Coming soon.... 

My mother used to say that NORMAL is a setting on your washing machine.  These words resonate with me these days.  Nothing seems normal.

To that end, I've decided to bring DOLLY DAYS on the Homestead to this blog.  I supposed this activity gathered steam after my retirement in 2018.  I discovered a wonderful British series called Lark Rise to Candleford.  Wonderful stories and characters, among them my favorite Dorcus Lane.  She often has a saying: "It's my one weakness."  Dolls are my one weakness!

I have loved dolls my entire life and the little girl in me has come out to play in recent years.  The pandemic aided in this development, too.  Soon, I will share with you some of my Dolly Days.  But for now, I encourage you to discover your own Normal!  And not just the setting on your washing machine!

Annabelle--handmade by me

The Art of Advent: An Adventure

Sundial

Advent 4

On the Fourth Sunday of Advent, I woke up quite late for me.  It was cold, the bed was warm, and it is the first time since I retired in 2018 that I actually slept in.  I had intended to go to church, but didn't make it.  However, my Sunday was very meaningful.

After delivering a few Christmas gifts, I made my way to the University of Mississippi in Oxford.  The campus was quiet; there were a few walkers out, but basically, it was a peaceful morning.  I went to campus to walk the Labyrinth.  

 The last time I walked the Labyrinth on campus was in 2017.  On Sunday, I couldn't remember the exact location and after walking around for a time, I met a very nice young woman who pointed me in the right direction--in fact, she walked with me to the Labyrinth.

Labyrinth on Ole Miss Campus

For many years, I have been drawn to the Labyrinth as a prayer tool.  "It is solved by walking," is a phrase attributed to St. Augustine.  The Labyrinth isn't a maze; it is a spiritual circle with a pattern for walking.  The circle has great significance in Native American and Celtic Cultures.  

The bricks of the Labyrinth have faded over time.  I had to pay attention to the pathway and concentrate on where I moved my feet.  As I walked, I found myself reflecting on what it means to follow Jesus.  How in my advancing years am I following? Am I following?  Advent has always been a journey in my life.  It is about "the already" and "the not yet."  We move through the Advent calendar making our way to Jesus' birthday--we wait for the celebration and feast.  But, also deeply embedded in this journey is the waiting for Jesus' return; the second coming.

Finding the Center

After carefully watching my steps, I made my way to the center.  I stayed there for a long time.  There is something womb like for me in the center of the Labyrinth--God's womb.  I thought of Mary: "My Soul magnifies the Lord, and my Spirit rejoice," she sang aloud!  As I stood in the center, I thought of birth and wondered what needs to be birthed in me.  Turning then in the four directions, South, West, North and then East, I reflected on the Hymn People, Look East. Such powerful lyrics:

"People, Look East. The time is near, of the crowning of the year.  Make your house fair as you are able. Trim the hearth and set the table. People, look East and sing today: Love, the guest, is on the way." Love in the infant Jesus; love in Jesus' return.

Slowly I moved my feet on the pathway as if it were a birth canal.  This Labyrinth fulfilled the definition of the Art of Advent; the Labyrinth filled me!  As I ended my time there, I felt as if I had been to church.  Renewed (and cold, because it was a cold day), I made my way back to the car to return home.  My adventure for this Advent has ended.  Once home, I knew my task was to continue to Look East...for Love is on the way!  Advent Blessings.  Merry Christmas!

I plan to return to the Labyrinth soon!

The Art of Advent: An Adventure

 

Oxford Postcard Mural

The Third week of Advent has moved very swiftly.  The Third Sunday of Advent is often referred to as Joy Sunday.  In many churches, a pink candle is illuminated as part of the growing light in Advent.

What a joy it has been this week traveling around Oxford.  It seems that each time I head downtown, I discover something new!  This mural isn't the easiest to find in Oxford.  It is called a postcard mural; each letter contains something special or significant to the town.  My favorite letter is the "R".  It is said to be a painting of Princess Hoka.  More about her below.

Gnome Homes

Around the Oxford Square, I discovered some cute little vignettes!  I didn't have time to discover all of them, but what JOY to see that someone brought a little Christmas Cheer to the Square.  As I left downtown, I did a little reflecting on these quaint Gnome Homes.  It made me think of Las Posadas, a celebration to count down the days until Christmas.

You can read more about Las Posadas here:

https://www.womansday.com/life/a46096313/las-posadas-traditions/

There are still many around the world who are searching for a home.  We must not forget to pray.

Princess Hoka Mural

In the past few months, I have visited the Mural of Princess Hoka many times.  It is in a bit of an odd spot, but very worth the time to find it.  Princess Hoka, as I have been told, was a Chickasaw woman who owned the land that became Oxford.  This mural captures my imagination!  It is exquisite.  The are aspects of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, that I see when I view this work of art.  As I learn more and more about the Oxford/Lafayette County area, I return to this image again and again!

Here is a link to learn more:

https://thedmonline.com/hokas-first-appearance-in-oxford/

Quilted art

A recent trip to the Lafayette County and Oxford Library was also great JOY.  Small quilt pieces were on display by local quilters.  Again it made me consider all those who wander this time of the year...it is cold.  A quilt helps to keep folks warm, but it is art in itself.  My eyes feasted with delight.  As an amateur quilter, I felt inspired to keep trying 

There is also plenty of whimsy around town!  Oxford is home to the Price Street Pig aka Frances Bacon.  As the seasons change, so does the Price Street Pig.  During football season, his owners provide a real photo op!  Of course, Frances is an Ole Miss Fan!

Price Street Pig

Round About Ornaments

Oxford is also home to many Round Abouts!  This year, I have noticed decorations in some of these spots around town.  Again, it is the addition of some JOY as we continue to journey toward Christmas.

Perhaps there's no art like Nature's art!  Each year during the late fall one of our blueberry bushes turns a brilliant shade of maroon/red.  I am always stunned by the color and it brings about the image of the Burning Bush.  We have been blessed over the last several years to have bumper crops of fruit!  It's as if it is aflame with abundance.  Great JOY.

Tomorrow is the Fourth Sunday of Advent.  How quickly these days move by.  My eyes continue to search for art that depicts an adventure.  The journey is helpful to remember that 1. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and 2. To see a work of art is to call forth a future.  That is part of the JOY of this Advent Adventure.

Thanks for joining me!

.

The Art of Advent: An Adventure

A fantastic museum of treasures

 I realize that I am not much of a writer, but my visual sense of the world has really kicked in!  This week, I visited the University Museum at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) in Oxford, Mississippi.  It was a very cold and blustery day out.  As I got out of my car and headed towards the front entrance, I noticed this incredible work of art entitled "Madre".  I was captivated by this work!  Here in the midst of my adventure, I found a work that deeply resonates with Advent and Christmas for me.  A Madonna and child; so timely for our world.  It brought to mind the many mothers and children around the world: Gaza, Ukraine, and even here in the U.S. I will visit this again and again.

Now I Lay Me Down

As I made my way through the Museum, I discovered the art of a M. B. Mayfield.  Originally from Ecru, Mississippi, I found his paintings brought back memories of my own childhood.  I did not grow up in Mississippi, but as a child, I visited my grandmothers and several great aunts and uncles numerous times.  These images from Mr. Mayfield reminded in particular of one of my great Aunt's home. 

The room looks so familiar. This Aunt insisted we pray at bedtime in the manner presented in this painting.  Made me smile.

Woman at the Well

Another M.B. Mayfield piece is called, "Woman at the Well."  Many of my Mississippi relatives used wells for their water.  This image again, captured me and found me reminiscing.  I vividly remember assisting another great aunt in drawing water from her well.  It was later used for my bath in a big wash pot!  Again, a grand memory, even as I remembered the chill of the water.  I am grateful for Mr. Mayfield's work.  His story is also quite interesting.   You can read more about his work here:

https://mississippifolklife.org/exhibits/an-artist-yet-the-possibility-of-mb-mayfield

The Museum also had a beautiful display of artwork from Central America.  A few pieces of seasonal art were included such as this beautiful piece

Peace on Earth to Beings of Good Will

This piece is by a famous Puerto Rican artist named Marta Perez. 

After a time of wandering through the Museum, I headed to the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts on campus to view the annual Holiday Village.  It is indeed a delight to the eyes and other senses.  My favorite Gingerbread House was based on Cajun Night Before Christmas. 

Amazing work by an amazing family!  A walk around the table that housed this piece brought a chuckle or two as I noticed the intricate and playful detail.  If you're in Oxford, it's worth your time. The Holiday Village is open until December 17. 

As I continue my adventure through this Advent season, I am grateful for visual images that help me to ponder this season.  These images help to recall days of my past and longings for my future.  More next time! Blessings. 

 

The Art of Advent:  An Adventure

John Lennon said, "Life is what happens while you're busy making other plans."  These words seem to be the theme of my life.  This week has had many turns and twists to it.  However, this Advent Adventure is on.

I live in Oxford, MS for those who don't know me.  It is home to the University of Mississippi (aka Ole Miss).  There are also some very special parks in Oxford.  This week, I visited Lamar Park.  You can learn more about the park at this link: https://www.oxfordms.net/lamar-park

Lamar Park is home to some interesting pieces of art.  There is a walking trail.  As I moved around the Park, I thought of Mary and Joseph as they traveled.  What did they see? What did they hear?  It was windy and cold the day I visited Lamar Park.  Advent was very present in my mind. I paused by a piece of artwork titled "I want to See." It moved me; how much we all want to See.  Advent is preparation for Christmas, but also a time for pondering the Second coming.  I want to See.

I want to See

 

Another piece of work found me lingering awhile and perhaps laughing a little too.  It is titled "Big Dreams."  Remembering the dreams of both Mary and Joseph.  And thinking of my own dreams.

Big Dreams

Phoenix

I spent a good deal of time viewing this yellow work titled "Phoenix."  

USA Monument

This statue stopped me in my tracks.  It is called "USA Monument." As I walked around this piece, I was moved.  Take a close look at this one; bombs on the bottom make the letter A, and at the top a knife and fork.  I likely spent a full 10 minutes or more viewing this one as I uttered aloud the word "extraordinary." I had a strong desire to sit with the sculptor of this piece to hear more about this work.

The Mounds in the distance

Continuing on my adventure in the park, I needed a bit of a rest.  As I sat on one of the many park benches, I let my eyes wander over the park.  I discovered the Mounds.  Several mounds are built in the park.  From a distance, I considered our ancestors.  Much of the land around Oxford, MS was inhabited by The Chickasaws, as I am learning.  My first thoughts drifted to Native Americans.  I later learned these Mounds were built for enjoyment.  It is an inviting space for children and others to climb, go sledding when it snows and of course play king of the hill.  As I walked closer to the Mounds, I felt a oneness with the earth.  It was a Holy Moment.

I left Lamar Park with a sense of this dual message of the season of Advent.  It is truly a journey as we wait and watch. Preparations are underway for the celebration of the birth of Jesus.  Very present to me this year is Jesus' return.  We live in the tension of the already and the not yet. However, leaving the news, being outdoors, feasting my eyes gave credence to this Art of Advent.  For me, it is quite an Adventure.  Thanks for joining me!

The Art of Advent: An Adventure

 A new liturgical year feels like a good time to start anew with my "almost forsaken" blog!  Happy New Year as we often say in the Church on the first Sunday of Advent.

Advent comes from a Latin word meaning "coming."  We await the coming of the infant Jesus; Christmas is a Birthday celebration. But Advent is also a time we ponder Jesus' return.  Advent is a season of expectation, of waiting.

Each year, I set out my little statue of Mary on a Donkey, with Joseph beside her.  Each day I move them around my house in a symbolic way of their journey to Bethlehem.   What an adventure.  One can only imagine their journey! But this year, I need a different experience than my usual Advent practices.  I will continue with prayer and reading. This year, however, I am going on an Adventure with Art.  To be sure, there are many great works of art that tell the Advent stories.  My Adventure is more about the Art in my (home) town.

Being a visual person and a visual learner, art has impacted my life in a multitude of ways.  Discovering the art around my town excites me.  What will I encounter?  What message will I receive?  Each week, I will visit a place nearby, take in the images and I hope to share them in this blog with you.  Journey with me.

And please, share your own Advent Adventure, too.

Oh the times, they are a changing

 

Changes in the wind....

It has been some time since I entered into this blog space.  Life has had many twists and turns, and more are coming.  In the midst of a record heat wave, I am learning how to do things differently.  Aging, too, brings new challenges.

My beloved Labyrinth is no longer serviceable for me; some health limitations have prevented me from keeping it free of grass and weeds.  I have abandoned my daily walk for prayer with this sacred space.  

But not all is lost.  I am in planning a painted labyrinth on my patio.  It will likely be quite simple, but the invitation to prayer will continue by the newness of a space.  There is much to be done to prepare and this hot weather isn't making it easy.

Likely, I will sketch out something in chalk and get myself acquainted with the new space.  The next steps will be preparing the space by a good cleaning and rearrangement of somethings that now occupy space on the patio.  In the fall, I hope to begin the process of painting for a more permanent labyrinth.

If you're reading this; thank you.  Perhaps I can begin writing again. Peace!

"Always, we begin again!" --St. Benedict

"It is solved by walking." St. Augustine

 

It's time....

Her story leapt off the page... the video cutting to the core of my being.  No name...only that she was an Asian woman, aged 65, in a brutal attack. Asian American woman beaten in Manhattan outside luxury condo building, police said - The Washington Post  I was stunned; still am! It was time to write on my blog again.

I have previously written that my husband and I tried to adopt a child from South Korea many years ago.  To sit back and watch Asian Americans and others of Asian descent be victimized is very, very difficult. We continue to wonder about a child that might have been a part of our family.   Why? Why, I ask myself again and again.  What motivates people to act out in such brutal ways?  What part of love one another do folks not understand?

Years ago, when our daughter was small, we enjoyed Family Nights.  There was generally a theme and we often used a book called Just Family Nights to set up our weekly events. 

I recall one "lesson" vividly, because I later used in in a Sunday School Class.  It was around the time of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday.  I selected red, green and brown M&M's, placed them in a bowl, and each family member drew out a few to examine.  On the outside, the candies looked very different, but on the inside each was the same.  This image sticks in my mind as I think about the rich mix of our American culture.  How simple the exercise; how complicated is today's response to those who are labeled "different; other."  I like variety...

The name of the Asian woman may never be known ( if you know it please share in the comments below), but I am thinking of her...thinking of how she will heal, how will she trust again, how will she love again.  Words from my mother come flooding back to me in this moment.  She once said, "Either we all need to learn to get along, or we will kill each other off."

Join me in prayer for this woman; and for the man who attacked her.  God knows who they are.

After a long absence

After a long absence.....

     Seasons come and go.  After a long absence, the urge to return to writing on this blog is calling me.  There are so many who cultivate words that are profound,...this is just a simple way of reflection.  So, with the words of St. Benedict, "Always we begin again, " I am starting over in this life as an eclectic episcopalian.  Stay tuned....

(I saw this tree stump on a recent Sabbath walk.  It reminds me of hugs...and all the hugs we are missing in this pandemic.  We will hug again.)

Blessings and peace, 

Ann

Staycation continues...

When I envisioned our Staycation a few months ago, I had no idea the Pandemic would be raging by this time of year!  Numbers soar daily; it is heartbreaking to say the least.  Our decision to do a stay at home vacation is proving to be a good one for us.

Grand Teton

One of the things we are noticing is that God's hand is everywhere!  Our theme of visiting National Parks is so exciting; the research, the videos, the glory of seeing such beauty restores the soul.  Each day we have a different table theme; I've tried to capture something of the area.  We love being able to "sample" foods from the area, too.  Online research has provided a number of delectable dishes! I actually made Chicken fried steak for the first time in my life!

art by Hannah McCormick

We did take a real ride together in our truck!  Only one other time since February 14 have we been in a vehicle together.  We rode to Water Valley, MS to view a painting by MS artist Hannah McCormick.  This beauty sits on the beautiful grounds of the Church of the Nativity.  It was worth the trip and the time.




One of the things we try to do is keep a sense of humor.  It keeps us going despite the news.  We designated our Saturday to fishing!  I remembered a T-shirt I bought several years ago, and wore it for our fishing day! We spent part of the hot summer afternoon watching a trout fishing video.  It was wonderful.  We are learning so much.  I remember the simple days of  cane pole, string and a safety pin!

Old VBS props

Our Table theme for the day was "A river runs through it."  A little imagination, and a check of my "junk collection" provided all of the necessary items!  Our evening meal included salmon because trout is hard to find in our area.




All in all, we are having a marvelous time as we hunker down at home.  If only we could get to a fabric store or a thrift shop!  Maybe next year!! We're staying safe, the only way we know how: AT HOME!
More later!

Adventures in Staycation

     Getting away for a vacation is always work!  As one of my brothers attests, you spend two weeks getting ready to go on vacation and two weeks catching up afterwards--all for a week for R & R.  Staycation really isn't any different!  It is a little hard to detach from the chores of the Homestead, and to stay away from social media and the news.  We are learning.
     After much ado yesterday, we declared Staycation in the early afternoon and promptly took a nap!  Naps are so good.  Our day included a little "shopping."  I found some nice donut pans to make my Keto bagels.
Looking forward to it!  And it was in our budget.

     Before embarking, I finished a little fire pit that we will use later in the week.  We plan to make s'mores! What fun to use junk around the house to make this:

Later in the day, we "made" our way to Badlands National Park.  We dined in a neat little café--our dining room--and enjoyed what is known as Indian Tacos.  We ate the tacos using Fry Bread--very tasty (not low carb however!).  We have decided to eat in the dining room every day, setting it with different kinds of dishes and center pieces to enrich our experience.  Planning has been fun in that I have looked for food we might actually enjoy on the road.

Later in the evening, we explored the Badlands.  We are grateful for modern technology that allows us to "tour" right from the comfort of home.
It made for a wonderful evening as we closed out out day. And a refreshing change from the nightly news.

I might not write everyday on this Staycation; keeping up with farm animals and trying to Staycation, too, is a bit of a strain.  We are doing this because we feel it's not safe to leave home.  Lots of folks do Staycations--you see and enjoy the things around your own city or county.  When you can't leave home, it requires a bit more creativity.  And where would we be without the internet, Pinterest, and Amazon Prime!  I guess I'm in my element!

Create your own Staycation!  It's fun!

Getting there ...

     Our plans for Staycation are ongoing!  We have given the house a really good cleaning, mowed the grass, mucked out the barn, and are gearing up for a few days of R & R at home.  Of course, we will still need to tend some of our garden, feed our animals, and do the dishes!  No paper plates here!
     Vacation plans for this year included a trip out West.  Instead we are doing some of this virtually.  We do plan to take the car out for a spin (we need to drive it some), but only for something like we used to do on Sunday afternoon--you know that Sunday afternoon drive!  We will, in the virtual realm, visit some National Parks, really sample some regional foods (hence, why I still have to do the dishes), and perhaps have a souvenir or two along the way.
     We encountered one brief problem: our local library, which was just opening up, has had to shut its doors again due to the Coronavirus.  This Staycation has been put together with many changes but we're just going to go with the flow. We're keeping Amazon in business!  I'm already thinking of a fall "trip!"   

     Today, I am making out a quick list for a snack order, "packing" a few things like books and a knitting project, and then tomorrow, we are "off!" Emails and phone calls will have to wait! It's almost Staycation time! Check back for other details later!

Staycation

     Before George Floyd was killed, I was working on our Staycation plans--but I lost steam as I grieved for our nation and its many "problems."  After a slump and some new energy, I am returning to this! 

     So get ready for Staycation 2020.

     We were already "social distancing."  Hubby can't take the flu shot, so during flu season, he hibernates, and we stay away from folks.  2020 was to be our year for travel.  Alas, a pandemic--who knew?
      I believe one of the greatest gifts bestowed upon us by God is a sense of humor.  For some reason, the word Staycation  kept coming to me as if to say, "Pay attention!"  It got my attention.  We've done staycations before; done things around our town, or a simple day trip.  But this Staycation was to be different!  A Staycation where you only stay at home!!!!

    That's when the playfulness began.  I'd sing this little jingle about staycation and smile.  On my Facebook page, I asked folks for their suggestions for a Staycation for the elderly.  Some of the answers were just precious and very, very good.  Some were so hysterical that even my dog thought I'd lost my mind.    Thanks to all you responded.

     But this Staycation has to be different.  That's when I saw evening news and this clip that made my heart soar:
https://www.facebook.com/114288853688/posts/10158880978558689/?=e&d=n.


I knew that this was to take some creativity on my part and a continuing sense of humor, too.  As I trolled the pages of Pinterest, I became inspired, and went to work digging through craft materials on hand and trash!  I came up with this nifty little travel trailer.  It's a symbol to us that an adventure is about to begin!  Wish us luck!

     We are still planning, laughing all the way!  Stay tuned for more adventures!  Stay safe!  You, too might want to consider a Staycation!

Identity: Intercessor

COVID-19 knitted shawl

..prosper the work of our hands;
  proper our handiwork.  Psalm 90:17b

     It is difficult for me to believe that it is May 21; time seems to be moving on.  The seasons change; life moves on; gardens grow, and hearts grow weary of this COVID-19 world.  Each day we are presented with facts and figures that often dazzle and confuse us.  Some of them are sobering; and some perhaps, we'd rather not know!
     During these last few months, as I continue to form my retirement identity, it has become very apparent to me that one of my roles is that of Intercessor.  The life of prayer is a privilege; and a responsibility.  As a professed member of the Third Order, Society of St. Francis, daily office is a part of my rule of life.  This also includes prayers of intercession.  We have been given much to pray for in the past few months.
     One of the things I have noticed is how active my hands have become as I pray for others.  As I garden, knit, pray with the rosary, even knead bread dough, it is prayer that becomes the work of my hands.  It is, as Paul tell us, to pray without ceasing.
     The past few months have also given way to learning new things.  Recently, thanks to a friend in England, I have learned of slow stitching.  You can learn more about slow stitching here: https://www.craftschooloz.com/slow-stitching

     For the foreseeable future, I will take this role of intercessor very seriously.  It is important in our life together.  And, as my hands garden, knit, bake or stitch, I will be asking God to not only be present with those for whom I pray, but also to prosper the work of my hands... to prosper our handiwork.

Coronavirus and life...

It has been sometime since I last made an attempt at this blog.  There were planned entries, of course, but all that has changed in the last few weeks.  What we thought 2020 might be like certainly got changed in a short time.  We have new vocabulary words,  such as social distancing and PPE, and perhaps new ways of being in the world...at home.  Life on the Homestead has been good; we are staying home and learning to enjoy the changing seasons.  Our gardening life is taking off.

And we are in awe and amazed by the creativity of people; my colleagues in the church, other "farm" folks and even family.  We are all learning during these days.  We are perhaps more resilient that we thought!  We can stay home...

There are many heroes of these COVID-19 days.  We hear about doctors and nurses on the front lines; but there are also hospital staff who clean, chaplains who must deal with more death than normal, secretaries who worry.  Then there are Moms and Dads at home; home with their children where they serve not only as parents, but also as teachers.  And there are funeral directors and other funeral home employees--they are sometimes referred to as "last responders."  And even for those of us thus far less affected, we are all suffering in our own way.

Last year, I wrote a piece about knitting purple hearts.  You can read it here https://eclecticepiscopalian.blogspot.com/2019/04/purple-hearts-brings-needed-time-to.html?spref=fb&m=1&fbclid=IwAR3ro8LVxFVRxuon6j383uTn7hPuIzlYYNFdmC_cOaA6wB5Sss_T23Dx0z0://    As this pandemic spread, I found that I couldn't concentrate enough to write, or read, or some days, I couldn't even pray.  But I could knit.  I pulled out my purple yarn, and began to knit purple hearts.  I knitted and knitted and knitted; and I am still knitting them.  Over the past few weeks, I have mailed out a few to those who have been at the forefront of this pandemic. 

It is likely that we have weeks and weeks to go in this venture; we have many things to learn yet, many letters to write, many purple hearts to send.  If you know someone deserving of a purple heart, let me know.

Stay safe. Wash your hands.  Be kind.  Find at least one thing each day for which you can give thanks.  Laugh. Pray. Look for Joy. 

We are well; the goats are great.  The hens are laying each day.  And for now, we are content at home even as we are missing being with our friends .  In good time, we will be together again.  Until then, I'll keep knitting!

Identity: Goatherd

     From the time I was three years old, I knew I wanted goats in my life.  I felt drawn to them.  Perhaps it was from a memory I savored: as a young girl, a great uncle obtained a goat for my brothers and me to "play" with on a summer visit.  Oh... he was a mean little buck--with horns and a temperament that went with those horns.  We named him Jim Jeffcoats!  I cannot recall why that was his name.  And upon reflection, that wasn't the best introduction to goats! He was a bit much for my brothers and me!

    Later in my journey, there was a visit to a Santa's Village.  Perhaps it was there that my love of goats began to be nurtured!  Feeding baby goats with a bottle is a joyous things. Little goats frolic and play and seem so joyous!

And there there was my (almost) obsession with Tasha Tudor; an artist and author.I have always admired her lifestyle.  Tasha milked goats--Nubians!  I was hooked.

I had to wait almost 60 years to realize my own dream of owning goats.  What absolute joy they bring into my life.  Who needs TV when you can be entertained by the antics of goats in the backyard.  To witness birth of kids is one of my greatest delights.  And the milk! Oh fresh milk!  And the cheese we make is a part of our simple lifestyle.  We're not milking now, but we will freshen our goats this year and be back in the milking business next year.

For nearly 20 years, I served the Good Shepherd in active ministry.  This journey took me to many places to tend the sheep.  It was a privilege and delight to serve, and of course, in retirement, I find ways to serve quietly now.

As I reclaim my identity, I am proud to claim being a Goatherd as part of that identity.  Daisy, Lovey, Fiona and Blossom are my sweet herd.  As a Goatherd, I must care for the goats no matter what the weather or my mood-Neither snow or rain nor heat nor gloom of night, our goats must be fed, given fresh water and hay, hooves must be trimmed and coats must be brushed.  Not to mention mucking out the barn from time to time. In the winter and spring of 2018, we found goat friendly folks who aided us in a difficult season of health issues.  I have to admit, I've met the nicest people as my interest in goats grew over the years. Goats seem to bring out the best in folks!

Yes, a Goatherd--that's part of my identity.   

Reclaiming Identity

You have likely heard that old saying, "Of all the things I've lost, I  miss my mind the most!"  Yes!  My mind has been very scattered these last few years.  

In the twinkling of an eye, our lives can be rearranged.  An illness can bring on sudden loss; the death of a loved one changes things for us.  And retirement...it can bring on a loss of identity.  Who am I now?

For the past few years, I have deeply wrestled with the question of identity.  I retain some identity as a priest of the Episcopal Church, with the word retired following my named.  But what does that really mean?  It's not as easy to answer as it seems.  One of the myths about retirement is that it is not really a loss, but a gain.  Well...yes and no.  Grief accompanies this stage of life; most folks don't want to talk about that part of letting go.  No one really wants to talk about the loss of identity that comes with retirement.  Maybe we should talk about it; and grieve it too.

I am reclaiming some identity this year.  I am me!  Wonderfully and uniquely made--made in the image of God.  As I discover God's new call for me, I am exploring all the ways God draws me out of myself.  It's going to be an exciting year!

Blessings,

Ann+

All along the watchtower...

As the summer days move along, with heat and humidity, I am grateful for air conditioning and the discipline of Daily Office.  Every time I come across the Gospel for today (Mark 11:27-12:12--read every other year), I think of Jimi Hendrix and his rendition of Bob Dylan's All along the watchtower.  Perhaps it is because we are on the octave of the 50th anniversary of Woodstock and I'm feeling a little nostalgic, or perhaps it's the summer heat, or the ever  constant "Breaking News" in our day, this song was a part of my day--all day today.

Jesus tells a parable: "A man planted a vineyard, put a fence around it, dug a pit for the wine press,  and built a watchtower . . ."  Feels like we're all on the alert for danger these days...watchtowers? We have more sophisticated equipment these days--but we watch all the same.  Time was when we left our doors unlocked at night and the screen door was rarely latched.  We've moved beyond that now with our security locks and cameras.  All along the watchtower, indeed.

I found this review interesting; I appreciate the compare/contrast between Dylan and Hendrix

.https://www.reasontorock.com/tracks/watchtower.html

Dylan "got religion" some say after this song...I say he always had it, but like with many of us, it had to be awakened in him.  Was it a metaphor for his life or something deeper within him?

As the summer comes to a close and our garden chores change from harvest to clean up, I'll likely continue to hum this song as I circle the perimeter of my garden space.  No watchtower here--but plenty of jokers and thieves around the place!  And I will continue to be grateful for the Daily Office readings and music--sacred and secular--that help me grow.

In case you want to listen to Hendrix, here is a link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TLV4_xaYynY Enjoy...

Goat People

Goats are hot these days!  They are on social media, in commercials on TV, clearing highways of vegetation.  And recently, many of my friends shared a cute goat post from Facebook--maybe you've seen it, too!  Goats seem to be everywhere!

From the time I was three years old, I wanted a goat.  I've never been entirely sure where the desire actually came from; perhaps it's because I am a Capricorn!  None the less, my attraction to goats has been long term.  After nearly some 60 years of dreaming, I finally became a goat owner about 5 years ago-- now the proud owner of four beautiful dairy goats--affectionately known as The Girls!  Miss Daisy was my first, along with her now deceased brother, Rascal--aptly named I might add.  Next came Miss Lovey--and she is such a love.  Miss Fiona is Lovey's daughter, and last year, Fiona gave birth to Miss Blossom who was born on Earth Day. We really should have named her Rascalina!  Did I mention I love my goats?

The goats have brought great joy and milk in my life.  We have made cheese, ice cream, yogurt and other delectable food items when we have milk.  We learn something new every day with The Girls.  They love animal crackers--my husband says it's goat crack!  They would do almost anything for one little treat.

But perhaps the greatest part of being a goat lover is the people it has brought in our lives.  Long before we owned goats ourselves, we befriended a family with 4 boys who participated in 4-H.  We met Dad and sons first; and their protective Mom later.  She was a bit suspicious of us at first--why are these people with no goats and no children in 4-H hanging around!  The boys showed us the ropes and were always eager to teach us something new.  That friendship continues today, and I can't tell you how rewarding it has been to watch the boys grow up into men.

Then there is a special family--we met on Facebook, but it was because I wanted goats and they had them! Ha!  That also developed into a deep and abiding friendship.  We continue to be a part of each others lives, even getting together for visits on occasion.

The young woman who moved near our area became a friend, too.  The trials and tribulations of life led her to something more simple--goats and chickens and turkeys!  She was a wealth of knowledge and we bought our first goats from her.  All because of goats--we became like family.

And, although I have felt somewhat like the odd ball as an Episcopal priest (now retired from active ministry), I have been blessed to find a few other priests who are goat lovers, too.  One has become a very, very dear friend--I have traveled to her home and even milked (attempted to) one of her goats.  I got pretty good at giving out the pretzels!  And there is the priest who really wants a goat.  Oh I do hope she gets her wish--her life will be forever changed.

And there is the author of many books--friends on Facebook, but also such an inspiration to me.  We have never met in person, but I do believe that our hearts beat goats together.

Yes, goats are everywhere, including in my barn.  I love them!  I love our life together.  But I simply treasure all of the humans my love of goats has brought to my life.  I am nearly always asked, "How are the goats?"  They have a special way of bringing a smile to my face... and to others.

And it's always a reminder to me of the Divine Being!

G--God

O--of

A--all

T--things.

The God of All Things has brought amazing friendships and love to my life! Thanks be to God!

What might have been

It's Mother's Day

It's Mother's Day; hope that those who are mothers and those who have been like mother's to us have had a wonderful day.  

This story won't leave me; the story of Adam Crapser.  A colleague posted something about it on Facebook.  For days I was arrested by my own feelings.

https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2016/10/27/499573378/south-korean-adopted-at-age-3-is-to-be-deported-37-years-later
This story is a few years old, but there are some updates on other websites.  Adams is suing the agency that placed him in the adoptive home.

Adam's story is heart breaking; adopted at age 3 and raised in the United States, after living here for all of his life, he was deported.  It is indeed a sad story.  Made sadder for me by my own life circumstances.  You see, many, many years ago, my husband and I tried to adopt a South Korean child.  We were the next on the list to receive a child when something went terribly wrong.  The relationship between the South Korean Agency and the agency in the U.S. was broken and lawsuits were impending.  We, along with several other couples, never got our long awaited child.

To read Adam's story, the unsettling circumstances of his life, it is difficult to image the horror he experienced.  Abused by not one family, but two, he now finds himself in South Korea as his wife and children remain in the States.  It made me wonder--what if we had been Adam's family?  We were blessed many years later to adopt a child; but Adam's story made the disappointing outcome of my past come roaring back.  A son--oh what would it have meant to have a son! Would he have become an artist, a poet, perhaps a baseball player, or even a ballet dancer? Would he have laughed with us, celebrated birthdays with us, fed goats and chickens with us?

Today on this Mother's Day, I give thanks for the process of adoption that allowed me to become a mother and for the beautiful daughter with which I am so blessed.   I give thanks that as a priest, I have served as a spiritual mother for some.  But today, I am also thinking of Adam Crapser and all of the others who have similar circumstances.  What if Adam had been my son?  The story won't leave me; for now I pray for him. Letters will be in my future plans--to politicians, agencies and yes, maybe even one to Adam.