The youth were intrigued but Bobby moved on with the lesson anyway. What do you think?

               Also, when the youth are on scoot boards holding onto a rope – it was fun to see “Bowling, with kids.” They loved it.

               Sunday morning Bobby gave an illustration from driving but mentioned, “Most of you can’t drive though.” There was a general outcry, “I drive!” Many wanted Bobby to know they have these skills. Bobby asked a young 12 year old, “How do you drive?” The answer was, “Illegally.” Nice.

               I am continually blessed when I talk with friends, Bobby, Adriel, Seth and my parents. I delight when they pick up the phone or lean in. Family is delightful and I am glad they are in my life.

               May you also delight in those you love and are around. May you find peace and joy in God’s will and may you delight in the little things – fun though they are. Happy St. Patrick’s day! Google St. Patrick – it’s a great story.

               Also, please pray for our church. The youth room flooded again last night. I think this is very stressful for everyone involved.

 

Much love, Cristy

3/8/26

 Dear Family,    

                I enjoy consistency and the beauty of people echoing each other. The connections we make in life can be quite beautiful. One of our leaders was out sick on Wednesday night. When Bobby finished the ending prayer someone sang, “Amen.” Just like Rich usually does with a similarly nice baritone! I had to turn around and see if Rich actually was there.  No, one of our youth now has a deeper voice and there you have it. A beautiful echo of a leader passing on mannerisms to the younger generation. It warmed my heart.

               When Bobby mentioned, “Soda will be there still,” about our youth room one student mis-heard. “Soda will be spilled?” Another student piped in, “Well, if you will be there – yes, soda will be spilled.” Indeed, that person does spill soda. We unraveled the original message eventually.

               Also on Wednesday night two of our young people were talking about their hobbies and I said, “You should share phone numbers with each other.”  They did and I am so glad for them. New friendships forged in youth can be lifelong friends.  Also one of our youth has signed up to help with Azimuth our upcoming Saturday night service. How exciting and timely – God is at work in Salem Oregon.

               Please pray with us as the Easter launch is coming up soon. 

 

Love and hugs,

 

Cristy 

3/2/26

 

Dear Family,

 

Sometimes disaster strikes. This is our time to show people what Christians are really like. Do we crumble, do we grumble, do we stumble? Or can we lean on God’s grace, carry on, and share His love anyway. This was a hard week for Bobby because the youth room flooded. He has been creative in the use of different rooms, and I have enjoyed seeing him shine even when his heart is heavy and his mind is whirling.

               Last week a student started promoting their small, crocheted animal Kenneth. They are nominating this Triceratops to be the Youth Group mascot. This student was bringing a petition around asking people to sign it. When one student hedged, she became insistent. He said, “I need more information. Does Kenneth read the Bible every day? What is his testimony?” When the answers weren’t coming in as rapidly as he was asking, she insisted anyway. He signed. As she happily left, he told me secretly, “I didn’t use my real name.” Oh my. These questions have now been answered. Kenneth had no family when he was young and he had to live in stores or even on the street. She found him, took him home to his new home and cleaned him. She introduced him to the Bible, church, and camp. Now Kenneth is a strong Christian with a personal relationship with the Lord and would like to help others come to the point that he has reached. Kenneth also reads the Bible daily but hasn’t finished the Song of Songs because he’s too young. Kenneth will represent joy and happiness as the Youth Group Mascot. What do you say? Do you vote yay or nay?

               Bobby was talking about having a mentor and how it’s important to listen to people that are older. When Bobby said, “Take advantage of old people.” I did have to chuckle. I knew what he meant. Anyway, many of our young people may be learning to drive soon and Bobby said a certain someone would be a good to person to ask about driving. He is now retired from driving long haul so he would be perfect. One student piped up with, “He would be ‘Glad’ to help us.” It took me a little bit – Oh the man’s last name is Glad. That was a good one!

               May you press on, with God’s help, even when you have hard times. May you find joy in the journey and may God’s love fill your heart. Love and hugs, Cristy