7/13/25

 

Dear Family,

 

               It’s amazing how breaks really do inspire us.  Because I had a week off from picking raspberries I was ok with picking them most of this week AND since there is only one row, it’s not really that big of a deal.  Another interesting thing – I’m back to watering again.  I am so excited about Gladiolus.  They are showing signs of being amazingly beautiful.  I can’t wait to see what other colors pop up.

               Friends had me over this week and I enjoyed chatting, sitting and being blessed by their company.  I also am teaching a former coworker from Freddies how to drive.  That is super fun.  I forgot how much I enjoyed her company.

               Adriel suffered from bad health so much that she lost enough weight to go down a couple of pants sizes.  She is on the mend but please pray with us for her health.

               Bobby came back safe and sound.  He wasn’t as tired this time because they went to bed around 10 instead of 11 every night.  Poor High Schoolers!  Either way he had stories to tell, and it was interesting to hear them.  There was an incident with bees.

               Seth continues to help in the garden and I am blessed. 

               May you also bless others, just like Seth does 😊.  May you find strength from God and may it flow with power out to all you encounter.  This is so that Matthew 5:16 might be fulfilled, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”  If you want a purpose statement, there it is 😊.  Love and hugs,

 

 

Cristy

7/6/25

 

Dear Family,

 

               This week the youth group enjoyed visiting the Duval household for a night of root beer floats, smores and hot dogs.  It was a lovely time.  I did have to ask about bottles upside down on sticks.  That looked weird to me.  (Pictured above).  Rich said, “That’s for the tree coats.”  I was intrigued – was this a coat rack?  “Oh you put coats on there?”  No, not human coats, tree or bush coats – I guess to keep the bush warm. What an interesting Idea.  One person did get a chuckle out of the mental imagery of me putting human coats all over a bush.

               Having Bobby home was nice.  I didn’t pick raspberries at all, and he did pick several times.  He used a lot of them for Raspberry Ginger pie which is very yummy.  I am still enjoying the fruits of his labor.  I like that he is nice to me. 

               God taught me a lesson last week and it’s been thought provoking.  Last week the raspberries went four days without being picked.  I usually panic a bit thinking they will fall on the path, become not only a sticky mess BUT create more vines that will attack anyone who wants to pick.  This did not happen.  They were hanging on just fine and presented themselves quite well.  A tiny bit overdone but that is the way Bobby likes them.  I felt God saying, “See, I hold them together for you.  This verse sums it up.  “Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”  Matthew 6:34 NIV

               That verse was also something that sums up the interaction I saw as I was driving home at 9pm on the 4^th.  I saw a weeping child.  His dad was trying to give him a sparkler.  That ties in with this verse to me.  Sometimes Gods plans are more than we think we can handle.  Yet, God is trying to bless us.  If we let go of our anxiety, put our hands out and take what he gives, it might just be fun.

               Love and hugs,

 

 

Cristy

 

              

6/29/25

 

Dear Family,

 

               I was guessing this week might be a little lonely.  Bobby being gone at camp is one thing.  No youth group is another. I tried to be proactive and asked three people to pick raspberries with me (none did this week).  Yet, I have fabulous co-workers, an amazing prayer group to go to and of course, I’m never alone, there is always God.  I enjoy singing praises as I bicycle to and from work.  I have also really been enjoying devotionals from the Bible project (https://bibleproject.com/).

               Sometimes I see Seth.  It’s very nice that he helps with yard work.  God grows it and these days, we are pruning and cutting things back.  I put out free daisies and Lambs ear on the curb twice this week and they are gone.  If anyone wants some just let me know, I can either point where to dig or dig with you if you are available at 5:40 AM on weekdays.  I do 5 min a day 5:40-5:55AM.  (Except Saturday -Saturday might be later and I take more time).

               I did get to bring Adriel medicine and frozen raspberries.  She has a cough and wasn’t feeling well this week.  It was good to see her and enjoy her company.  She has always been such a wonderful person.  Her gifts are exploding in so many ways.  She gave me some gladiolas a couple of years ago.  I divided them into three spots in the garden.  Now they are coming up in all three! 

               Bobby came home on Saturday, and I enjoyed seeing him.  He is tired but this week should be rejuvenating.  Yay, a four-day work week.  May you enjoy it as well – (Happy Canada day to my Canadian relatives).  Much love,

 

 

Cristy

6/22/25

 

Dear Family,

 

          How fun it is to gather with family!  I would love to share a photo of our father’s day excursion to “Por que no” but I was informed that it wasn’t mother’s day so no one was willing to pose.  Go figure.  Well, Bobby, Seth and I went to Portland to have lunch with Adriel and we enjoyed it immensely.  Boy was I full – no dinner necessary that night.

          The rest of the week was different than normal.  Summer schedule doesn’t include regular weekly youth meetings.  Bobby spent a lot of time getting ready for camp. 

I did water our one unbroken Lilly and tied it up.  It then rejoiced into bloom and that was fun.  It’s pictured above.

          Bobby and I enjoyed catching up with old friends from Gold Beach.  We hadn’t seen each other for maybe 18 years.  Our kids used to play together, well, kind of, Seth was little and their youngest hadn’t been born yet.  But, we had mommy time while caring for our children together.  Anyway, it was nice seeing them.

          The next night Bobby and I enjoyed a date.  The calm before the – well – even calmer for me.  Bobby will be at camp a lot this summer so I’ll load up on library books or invite myself over to your place.  😊.

          May you enjoy the summer days we have coming.  May your heart be full and your pets be sweet.

 

Much love,

 

 

Cristy

6/16/25

 Dear Family,

 

               When we choose to celebrate even in hard times, we are glad we came.  And that is what Seth said about his uncle’s celebration of life.  How drastically sad that my brother-in-law has passed away and yet how beautiful that we saw his life on the screen.  We found out so many things we didn’t know about him.  We love him more for that and we find joy in knowing that his memory will go on and his children will be his legacy.  They are such amazing people.  We are blessed to know them.

               Bobby drove both ways and chatted with Adriel so much I was amazed that they really had that many words.  But they did!  I am glad Adriel kept him Awake because the drive was late at night. I dozed most of the way home.

               We socialized with my parents while in the Seattle area and it was interesting to find out why dad has decided to use a walker.  First, he did fall six times in two weeks.  That probably hurt, but even more than the peer pressure everywhere he went were the testimonials of friends who fell and broke body parts.  That would be a cautionary tale.  My dad is good at crumpling instead of slamming into things.  Dad falls with style.  We talked about how that was good and Seth teased by pretending to fall while saying, “This was plaaaaned.”  I thought that was pretty funny.  I am glad we can laugh about growing older.  “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”  James 1:2.

               One of the many things Bobby is good at is throwing a party.  Our end of the school year bash went off quite well!  He had chicken, steak, rice and noodles.  One rice was tasty fried rice.  We have watched enough “Uncle Roger” on YouTube for him to know the rice had to be refrigerated overnight.  I enjoy comedy, Bobby enjoys learning things – it’s both!  Yay.  And we didn’t run out of food even though over 50 people came.  The above picture is from that event.

               Bobby made yummy food other nights for our family.  I feel so blessed to be his.  I kind of wish I had his stamina when it comes to socializing.  I want to love people more but run out of energy and my body just hurts.  He went to three parties last weekend.  Then he went to three more this last weekend.  I only lasted at one this weekend.  I wanted to go to the other one but I pooped out.  Maybe I should find some vita-vita-vegamin.  As it is, I have my own prescription pain killer and that helped me recover from the one party.  Some of our youth are so special – I want to honor and celebrate them but goodness.  I only have so much energy.

               May you also enjoy the people you are surrounded by.  May you find grace and love to be kind to all.  May you have enough energy to find joy in all God has for you.

 

Much love, Cristy

6/8/25

 

Dear Family,

 

               A normal week can be so nice sometimes.  No shoes dropped, work went fast and oh dear, now that I think of it something a little overwhelming is happening.  Raspberries and cherries are ripe at the same time.  Saturday morning included a lot of pruning to set a watering hose down for the raspberries.  Bobby helped pick one day and Adriel said she would help if she lived here.  That was sweet of her – I remember she used to help the first week when fruit was exciting and new.  So . . it . . . begins.  Abundant blessings to come.  Thank goodness I only have one row of raspberries now.

               Bobby cooked several times and I enjoyed the food.  He also mowed the lawn and is kind to me.  I enjoy his company.

               Tuesday night at middle school group one of our youth went towards the fridge for filtered water.  Bobby mentioned that they would need a cup.  Then he thought about it and said, “Do you suck on the water spigot at home?” The youth and their father affirmed that this person indeed does.  Bobby mentioned, “You are just a giant hamster aren’t you?”

               When Bobby asked, “What is an example of bad fruit in youth group” someone had to say, “Bananas”.  That was funny but Bobby had to explain that he meant spiritual fruit – “So gossip would be an example, not a banana.”  This even though they just played catch with bananas at game time.

               The High school group had a special night with one of our visiting missionaries.  Oliver Haumann spoke about being a physical therapist and how that is a wonderful inroads to introducing the gospel to people through prayer.  Our youth were attentive and asked great questions.  I enjoyed trying different foods that Oliver brought.  I was inwardly super excited because I believe several of our youth want to help in the medical field so seeing their minds expanded with the possibility of using their talent for God was wonderful.

               May you also be given wisdom about how your talents and ability can serve God where you are.  Warm love and hugs, Cristy

              The Photo was from last week just for fun.

6/1/25

 

Dear family,

               Being married 29 years has gotten way easier than it used to be.  I think we have trained each other quite well.  We are thankful for each other and say it often in words and deeds.  I am very glad for this.  We enjoyed a weekend getaway and delighted in a fun zipline tour at Skamania Lodge.  How fun to enjoy time together and use earned paid vacation days from work.  Yay!

               That didn’t stop us from enjoying youth group earlier in the week.  Tuesday night, Middle schoolers were super fun.  Bobby was talking about how three people were thrown into a fiery furnace in the book of Daniel, but another person appeared with them!  One student said, “May the fourth be with you.”  That cracked me up.

               During the application time, the question was asked, “What areas of your spiritual life do you struggle with?”  Bobby said, “Is it listening in youth group?  Because Mr. and Mrs. Tape Roll can help you.”  This was said in jest.  Although, back to taping someone on the wall – that has been a fun thing to do.

               During High school group, one young man said, “I would like to go into a lion's den if they are all females.”  This brought out cries of, “Don’t you know the females are the ones that hunt!?”  So the quick answer was, “Oh, never mind, I would like to go with all the males.”  And yet, lions are lions – without God, it’s just dangerous – let’s just not desire any of that.

               On our way home from our adventures, we stopped by Portland and had lunch with Adriel.  She is sweet as ever and such a delight to be with.  She listened patiently to all our stories.  (I later recalled when I was struggling at college and my parents were out having fun.  I was glad for them, but still had school to do. Ugh.)

               Thank you for praying with us for safe travels.  It was lovely to come home to our mewing kitty.  I enjoyed asking Seth, “Can I have a hug?” After asking, “Why?” He obliged, and I was glad.  I at least want one hug a day.

               May you also get your hug or two.  Warmly,

 

Cristy

5/26/25

 

Dear Family,

 

               I appreciate your love and well wishes.  Thank you for your prayers as it seems like health is a big deal right now.  This makes me glad for the good health God has given us so far.  There are no guarantees in life.  Sometimes I look at my canker sore medicine and thank God that I am free from them for now.  Yeah, for less pain!

               This week I enjoyed chatting with Adriel several times.  She remains one of the kindest people I know and is delightful to chat with.

               Seth continues to be a blessing and is still good for hugs.  I enjoy when I see him.

               Bobby mowed the lawn and made several yummy meals.  I am glad he enjoys what he does.  His mind is always spinning on the next game, next camp activity and next sermon.  He is quite amazing.

               Middle school group had several fun moments.  A student was collecting prayer requests and his friend kept saying, come over here for mine.  The hand was empty because the request had already been taken.  But I enjoyed saying, “He has an air request.”

               During lesson time Bobby was talking about how we need each other and how a cord of three strands can’t easily be broken.  His illustration was about a time in middle school when he was riding his bicycle home and a group of teens stopped him and were going to beat him up.  One even brought out a knife!  He felt very scared and wished he had friends with him at that precise moment.  This brought great reaction from our youth.  “What happened?”  “Were you OK?”  Bobby said, “I was OK, of course, I’m here now.”  One student said, "Oh good, because you are my favorite character!”. 

               The High school group has an interesting flavor to it.  Some youth like reading from different versions on their Bible app.  I love it when they read from the, “Ya, all” version or KJV.  The only problem is that sometimes there are giggles.  Bobby’s new rule is, “If you can’t read God’s word without laughing you should pick a more serious version of the Bible.”

               Another new fun fact Bobby had to instill.  “Fortnight baptisms aren’t real.”  This is a virtual game so it would only be a virtual baptism.  No water.

               I enjoy the back and forth at youth group.  There are so many new things to learn and fun concepts to master.  Virtual baptisms?  Well – maybe if you want to announce your faith to those online. 

               As you consider your outreach potential may you be wise with how God leads you to tell others about Him.  May you feel His prompt and do His will.

               Warmly,

 

Cristy

We also thoroughly enjoyed Emily and Tim Stone’s wedding.  I loved the part in their vows where he said he would take care of all her caffine needs.  It was special that we were invited to the intimate gathering later.  The person announcing that only special people were allowed to go said, “I don’t know how to say this but, try harder next time.”  So much fun and so many funny moments.  I loved that her father put so much effort into a gift only to have the head fall off at presentation. Good times.

5/18/25

 

Dear Family,

 

               Are you glad God put you on this earth?  Many days I am, others I have asked Him to take me home.  So far he has me here.  Then I must find purpose for why He has me here.  So far, I believe mine is to support my husband and children the best I know how.  May you also find your purpose.

               Mothers day was fabulous.  I enjoyed that the family did whatever I wanted which was go to the Good Will bins in Portland.  No one balked and Seth bought all of the stuff everyone wanted for less than $11.00.  not bad.

               Then we went out to a Baba Mediterranean Grill where I was sad to find out that I wouldn’t be getting Boba.  I picked it out so I had to live with my consequences.  BUT the hummus was amazing and I enjoyed it that night and later as left overs.  Yay for fun times with family.

               Middle school group had some great times.  Bobby was trying to get participation for youth Sunday when someone said, “I thought youth Sunday was on Monday.”  I’m pretty sure they were joking but the next question was AM or PM when Bobby asked people to come at 9:30 on Sunday morning. 

Later Bobby was talking about how he wanted to make healthy food for the upcoming BBQ.  A youth offered their mom’s service with, “My mom makes really good Mack and peas.”  This was surprising to Bobby.  What?  Yes, they really did say, ‘Mac and peas.’

One of the fill in the blanks from Daniel 1:9-10 had a silly answer when Bobby gave a hint.  Here is what it should be: “We make e _ _ _ _ _ _ for our circumstances.”  The hint was, “What do we make that starts with an e.  Like if someone hit and you hit back?  Someone shouted out, “Revenge”.  That does not start with an e.

               I am glad Bobby has the 5^th graders come early so they can start getting the feel of what youth group is like and receive the calendar for the upcoming summer events.  They are so sweet.  We had prayer requests ranging from “I would like to see my dad this year” to “I would like to get a massage.”  Quite a range.

               Handing out verses is supposed to make things easier.  Sometimes people forget by the time it’s their turn.  It’s funny when there is a long pause.  “Oh, I have that verse!” And then the rebuttal from another student, “Kids these days.” 

               Daniel 1 talks about people eating only vegetables and looking healthier than other people.  Bobby (who likes to live off meat and candy) thinks this is a miraculous act of God.  Another student disagrees.  When the fill in blank for Daniel 1:11-17 was: We can find s _ _ _ _ _ _ when we stick to a plan.  People had some various answers.  One was “Soap opera” the other was “That vegans have a point.”  I tried to bring up the belief that there won’t be meat in heaven as we were going to game time but the focus was on games.  What do you think?  Is there Biblical evidence for meat in heaven or will we be vegetarians? 

               Adriel remains sweet on the phone, I am glad we choose to have several conversations during the week.  Seth seems to be still doing very well in school. 

               Thank you for your concern, love and prayers this month.  They mean a lot.

 

Warmly, Cristy

 

The answers are We make excuses for our circumstances.

We can find solutions when we stick to a plan.  

 

5/12/25

 Dear Family,  

 

               God allows hard times.  Reading the, “Voice of the Martyrs” magazine sometimes makes me weep for the trauma people endure.  God has the power to stop abuse yet he walks with us through it and helps us understand that forgiveness is His way.  Imagine if he dwelt on how we hurt him over, and over again.  God gives free will and is willing to step down from his high and lofty place to cry with us in the darkness. 

               I’ll admit – two weeks ago was very hard.  I do not like watching death but it is the inevitable end to us all.  What joy there will be on the other side of that door.  I can’t imagine the reception we will have at heavens gates.  "Though he slay me, yet will I trust him" is in Job 13:15.  May our faith deepen in the hard times.

               Going through pictures to share for my brother-in-law’s celebration of life brought back so many fun memories.  He always loved children and he met my sister as they were working in a day care.  Now their oldest follows in their footsteps working with young children.  This is beautiful.

               This week had many blessings as well.  I enjoy our middle school group so much.  Bobby mentioned that he is preparing for youth Sunday and had sign ups.  It was mentioned that Bobby is more fearful of adults than teens.  A student was taken aback.  “How could you be scared of nice old people?  It’s the teens that are so judgmental and harsh.”  Many people would echo that sentiment but Bobby continues to relate well with our youth.

               Bobby was a little flustered so when papers with verses to read were handed out the person handed out doubles.  Oh dear, people didn’t want to fight over reading the Bible so there was a rock paper scissors moment.  I enjoyed that.

               One of the fill in the blanks was, “Jesus D _ _ _, B _ _ _ _ _, R_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _.  (1 Corinthians 15:1-8 One person guessed Didn’t Bring Rice?  I’ll let you know the right answer at the end.

I enjoyed how the high school girls circled up before youth group and we chatted together.  They are a sympathetic, lovely group and I am privileged to know each individual.

Bobby was excited to serve smores with spray marshmallow topping.  He saw this at the Portland night market when we were celebrating Adriel’s Birthday and had to get it.  I enjoy smores no matter how they are served but it sure was fun to see the fantastic presentation at youth group.

Bobby mowed the lawn a couple times in the last two weeks and keeps cooking food frequently.  I enjoy most meals and can even incorporate some into salads for my week to come.

Adriel has been very sweet on the phone and yet she said, “You better make this good, I had to cut a call with my cousin short.”  I am so glad she has such a great relationship with her cousins.  They are adorable and we love them so much. 

Bobby and I enjoyed a very cute play Thursday night.  The youth were so fun to watch!  I enjoyed the play and was glad I went.  It is hard to resist when someone personally invites me.  I am blessed that she wanted me to go see her.

               May you enjoy God’s blessings and patiently endure the hard times.  Much love

 

 

Cristy

Jesus Died, Buried, Resurrected is the correct answer for that one.  Have a lovely week friends.

4/28/25

 Dear family,  

 

               Blessings continue to abound even during hard times.  There are so many stories of people clinging to God even when it seems He is against them.  Job 13:15a says, “Though he slay me, I will hope in him.” (ESV).  Joni Earekson Tada said that her hard times have taught her to love God more fully.  Even if we don’t have any humans to interact with, the angels are watching.  Will we serve God in hard and in easy times?  I believe our time on earth is a test.  1 Peter 4:12 says, “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. “  It's hard to go through these times – so, so hard.  May you cling to Jesus when you face hard times as well.

               Youth group had some fun times.  Bobby is not above bribery.  The youth were a little too loud, so he said, “If you are talking when you aren’t supposed to, you might not get a treat.”  The person next to me had to comment, “Mind blowing!” with an extra layer of sarcasm on top. 

               Bobby handed out pieces of paper to those who wanted to read scriptures.  When it was one person’s turn to read, they were hesitant.  “What does . . . ummmm.”  Their sibling blurted, “You had one job.”

               Bobby’s quiz of the week asked, “What is your favorite thing to do in the summer?”  It mentioned going to the beach, camping etc.  But the last one made me laugh, “Lying in bed and doing nothing.  What are you, a slug?”  I had the perfect note to give him the next day.  It is pictured and makes me laugh.

               I enjoyed spending Easter with my parents.  It was a rock concert experience.  I used to believe heaven might be boring if we had to sing God’s praises all the time.  BUT, if heaven is like that church service – well, I’ll enjoy that very much. 

               Adriel stayed in Washington from Thursday till the next Saturday.  I was concerned she was overstaying, but my sister said Adriel was very helpful and a comfort to the family.

               Seth was willing to go to the Seattle area several times this month, but his willingness didn’t line up with the ride situation.  Seth did visit through FaceTime, and that was very special.  I am glad he reached out in his own way.

               I wish I could say more, but this week's story is not mine to tell.  Our family is going through a hard time.  Please pray for our unspoken requests.  Much love,

 

Cristy

 

4/21/25

 Dear Family,  

 

               I am so glad that good Friday is not the end of the Easter story.  God gives us hope that His power over death, sickness and sorrow will turn to joy.  We will rejoice with Him in spirit and new bodies.  That is very exciting to me.

               Youth group’s poll of the day asked what kind of Easter candy was peoples favorite.  I had to laugh when someone said, “Peeps taste like Windex.”  Another wanted us all to vote for Cadbury eggs because they, “Taste like your childhood.”  The funniest was that Rich made the vote sway his way again, like usual.   

               Thank you all for praying for safe travels as we traveled to the Seattle area.  I hadn’t spent Easter with my parents for years so it was very special to be there this year.  We had such tender fellowship, so many great conversations and long hugs.  I am blessed to have a sister who likes making lists and labeling things.  Going to her place is a picture of organized beauty and I am thankful she let me help with some chores.  Acts of service is one gift I enjoy doing when I am at a loss as how to help.

               It is good to be safely home!  I felt a deep connection with family this weekend but am quite exhausted.  Thank you so much for your love and attention.  Hugs,

 

 

Cristy

PS I took this picture of the sound board at the Mega church type service I attended.  Can you imagine six people?

4/13/25

 Dear family,

               This week was a lovely time of hurried business, so much so that I didn’t write a thing down!  I did go out in the garden just now to take pictures of the flowers because they are beautiful.  Our cat followed me, and that made for some darling pictures.  I’ll share one.  I didn’t necessarily want yet another cat picture, so I asked Seth if he would mind me taking some pictures of him with the flowers.  He was not interested, so the cat it is.  At least they are not flowers alone 😊.

               I am thankful for politeness, that we don’t want to harm or hurt each other.  Some things I saw this week were yikes.  The reason we separate from jobs or other people is that we are done, we have had enough.  Some people are willing to cross the line of polite and share their discontent.  I am glad that I live a life sheltered from that.  You are all so kind.

               Youth group was fun.  I was not willing to run for the game so being roped in lead to some silliness.  One person on my team ran so much that he didn’t feel the need to do round two.  Even youths grow tired and weary sometimes.

               Seeing small children wave palm branches always fills my heart so much tears leak out of me, and I am bursting with joy.  Their cuteness is too much for me to handle.  I feel blessed and overwhelmed.  My cup overflows.  Did you experience this?  Wasn’t it delightful? 

               Pray with me for the persecuted church this week.  Easter might be a time bad guys are planning to attack or use dynamite.  Please pray with me that there are duds, misfires, inability to fulfil evil.  May God prevail.  May people feel that He is protecting them.  Thank you for standing with me in prayer.  I am concerned each year after 2019 that it will happen again.  Please Lord, protect your worldwide church.

 

Love and hugs,

 

 

Cristy 

4/7/25

 Dear family,  

                How exciting to broadcast flower seeds into the garden and wonder how many will grow.  Potential has always been full of the unknown.  I love seeing things peek out of the ground to greet the sun . . and in turn . . me.  “Hello, baby flowers. I’m excited to see what you will become!”  Welcome spring, new life, and the knowledge that every day is a new beginning.

               Bobby spent some time mowing the lawn and cooking this week.  He is preparing for camp and excited about a new game he made up.  I was also blessed when he brought our garbage can out to the curb.

               One of our former youths made my day by asking if I liked his new tattoo and sending a picture of something quite hideous.  I hedged and was at work, so I didn’t say yay or nay.  I did ask clarifying questions.  Given enough time, I was happily surprised with, “APRIL FOOLSSSSSSSSS.  I didn’t actually get that tattoo.”  I had a great laugh and shared the story with coworkers who were also quite appreciative.  Ahhh – to laugh.

               I knew Seth wouldn’t appreciate a story, so when I got home, I bared my ankle and asked if he liked my tattoo.  When he looked and said, “I can’t see it,”  I said, “It’s very tiny.”  As he was looking closer, I whispered, “April fools.  I love you.”  I got a smile out of him, and that was super fun. 

               Tuesday night was a blast with the Middle School Group.  They are so fun.  Bobby cut cardboard into the shape of E’s and put one under each chair for the snack. One person even took a bite out of the brown E.  He said it wasn’t that bad.  Oh dear.

 The quiz of the night included, “What is the best-tasting baby food?”  One of the answers was, “I hope Bobby isn’t getting any weird ideas.”  I liked that answer the best.  One student said, “They all taste good.”  Ugh.  He is the one that liked the brown E.  At that age, some people will eat anything.

When Bobby said, “Raise your hand if you had a terrible spring break,”  Some people’s hands went right up. Bobby was like, “Wait a minute, some of you were with me.”  This brought some laughter and admittance that those days were good, but the others weren’t.

               During lesson time, one of the fill-in-the-blanks had to do with Isaiah 9:6-7.  “Jesus is the Everlasting Father: Timeless creator and P_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _.” One girl had to mention that Princess fit and would work.  Bobby was not impressed.  What do you think it should be?

               The high school group was fun.  They have the coordination and patience to do difficult games well, and it was fun to see Bobby get out when the middle schoolers didn’t even come close. 

               Adriel is a year older as of this week.  Bobby, Seth, and I enjoyed eating dinner with her and going to a Portland Night market.  It was a very hopping place, and Bobby even found a special treat for the youth group.  I enjoyed being with Adriel.  She sure is a wonderful, sweet person.  I love her and enjoy her company very much.

               May you also love those who are your family.  May you enjoy them and delight in who they are.  Please let me know if you had any fun April Fools jokes played on your or that you played.  I LOVE those stories.

 

Love and hugs,

 

Cristy

 

 

PS the fill in the blank is Provider.

3/30/25

 Dear family,   

 

               To have a youth group descend on our yard to place and rake 5 yards of bark dust was delightful!  Bobby was a bit overwhelmed because the team of 16 was so fast that they finished in an hour.  I have to say thank you to all of you.  I am very grateful, as this year I wasn’t even there.  I was at work.  (I didn't add faces because I didn't ask each family's permission.)

                Spring break was just another work week for me.  I enjoyed it and brought a co-worker to the ER on one of those days.  I am glad she is all better now.  That was a little scary.

               Bobby and I enjoyed some quiet evenings.  Seth and Adriel remain sweet and are both plugging away at school.

               The church workday was a success.  I didn’t last long because my back hurts when I pull weeds, but I saw many people happily working away.  The church looks beautiful now.  Not a weed or plant out of place, there are clean windows, dusted lights, and I don’t even know all the stuff that was done.    

               Just for fun, I’ll include the most bizarre conversation I had one morning.  I was getting up at 4 AM, my usual time, and Bobby said, “I dreamed you were scaring Seth.”  He sounded a little angry.  I said, “No, I dreamed I was helping him find a bee for homework.”  Bobby disagreed, “No, I dreamed I told you to stop scaring him, and you did it again anyway.” Now, I was getting a little frustrated.  “No, I dreamed it had to be a live bee, and I was helping him.”  Bobby ended the conversation with, “You are lucky I didn’t push you out of bed.”  I left, and I knew this would happen . . . guess what . . . Bobby doesn’t remember the entire conversation because he wasn’t awake.

               May you be way less combative while you sleep.  May you enjoy the people around you and find grace and forgiveness always.  May you find help with the garden if you need it, and may you be glad for the flowers.  I didn’t cry this year because of the weeds.  Yay!  The garden is under control with way less fruit and mostly bark dust that I can poison.  Yay!!!!

Love and Hugs,

 

 

Cristy

3/24/25

 Dear family,

 

               Tuesday night youth group was fun.  When a youth was not singing during song time Bobby asked him to sing.  The young man mentioned, ”I’m actually deaf and mute.”  That was just silly.  When you know someone since birth, and their parents, and their entire family’s history – you know if they are deaf or mute.  He . . . is not.

               The snack that night was tiny burger-shaped gummies.  People were excited about these but it struck me as funny when Bobby mentioned that Rich was wanting more burger options and here, was one.  It was amusing to hear Rich laugh about that one.

               Bobby mentioned, “The Government tells me I need glasses to drive.”  A student had to say, “Don’t listen to the government!”  Bobby said, “I’m going to obey the government.”  As we should.

                I enjoyed talking with Adriel several times this week.  Her life is so interesting.  She definitely has a lot going on.

               I enjoyed giving away some free kittens with a youth.  It took about five minutes and there was so much joy in the process.  Holding a baby is special and I enjoyed sharing that joy with several people.  How precious new life is.

    Also, that pinwheel is a picture of God's future blessing.  While I'm at work tomorrow Bobby and the youth group will help spread barkdust wherever there is a pinwheel (ground showing).  How sweet of them.  The proceeds from that fundraiser will go toward youth group snacks (which anyone can also help with).  It's a win-win since they will also get pizza and a movie.  Yay, God.

               Bobby mowed the lawn some and I enjoyed spending Saturday with him.  May you also enjoy spending time with those you love.  Hugs,

 

Cristy  

3/17/25

 Dear family,

 

               Daylight Savings Time changed things so much!  I was bicycling in the dark again.  No shades this week.  And the rain was so intense that it turned to hail on Thursday.  The power went out at work, and they sent us all home.  By then the sun was out and it was nice to garden in the middle of the day.

               Tuesday night, we enjoyed a lot of youth gathering, but most of them were boys.  This brought out a very exciting idea.  Bobby said, “If we have 8 girls at youth group, I’ll order pizza.  I don’t know if this is a long-standing or limited offer, but one girl is brainstorming and is very excited and motivated to invite others. Food is a huge motivator.

               Bobby was making an illustration about how he would get nickels before going to the nickel arcade, but the coins were heavy and would weigh down his pocket.  A middle schooler interrupted with, “Wait, you used real nickels?”  This ended the entire story.  Yes, we are old, so old that we used actual nickels at the nickel arcade, not credit card-swiping machines.  Sigh.

               When Bobby made an illustration about not comparing ourselves to others, he mentioned that if someone got a little bit of ice cream but Sammy got a lot, the person might say, “Why is Sammy getting all the ice cream?” Sammy had no problem piping in, “Because I’m the favorite!”

               When Bobby mentioned that our sins are paid for because of “Him who has no sin,”  Someone had to add, “Sinless Steve?” No, it’s Jesus we are talking about, not sinless Steve.

                I enjoyed talking with Adriel and Seth this week.  They are both very loving and kind.  I am glad they respond when I reach out 😊.          Seth had pastor Ed shadow him on Friday.  I was praying they got to know each other better and good would come.  I loved hearing from our pastor that Seth was eager to please and responded well to any new feedback about the job.

               Saturday, Bobby and I enjoyed a Quinceanera.  It was lovely to celebrate someone so thoroughly and get to know her better. 

               I dreamed that our cat made the morning announcements at church on Sunday.  Many people were taken aback.  I had to admit that I hadn’t taught her how to talk.  That was all God.  But I did teach her to read, so when she stumbled on a word, that was my bad.  It was a fun dream and shows how important Skyra is to me.  She also loves meowing so much that I can see her doing the announcements at church.  Can’t you?

               May you enjoy your days and your dreams.  May your time on this earth bring testimony to God’s love, goodness, and grace.

Hugs,

 

Cristy

3/9/25

 Dear Family,

               The crocuses are happily blooming with so much sunny, warm weather!  May we also delight in our Lord and shine forth happy, pretty faces towards the sun.  I have had to bring sunglasses on my bicycle rides now.  The ugliest glasses I could find!  And I am glad to have them – that way, no one wants to take them (Yes, my kids were the worst swipers, but it’s been a long time with these glasses).

               Tuesday night was a great crowd of energetic love and bounciness.  It was just Bobby and I, so when Bobby began tilting his head during the songs, I wondered if his hair was getting in his face.  The thrashing of his head became so pronounced and frantic that I almost thought he had developed a twitch.  Then the poor guy had to stop the music and tell me, “Two people went to the bathroom and I don’t trust them together – go check on them.”  “Ohhhh! We have got to work on our communication.”  Everything was fine – I’ll know what Bobby’s erratic head nods mean next time.  That was pretty funny.  We were down three leaders.

               The kids were a delight. Bobby talked about temptation and how the world pressures us to become soft, like a pressure cooker makes hard potatoes and meat softer. One student had to mention, “Yeah, you push a button on the pressure cooker, and that’s where the steam comes out. Then you put your face in the steam.”  Noooo, I had to let the youth group know that is NOT what we do with steam. 

               The lesson included a part about “Removing yourself is the best solution.”  One student joked about, “Leaves now,” and walking out.  That would have been funny, but I am glad they didn’t do that.

               Another student had an interesting desire.  They were biting the bottom of the water bottle.  Bobby had to insist, “Don’t bite water bottles and drink like a gerbil.”  Others had to insert, “Or like a badger . . . or racoons.”  That was an interesting rabbit trail.

               Bobby enjoyed throwing marshmallows into the air.  Students wanted to catch them.  This was fun for all and a very short game time.

               High school group had a more interesting twist.  When someone says, “I have the verse,”  Bobby becomes suspect.  “What version are you reading from?”  One favorite – and a version that makes everyone smile – is the Y’all version of the Bible. Good times.  I’m glad for the Bible app.

               Bobby mowed the lawn before taking a trip with friends.  That was nice of him.  That way, if he gets lost on the mountain, at least some work on the home is done 😉.  I’m glad he had fun and bonded with some guy friends.

               May you also enjoy time with friends, family, or anyone you encounter 😊.  May your joy bring a smile to everyone’s face around you.  Much love,

 

Cristy

3/2/25

 Dear Family,

 

               I am so delighted by how funny our youth are.   The things I overhear crack me up.  “Why did you bring a golf ball?” “For safety reasons.”  No other explanation was given!  Also, Bobby let one person hand out flyers.  That person started charging $.05 each.  That did not go over well.  Can you imagine?

               Before the message, someone approached me privately to ask how to become a Christian.  This was fun because “If you confess with your mouth Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved!”  This person agreed to all that but was going to wait until they got home to pray (possibly with a parent) because the three people talking with her mentioned we were with a parent.  It was a serious discussion, but it was beautiful and profound at the same time.

               The High School group is always less rowdy yet so much fun in their own right.  During the lesson, Bobby mentioned that one of the blanks was a big word.  An essential part of praying to God was modeled in the Lord's prayer.  The verse was 1 John 1:9, “As we seek the c----------- of our own sinful debts, we must offer the same towards others.”  A person asked if the big word that started with a C was “Carbohydrates?”  Nooo, I’ll share the word at the end of blessings.

               I enjoyed several conversations with Adriel this week.  She is getting things done but is still excited to enjoy skateboarding in the sunshine with friends.  Please continue to pray with me that she stays injury-free.

               The stories at Genny’s funeral were such a blessing.  She was a lovely lady and will be missed.  I enjoyed warming Bobby’s hands for a change.  He was cold from sitting while I was warm from running around and volunteering at the UGM mission store.  I LOVE that thrift store. 

               I also must say how delighted I am with ingenuity.  My water bottle handle is perfect for wrapping around a Bicycle!  Check this picture out.  I may have had a flat tire in the morning, but we have two bicycles.  I am so blessed that I could electronically pump up the tires of the other bicycle and ride that one to work.  I made it on time.  After some thought, I am glad that a YouTube video showed me how to take the flat tire off and that my backpack has straps to hold a broken tire as I rode to work again.  Then, after work at Northwest Hub, the tire was fixed.  Ta daa!  So much to be thankful for in Salem.  We are so blessed!  Yay God!

               May your life reflect the one we love the most. May you be a blessing to all you encounter, and may you find joy in doing God’s will.

Much love,  Cristy

PS The word was cancellation.