5/17/21

 

Dear Family,

 

            What a momentous week.  Bobby worked very hard and I am so pleased with the results.  How fun to hear him announce, “For the first time ever, I present, Roman and Emily Kleiber!”  I love the giddy joy on their radiant faces and I remember that feeling very well.  So exciting!

            I enjoyed getting to know some groomsmen better – the rehearsal dinner was lovely.  Hearing answers to, “How did you meet Roman,”  brought fond, wonderful camp memories.  I found out Tapawingo isn’t just a place to meet God.  Three generations of Oehlers met their spouses there.  Woah! 

            Bobby continues to feel excited about the youth group and had an amazing youth Sunday.  Their energy fills the auditorium!

            I am so glad his ankle is getting better.  He still raises it in the evening with an ice pack.  The other day he tried to get me to put my hand on his ankle and use my hand like an ice pack.  Ha, ha, very funny.

            I also owe Bobby big time.  He is refusing things on my behalf.  I am not a collector of anything that needs to be dusted or does not have a working purpose.  Clutter is put away as soon as I get my hands on it and I have heard, “Don’t touch my stuff,” many times.  I like empty countertops, table, shoe rack by the front door for guests (not all our shoes!), and empty windowsills.  Yes, I owe Bobby big time.

            Seth enjoys memorizing verses with me.  He does a better job at it and likes that.  My brain tries – it really does. 

            Seth was not impressed by our wedding present.  It was not useful, it was decorative only and looked cheap to him.  I insisted it was on the registry and had to explain what that was. Although he does not want to get married he said, If I ever register I’ll only put one thing on the registry and it will be worth $1,000. 

            Earlier this week Bobby and I enjoyed a game night with friends.  How fun to be with people, test our wits and enjoy.

            Adriel washed her car this week by hand.  I am impressed by her constant cleaning and desire for good smells.  She was very sweet on Sunday when I wasn’t feeling 100%.  She held my hand at church and gave me a ride home. 

            May your family also be kind to you when you are under the weather.  May you find joy in all you encounter and strength in knowing our Lord Jesus.  Love and hugs,

 

 

Cristy

5/10/21

Dear Family,

 

            I am thankful for you.  You formed my personality, were friends in my childhood hood and made me the person I am today.  I love all my cousins and am glad to have known you for all these years.  How fun to know people my whole life, how fun to be known.

            Bobby and I had an interesting hike down to Abiqua Falls on Monday.  When we were 15 minutes from the falls Bobby twisted his ankle and it swelled up immediately.  We contemplated walking the 2 miles up right away.  But, because I blog (among other things) Bobby said, “Let’s do it, let’s hike down first then back up.”  So we did.  The pace changed drastically from a meandering journey of exploration to a frantic, ‘let’s get this over’ trek.  We did it – and got a couple good pictures. 

            Bobby came home Wednesday night very excited about youth group and Seth.  Seth was thoughtful in his prayer and this blessed Bobby’s heart.

            Bobby wasn’t feeling well Saturday and Seth took care of him while I was working.  Seth can be compassionate and thoughtful.

            Seth rode his Bicycle to church Sunday morning.  I gushed and said, “You’re so cool.”  His dry response, “Not really,” had me chuckling.  I wasn’t cool either.

            Mothers day was wonderful for me.  We planned it while the town had closed restaurants.  I shop Costco 2-5 times a day for Instacart and have been wanting to try out some of their easy to prepare meals.  I took the budget that we would have spent going out and used it on several meals, a box of 40 ice cream (for $14.99!), snacks, and treats.  I love a good deal so was excited when I got home.

            The family was wary of the meals.  Seth and I ate some of the first one Saturday night and loved it.  Yum!  Adriel and Bobby didn’t want any.  Sunday lunch I reheated cheese and green chili tamales.  The family tried it and were very kind.  “Thanks for making the food.”  Means – “Please don’t make it again, we can only compliment the work that went into it.” 

            Adriel’s comment, “Well at least you haven’t changed.”  Further investigation brought, “What weird food are we having today?”  Yup, 5-year-old Adriel hit it on the nose.  I liked the food but the rest of the family was kind and tolerant.  They do like the snacks and ice cream though so I’m calling it a win.  Also – they complied with an updated family picture.  Yay!

            Adriel brought me out to Starbucks and bought me candy.  She is fine with and enjoys giving gifts.  Time on the other hand is stretching it.  She is fun, I love her and her cameo appearances.

            Adriel is excited about her recent car purchase.  It’s a Nissan Versa 14 years newer than the car she has now and has good miles.  She enjoyed the price negotiations and is pleased as a pickle.

            Seth mowed the lawn.  I am so blessed when I look outside and see a beautiful lawn.   He is a great son.

            May you find strength in our Lord Jesus, may you find joy in all you do.  May the sun lift your heart and the rain bless your garden.  Much love,

 

Cristy

5/3/21

 Dear Family,

             Pastor Marcus has been preaching against health and wealth theology.  At first, I thought, “Boring” because I don’t collect or hoard.  Then I felt convicted and am.  It’s ridiculous.  I feel silly.  But here it is.  I felt convicted to fast from the game Pokémon Go because I had played too much.  I want to take captive every thought – put my focus more on heavenly things than on Earthly and let go of all that hinders.  I don’t know what that means after the fast is over.  I do know if I was fasting from food I would eat afterward.  I also know that I had a lot more time last week than those before and I liked that.  I do want to still play the game because it is fun.  I don’t want to live for the game though.  So – may I “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided.”  (Matthew 6:33)  I definitely do not want to neglect family, friends, or my kitty.  So even though it’s a weird take – I am thankful for the leading of the Holy Spirit as our Pastor preaches what God leads him to preach.  And, no, the family didn’t notice (or care) I was not playing.  It’s all internal.

            Bobby and the kids were excited to watch a movie Monday, April 26^th because it was a special day.  I don’t know why – I just went to bed early.  It was fun to hear their excitement and joy to be together.

            Bobby made several yummy meals this week.  We enjoyed eating together and had great conversation.  I thought “I should write this down!”  But never did and now I can’t remember the great things Seth said to make us laugh. 

            Seth was not impressed by the drones he is learning to use at school so he bought one and had it shipped to our house.  Bobby wants to play with it.  Seth said, “No”, he won’t open the box at home – it’s for school.  The box remains sealed until Tuesday.

            Adriel makes the cutest puppy dog eyes.  I will probably do anything for her if she uses that mutant ability.

            Adriel got her ears pierced.  I didn’t want to do it to her as a baby and she never mentioned it.  Now she is happy with her new look.

            I like that when Adriel sits next to me at church she can be cuddly if she is too cold or hot.  Somehow I am the opposite and she likes stealing my heat or warming me up.

            I am thankful for the prayers of new friends.  In stores, we see each other seconds at a time and it builds up.  I enjoyed a quick stop as I was on the go.  Praying is beautiful and hugs are the best!

            May you find chance encounters to be an uplifting blessing.  Much love,

 

 

Cristy

           

           

4/26/21

 

Dear Family,

                Do you ever find yourself pondering why people do something THAT way?  Our kitty was meowing and meowing with demand.  Finally I showed her I had already made her favorite food and it had been there the whole time.   I wondered, “Kitty, why didn’t you see that?”  Bobby said, “She has a brain the size of a walnut.”

                Bobby made amazing chicken pot pie for our family.  He also had a youth group event with Ramen noodles and various toppings.  Who know youth group would involve food prep.  The kids were thankful and it’s always enjoyable to see everyone having fun. 

                Youth group and home group are enjoyable.  Bobby has great lessons and I delight in singing.

                The whole family waited an extra hour after dinner was made to eat because I was later in coming home than expected.  They are so thoughtful.  I said they didn’t have to.  How sweet is that?

                Seth Dropped everything to mow the lawn before rain started again.  I am very glad he does that job.  He’s good at it.  I trained him well.

                Adriel had disturbing results on an Instagram post she made.  My Enchiladas (previously frozen burritos, Enchilada sauce, cheese) are definitely NOT Enchiladas to her.  The poll she put out with a picture of my creation was, “Do these count as enchiladas?”  37 people said yes.  How can Adriel live with this?  (I believe 76 said no.)

                Adriel cleaned her room and the kitchen.  She continues to grow and develop. 

                May you also continue to grow and do the good works God has prepared in advance for you to do.  May you find joy in work, strength in God and health in abundance.  Much love,

 

 

Cristy

4/19/21

 

Dear Family,

 

               Already I am complaining about it being too hot.  Isn’t it funny that we can be such whiners?  I enjoy the sun and heat but not when I am loading things (like dirt).  I find it silly how easy it is to complain.  Bobby on the other hand is loving this weather.

               Bobby cooked Ramen and meat for himself.  Seth wanted some also so they happily ate.  Bobby likes it when we lick the bowl.  He asked, “That good?” 

               After a lovely night at the youth group, Bobby commented how much he enjoyed the group.  We don’t always think about the leader’s perception.  Either way, our youth are a delight.  Yay!

               Bobby took time to teach Adriel how to cook this week.

They enjoyed making food and we enjoyed eating it.  It was fun to hear them talking and interesting to hear that Adriel was a little shamed when it came to grocery shopping.  She didn’t know we pick fruit or veggies up to look at them and then put them back if they are not to our liking.  In COVID days I do understand how that might be horrifying – but it’s what needs to be done.                 

Bobby and I enjoyed a date at the Yard way out East of Salem.  There was fabulous food and we ate in the car – no place to sit.  Such is life.

               Seth also learned something new this week.  He is going in-person to a school he never went to before.  CTEC is on Portland road – across the bridge.  He became lost and frustrated.  Seth now knows how to get there and more about how street names are placed and where to look.  He took three test runs and confidentially drives himself there when he needs to.

He considered taking the school bus until he found out – first, they pick people up at their homes to arrive at 7:45 am at the school.  Then the bus drops them off at West High school.  How inconvenient.

               One the way back from one trial run I told Seth how much I enjoyed his company.  After about two minutes of silence, I said, “You can tell me you like my company – that is an option.”

               Seth mowed the lawn happily this week.  His timing is what matters most.

               Both kids are a blessing with the cat.  They know her “I am going to throw up” meow and rush to help.  Adriel got the cat to laminate the first time, Seth got her outside the second.  Kitty is fine, she now has hairball avoidance food.

               Adriel mentioned she was making a shake and when I said I wanted some she made more.  YUM!

               May you be offered wonderful delights.  May you find peace in every interaction.  May you be a blessing, may your love overflow, may God fill you to the fullest capacity.  Hugs,

 

 

Cristy

4/12/21

 

Dear Family,

 

                As the sun warms the earth and we open windows to let the spring air freshen our world may we remember that every breath is a gift from God. 

                This week Bobby cleaned out a bathroom and the garage.  Adriel cleaned out her car.  I love the look, smell and feel of clean.  It’s refreshing.  I am also excited that they took the initiative themselves. 

                Bobby made tamales this week.  YUM!  I am so glad he enjoys cooking and all the details that entails.  He takes an entire day to do it and we are blessed.

                Seth and Adriel have good grades and Seth will be going in person to school next week.  He’s not excited about this but does expect a better learning experience with the hands on in Robotics.

                Youth group is always nice and our routine continues to be peaceful.

                Seth bicycled to Church on Sunday.  I think he has decided to be more healthy.  Yay!  The sunshine may be calling to him!

                May you experience joy in the outdoors.  May you feel the sun kissing your skin and may you enjoy each breath.

Much Love,

 

 

Cristy

Happy Easter & Birthday

 Dear Family,

 

 

He has risen!  How blessed we are to experience so much love that our Lord would come to earth with the express purpose of sacrifice.  How beautiful that He cares so much about us.  How free we are indeed that our sins are forgiven and we have a new nature.  I am thankful we are loved!

I am proud of Seth for giving his time to both services for Good Friday and Easter.  He mans part of the slides/soundboard in the back for church and I let him know how glad I am that he gives of his time.  His response, “I have nothing better to do,” maybe dry humor or just a statement of fact.  I also love looking at the lawn after he has mowed it.  It is beautiful.

This week Bobby cooked several dinners and we enjoyed them immensely.  He is a fabulous cook. 

Some of our dinner conversations centered around April Fools.  The only person to experience Shenanigans was Adriel.  She put a doughnut box in the break room.  Inside was a veggie tray.  She didn’t get to see their reactions first hand but heard she got everyone.  The next day she brought real doughnuts and “Got a lot of ‘Happy Birthdays’ for that one.” 

Adriel experienced another surprise.  When she used my phone number at Safeway it took off $ and made her purchase significantly less.  She was confused about this.  I also was confused when I went to pay for something at Safeway and my Monopoly $ had disappeared.  At dinner, we figured it out and I was glad to hear the $ went to a good cause.  Thank you church friends for your monopoly ticket gifts.  I love them!

Adriel was super joy-filled on her Birthday.  She experienced a horse ride with her boyfriend.  She was delighted and it was fun to see her so happy.

I brought home a soap refill.  It was located under a bunch of hand sanitizers.  I went to refill my sanitizer bottles and was surprised that it was soap!  How frustrating!  When I bemoaned, “How was I supposed to know it was soap?” Seth laughed and said, “You could read the label.” Adriel came to the rescue.  She has a large sanitizer pump bottle and I used it to refill my little ones.  Yay, now I have the convenience of sanitizer on each car door and in the trunk (for Instacart – I sanitize my hands after opening a door).

Bobby mentioned a youth group game during dinner starting with, “When I think of Easter I think of peeps and jelly beans.”  Adriel had to cut in with, “When I think of Easter I think of Jesus.”  Ohhhhhh!

So we had light-hearted banter and much more fun.  The above are the things I remember laughing at.

My parents enjoyed spending a couple days with us.  Their presence made Good Friday, Adriel’s Birthday, and Easter even more meaningful.  They bless us with encouragement, care, and interest.  They love us unconditionally and I am blessed every time we visit with them.  Dad took some wonderful pictures and here are a couple of them.

 

May you also experience joy because you are so loved.  May your heart lift at God’s gift of happy smiling flowers.  May your spirit be blessed as mine is.  Love and hugs,

 

 

 

Cristy