Last year DeeAnn and I were faced with some very difficult decisions as to the future of my career, as well as where we wanted to raise our expanding family. As all of you know, we ended a relationship with Huntsman and moved to Southern Oregon.
In the months prior to moving we often experienced doubts and fears that would, at times, overwhelm us. We continued to pray and trust that our decisions were for the right reasons, yet we still faced many challenges and sadness leaving a home and friends we love so much.
During the last four months we have explored a variety of career options including buying a franchise, starting a business, and, of course, working for a corporation. As with any decision they each have pros and cons, but ultimately none felt quite right.
Through a series of events and contacts, I was introduced to a career that I had never before considered, yet it seemed to make possible many of the goals we established as being important to our family.
Several months ago I began investigating this career option in earnest and over the last three weeks I began studying in order to pass the Oregon state insurance and health license exam. On Friday I passed the exam, and next week, after Memorial weekend, I will begin intensive training as an agent with New York Life.
Currently New York Life does not have a Southern Oregon office. There is, however, a seasoned agent in Medford who has offered to mentor me over the next three years. In addition, we are further blessed with my Uncle who has his own business as an established financial planner in Medford. He, too, has already provide valuable guidance and encouragement.
Already we have uncovered some excellent business opportunities as well as advanced career paths to pursue, such as financial planning, within New York Life. With that in mind, we are optimistic with respect to the future and, of course, the decisions we have made in our current journey.
On a separate note, my weekly updates will be put on hold as I will be in training the next two weeks followed by a road trip back to Southern California. I hope to resume in July with all God is doing in our lives.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Monday, May 14, 2007
Burnt Toast
For the last few weeks we have smelled burnt toast in the late evening air. After several weeks of this aroma, we have come to realize that the fragrance was not a meal gone bad, but actually the local coffee roaster working into the evening.
It has also been our pleasure to experience the
incredible sweet flavor of strawberries grown and sold locally. I have truly never had such a sweet strawberry in my life, in fact, it is so sweet I like to call it liquid strawberry sugar. Unfortunately, I was saddened to learn that “local” may also mean grown in Redding, trucked to Medford, and sold in the roadside shack with rows of strawberries behind it! Yes its true that some times when the local crop is a bit short they import strawberries from California. Our friend Katie said, according to Sunset Magazine, "local" is a leisurely days drive. I guess with that in mind these berries are "local."
We then drove to Medford to the Art in Bloom festival and looked at the Smudge Pot Potpourri exhibit. For those that do not know what a smudge pot is used for, think of it as an outdoor heater used in orchards to keep fruit from freezing. The idea for the smudge pot exhibit came from six ladies looking for a unique way to raise funds for local artists. Since smudge pots are synonymous with agriculture in the region, and there are plenty of pots lying around, the idea took off. After the exhibit the pots are auctioned off at an event held at a local winery. Last year they auctioned 60 pots for over $150,000.
We have also witnessed the sky full of falling white tufts, blowing slowly in the breeze without a source to explain. It appears to be snowing, yet it's a warm day without a rain cloud in sight. This wonderful experience, we have since learned is the seed of the Cottonwood tree.
It has also been our pleasure to experience the
incredible sweet flavor of strawberries grown and sold locally. I have truly never had such a sweet strawberry in my life, in fact, it is so sweet I like to call it liquid strawberry sugar. Unfortunately, I was saddened to learn that “local” may also mean grown in Redding, trucked to Medford, and sold in the roadside shack with rows of strawberries behind it! Yes its true that some times when the local crop is a bit short they import strawberries from California. Our friend Katie said, according to Sunset Magazine, "local" is a leisurely days drive. I guess with that in mind these berries are "local."This weekend, along with the Thompsons, we went to Eagle Point and visited the Butte Creek Mill and local Pioneer Days festival. We had lunch overlooking the creek while listening to a bluegrass band and enjoying the quilting ladies and old tractors next to us. After lunch the boys had a physical, went through training and were successfully enlisted in the civil war. The drill sergeant explained that there were only two requirements: to have two top and two bottom teeth to tear open the powder charge and a finger on your right hand to pull a trigger. The boys had a blast and did very well listening to instructions.
We then drove to Medford to the Art in Bloom festival and looked at the Smudge Pot Potpourri exhibit. For those that do not know what a smudge pot is used for, think of it as an outdoor heater used in orchards to keep fruit from freezing. The idea for the smudge pot exhibit came from six ladies looking for a unique way to raise funds for local artists. Since smudge pots are synonymous with agriculture in the region, and there are plenty of pots lying around, the idea took off. After the exhibit the pots are auctioned off at an event held at a local winery. Last year they auctioned 60 pots for over $150,000. 
After reflecting on all that has happened this week, it is clear that we still have so much to learn and experience. Sights and sounds continue to change creating paths to be experienced all over again with the changing season.
Wednesday, May 9, 2007
Those Were The Best Days of My Life
Yesterday DeeAnn and I celebrated 14 years of marriage. We do not take this milestone lightly, but with pride as we reflect on the choices we have made over the years to enjoy, and at times, endure our life together. We are grateful for the love we offer each other and have seen so much growth and love learned over the last few years in particular.
One of the first commitments DeeAnn and I embarked upon in our marriage, was the selection of our dog Ruffy, over 12 years ago. Unfortunately she was in the final years of her life, and had a variety of issues including missing most her teeth and unpredictable bowel control. I talked with Gavin about putting her down and he seemed to understand that her time was up. Surprisingly, it has been Ethan who has asked the most questions ab
out when Ruffy will come home. How do you, repeatedly, tell a 2 year old that his dog is never coming back? Gavin seems to be doing well, but we did have a long conversation about why we say, “putting her to sleep.” Which then raised the questions, “Would she snore when they made her sleep,” and, “Why not just say that she would be dead.”
Thankfully, we took off to Portland for the weekend to visit some friends and family so our minds were not on Ruffy and how loud her snores might be. It was about a six hour trip including stops but we got to experience some beautiful countryside and an amazing sunset, at 8:30pm, in-between the rain and clouds.
Our primary reason for going to Portland was to go to a kids concert. Jana Alayra http://www.janaalayra.com/ writes and performs childrens songs and has an amazing personal story of survival, from a failed marriage to the death of a child. It was in such stark contrast to our own current issues, that it made us think twice about what is truly important. Specifically, little Camden has been really struggling with eating. He has barely gained weight over the last month or so, and DeeAnn has been working with a lactation specialists to help the situation. When it is time to feed he will box with his hands, cry and move his head from side to side resisting any urge to eat. We have found that he will take a bottle but the process of doing so has become a huge struggle involving both time and energy.
The funny thing is that Oregon is the leading state for breast feeding in the nation. How does somebody measure that statistic? Anyway we are doing somewhat better in the feeding department but not out of the woods yet. The lactation nurse says that often it’s two steps forward and one step back. It was a lot to take on as we drove to Portland, yet we have been blessed with so many of you praying for us and we actually had two nights when he slept through until early morning.
This trip was the first time we have been outside Southern Oregon since moving here. As we drove into Portland with the boys in back singing along with Bryan Adams song “Summer of Sixty-Nine,” and Camden screaming at the top of his lungs for the last hour, I realized that we have so much to be thankful for. What better way to celebrate 14 years of marriage than with the most important gifts He has given us, each other.
One of the first commitments DeeAnn and I embarked upon in our marriage, was the selection of our dog Ruffy, over 12 years ago. Unfortunately she was in the final years of her life, and had a variety of issues including missing most her teeth and unpredictable bowel control. I talked with Gavin about putting her down and he seemed to understand that her time was up. Surprisingly, it has been Ethan who has asked the most questions ab
out when Ruffy will come home. How do you, repeatedly, tell a 2 year old that his dog is never coming back? Gavin seems to be doing well, but we did have a long conversation about why we say, “putting her to sleep.” Which then raised the questions, “Would she snore when they made her sleep,” and, “Why not just say that she would be dead.”Thankfully, we took off to Portland for the weekend to visit some friends and family so our minds were not on Ruffy and how loud her snores might be. It was about a six hour trip including stops but we got to experience some beautiful countryside and an amazing sunset, at 8:30pm, in-between the rain and clouds.
Our primary reason for going to Portland was to go to a kids concert. Jana Alayra http://www.janaalayra.com/ writes and performs childrens songs and has an amazing personal story of survival, from a failed marriage to the death of a child. It was in such stark contrast to our own current issues, that it made us think twice about what is truly important. Specifically, little Camden has been really struggling with eating. He has barely gained weight over the last month or so, and DeeAnn has been working with a lactation specialists to help the situation. When it is time to feed he will box with his hands, cry and move his head from side to side resisting any urge to eat. We have found that he will take a bottle but the process of doing so has become a huge struggle involving both time and energy.
The funny thing is that Oregon is the leading state for breast feeding in the nation. How does somebody measure that statistic? Anyway we are doing somewhat better in the feeding department but not out of the woods yet. The lactation nurse says that often it’s two steps forward and one step back. It was a lot to take on as we drove to Portland, yet we have been blessed with so many of you praying for us and we actually had two nights when he slept through until early morning.
This trip was the first time we have been outside Southern Oregon since moving here. As we drove into Portland with the boys in back singing along with Bryan Adams song “Summer of Sixty-Nine,” and Camden screaming at the top of his lungs for the last hour, I realized that we have so much to be thankful for. What better way to celebrate 14 years of marriage than with the most important gifts He has given us, each other.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Putting on the Armor of God
When we first arrived in Jacksonville, Gavin and I visited the library a handful of times before it
closed. Yes, due to a lack of funding, the entire valley is without a library system. During one visit we saw a great exhibit which included chain mail worn during a reenactment of the battle of Hastings. The chain mail was hand-made by a local man, and we thought it would be great to visit him and learn more. I emailed him immediately, however, it took several months to connect due to schedules, weather, and having a new addition to the family.
On Saturday, along with the Thompson’s and their four boys, we were finally able to met Arild. We learned that it took 3 years of part-time work to make the chain mail so that he could participate in the October 14, 2006 reenactment in England. Arild has two boys of his own and they, too went to the reenactment.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Hastings_reenactment
We learned a lot, the kids got to duel with Arild’s boys, and we actually got to make a few of the chain mail “rings.” After we left, we went to a local Mexican restaurant in Jacksonville, as we were waiting to order in walks Arild and his family.
The next day, we decided to, once again, try out Apple Gate Christian Fellowship http://www.applegatefellowship.org/. During this time of year they have all services in an outdoor amphitheater. The entire hillside is carved into steps about 4 feet wide, and covered in lush grass. As we sat at the top of the amphitheater we looked down on baskets overflowing with flowers and nestled between trees providing a constantly changing canopy of shade. The band is located in the middle, near a rock waterfall that flows into a small shallow pond. The basic message was to seek God’s hand in everything we do, remembering not to proclaim His involvement, but humbly appreciate His help. During the service we saw several people running toward one end of the amphitheater yelling “CALL 911”. It turns out that a gentleman had a heart attack just as the service began. Thankfully, the church consists of several cardiac surgeons who were able to help him until the ambulance arrived.
During the warm months, they serve hamburgers and hotdogs after the service for $2.50 each. As we made our way down the grass steps we were stopped by Lora, Arild’s wife. We talked for several minutes and she shared more about Applegate Christian and why they have made it their church. Running into Lora and her family, yet again, reminds us of the smallness of our town.
Later at home while reflecting on the church service, Gavin comes to me and mentions that he use to not be able to get his own water glass from the cupboard, but has now figured out how to do it himself. Then he says, “But Dad, I realize that it is not just me, but God helping me figure it out. I can see God in everything I do.”
Another reminder that Gavin is always listening and thinking.
closed. Yes, due to a lack of funding, the entire valley is without a library system. During one visit we saw a great exhibit which included chain mail worn during a reenactment of the battle of Hastings. The chain mail was hand-made by a local man, and we thought it would be great to visit him and learn more. I emailed him immediately, however, it took several months to connect due to schedules, weather, and having a new addition to the family.On Saturday, along with the Thompson’s and their four boys, we were finally able to met Arild. We learned that it took 3 years of part-time work to make the chain mail so that he could participate in the October 14, 2006 reenactment in England. Arild has two boys of his own and they, too went to the reenactment.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Hastings_reenactment We learned a lot, the kids got to duel with Arild’s boys, and we actually got to make a few of the chain mail “rings.” After we left, we went to a local Mexican restaurant in Jacksonville, as we were waiting to order in walks Arild and his family.
The next day, we decided to, once again, try out Apple Gate Christian Fellowship http://www.applegatefellowship.org/. During this time of year they have all services in an outdoor amphitheater. The entire hillside is carved into steps about 4 feet wide, and covered in lush grass. As we sat at the top of the amphitheater we looked down on baskets overflowing with flowers and nestled between trees providing a constantly changing canopy of shade. The band is located in the middle, near a rock waterfall that flows into a small shallow pond. The basic message was to seek God’s hand in everything we do, remembering not to proclaim His involvement, but humbly appreciate His help. During the service we saw several people running toward one end of the amphitheater yelling “CALL 911”. It turns out that a gentleman had a heart attack just as the service began. Thankfully, the church consists of several cardiac surgeons who were able to help him until the ambulance arrived.
During the warm months, they serve hamburgers and hotdogs after the service for $2.50 each. As we made our way down the grass steps we were stopped by Lora, Arild’s wife. We talked for several minutes and she shared more about Applegate Christian and why they have made it their church. Running into Lora and her family, yet again, reminds us of the smallness of our town.
Later at home while reflecting on the church service, Gavin comes to me and mentions that he use to not be able to get his own water glass from the cupboard, but has now figured out how to do it himself. Then he says, “But Dad, I realize that it is not just me, but God helping me figure it out. I can see God in everything I do.”
Another reminder that Gavin is always listening and thinking.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Parking Lot Milk Drop
As the weeks go by we find new things becoming old things. And old things becoming part of our daily, or weekly, routine. I suppose that means we are starting to feel a bit more comfortable living in Southern Oregon. Yet we continue to experience things that again make us realize we are out of our element.
So there we were sitting in a small parking lot with a car load of kids, windows rolled down waiting for Carl and Monna.
DeeAnn has been researching the health attributes of cows milk. Turns out there is significant health benefits from milk that has not been processed in any fashion, this is known as “raw milk.” The state of Oregon limits farmers who distribute raw milk to two cows. In addition they are not allowed to advertise or promote their product in any way. Upon further investigation DeeAnn finds Carl, the only farmer in our region, who sells raw milk, and happens to be giving a seminar on the benefits of raw milk. So on Saturday DeeAnn and Katie attended a Wise Traditions Chapter Meeting (www.westonaprice.org), to hear Carl speak. Wise Traditions encourages people to explore traditional ways of eating for a healthier lifestyle. Much to DeeAnn’s dismay, there is a waiting list of 25 people for the milk produced by Carl‘s two Jersey cows.
On Monday morning Carl calls to say that he has had a family reduce the amount of milk they are taking and wants to know if we want a gallon every Monday at 11:30?
So there we were sitting in a small parking lot with a car load of kids, windows rolled down waiting for Carl and Monna.
DeeAnn has been researching the health attributes of cows milk. Turns out there is significant health benefits from milk that has not been processed in any fashion, this is known as “raw milk.” The state of Oregon limits farmers who distribute raw milk to two cows. In addition they are not allowed to advertise or promote their product in any way. Upon further investigation DeeAnn finds Carl, the only farmer in our region, who sells raw milk, and happens to be giving a seminar on the benefits of raw milk. So on Saturday DeeAnn and Katie attended a Wise Traditions Chapter Meeting (www.westonaprice.org), to hear Carl speak. Wise Traditions encourages people to explore traditional ways of eating for a healthier lifestyle. Much to DeeAnn’s dismay, there is a waiting list of 25 people for the milk produced by Carl‘s two Jersey cows.
On Monday morning Carl calls to say that he has had a family reduce the amount of milk they are taking and wants to know if we want a gallon every Monday at 11:30?
As we wait, we try to guess what color of truck Carl drives. I choose white, Gavin red, DeeAnn black and Ethan blue. We watch people come and go as I point out various locals I have met and explain their unique personalities. Finally Carl arrives driving a white sedan. He and Monna, his wife, hop out and pull two glass half gallon canning jars out of an ice chest. Carl explains the process of swapping jars each week as well as the fine art of swirling the milk to mix the cream back in without letting it stick to the lid.Money paid, raw milk in hand and there we sit in a parking lot thinking about the milk drop we just experienced. Perhaps I will consider participating in a cow sharing plan if all goes well.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Celebrating Life
In a single day one man ended the lives of so many. Another record is broken and the news organizations move into high gear telling and retelling the story. This will then trickle down to the “newstainment” and talk shows as they provide more insight into the event through the stories of victims and parents of the deceased.
I looked up “School Massacre” on Wikipedia and, of course, it is already updated with the Virginia Tech tragedy along with a long list of other school shootings I had forgotten. Do you remember the Russian school that was stormed by gunmen and over 350 died? or perhaps the shooting at Red Lake High School in Minnesota in 2005?
As a culture, I am always fascinated our ability to be emotionally moved by such tragedies. Is it because we mourn for the lives that were cut short, or is it the violation of sacred places such as schools and churches, or perhaps it’s a fear that makes us realize how vulnerable both our lives are, as well as the lives of those we love? Imagine living in Iraq where this type of massacre happens nearly everyday. Is their grief any greater or the sense of loss stronger? Has it become so routine, that their senses are dull from the enormous loss suffered as a society? I would love to know what the typical Iraqi feels when a nation of 300 million puts the death of 32 people at center stage. Do you have a feeling of sadness, or disbelief at such distortion when compared to current Iraqi deaths?
In spite of this situation we move on as people, and more specifically, we have chosen to hear, but not overwhelm our minds with this news.
As I mentioned several weeks ago, Gavin informed us that he wanted to learn to ride his bike without training wheels. I spent time at a local school running back and forth trying to ingrain a sense of balance in him, but he seemed off kilter as he giggled throughout the practice. Do to schedules, and weather, it has been a while sense we last attempted to ride.
So, at his urging, we went back to the school to give it another shot. Well, we are pleased to announce that Gavin is now a full fledge bike rider! As we left the school both riding our two-wheeled bikes, he lost his balance and careened off the road and into the bushes. Once he stopped he laughed and said, “Boy, I’m glad that was not poison oak!” I suppose he has adapted quite well to the local culture. Back on the road, we weaved and wobbled our way toward home until we reached a fairly steep hill. Gavin hopped off his bike and I was asking him various questions about learning to ride and what he thought. Suddenly he changed the topic and asked, “Dad, when do you think shoes were first invented? Do you think it was in caveman days or bible days? I think it was bible days but maybe it was caveman days too…..” He continued to talk about shoes until we reached the top of the hill.
As we reached the top and wobbled down the other side, Gavin lead a procession of cars and trucks all unwilling to pass the kid on his bike who, somehow, managed to take up both sides of the road, or at least threatened it.
Do you remember the first time you rode a bike? What a sweet feeling it was to feel in control as you flew around the block. Today as I rode beside Gavin I was thinking of all the things he must be feeling inside. I am a firm believer that to build confidence within a child, it should be built on real events and not artificial attempts.
Today we celebrated one of those events.
I looked up “School Massacre” on Wikipedia and, of course, it is already updated with the Virginia Tech tragedy along with a long list of other school shootings I had forgotten. Do you remember the Russian school that was stormed by gunmen and over 350 died? or perhaps the shooting at Red Lake High School in Minnesota in 2005?
As a culture, I am always fascinated our ability to be emotionally moved by such tragedies. Is it because we mourn for the lives that were cut short, or is it the violation of sacred places such as schools and churches, or perhaps it’s a fear that makes us realize how vulnerable both our lives are, as well as the lives of those we love? Imagine living in Iraq where this type of massacre happens nearly everyday. Is their grief any greater or the sense of loss stronger? Has it become so routine, that their senses are dull from the enormous loss suffered as a society? I would love to know what the typical Iraqi feels when a nation of 300 million puts the death of 32 people at center stage. Do you have a feeling of sadness, or disbelief at such distortion when compared to current Iraqi deaths?
In spite of this situation we move on as people, and more specifically, we have chosen to hear, but not overwhelm our minds with this news.
As I mentioned several weeks ago, Gavin informed us that he wanted to learn to ride his bike without training wheels. I spent time at a local school running back and forth trying to ingrain a sense of balance in him, but he seemed off kilter as he giggled throughout the practice. Do to schedules, and weather, it has been a while sense we last attempted to ride.
So, at his urging, we went back to the school to give it another shot. Well, we are pleased to announce that Gavin is now a full fledge bike rider! As we left the school both riding our two-wheeled bikes, he lost his balance and careened off the road and into the bushes. Once he stopped he laughed and said, “Boy, I’m glad that was not poison oak!” I suppose he has adapted quite well to the local culture. Back on the road, we weaved and wobbled our way toward home until we reached a fairly steep hill. Gavin hopped off his bike and I was asking him various questions about learning to ride and what he thought. Suddenly he changed the topic and asked, “Dad, when do you think shoes were first invented? Do you think it was in caveman days or bible days? I think it was bible days but maybe it was caveman days too…..” He continued to talk about shoes until we reached the top of the hill.
As we reached the top and wobbled down the other side, Gavin lead a procession of cars and trucks all unwilling to pass the kid on his bike who, somehow, managed to take up both sides of the road, or at least threatened it.
Do you remember the first time you rode a bike? What a sweet feeling it was to feel in control as you flew around the block. Today as I rode beside Gavin I was thinking of all the things he must be feeling inside. I am a firm believer that to build confidence within a child, it should be built on real events and not artificial attempts.
Today we celebrated one of those events.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
The New and Improved Easter
I am not sure what traditions you have for Easter but for us they are, of course, geared toward the children. DeeAnn always creates wonderful baskets full of fun things, and this year was the first that little Ethan could really participate in coloring and hunting eggs. Early Sunday morning DeeAnn was lying on 
the couch with Camden when suddenly Gavin appeared and quietly crept over to the baskets. Surprisingly he had forgotten about baskets, so when they caught his eye he approached them with the kind of disbelief you may experience when happening upon an oasis in the middle of an sun baked desert. He hovered around looking at each item but never touching them. He then went back up stairs to his room, only to return a short time later to inspect the goodies once more. This happened several times, all the while thinking DeeAnn was asleep on the couch. He did, finally, busy himself with the project that had originally brought him down stairs. DeeAnn did not wait long before she called him over to observe the huge smile on his face and give him permission to wake-up the house.
It seems strange that on the two most important celebrations for Christians we give gifts and create meaningless anticipation for children. Why don’t we give gifts on the fourth of July or at least Thanksgiving (the name itself merits gifts)? Perhaps I will start that tradition in our family on Thanksgiving. I can almost hear the applause from all the retail outlets as they acknowledge me for greater consumption during the holiday season.
We have always tried to focus on the true meaning of holidays, yet sometimes you feel so detached from its meaning you wonder if it really matters that you celebrate. Can you imagine in 500 years our nation celebrating September 11th with a special meal, perhaps pork, followed by fun games for the kids that have nothing to do with the event, then gifts to be opened by all. It seems rather absurd but not much different than other holidays. I realize September 11th is a day of despair for so many people, not one of celebration such as the birth or resurrection of Christ, but the motions and festivals that surround these celebrations seem just as misplaced.
Easter really is a pretty powerful day to remember, and yet it does not seem to get nearly the same star power as Christmas. Not to bring in the old chicken and egg thing but Christ’s birth was not nearly as important as His resurrection. It does start a week before with Palm Sunday and of course Good Friday but for some reason it simply does not have the same momentum as Christmas.
Perhaps it is my own fault in that I am driven by what I see around me. The more excitement from others the more enthusiastic I become. Therefore, I bow to the pressures of consumerism and place value depending on the intensity of others. And yet, that is what bothers me.
Perhaps that is the beauty of Easter Sunday. Let the rest of the world focus on selling His birth while we learn to quietly celebrate His life and resurrection.
the couch with Camden when suddenly Gavin appeared and quietly crept over to the baskets. Surprisingly he had forgotten about baskets, so when they caught his eye he approached them with the kind of disbelief you may experience when happening upon an oasis in the middle of an sun baked desert. He hovered around looking at each item but never touching them. He then went back up stairs to his room, only to return a short time later to inspect the goodies once more. This happened several times, all the while thinking DeeAnn was asleep on the couch. He did, finally, busy himself with the project that had originally brought him down stairs. DeeAnn did not wait long before she called him over to observe the huge smile on his face and give him permission to wake-up the house.It seems strange that on the two most important celebrations for Christians we give gifts and create meaningless anticipation for children. Why don’t we give gifts on the fourth of July or at least Thanksgiving (the name itself merits gifts)? Perhaps I will start that tradition in our family on Thanksgiving. I can almost hear the applause from all the retail outlets as they acknowledge me for greater consumption during the holiday season.
We have always tried to focus on the true meaning of holidays, yet sometimes you feel so detached from its meaning you wonder if it really matters that you celebrate. Can you imagine in 500 years our nation celebrating September 11th with a special meal, perhaps pork, followed by fun games for the kids that have nothing to do with the event, then gifts to be opened by all. It seems rather absurd but not much different than other holidays. I realize September 11th is a day of despair for so many people, not one of celebration such as the birth or resurrection of Christ, but the motions and festivals that surround these celebrations seem just as misplaced.
Easter really is a pretty powerful day to remember, and yet it does not seem to get nearly the same star power as Christmas. Not to bring in the old chicken and egg thing but Christ’s birth was not nearly as important as His resurrection. It does start a week before with Palm Sunday and of course Good Friday but for some reason it simply does not have the same momentum as Christmas.
Perhaps it is my own fault in that I am driven by what I see around me. The more excitement from others the more enthusiastic I become. Therefore, I bow to the pressures of consumerism and place value depending on the intensity of others. And yet, that is what bothers me.
Perhaps that is the beauty of Easter Sunday. Let the rest of the world focus on selling His birth while we learn to quietly celebrate His life and resurrection.
Tuesday, April 3, 2007
Spring has Arrived
It has been a long time since Easter felt like springtime. Crisp mornings, warm days, bright flowers suddenly appear everywhere and the songs of my childhood about Spring showers and May flowers come alive in my head.
Tuesday started with more giant snowflakes falling but by Wednesday it was a bright sunny day. We went to shoot arrows with the Thompson boys at a sports complex in Grants Pass which is about 30 minutes Northwest of Medford. It was Connor’s birthday and he invited Gavin to participate. We marched through the woods to each shooting station with seven boys in tow and safely exited onto a huge field with long strands of green grass blowing in the cold air. It was fairly breathtaking as the sun cast warm rays that could be felt in-between the surging wind.
On Thursday Gavin announced that he was interested in taking the training wheels off his bike. So we rode over to the local elementary school to practice in the field. He was very excited, and a bit goofy, about the possibility of riding without them. That was when he noticed the huge playground. Suddenly swings and slides were his new passion and the bike thing seemed far more difficult. After some negotiation we agreed to hold off on the playground until he learned to ride without the training wheels. We took several passes up and down the field with me holding, correcting, releasing, grabbing, correcting, releasing, grabbing again and finally running past him to confirm that he was indeed riding a bike before he hit the soft ground. I wonder if this was what the Wright Brothers felt as they tried to take flight for the first time. It seems as though the bumpy terrain makes Gavin laugh and giggle to the point of losing control while pedaling. So I’m pretty sure that if I can get him to stop laughing while pedaling we may have more success. We will make our practice runs on the track next time.
“Dad I have a surprise for you.” Now usually this is not a cause for alarm but since Ethan was nowhere to be found it brought some concern. Into the bathroom we went where Gavin theatrically says, “Wheeeere’s Ethan? Wheeere’s Ethan! Ethan, now its time!” Suddenly the lid to the boys dirty clothes basket shakes and we pull it off to reveal Ethan squashed inside surrounded by his brothers underwear. This is something you only get to experience if you have an older brother.
Today we went to a bookstore in downtown Medford and parked in the public parking garage next door. We easily found a spot among the other cars. By the time we left the store it was time to feed Camden so we sat in the truck for 30 minutes or so. When we finally drove away, I made a comment to DeeAnn about the number of cars that passed us in the garage during those 30 minutes. It was one.
As we drove home we observed cows and horses eating, orchards with budding flowers, fresh green crops growing in rich dark soil, and homes dotted with bright tulips and daffodils, all announcing that spring is here.
Tuesday started with more giant snowflakes falling but by Wednesday it was a bright sunny day. We went to shoot arrows with the Thompson boys at a sports complex in Grants Pass which is about 30 minutes Northwest of Medford. It was Connor’s birthday and he invited Gavin to participate. We marched through the woods to each shooting station with seven boys in tow and safely exited onto a huge field with long strands of green grass blowing in the cold air. It was fairly breathtaking as the sun cast warm rays that could be felt in-between the surging wind.On Thursday Gavin announced that he was interested in taking the training wheels off his bike. So we rode over to the local elementary school to practice in the field. He was very excited, and a bit goofy, about the possibility of riding without them. That was when he noticed the huge playground. Suddenly swings and slides were his new passion and the bike thing seemed far more difficult. After some negotiation we agreed to hold off on the playground until he learned to ride without the training wheels. We took several passes up and down the field with me holding, correcting, releasing, grabbing, correcting, releasing, grabbing again and finally running past him to confirm that he was indeed riding a bike before he hit the soft ground. I wonder if this was what the Wright Brothers felt as they tried to take flight for the first time. It seems as though the bumpy terrain makes Gavin laugh and giggle to the point of losing control while pedaling. So I’m pretty sure that if I can get him to stop laughing while pedaling we may have more success. We will make our practice runs on the track next time.
“Dad I have a surprise for you.” Now usually this is not a cause for alarm but since Ethan was nowhere to be found it brought some concern. Into the bathroom we went where Gavin theatrically says, “Wheeeere’s Ethan? Wheeere’s Ethan! Ethan, now its time!” Suddenly the lid to the boys dirty clothes basket shakes and we pull it off to reveal Ethan squashed inside surrounded by his brothers underwear. This is something you only get to experience if you have an older brother.
Today we went to a bookstore in downtown Medford and parked in the public parking garage next door. We easily found a spot among the other cars. By the time we left the store it was time to feed Camden so we sat in the truck for 30 minutes or so. When we finally drove away, I made a comment to DeeAnn about the number of cars that passed us in the garage during those 30 minutes. It was one.
As we drove home we observed cows and horses eating, orchards with budding flowers, fresh green crops growing in rich dark soil, and homes dotted with bright tulips and daffodils, all announcing that spring is here.
Monday, March 26, 2007
A Can of Worms
The other day I awoke to the sound of Ethan screaming. As I rolled over in my bed I see my little two year old running stark naked down the hall. Now this is not entirely unusual in our home, but since I was waking up to the scene I was a bit more concerned than normal. I jumped out of bed and ran over only to realize that it was not a pain scream 
but an Indian holler. It is then that my still groggy eyes focus and see his entire face covered in red marks. I ask him if he did this and he said, “No, Blathor.” Which when translated means, “No I didn’t do this my brother did.” I walk the naked warrior into his room and confront Gavin. As he spins around, his face also bares witness to the mighty red pen. It seems as though Gavin wanted to “paint” their faces to be Indians, and a handy red ink pen was just the thing. I sent them both to the couch and with a straight face told Gavin I was only taking a picture so he would be reminded to never do this again. The picture however, suggests that Ethan may be more responsible than previously thought.
but an Indian holler. It is then that my still groggy eyes focus and see his entire face covered in red marks. I ask him if he did this and he said, “No, Blathor.” Which when translated means, “No I didn’t do this my brother did.” I walk the naked warrior into his room and confront Gavin. As he spins around, his face also bares witness to the mighty red pen. It seems as though Gavin wanted to “paint” their faces to be Indians, and a handy red ink pen was just the thing. I sent them both to the couch and with a straight face told Gavin I was only taking a picture so he would be reminded to never do this again. The picture however, suggests that Ethan may be more responsible than previously thought. 
This week we had our very dear friends Johnny and Jenna come to visit. We took them around our little town, and even hiked into the hills to explore some great views of Jacksonville and the entire valley. Please visit http://www.flickr.com/photos/richanddeeann for some photos of our hike.
It was fun having close friends spend time in our world but it was even more special to see them love our children. We have been blessed to have both family and friends take on more than just a casual role with our kids, but rather take an active roll in training and challenging their behavior. This has been one of the most important gifts people have given us. It is with a mixture of confidence and permission that people tell our boys what they should or should not be doing. As parents we cringe at having a child say or do something that is inappropriate. A typical first reaction is to ignore the situation but we have learned that a more direct and immediate correction is better in the long run. This has paid great dividends over the years. What good is our training if it is only practiced when we are nearby. We expect our boys to behave and grow not only under our supervision but from others that love them as well.
This Sunday we delivered our first batch of flyers to the neighborhood for Gavin and Ethan’s business. The boys dressed in their cowboy gear and walked the entire route with DeeAnn and I helping. It was a great family walk as we went from door to door. By the time we finished it had just started to rain so we headed home to get warm.
On Saturday I attended one of the citizen action committee meeting for the City of Jacksonville. We went through various vision statements and at one point a member said we should also consider mentioning the spiritual history of the area and recognizing its influence and importance in the values. The facilitator quickly stated that it was best to stay away from that “can of worms.” Ironically, we had already discussed this can of worms and even as he continued he brought up his own spiritual values as an example for the future. This struck me as so strange and I have not yet been able to put into words what I feel. Not my first reaction but the deeper meaning of this issue.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Who is Bob?
This week was one of the most beautiful since we arrived. In fact, it reminds us of the cool spring days we often experienced in Southern California. Jacksonville is awash in color from the early spring blossoms. One tree in particular has either brilliant white or pink blossoms and when they fall they leave a carpet of color at the base of each tree. I need to find out what type of trees these are.
Perhaps Bob knows what they are. Who is Bob? Well my first experience with Bob was last week as I was holding little Camden in my arms and noticed a man walking around our lawn sprinkling fertilizer. As quickly as he appeared he again vanished before I had a chance to talk to him. You see, our rental agreement states we are responsible for lawn maintenance. I thought maybe I had misread the agreement so I went to the garage to find the document when I heard a leaf blower. Once again the man was very quick, and by the time I got out the door, his back was to me with a leaf blower. I yelled and tried to chase him down the alley with Camden in my arms, but with only socks, I could not catch up to him. When DeeAnn got up from her nap I explained what he looked like. Several hours later I returned from an errand and DeeAnn told me she found out who the man was. It turns out she saw the man outside again and ran out to thank him for the fertilizer. The man looked at her bewildered and said he was our next door neighbor, the man she was looking for was Bob.
Turns out Bob lives a block from us and has a landscape business. But after some months all his clients were in the Nunan Square development. Needless to say we now see Bob everyday mowing and blowing almost every home, except for ours. Turns out, Bob is really expensive, and instead I could buy a really nice mower in a matter of months.
Rather than buying that mower I discovered that one of the other neighbors, who also does not use Bob, has a mower buts hates to mow. So I offered to mow his yard in exchange for using his mower. He pays for gas and stores the mower and I do both our lawns. Last Wednesday Bob saw me mowing the lawns and he watched me from afar trying to figure out who the new guy was in his territory. Perhaps when I get tired of mowing I will go back to Bob and see if he will give me a good price to get the “new guy” out of town.
Several people have given me grief over not providing an update on Camden, so here it is. He is growing and gaining weight, he sleeps (sometimes) looks around for a bit before crying, eating and then going back to sleep. He has not peed on me yet and seems to be good at keeping food in his stomach and not on the back of my shirt. His brothers like to pat and kiss his head, or at times hold him with an occasional kicking or falling on top of him during this demonstration of love and appreciation. All of this will change, of course, once they realize that he will want to chew on their Legos or pull legs off army men. Other than that, he is a good baby and we love him but can’t wait to experience his personality.
Gavin has started a business. He wanted to earn some money so we brainstormed and he now is part owner in a company called “Little Cowboy Express.” This business is a door-to-door marketing services for local business to our neighborhood. Gavin and Ethan dressed up in their cowboy outfits and passed out a brochure to all the businesses in town. They will hand deliver flyers or coupons to the 65 homes in our neighborhood for 5 cents per door. He currently has 2 or 3 verbal commitments and is waiting for brochures so they can get started. It’s rather strange, my sons have a job but I’m still looking.
I actually do have a few things I’m working on to generate money besides making my kids work the neighborhood. But while we pursue direction, seek patience and enjoy the time together as a family your prayers are coveted and desired.
We also appreciate the comment posted to last weeks blog!
Perhaps Bob knows what they are. Who is Bob? Well my first experience with Bob was last week as I was holding little Camden in my arms and noticed a man walking around our lawn sprinkling fertilizer. As quickly as he appeared he again vanished before I had a chance to talk to him. You see, our rental agreement states we are responsible for lawn maintenance. I thought maybe I had misread the agreement so I went to the garage to find the document when I heard a leaf blower. Once again the man was very quick, and by the time I got out the door, his back was to me with a leaf blower. I yelled and tried to chase him down the alley with Camden in my arms, but with only socks, I could not catch up to him. When DeeAnn got up from her nap I explained what he looked like. Several hours later I returned from an errand and DeeAnn told me she found out who the man was. It turns out she saw the man outside again and ran out to thank him for the fertilizer. The man looked at her bewildered and said he was our next door neighbor, the man she was looking for was Bob.
Turns out Bob lives a block from us and has a landscape business. But after some months all his clients were in the Nunan Square development. Needless to say we now see Bob everyday mowing and blowing almost every home, except for ours. Turns out, Bob is really expensive, and instead I could buy a really nice mower in a matter of months.
Rather than buying that mower I discovered that one of the other neighbors, who also does not use Bob, has a mower buts hates to mow. So I offered to mow his yard in exchange for using his mower. He pays for gas and stores the mower and I do both our lawns. Last Wednesday Bob saw me mowing the lawns and he watched me from afar trying to figure out who the new guy was in his territory. Perhaps when I get tired of mowing I will go back to Bob and see if he will give me a good price to get the “new guy” out of town.
Several people have given me grief over not providing an update on Camden, so here it is. He is growing and gaining weight, he sleeps (sometimes) looks around for a bit before crying, eating and then going back to sleep. He has not peed on me yet and seems to be good at keeping food in his stomach and not on the back of my shirt. His brothers like to pat and kiss his head, or at times hold him with an occasional kicking or falling on top of him during this demonstration of love and appreciation. All of this will change, of course, once they realize that he will want to chew on their Legos or pull legs off army men. Other than that, he is a good baby and we love him but can’t wait to experience his personality.
Gavin has started a business. He wanted to earn some money so we brainstormed and he now is part owner in a company called “Little Cowboy Express.” This business is a door-to-door marketing services for local business to our neighborhood. Gavin and Ethan dressed up in their cowboy outfits and passed out a brochure to all the businesses in town. They will hand deliver flyers or coupons to the 65 homes in our neighborhood for 5 cents per door. He currently has 2 or 3 verbal commitments and is waiting for brochures so they can get started. It’s rather strange, my sons have a job but I’m still looking.
I actually do have a few things I’m working on to generate money besides making my kids work the neighborhood. But while we pursue direction, seek patience and enjoy the time together as a family your prayers are coveted and desired.
We also appreciate the comment posted to last weeks blog!
Monday, March 12, 2007
Building Community
One of the things that we have missed most besides friends and family has been Trader Joes. I know it seems rather shallow but Trader Joes has some great quality food at a great value. There seems to be a rumor up here, for several years now, that Trader Joes will open up a store in Southern Oregon. Unfortunately, that has yet to become a reality. Several weeks ago I discovered that Trader Joes is performing a zip code survey in order to find the next location. I am not sure if this is for Oregon alone or all the Trader Joes in the country. But IF the survey is at all stores I would like to ask for your assistance. When you are asked for your zip code at Trader Joes please provide our zip code - 97530. My first recruit was the cashier in the Eugene location. I asked him to use my zip code for all of those customers who do not provide one. This is a grass root effort to encourage Trader Joes to come to Southern Oregon.
How many of us have been warned as kids to NEVER eat yellow snow? Well I am here to tell you that yellow snow is good and rather sweet. That’s right I ate yellow snow. I would have had seconds but it seemed rude to ask for more. I also had homemade snow-ice cream. Apparently when blessed with several inches of snow you can make very tasty treats using pineapple juice, half and half, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. If interested in the recipe please email me and I will pass on the message to Katie Thompson.
As you all know I am often looking at small town life with big city eyes. Well here is one that I continue to struggle with. It started with a meeting in Jacksonville for citizens planning the vision 20 years out. During the meeting those that were on various committees were asked for their name and number. So one by one each resident called out their name then a four digit number. I was confused for several minutes until I realized that the four digit number was their phone number. No, Jacksonville is not stuck in the 50’s but in fact everyone has the same number as everybody else. I mean the same phone number as everybody else with only the last four digits different. Ok so that is quaint, but seriously try to get around the idea that everybody in town shares the same numbers but four. Its similar to all of us living on the same street but having only a different house number. The idea can easily escape ones brain but its powerful to think that its little things like this that create a community. A common bond often no greater than the simplest of interactions.
This idea of community of late, is difficult to express but even more difficult to develop. I have often thought that the reason Los Angeles has such a tough time creating community is because people lack a single gathering place for special events or perhaps its the constant change in neighbors as people moved about. Or maybe it was the fairly consistent sunshine that allows people to pick any day to do chores or activities as opposed to the weather dictating when you get out.
Well Jacksonville does not have a single place to gather any more than Old Town Pasadena for the Doo Dah Parade - www.pasadenadoodahparade.info It also has few original locals but plenty with a start in another part of our great country (read: California). The weather has certainly shaped when people move about and that does bring out a common bond at times but only after an extended period of cold or wet weather. This is often true in Southern California when a week of rainy weather followed by a gorgeous 75 degree day and blue skies causes people to get out and enjoy the day.
So what creates community? How do you define it? And more importantly how do you maintain it once found? These questions are what I believe are at the heart of this planning vision for Jacksonville. Sure, some want to make more money and others want to preserve the historical elements and size of town but the core of discussion is how to truly balance those desires without losing this special community.
As I sat in a meeting last week I came up with a phrase that helped me define what I feel is community - “frequency of interactions.” Strip away the charms, history, services, and everything else and simply focus on the people and their constant overlapping lives. These unplanned and unrehearsed interactions with people you know begin to create a sense of belonging and perhaps even ownership. This is not church, business meetings, civic clubs or even special events you attend but the natural and fluid crossover into other lives on a daily bases. As an example, I went to Whites Country Farm for my vegetables and was talking with Linda and Mark the owners when I saw my neighbor Tom walking to the front door. So there I stand talking when I mention to Tom that Warren, our other neighbor, suggested I borrow Toms mower in exchange for mowing Tom’s lawn. Tom says, “That’s great!” So we set a date to start. Linda speaks up and asks if Warren is married to Shelia. Indeed he is. Turns out Linda and Mark had dinner at their house on Friday.
This particular example is only a part of community. It requires more interaction and more depth, but it is the start of belonging and participating in others lives. So now take this interaction and multiply it several times and you begin to see that frequent interactions can begin to build more community. When we control our experiences with preplanned activities we isolate ourselves from community. It is truly those with whom we have not made plans with that can create a serendipitous moment. Look that word up - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serendipity
How many of us have been warned as kids to NEVER eat yellow snow? Well I am here to tell you that yellow snow is good and rather sweet. That’s right I ate yellow snow. I would have had seconds but it seemed rude to ask for more. I also had homemade snow-ice cream. Apparently when blessed with several inches of snow you can make very tasty treats using pineapple juice, half and half, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. If interested in the recipe please email me and I will pass on the message to Katie Thompson.
As you all know I am often looking at small town life with big city eyes. Well here is one that I continue to struggle with. It started with a meeting in Jacksonville for citizens planning the vision 20 years out. During the meeting those that were on various committees were asked for their name and number. So one by one each resident called out their name then a four digit number. I was confused for several minutes until I realized that the four digit number was their phone number. No, Jacksonville is not stuck in the 50’s but in fact everyone has the same number as everybody else. I mean the same phone number as everybody else with only the last four digits different. Ok so that is quaint, but seriously try to get around the idea that everybody in town shares the same numbers but four. Its similar to all of us living on the same street but having only a different house number. The idea can easily escape ones brain but its powerful to think that its little things like this that create a community. A common bond often no greater than the simplest of interactions.
This idea of community of late, is difficult to express but even more difficult to develop. I have often thought that the reason Los Angeles has such a tough time creating community is because people lack a single gathering place for special events or perhaps its the constant change in neighbors as people moved about. Or maybe it was the fairly consistent sunshine that allows people to pick any day to do chores or activities as opposed to the weather dictating when you get out.
Well Jacksonville does not have a single place to gather any more than Old Town Pasadena for the Doo Dah Parade - www.pasadenadoodahparade.info It also has few original locals but plenty with a start in another part of our great country (read: California). The weather has certainly shaped when people move about and that does bring out a common bond at times but only after an extended period of cold or wet weather. This is often true in Southern California when a week of rainy weather followed by a gorgeous 75 degree day and blue skies causes people to get out and enjoy the day.
So what creates community? How do you define it? And more importantly how do you maintain it once found? These questions are what I believe are at the heart of this planning vision for Jacksonville. Sure, some want to make more money and others want to preserve the historical elements and size of town but the core of discussion is how to truly balance those desires without losing this special community.
As I sat in a meeting last week I came up with a phrase that helped me define what I feel is community - “frequency of interactions.” Strip away the charms, history, services, and everything else and simply focus on the people and their constant overlapping lives. These unplanned and unrehearsed interactions with people you know begin to create a sense of belonging and perhaps even ownership. This is not church, business meetings, civic clubs or even special events you attend but the natural and fluid crossover into other lives on a daily bases. As an example, I went to Whites Country Farm for my vegetables and was talking with Linda and Mark the owners when I saw my neighbor Tom walking to the front door. So there I stand talking when I mention to Tom that Warren, our other neighbor, suggested I borrow Toms mower in exchange for mowing Tom’s lawn. Tom says, “That’s great!” So we set a date to start. Linda speaks up and asks if Warren is married to Shelia. Indeed he is. Turns out Linda and Mark had dinner at their house on Friday.
This particular example is only a part of community. It requires more interaction and more depth, but it is the start of belonging and participating in others lives. So now take this interaction and multiply it several times and you begin to see that frequent interactions can begin to build more community. When we control our experiences with preplanned activities we isolate ourselves from community. It is truly those with whom we have not made plans with that can create a serendipitous moment. Look that word up - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serendipity
Monday, March 5, 2007
The Burn Pile
The Burn Pile. I have heard a lot about this rural phenomenon in the last few days. You see, the burn pile is a spot on your property that you accumulate things that can be burned. Things like leaves, tree limbs, trash, broken wooden furniture, rotted wood, anything that can burn without being toxic. We of course still live in a little subdivision and do not get to have burn piles. But if you live on a property with some land it is imperative to locate space for a good burn pile. Things I notice about burn piles are that when the day is dry and sunny it seems it is time to ignite the flames and burn the pile. Now for those from Southern California, you can only imagine the learned fear when you look to the mountains and see six or more fires burning in a variety of stages. Tall columns indicate a burn pile starting out while simple hazy clouds are for those piles that are now just smoldering. Your first reaction is to look for the initial wave of support aircraft which will include all major TV stations, followed by the firefighter helicopters and tankers. But they don’t come.
I can’t wait to have my own burn pile. Imagine the planning that goes into locating a spot that can burn for hours without supervision as well as be easily accessible to accumulate burn pile material. You certainty do not put a pile in the front yard where guests can see it. If in the back yard it must not be to close so as to have the smoke infiltrate your home. It will also depend on how large your property is. If large enough it will be less of an issue, while smaller lots may require careful planning.
Since I last wrote we did have several more days of large fluffy snowflakes and then on Saturday the sky filled with blue and the sun warmed up all that it touched, by Monday it was perfect burn pile weather.
I have noticed that the town seems to double in population when we have a warm day. Neighbors make a point of coming out to prune, sweep, wash, or simply sit on a chair to read.
Last Saturday I went to a town meeting to listen to the vision of Jacksonville for the year 2028. By the time it was done I found myself on three committees. I have met many new people and learned a lot about Jacksonville and why others think it is so special. It is interesting to watch others struggle to keep the town small while at the same time making Jacksonville shops more profitable. Those who moved here for the small town want to preserve that point in time. While those with business to run want, and need, more people to be profitable.
On Saturday Gavin, Ethan and I went to town with them dressed as cowboys. Pictures are on http://www.flickr.com/photos/richanddeeann (this time I verified the website). We met Sharon who is the founder of a group called Belles and Beaus. They dress in vintage clothing and stroll the streets of Jacksonville on Saturdays for a few hours. As we sat on a bench soaking in the sun I learned that Sharron’s husband was the executor of Ginger Rogers Estate. In fact she was holding a mink hand warmer that was once owned by Ginger. She was leaving this week to spend time with the Roger family in Palm Springs.
On Sunday we decided to get out of the house and go to Target and Costco. As we drove the boys pointed out the llamas (Notice the correct spelling. Thanks Dick), cows and horses. All of this within 15 minutes to Target which is next to the Mall. This place continues to amaze me with the variety of things to see and always in contrast with what I expect.
When we returned Gavin saw our neighbor Mrs. Merrimen outside washing her car. He bounded over and asked if he could go for a walk with her and her dog. Mrs. Merrimen responded with, “Sure, are you going to help me with my car?”. Gavin spent the next 20 minutes washing the small parts she was not able to reach. He was later rewarded with a walk.
Last week I went to the DMV to take my driving test as well as register the cars. I took a number and saw that only 3 other people were in front of me. As I sat I listened to peoples first names being called out to pick up their new drivers license. This is the DMV for all of Medford and I think the whole valley. Anyway, I handed my paperwork to the man and asked him if people failed the test very often, to which he replied, “It is very rare.” I went to the testing station and started. Several minutes later the guy next to me asked if I knew how many you could get wrong before you failed - he was at seven. I told him I was unsure and in fact had no idea of how long the test was. Seconds later he grunted and went back to the examiners desk. I was of course shocked that with so few fails that I would be sitting next to one that day. Well I finished the test and walked back to the examiner and told him my story regarding being nervous and having a guy next to me fail. He congratulated me on passing and said that I looked so nervous that he had to lie. The real pass rate is only 40%!
I walked out with Gavin to get chocolate sundaes at McDonalds to celebrate.
Rich, DeeAnn, Gavin, Ethan, and Camden
I can’t wait to have my own burn pile. Imagine the planning that goes into locating a spot that can burn for hours without supervision as well as be easily accessible to accumulate burn pile material. You certainty do not put a pile in the front yard where guests can see it. If in the back yard it must not be to close so as to have the smoke infiltrate your home. It will also depend on how large your property is. If large enough it will be less of an issue, while smaller lots may require careful planning.
Since I last wrote we did have several more days of large fluffy snowflakes and then on Saturday the sky filled with blue and the sun warmed up all that it touched, by Monday it was perfect burn pile weather.
I have noticed that the town seems to double in population when we have a warm day. Neighbors make a point of coming out to prune, sweep, wash, or simply sit on a chair to read.
Last Saturday I went to a town meeting to listen to the vision of Jacksonville for the year 2028. By the time it was done I found myself on three committees. I have met many new people and learned a lot about Jacksonville and why others think it is so special. It is interesting to watch others struggle to keep the town small while at the same time making Jacksonville shops more profitable. Those who moved here for the small town want to preserve that point in time. While those with business to run want, and need, more people to be profitable.
On Saturday Gavin, Ethan and I went to town with them dressed as cowboys. Pictures are on http://www.flickr.com/photos/richanddeeann (this time I verified the website). We met Sharon who is the founder of a group called Belles and Beaus. They dress in vintage clothing and stroll the streets of Jacksonville on Saturdays for a few hours. As we sat on a bench soaking in the sun I learned that Sharron’s husband was the executor of Ginger Rogers Estate. In fact she was holding a mink hand warmer that was once owned by Ginger. She was leaving this week to spend time with the Roger family in Palm Springs.
On Sunday we decided to get out of the house and go to Target and Costco. As we drove the boys pointed out the llamas (Notice the correct spelling. Thanks Dick), cows and horses. All of this within 15 minutes to Target which is next to the Mall. This place continues to amaze me with the variety of things to see and always in contrast with what I expect.
When we returned Gavin saw our neighbor Mrs. Merrimen outside washing her car. He bounded over and asked if he could go for a walk with her and her dog. Mrs. Merrimen responded with, “Sure, are you going to help me with my car?”. Gavin spent the next 20 minutes washing the small parts she was not able to reach. He was later rewarded with a walk.
Last week I went to the DMV to take my driving test as well as register the cars. I took a number and saw that only 3 other people were in front of me. As I sat I listened to peoples first names being called out to pick up their new drivers license. This is the DMV for all of Medford and I think the whole valley. Anyway, I handed my paperwork to the man and asked him if people failed the test very often, to which he replied, “It is very rare.” I went to the testing station and started. Several minutes later the guy next to me asked if I knew how many you could get wrong before you failed - he was at seven. I told him I was unsure and in fact had no idea of how long the test was. Seconds later he grunted and went back to the examiners desk. I was of course shocked that with so few fails that I would be sitting next to one that day. Well I finished the test and walked back to the examiner and told him my story regarding being nervous and having a guy next to me fail. He congratulated me on passing and said that I looked so nervous that he had to lie. The real pass rate is only 40%!
I walked out with Gavin to get chocolate sundaes at McDonalds to celebrate.
Rich, DeeAnn, Gavin, Ethan, and Camden
Monday, February 26, 2007
Living in Slow Motion
Last night I went to bed at midnight and looked outside and saw the air filled with giant fluffy snowflakes falling softly to the ground. I got to experience the giant flakes again when I awoke in the morning. By 10:00 it was melting and the sun was peeking through. Then by 4:00 Gavin and I went out for what we like to call “snow walks” in those giant fluffy flakes.
Ever notice how calming snow is when it falls? When movies want to make something seem beautiful or something to ponder they put it into slow motion. A normal person walking down the road is made to be very sexy in slow motion. I often tell DeeAnn that if you want to do something important do it in slow motion.
This weekend I got to do something important. I sat on a snow covered hill overlooking a house and barn surrounded by trees. As I lay in the snow exhausted from sled
ding with Uncle Don, Gavin and Ethan. I watched my Uncle Don drive Gavin around in the snow on an ATV. As they raced down the driveway I sat very still and just watched the flakes falling. Warm in my snow gear I continued to embrace the view, and ponder the moments of my children full of excitement and joy flying down a snow covered hill. When somebody says to enjoy life I am not always sure what that means, but that day, that moment was surely one of those life moments. Visit www.flickr.com/photos/richanddeeann for the sledding adventures.
Can we have those slow motion moments more often? I think so, but it requires a deliberate action to move from normal motion to slow motion. I am not one to speak as I often find myself on fast forward simply to get to the good parts. I wish I could take back the many times I rushed things simply to get to the end. I have mentioned before in these ramblings that the journey to Jacksonville has been great in spite of an ending not yet written. Yet even with this journey I am prone to speed through it. I have covered much ground in the town and now I am having to seek out more subtle and off the normal path adventures.
When I go to the library I often feel frustrated as I am overwhelmed with how many books I would love to read and learn about. So instead of choosing one to read I go to the magazines and hit fast forward. From home building to current events I can glean a bit of everything without much time. I think to myself, one day after the kids are gone and I have more time I will begin the process of reading all those great books.
And so it has been with friends and family. I often think when I have more time I will work on my relationships and make them better. The problem is when do you turn around and realize that you fast forwarded and missed the slow motion bits. I have a phrase that I have used of late. “Take your friendship to a new level” This simple phrase is actually a frightening and overwhelming action. Why? Because it requires you to hit the slow motion button and embrace those moments that are often to easy to bypass. Admitting wrong, share a vulnerability without expectation, do something more than simply what is convenient, tell others who you really and trust that they will not run away.
I can only hope that the rest of the week giant fluffy snow flakes will fall.
Rich, DeeAnn, Gavin, Ethan, and Camden
Ever notice how calming snow is when it falls? When movies want to make something seem beautiful or something to ponder they put it into slow motion. A normal person walking down the road is made to be very sexy in slow motion. I often tell DeeAnn that if you want to do something important do it in slow motion.
This weekend I got to do something important. I sat on a snow covered hill overlooking a house and barn surrounded by trees. As I lay in the snow exhausted from sled
ding with Uncle Don, Gavin and Ethan. I watched my Uncle Don drive Gavin around in the snow on an ATV. As they raced down the driveway I sat very still and just watched the flakes falling. Warm in my snow gear I continued to embrace the view, and ponder the moments of my children full of excitement and joy flying down a snow covered hill. When somebody says to enjoy life I am not always sure what that means, but that day, that moment was surely one of those life moments. Visit www.flickr.com/photos/richanddeeann for the sledding adventures.Can we have those slow motion moments more often? I think so, but it requires a deliberate action to move from normal motion to slow motion. I am not one to speak as I often find myself on fast forward simply to get to the good parts. I wish I could take back the many times I rushed things simply to get to the end. I have mentioned before in these ramblings that the journey to Jacksonville has been great in spite of an ending not yet written. Yet even with this journey I am prone to speed through it. I have covered much ground in the town and now I am having to seek out more subtle and off the normal path adventures.
When I go to the library I often feel frustrated as I am overwhelmed with how many books I would love to read and learn about. So instead of choosing one to read I go to the magazines and hit fast forward. From home building to current events I can glean a bit of everything without much time. I think to myself, one day after the kids are gone and I have more time I will begin the process of reading all those great books.
And so it has been with friends and family. I often think when I have more time I will work on my relationships and make them better. The problem is when do you turn around and realize that you fast forwarded and missed the slow motion bits. I have a phrase that I have used of late. “Take your friendship to a new level” This simple phrase is actually a frightening and overwhelming action. Why? Because it requires you to hit the slow motion button and embrace those moments that are often to easy to bypass. Admitting wrong, share a vulnerability without expectation, do something more than simply what is convenient, tell others who you really and trust that they will not run away.
I can only hope that the rest of the week giant fluffy snow flakes will fall.
Rich, DeeAnn, Gavin, Ethan, and Camden
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
The Rumor is Not True
Sorry for the lateness in my weekly update. I have been working on a project and the time flew by me. Camden has been doing great. He is gaining about an ounce a day of late, never got jaundice and has slept fairly predictable until the last two days. It was our routine for DeeAnn and I to switch every 3-4 hours during the night with DeeAnn taking the bulk of awake time with feedings. Well little Camden seems to be suffering from tummy pains and so he squirms and wiggles with a face of complete agony. This in turn has made him stay awake and causes us to follow suit. We are changing DeeAnn’s diet and giving him some mylicon to help relieve the pain. Last night we did a bit better but still not out of the woods yet.
Did you know that it is the year of the pig? Well if you did than you are more aware of the Chinese calendar than most. On Saturday Gavin, Ethan and I walked up to town to see the Chinese New Year Festival and Parade. The parade lasted about 30-40 minutes and included Eagle scouts, dancing dragons, and the Queen of Rouge Valley sitting proudly in the back of a new Dodge Ram Pickup. We also got to see Lamas dressed up in clothes with their toenails painted purple. There was a small group of parents and kids walking to represent the Panda Club which are American families who have adopted children from Asian countries.
And finally we had about eight Segways from http://www.segwayofjacksonville.com/ bringing up the end of the parade ridden by Betty her husband and brother-in-law David. Pictures of the parade and festival and a few more of Camden can be found on www.flickr.com/photos/richanddeeann
After the parade we went to a small lecture about the history of Jacksonville and the influence of the Chinese during the gold rush. It was held in the section of town first built by the Chinese but has since then all but gone away. At the top of the hill is a working replica of a gold sluice boxes used to separate the gold from the dirt. The rest of the day was spent walking around town playing in “Doc” park. It was a gorgeous day with perfect temps and a deep blue sky. As is expected we do have colder temps than those in Southern California but each day is a real adventure. What the forecast often calls for is lost by mid day. I suppose that is the fun with the weather in Southern Oregon in that you never know what your day will look like. That is what made this day so unique. It stayed as it started.
So what’s new in the way of politics and local gossip for Jacksonville? Well for one the fire station looks like they may finally get a new station and a new engine by the end of the year. Calls increased by 35% ever since the new retirement village opened their doors.
Mark at the Saloon is hopeful that his bar will do better than the J’vlle Tavern three doors up but he has only been open for 8 months.
And the battle over the land used and owned by the motorcycle club continues. Seems as though the noise is bothering some residence, but aesthetically the club maintains their property far better than the residences that surround it. Perhaps the club should petition the residences to clean up their properties so they aren’t a blight on the scenery.
It was time for me and the boys to get haircuts so DeeAnn called around for a local barber. She finally found one in Medford and I went with boys in tow. Upon arrival I noticed a very old shop with an even older gentlemen sitting in the chair. We sat down and I asked Chuck the barber a question, “Have you ever heard of Angus Todd?” “Oh sure”, he said “known Angus for years. “Angus Todd, yep he died a while back” said the old man in the chair. “Nope, Angus is still alive”, I assured him. “Nope he died” said the old man. “Well I just saw him the other day and he was still alive.” I said, this time with confidence. “Well I think he died recently.” the old man once again said with even more confidence. “Well I tell you what , I see him every Tuesday and I will make sure he isn’t dead.” I said with more confidence than that old man could possibly muster. Needless to day Gramps is doing great.
Did you know that it is the year of the pig? Well if you did than you are more aware of the Chinese calendar than most. On Saturday Gavin, Ethan and I walked up to town to see the Chinese New Year Festival and Parade. The parade lasted about 30-40 minutes and included Eagle scouts, dancing dragons, and the Queen of Rouge Valley sitting proudly in the back of a new Dodge Ram Pickup. We also got to see Lamas dressed up in clothes with their toenails painted purple. There was a small group of parents and kids walking to represent the Panda Club which are American families who have adopted children from Asian countries.
And finally we had about eight Segways from http://www.segwayofjacksonville.com/ bringing up the end of the parade ridden by Betty her husband and brother-in-law David. Pictures of the parade and festival and a few more of Camden can be found on www.flickr.com/photos/richanddeeannAfter the parade we went to a small lecture about the history of Jacksonville and the influence of the Chinese during the gold rush. It was held in the section of town first built by the Chinese but has since then all but gone away. At the top of the hill is a working replica of a gold sluice boxes used to separate the gold from the dirt. The rest of the day was spent walking around town playing in “Doc” park. It was a gorgeous day with perfect temps and a deep blue sky. As is expected we do have colder temps than those in Southern California but each day is a real adventure. What the forecast often calls for is lost by mid day. I suppose that is the fun with the weather in Southern Oregon in that you never know what your day will look like. That is what made this day so unique. It stayed as it started.
So what’s new in the way of politics and local gossip for Jacksonville? Well for one the fire station looks like they may finally get a new station and a new engine by the end of the year. Calls increased by 35% ever since the new retirement village opened their doors.
Mark at the Saloon is hopeful that his bar will do better than the J’vlle Tavern three doors up but he has only been open for 8 months.
And the battle over the land used and owned by the motorcycle club continues. Seems as though the noise is bothering some residence, but aesthetically the club maintains their property far better than the residences that surround it. Perhaps the club should petition the residences to clean up their properties so they aren’t a blight on the scenery.
It was time for me and the boys to get haircuts so DeeAnn called around for a local barber. She finally found one in Medford and I went with boys in tow. Upon arrival I noticed a very old shop with an even older gentlemen sitting in the chair. We sat down and I asked Chuck the barber a question, “Have you ever heard of Angus Todd?” “Oh sure”, he said “known Angus for years. “Angus Todd, yep he died a while back” said the old man in the chair. “Nope, Angus is still alive”, I assured him. “Nope he died” said the old man. “Well I just saw him the other day and he was still alive.” I said, this time with confidence. “Well I think he died recently.” the old man once again said with even more confidence. “Well I tell you what , I see him every Tuesday and I will make sure he isn’t dead.” I said with more confidence than that old man could possibly muster. Needless to day Gramps is doing great.
Monday, February 12, 2007
Welcome Camden
“Daddy! Daddy!” came the yell from Gavin as DeeAnn labored upstairs. “Just a minute, Gavin” I said as I continued my conversation on the phone. Again Gavin yelled for my attention but it was something different in his voice. So while still on the phone I went to see what all the excitement was. There it was in all its glory. Floating in the toilet was a perfect capital G made out of poop. “It’s a G for Gavin” his little voice said with glee.
And so it is with kids. Time for reflection was a bit limited as DeeAnn struggled to get dressed through each contraction. Now for those who may or may not remember the last time we had a baby it was only because the freeway was wide open and a Durango can do 110 mph that we managed to have Ethan in a hospital. This was not a scene I wanted to repeat. I am shamed to say that we reinforced all California driving stereotypes as I raced past cars and ran red lights including one particular maneuver I like to call “The Squeeze” which involved creating a third lane between two others. This time we had a full 15 minutes from arrival to birth.
The staff was great as DeeAnn yelled and moaned and apologized. Our Dr. was unfortunately not available as he was out flying his plane that morning but we did have the on-call doctor who looked a bit shocked after it was all over. She stammered a bit as she held up the umbilical cord for all to see a solid knot. “This kind of thing usually kills a baby” she said. At which point a nurse smiled and said, “Look it’s a miracle baby” And so it is that we have a healthy baby given to us by God, which is always a miracle.
Somewhere in all of this I was standing in between DeeAnn and Camden with a hand on both. Camden was being given oxygen on the warming tray to offset his current color of royal purple. It was at that moment that I felt real hot and a bit dizzy. Figuring this was not the best time to faint I took a seat and waited a bit until I felt ok.
At 10:34am on February 8th 2007 we introduced ourselves to Camden Stanley Todd. Trying to name a child is a difficult task. You have to consider what it sounds like when yelling their name, or when it is read out loud during graduation, or when they introduce themselves on the phone. And especially when they have grow up and start to wonder more about their family history and how they are part of it.
Camden is a Celtic name which means winding valley and Stanley is my middle name as well as my fathers. The writer C.S. Lewis wrote a book titled, A Grief Observed. In it he describes a winding valley as a journey that with each turn a totally new landscape is revealed but not always. In fact sometimes there are glimpses of views you have seen before but the sequence does not repeat.
With this name we look forward to his fulfillment of a totally new personality melded into our family but yet at times familiar character and behavior we have known to love and cherish with our other boys.
And so we say, “welcome Camden, we have been waiting for you”
Rich, DeeAnn, Gavin, Ethan and Camden
And so it is with kids. Time for reflection was a bit limited as DeeAnn struggled to get dressed through each contraction. Now for those who may or may not remember the last time we had a baby it was only because the freeway was wide open and a Durango can do 110 mph that we managed to have Ethan in a hospital. This was not a scene I wanted to repeat. I am shamed to say that we reinforced all California driving stereotypes as I raced past cars and ran red lights including one particular maneuver I like to call “The Squeeze” which involved creating a third lane between two others. This time we had a full 15 minutes from arrival to birth.
The staff was great as DeeAnn yelled and moaned and apologized. Our Dr. was unfortunately not available as he was out flying his plane that morning but we did have the on-call doctor who looked a bit shocked after it was all over. She stammered a bit as she held up the umbilical cord for all to see a solid knot. “This kind of thing usually kills a baby” she said. At which point a nurse smiled and said, “Look it’s a miracle baby” And so it is that we have a healthy baby given to us by God, which is always a miracle.
Somewhere in all of this I was standing in between DeeAnn and Camden with a hand on both. Camden was being given oxygen on the warming tray to offset his current color of royal purple. It was at that moment that I felt real hot and a bit dizzy. Figuring this was not the best time to faint I took a seat and waited a bit until I felt ok.
At 10:34am on February 8th 2007 we introduced ourselves to Camden Stanley Todd. Trying to name a child is a difficult task. You have to consider what it sounds like when yelling their name, or when it is read out loud during graduation, or when they introduce themselves on the phone. And especially when they have grow up and start to wonder more about their family history and how they are part of it.
Camden is a Celtic name which means winding valley and Stanley is my middle name as well as my fathers. The writer C.S. Lewis wrote a book titled, A Grief Observed. In it he describes a winding valley as a journey that with each turn a totally new landscape is revealed but not always. In fact sometimes there are glimpses of views you have seen before but the sequence does not repeat.
With this name we look forward to his fulfillment of a totally new personality melded into our family but yet at times familiar character and behavior we have known to love and cherish with our other boys.
And so we say, “welcome Camden, we have been waiting for you”
Rich, DeeAnn, Gavin, Ethan and Camden
Thursday, February 8, 2007
My Three Sons
This morning at 4:00am DeeAnn began having contractions. By 8:00 we started making plans toward the hospital and by 10:00 we were once again racing down the street. At 10:15 we arrived and at 10:34 baby arrived!!
We have added another boy to the Todd family weighing in at 7lb 13oz, 20 inches long. His name is Camden Stanley Todd. We are grateful for a healthy boy and mom.
We have added another boy to the Todd family weighing in at 7lb 13oz, 20 inches long. His name is Camden Stanley Todd. We are grateful for a healthy boy and mom.
Also the winner of the baby contest was Lori Coyne from Arizona. Lori guessed 7lb 8oz on Feb 8th. Lori is a dear friend from college and picked the 8th as today is her own son's birthday!! Runner up is Tim Boehr son of Ernie and Judy Boehr who are very close friends/family. A nice selection of Southern Oregon treats will be sent out as soon as possible. Congratulations to the winners!!!
By the way our Dr. guessed 2/14 and 7lb 9oz. :>
Monday, February 5, 2007
Standing the Test of Time
Well the results are in. We had thirty two entries. The date of birth ranged from February 6th to February 18th, the weight ranged from 6.1 to 9.0. The average weight was 7.6.
Currently DeeAnn is doing fine and does not have any signs of labor. We go to the doctor tomorrow for a checkup and will send out any progress if any.
Now back to the introspection of our lives. Last night we came back from a weekend with friends and I realized that this was the first time in several weeks that I was on a freeway. Why is this important? Well for one it is amazing how your perception changes. Cruising down a freeway affects my thinking more so than cruising down small two lane roads. Is it the speed, or is it the journey that makes the difference. One would think that a long journey on a freeway would allow you to ponder more than a short journey but consider this. On my short jaunts around town I often do not turn on a radio but drive quietly on my errands. Freeway drives are always accompanied with music, talk radio, or news.
During one of my trips around town I began to think about the history of heraldry. It started during the Middle Ages in order to identify soldiers during battle as well as to document the deaths of those left behind. Over time standards were created and those who studied and memorized the emblems would be the announcers at tournaments. Those who are interested can look it up at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heraldry It caused me to think that if I were to create my family crest and shield what would I choose, what do I want to be known for and why. Like crests, names have so much meaning yet we seem lose their original importance. Imagine if the name your parents choose for you dictated who you where. Do you wish you could change your name or are you living up to its expectation?
What I thought would be a simple and really fun exercise turned out to be an adventure in who I am. Your faith, family name, birth order, place of birth, heritage successes and failures all contribute to who you are. Which ones identify your associations and which ones shape who you are today and those of tomorrow? Are some so integrated into your person or are they simply a Sunday morning obligation? Do some stand the test of time or are they popular today? Will your crest look like a glamour photo from the 80’s or will it be replicated by those you touch for its authentic and timeless truth?
I have much to learn and more to understand before I put pencil to paper and begin the process creating our family crest. My challenge to you this week is to drive as you normally do only this time turn off the radio and listen.
Love Rich, DeeAnn, Gavin, Ethan, and baby
Currently DeeAnn is doing fine and does not have any signs of labor. We go to the doctor tomorrow for a checkup and will send out any progress if any.
Now back to the introspection of our lives. Last night we came back from a weekend with friends and I realized that this was the first time in several weeks that I was on a freeway. Why is this important? Well for one it is amazing how your perception changes. Cruising down a freeway affects my thinking more so than cruising down small two lane roads. Is it the speed, or is it the journey that makes the difference. One would think that a long journey on a freeway would allow you to ponder more than a short journey but consider this. On my short jaunts around town I often do not turn on a radio but drive quietly on my errands. Freeway drives are always accompanied with music, talk radio, or news.
During one of my trips around town I began to think about the history of heraldry. It started during the Middle Ages in order to identify soldiers during battle as well as to document the deaths of those left behind. Over time standards were created and those who studied and memorized the emblems would be the announcers at tournaments. Those who are interested can look it up at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heraldry It caused me to think that if I were to create my family crest and shield what would I choose, what do I want to be known for and why. Like crests, names have so much meaning yet we seem lose their original importance. Imagine if the name your parents choose for you dictated who you where. Do you wish you could change your name or are you living up to its expectation?
What I thought would be a simple and really fun exercise turned out to be an adventure in who I am. Your faith, family name, birth order, place of birth, heritage successes and failures all contribute to who you are. Which ones identify your associations and which ones shape who you are today and those of tomorrow? Are some so integrated into your person or are they simply a Sunday morning obligation? Do some stand the test of time or are they popular today? Will your crest look like a glamour photo from the 80’s or will it be replicated by those you touch for its authentic and timeless truth?
I have much to learn and more to understand before I put pencil to paper and begin the process creating our family crest. My challenge to you this week is to drive as you normally do only this time turn off the radio and listen.
Love Rich, DeeAnn, Gavin, Ethan, and baby
Monday, January 29, 2007
Ron is the Man
Last week I was lovingly ridiculed for my introspective viewpoints of late. I take it as a symptom of searching for a job, having a new baby about to arrive and of course the move and new life in Jacksonville. So in order to appeal to those unable to appreciate maturation and growth, I have instead provided a short synopsis with a chance to win a prize.
This week we shared dinner with new friends, family and old friends. It is good for the soul to laugh, discuss, and plan the future while sharing food. Earlier in the week we got to spend the day riding horses with Aunt Georgia or “Aunt
George” as she is called, at a place called Glory Trails, which is a horse boarding facility. Think of the old show Bonanza and you get the idea. On the weekend Gavin went for an ATV ride with Uncle Don – you should have seen his grin as they drove off. We also played soccer, Frisbee golf and went bowling all outside in a single day with those same boys who love to shoot airsoft guns. On Sunday we went to a little church with less than 50 people. We met Ron as he welcomed us, then Ron led the music with his guitar, then Ron prayed for us and others, then Ron made announcements, and finally Ron preached a sermon. Needless to say it was a one man operation but real fun to attend.
Now for your chance to win a prize. It is traditional to guess the day of the birth as well as the weight. So you have two chances to win. For bonus points you can also guess the gender. First some history. The previous births all came early. Gavin was 12 days and Ethan was 1 day early. Gavin weighed 6lbs 6oz and Ethan came in at 8lbs 13oz DeeAnn’s doctor says she is due Feb 13th and estimated last Thursday the current weight at 6lbs 2oz.
Please submit you entry no later than Sunday Feb 4th. I will post the guesses for all to see next Monday.
The prizes will be some very nice food and or drink stuff from Southern Oregon. This region is world famous for their fruits, wineries and cheeses. Ever heard of Harry and David or Gary West?
This week we shared dinner with new friends, family and old friends. It is good for the soul to laugh, discuss, and plan the future while sharing food. Earlier in the week we got to spend the day riding horses with Aunt Georgia or “Aunt
George” as she is called, at a place called Glory Trails, which is a horse boarding facility. Think of the old show Bonanza and you get the idea. On the weekend Gavin went for an ATV ride with Uncle Don – you should have seen his grin as they drove off. We also played soccer, Frisbee golf and went bowling all outside in a single day with those same boys who love to shoot airsoft guns. On Sunday we went to a little church with less than 50 people. We met Ron as he welcomed us, then Ron led the music with his guitar, then Ron prayed for us and others, then Ron made announcements, and finally Ron preached a sermon. Needless to say it was a one man operation but real fun to attend.Now for your chance to win a prize. It is traditional to guess the day of the birth as well as the weight. So you have two chances to win. For bonus points you can also guess the gender. First some history. The previous births all came early. Gavin was 12 days and Ethan was 1 day early. Gavin weighed 6lbs 6oz and Ethan came in at 8lbs 13oz DeeAnn’s doctor says she is due Feb 13th and estimated last Thursday the current weight at 6lbs 2oz.
Please submit you entry no later than Sunday Feb 4th. I will post the guesses for all to see next Monday.
The prizes will be some very nice food and or drink stuff from Southern Oregon. This region is world famous for their fruits, wineries and cheeses. Ever heard of Harry and David or Gary West?
Monday, January 22, 2007
Please Don't Touch
Today I met with a man who has been part of something larger than himself his entire life yet does not truly appreciate its impact. In fact sadly it seems as though he is not sure what to make of it all.
Well last Tuesday we started out with blue sky and by 11:00 it was snowing. DeeAnn was off to spend time with a friend in Williams which is about 30-40 minutes away. By the time DeeAnn stopped at the store and started on the freeway we were in a full fledge snow storm. Unfortunately she got caught in the traffic from an overturned truck and spent several hours in a car with a 2 years old. Meanwhile Gavin and I drove around town doing errands and visiting Great Grandpa and Grandma for our weekly Rummikub game. After it was all over we got about 3-4 inches of snow. Later that night on our way to bed we saw some kids outside playing in the snow. Specifically it was our neighbor kid and some friends building an igloo. They finished it several days later with great success. For pictures of the igloo and more go to www.flickr.com/photos/richanddeeann
The next day we drove out through the Applegate Valley to visit friends. What a great drive as the hills and pastures were covered in snow. It would have been perfect had not Gavin been moaning, “MMMMMMM my tummy!!” and Ethan yelling, “EAT EAT EAT” You see, Gavin gets car sick real quick and Ethan is a voracious eater and by lunch time you better feed him. We had a wonderful lunch and dinner with friends including an airsoft war (think low power BB guns) with an 11 and a 5 year old. Go ahead and call Child Protective Service out but you better warm them that they are great shots.
On the baby front the doctor estimates current weight at 5LB 13oz, and DeeAnn is dilated to 1. We are now simply waiting for the finishing touches to be added as we anticipate the birth
of a new Todd. I suppose we should begin work on names. We also met Nisha Jackson www.nishaonhealth.com who is an alum of Azusa Pacific and whom DeeAnn has talked with many times during her role as Alumni Coordinator at APU. It’s nice to have familiar connections. Gavin and I are talking irregular walks around town. The last two have been to the Jacksonville Cemetery. We met Ron and his wife Linda on Sunday and then again today. Ron told us about and showed us the gravestone of a man born in 1779 and served our country in the war of 1812. We also found a section that is dedicated to those men who were part of the Improved Order of Red Men, www.redmen.org What an interesting part of history I never knew about. Gavin was also wanted to confirm that when we die our graves would also be together like all the other families in this cemetery.
We went to a new church this week called Applegate Christian Fellowship www.applegatefellowship.org They had an 11:15 service which suited us perfectly. We listened to a sermon delivered by a teenager who seems about 30 years wiser than his age. Thank goodness his mom was there to pick him up after the service. Seriously though he was rather amazing and looked about 17. About 20 minutes into the service Ethan decided that he was done with coloring and so I decided to take him to the children’s room.
The following is a true story. “Please sign here” the kind ACF worker said as I signed in under line 110. “Now sign this wrist band as well” which was affixed to Ethan’s little arm with my signature so as to confirm my ownership of him. And now Ethan and I were wearing matching bright orange wrist bands. I asked Ethan if he wanted to go in and he said, “Boy no”. So I decided to go in with him “No problem I just need to have you wear this visitor label so we know who you are” again the kind worker said. “Oh and one more thing, since you are a visitor please don’t touch the other children, as some parents get a bit too involved during play” What was that, I thought. Did she just tell me to keep my hands to myself? So Ethan and I sat at a table playing and trying not to make eye contact with the other kids for fear of being considered too friendly. Well of all the days this little three year old girl named Rose decides to pick on me and give me a big hug out of nowhere! I figure she is a mole and is just testing me. I pass as I only hug back with my wrists.
Besides the Fort Knox signing in process the church was good and had a great worship time. Next week we will try yet another until we get a regional flavor to settle into.
As I mentioned in the beginning I am learning that I too am part of something much larger than just myself and I pray and hope that I will be able to not only understand it all but also appreciate its impact daily. Rich, DeeAnn, Gavin, Ethan and baby (3 weeks left)
Well last Tuesday we started out with blue sky and by 11:00 it was snowing. DeeAnn was off to spend time with a friend in Williams which is about 30-40 minutes away. By the time DeeAnn stopped at the store and started on the freeway we were in a full fledge snow storm. Unfortunately she got caught in the traffic from an overturned truck and spent several hours in a car with a 2 years old. Meanwhile Gavin and I drove around town doing errands and visiting Great Grandpa and Grandma for our weekly Rummikub game. After it was all over we got about 3-4 inches of snow. Later that night on our way to bed we saw some kids outside playing in the snow. Specifically it was our neighbor kid and some friends building an igloo. They finished it several days later with great success. For pictures of the igloo and more go to www.flickr.com/photos/richanddeeann
The next day we drove out through the Applegate Valley to visit friends. What a great drive as the hills and pastures were covered in snow. It would have been perfect had not Gavin been moaning, “MMMMMMM my tummy!!” and Ethan yelling, “EAT EAT EAT” You see, Gavin gets car sick real quick and Ethan is a voracious eater and by lunch time you better feed him. We had a wonderful lunch and dinner with friends including an airsoft war (think low power BB guns) with an 11 and a 5 year old. Go ahead and call Child Protective Service out but you better warm them that they are great shots.
On the baby front the doctor estimates current weight at 5LB 13oz, and DeeAnn is dilated to 1. We are now simply waiting for the finishing touches to be added as we anticipate the birth
of a new Todd. I suppose we should begin work on names. We also met Nisha Jackson www.nishaonhealth.com who is an alum of Azusa Pacific and whom DeeAnn has talked with many times during her role as Alumni Coordinator at APU. It’s nice to have familiar connections. Gavin and I are talking irregular walks around town. The last two have been to the Jacksonville Cemetery. We met Ron and his wife Linda on Sunday and then again today. Ron told us about and showed us the gravestone of a man born in 1779 and served our country in the war of 1812. We also found a section that is dedicated to those men who were part of the Improved Order of Red Men, www.redmen.org What an interesting part of history I never knew about. Gavin was also wanted to confirm that when we die our graves would also be together like all the other families in this cemetery.We went to a new church this week called Applegate Christian Fellowship www.applegatefellowship.org They had an 11:15 service which suited us perfectly. We listened to a sermon delivered by a teenager who seems about 30 years wiser than his age. Thank goodness his mom was there to pick him up after the service. Seriously though he was rather amazing and looked about 17. About 20 minutes into the service Ethan decided that he was done with coloring and so I decided to take him to the children’s room.
The following is a true story. “Please sign here” the kind ACF worker said as I signed in under line 110. “Now sign this wrist band as well” which was affixed to Ethan’s little arm with my signature so as to confirm my ownership of him. And now Ethan and I were wearing matching bright orange wrist bands. I asked Ethan if he wanted to go in and he said, “Boy no”. So I decided to go in with him “No problem I just need to have you wear this visitor label so we know who you are” again the kind worker said. “Oh and one more thing, since you are a visitor please don’t touch the other children, as some parents get a bit too involved during play” What was that, I thought. Did she just tell me to keep my hands to myself? So Ethan and I sat at a table playing and trying not to make eye contact with the other kids for fear of being considered too friendly. Well of all the days this little three year old girl named Rose decides to pick on me and give me a big hug out of nowhere! I figure she is a mole and is just testing me. I pass as I only hug back with my wrists.
Besides the Fort Knox signing in process the church was good and had a great worship time. Next week we will try yet another until we get a regional flavor to settle into.
As I mentioned in the beginning I am learning that I too am part of something much larger than just myself and I pray and hope that I will be able to not only understand it all but also appreciate its impact daily. Rich, DeeAnn, Gavin, Ethan and baby (3 weeks left)
Monday, January 15, 2007
In the Beginning
Another week and we are getting into a routine. I have drunk more hot drinks in the last few weeks than probably all of last year! We went to a local church this Sunday in Jacksonville. Its location is within a new housing development that apparently provided resistance for several years even though the church owned the land prior to the new development. Gavin went to Sunday school while Ethan crawled up one side and down the other in the main church. We still have a few others we would like to attend but that of course will take some time.
Every chance I get I try to learn more about the area through the people such Linda and Mark who run Whites Country Farm, which is a small produce store selling organics to the local community, or Linda who works at Gary West which sells wine, cheeses, and their world famous jerky, or even Jackie who works at Olive Garden with her new husband as a server, or Janine who manages the storage unit. All of them have a story and it usually involves family in one form or another.
On Saturday we went on a tour of one of the local hospitals. It was very nice and very professional. During the tour the nurse said that the FBI is now suggesting that new parents refrain from putting those large wooden storks in their front yard or making announcements in the newspaper so as not to attract attention. DeeAnn and I also suggest that you buy your diapers from a discrete online retailer that ships in plain unmarked packaging. Or when out in public place your newborn in a standard briefcase or large handbag but if caught in public with your newborn in plain view and a stranger asks how old they are you simply look around and deny that the child is yours until you can make a safe escape. So much for small towns. HAHA
Well the first casualty was the battery on the VW as the temps have been in the teens this last week and it finally took the last bit of energy it had stored. Funny thing is that with the cold in SoCal perhaps I still would have had a problem. Locals say this cold temp is very unusual and it is normally just around 31 degrees. The boys are learning the bundling up process to go out side, gloves, fleece jackets, fuzzy hats and then off we go. Gavin now refers to Ethan as “marshmallow” when bundled up. Well about time to sign off, we have a busy week ahead and we need out rest.
Rich, DeeAnn, Gavin and Ethan, and baby (only 4 weeks left)
Every chance I get I try to learn more about the area through the people such Linda and Mark who run Whites Country Farm, which is a small produce store selling organics to the local community, or Linda who works at Gary West which sells wine, cheeses, and their world famous jerky, or even Jackie who works at Olive Garden with her new husband as a server, or Janine who manages the storage unit. All of them have a story and it usually involves family in one form or another.
On Saturday we went on a tour of one of the local hospitals. It was very nice and very professional. During the tour the nurse said that the FBI is now suggesting that new parents refrain from putting those large wooden storks in their front yard or making announcements in the newspaper so as not to attract attention. DeeAnn and I also suggest that you buy your diapers from a discrete online retailer that ships in plain unmarked packaging. Or when out in public place your newborn in a standard briefcase or large handbag but if caught in public with your newborn in plain view and a stranger asks how old they are you simply look around and deny that the child is yours until you can make a safe escape. So much for small towns. HAHA
Well the first casualty was the battery on the VW as the temps have been in the teens this last week and it finally took the last bit of energy it had stored. Funny thing is that with the cold in SoCal perhaps I still would have had a problem. Locals say this cold temp is very unusual and it is normally just around 31 degrees. The boys are learning the bundling up process to go out side, gloves, fleece jackets, fuzzy hats and then off we go. Gavin now refers to Ethan as “marshmallow” when bundled up. Well about time to sign off, we have a busy week ahead and we need out rest.
Rich, DeeAnn, Gavin and Ethan, and baby (only 4 weeks left)
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