We had LOTS of fun with the Matthew Wrights.
(2 missing photos)
Sorry that I don't have any of the boys! They were dears. And so patient. After a LONG day of car-ride travel, they came into our home and read books QUIETLY for AN HOUR while I prepped dinner. They are amazing. Grace studied Jackson the whole weekend, and he was kind and jumped obediently when she said, "Boo!"
Harry told Matt, "I don't like people to know that I know Karate." :) Harry also practiced his spelling, and wrote sweet notes that said "It is good to be here." The feeling was mutual, Harry!
Grace said today, "I like Clemmie."
(missing photo)
On Sunday we went to the zoo.
(missing photo)
Sheldon likes the zoo. And his Daddy.
(missing photo)
Posing with the polar bear.
Thank you for coming! We love you, M, R, J, H and MC!
PS: David totally thinks we can do two nights of camping in West Virginia. Let's plan it!
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Reception
It was a long time coming, and it was good. It happened in a way that I didn't expect, all those years thinking of Easter entrances, but it was full of significance.
(missing photo)
We were received into the Church on St. Patrick's Day. Our priest, Fr. Drew, had secured permission from the Bishop to let us in whenever it was mutually convenient, and we had thought to join earlier, but comps, Christmas and a baby kept us from focusing on it. So, we decided that a private mass, at a time that worked for our sponsors, would be best. We didn't see much reason to put it off until Easter. And it reminded me of my Irish Catholic Grandfather and Nana (not Irish, but Catholic.) Then Matt and Ruthie wanted to visit during Matt's spring break, and when they found out about our plans, they arranged to come at the start of his break, rather than the end.
I am so glad they did.
(missing photo)
Ruthie noted that the Newman Center was at 211 Dithridge St. (a number significant to the Wrights.)
We were in a tiny chapel, at the basement of the Newman Center, surrounded by our close friends, family and all their children. The mass was offered for our intentions--and we named my dad. We received the rites of Confirmation and Communion from Fr. Drew and Fr. Mike.
(missing photo)
The moment of communion was not an overpowering mountaintop moment. (I rather expected something--especially when I felt a real sense of peace, that I was not expecting, during my first confession the week before.) But it's okay; I know that Jesus was really present, and that life with Him does not always consist of mountaintop experiences. I'm so glad I get to pursue Him here.
After we were confirmed and given congratulatory hugs from everyone, the little chapel grew quiet, and Gracie asked, as she is wont to do, "What happened?" :)
Our sweet friends gave us cake and punch and a crucifix after the mass. And then sweet Ruthie made us a feast for dinner. I was reminded of the first time, six years ago, that she made the St. Patrick's Day feast. And I am so thankful for God's grace. His grace led us gently, slowly to this new place, and He kept and strengthened the ties to our family. I am so thankful for my family, and for their commitment to me. And for jokes about "skinny dipping in the Tiber."
(missing photo)
I learned on Sunday, when David and I attended our first mass as Catholics, that the 18th was Laetare Sunday--"Rejoice" Sunday. If we were going to join during the most penitential season in the church, this weekend was the time to do it.
(missing 4 photos)
"Hi Catholic wife," David says to me now.
(missing photo)
We were received into the Church on St. Patrick's Day. Our priest, Fr. Drew, had secured permission from the Bishop to let us in whenever it was mutually convenient, and we had thought to join earlier, but comps, Christmas and a baby kept us from focusing on it. So, we decided that a private mass, at a time that worked for our sponsors, would be best. We didn't see much reason to put it off until Easter. And it reminded me of my Irish Catholic Grandfather and Nana (not Irish, but Catholic.) Then Matt and Ruthie wanted to visit during Matt's spring break, and when they found out about our plans, they arranged to come at the start of his break, rather than the end.
I am so glad they did.
(missing photo)
Ruthie noted that the Newman Center was at 211 Dithridge St. (a number significant to the Wrights.)
We were in a tiny chapel, at the basement of the Newman Center, surrounded by our close friends, family and all their children. The mass was offered for our intentions--and we named my dad. We received the rites of Confirmation and Communion from Fr. Drew and Fr. Mike.
(missing photo)
The moment of communion was not an overpowering mountaintop moment. (I rather expected something--especially when I felt a real sense of peace, that I was not expecting, during my first confession the week before.) But it's okay; I know that Jesus was really present, and that life with Him does not always consist of mountaintop experiences. I'm so glad I get to pursue Him here.
After we were confirmed and given congratulatory hugs from everyone, the little chapel grew quiet, and Gracie asked, as she is wont to do, "What happened?" :)
Our sweet friends gave us cake and punch and a crucifix after the mass. And then sweet Ruthie made us a feast for dinner. I was reminded of the first time, six years ago, that she made the St. Patrick's Day feast. And I am so thankful for God's grace. His grace led us gently, slowly to this new place, and He kept and strengthened the ties to our family. I am so thankful for my family, and for their commitment to me. And for jokes about "skinny dipping in the Tiber."
(missing photo)
I learned on Sunday, when David and I attended our first mass as Catholics, that the 18th was Laetare Sunday--"Rejoice" Sunday. If we were going to join during the most penitential season in the church, this weekend was the time to do it.
(missing 4 photos)
"Hi Catholic wife," David says to me now.
Sunday, March 18, 2012
History of Korean Christianity
Keri, the girls, and I just talked for a bit. They are doing really well again, Katherine is almost completely well (just a bit of cough), please pray that Keri takes time to sleep and time to be still.
We've had gobs of snow here; thankfully I got me two limber pines planted yesterday and the week before. I measured 17 inches in the backyard, and we are supposed to get another 10 to 16 inches tonight. I hope to get up on the mountain for skiing next weekend. Too snowy today.
This is the reading I've been doing in prep for traveling around Korea when I head over there April 12, 2012. None of the articles are very long, and I found them really inspiring. It is amazing how God uses all different kinds of things to work his purposes.
Article on an early Korean revival and the start of the modern Korean church in the city that is now the capital of North Korea.
http://blog.christianhistory.net/2009/11/the_20th_anniversary_of_the.html
A highly informative historical exposition on the uniqueness of the Korean response to the gospel, pages 3 and 4 especially addressing political factors that furthered the Korean embrace of Christianity.
http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2007/januaryweb-only/105-33.0.html?start=1
A brief history from a non-Christian perspective.
http://www.korea4expats.com/article-Christianity-in-Korea.html
We've had gobs of snow here; thankfully I got me two limber pines planted yesterday and the week before. I measured 17 inches in the backyard, and we are supposed to get another 10 to 16 inches tonight. I hope to get up on the mountain for skiing next weekend. Too snowy today.
This is the reading I've been doing in prep for traveling around Korea when I head over there April 12, 2012. None of the articles are very long, and I found them really inspiring. It is amazing how God uses all different kinds of things to work his purposes.
Article on an early Korean revival and the start of the modern Korean church in the city that is now the capital of North Korea.
http://blog.christianhistory.net/2009/11/the_20th_anniversary_of_the.html
A highly informative historical exposition on the uniqueness of the Korean response to the gospel, pages 3 and 4 especially addressing political factors that furthered the Korean embrace of Christianity.
http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2007/januaryweb-only/105-33.0.html?start=1
A brief history from a non-Christian perspective.
http://www.korea4expats.com/article-Christianity-in-Korea.html
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Keri and the girls continue to do well overall, though emotions tend to vary depending on how frustrating the cultural exchanges have been (Keri tells me this is very typical of "culture shock"). Probably the most frustrating issue remains what they are supposed to be doing there, as the school administrators don't want them to help out with things such as marketing. This past week, though, they had three Korean kids, one of whom Sophie really bonded with, and things seemed to go well at school. The major hiccup was that one of the kids brought a GI illness with him and Katherine got sick requiring a doctor's visit ($14 total) and some antibiotics; she is now feeling much better, after some sleepless nights for Keri, cleaning up vomit. Keri is bracing for Geri's departure next week. She will have three weeks on her own before I get there. Please be praying that God will be present with her, supporting her as she single parents, protecting her and the girls physically and emotionally.
I'm doing OK here, though I miss them horribly. I am keeping busy with work and planting, painting, and skunk battling. The past two Saturdays I've gone on hikes with our friend Robin in Sedona (with Keri's blessing), which has been really fun. Below is a collage Robin made from today's hike on Brin Mesa. (The pic of me on the phone was answering a patient call as I'm on call.) I'll be heading over to Korea April 12, 2012, but get to go see Mom and Dad for Easter the weekend before. God is taking care of us.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
A hard question
Bedtime has been difficult lately for Gracie. It used to be a story, two songs, a prayer and then into bed--it took 10 minutes and we didn't hear from her til morning. Now invariably she requests a second check (or a third, or a fourth). I know it's because she's adjusting to having a sibling, but it's gone beyond the pale. Tonight, after being up in her room three times (and a full hour after we started the bedtime routine), I went up there and had the following conversation.
"Gracie, the next time I come up here, you are getting a spanking." (She stops moaning and looks up at me.) "What did you need, Gracie?"
"I want to see Mommy."
"It's not time to see Mommy. It's time to go to bed." (She stands up.) "Did you hear me? If you call for Mommy or Daddy again, you are choosing a spanking on your bottom."
Her big brown eyes meet mine and she says, "Why spank little girls?"
:)
Here's a photo of her napping yesterday. Love that girl.
(missing photo)
"Gracie, the next time I come up here, you are getting a spanking." (She stops moaning and looks up at me.) "What did you need, Gracie?"
"I want to see Mommy."
"It's not time to see Mommy. It's time to go to bed." (She stands up.) "Did you hear me? If you call for Mommy or Daddy again, you are choosing a spanking on your bottom."
Her big brown eyes meet mine and she says, "Why spank little girls?"
:)
Here's a photo of her napping yesterday. Love that girl.
(missing photo)
Saturday, March 3, 2012
Update on Korea and AZ
Keri and the girls made it to Korea along with Geri this week. They are gradually getting over jetlag and figuring out what they are going to be doing for the next two months. The girls are doing miraculously well. Keri and I are very proud of them. Keri has born the brunt of the change, unfortunately, and has gotten very little sleep for about the past two weeks. I am hoping the last two nights have been better.
The school seems still very much up in the air, no students are enrolled and so Keri's time will be spent in recruitment and, I hope, a lot of sight seeing. I may end up going to get them sooner than expected as she doesn't want to stay for two months doing nothing. She is still trying to feel things out with Young, the woman who brought her over.
The school building itself is lovely with lots of child-sized things, desks, toilets, sinks, etc. Emma was thrilled to find it all "just my size". Both girls are doing well with seaweed soup, mushroom stir-fries, and kimchee. They are living in an apartment on the 11th floor of a high rise, Keri has a smart phone, and they have a very new looking Kia to drive around. Overall, very well cared for. She has internet access on the phone, and should be able to get your emails, she can't make international calls at this point, but can get yours. I've found Skype to be the cheapest (internet to cell phone) and you can reach her at 011821047262045 (this is the full number, shouldn't need any other digits) if you like.
I'm here at home, relatively busy, thank God, so not too much time to be lonely.
The house sure does feel empty though. I've made a nice long to do list including reading (just finished a Sayers mystery and am now reading Alcorn's Heaven), painting our pellet stove and the brick (Keri finally is letting me!), cleaning out closets and throwing/giving away. I suppose Lent was a perfect time for them to be away, heightens the sense of stripping, and is giving me lots of time with the Lord (and to blog).
The school seems still very much up in the air, no students are enrolled and so Keri's time will be spent in recruitment and, I hope, a lot of sight seeing. I may end up going to get them sooner than expected as she doesn't want to stay for two months doing nothing. She is still trying to feel things out with Young, the woman who brought her over.
The school building itself is lovely with lots of child-sized things, desks, toilets, sinks, etc. Emma was thrilled to find it all "just my size". Both girls are doing well with seaweed soup, mushroom stir-fries, and kimchee. They are living in an apartment on the 11th floor of a high rise, Keri has a smart phone, and they have a very new looking Kia to drive around. Overall, very well cared for. She has internet access on the phone, and should be able to get your emails, she can't make international calls at this point, but can get yours. I've found Skype to be the cheapest (internet to cell phone) and you can reach her at 011821047262045 (this is the full number, shouldn't need any other digits) if you like.
I'm here at home, relatively busy, thank God, so not too much time to be lonely.
The house sure does feel empty though. I've made a nice long to do list including reading (just finished a Sayers mystery and am now reading Alcorn's Heaven), painting our pellet stove and the brick (Keri finally is letting me!), cleaning out closets and throwing/giving away. I suppose Lent was a perfect time for them to be away, heightens the sense of stripping, and is giving me lots of time with the Lord (and to blog).
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Happy Birthday, Essie!
Happy Birthday to our Sweet Sarah. Because you're the main one I continue blogging for, I thought you'd appreciate a post on your birthday. It's the least I could do (and I wanted to do the very least). So this one goes out to you, little lady.
I feel like we're living a life of days gone by, a winter holed up inside, playing, reading, doing school, being together by candlelight. This year has been like hitting pause on a busy life (well, more like the slow setting on the ipod). I felt similarly the year we were in Princeton. We haven't plugged in very well, and part of that's b/c there isn't much to plug in to. The whole pace of life here is quieter, and while this has been lonelier, I'm enjoying it for now.
I say this while three kids are trying to get my attention, and just before they were playing a very rowdy game and jumping all over the place, but you get the idea. Things regularly spin out of control, but overall life is a steady peaceful rhythm.
A little of our piddlings:
I feel like we're living a life of days gone by, a winter holed up inside, playing, reading, doing school, being together by candlelight. This year has been like hitting pause on a busy life (well, more like the slow setting on the ipod). I felt similarly the year we were in Princeton. We haven't plugged in very well, and part of that's b/c there isn't much to plug in to. The whole pace of life here is quieter, and while this has been lonelier, I'm enjoying it for now.
I say this while three kids are trying to get my attention, and just before they were playing a very rowdy game and jumping all over the place, but you get the idea. Things regularly spin out of control, but overall life is a steady peaceful rhythm.
A little of our piddlings:
 |
| This is a game I found the boys playing; they took turns in roles of bad guy and police officer. Here Harry is the bad guy using a stuffed earth as a bolder to crush the police officer (that boulder is supposed to teach them geography. Ha. Harry sleeps with it and calls it "worldy") |
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| Jackson ready to jump, narrowly escaping death. Evil plot foiled again. . . and again. . . and again. . . |
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| J demonstrating Harry's "guitar" |
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| Painting ceramics |
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| A blacksmithing demonstraion. . . |
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| Spelling Lesson |
 |
"doing school" |
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| Making meringues |
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| We made the meringues b/c they featured prominently in a Paddington Bear story. Jackson is loopy for Paddington (he requested that we call hot chocolate "cocoa" from now on b/c Paddington does) |
 |
| Hiking. We love this trail around Eagle Lake, and took advantage of a mild day. Behold the Daniel Boone National Forest. At the end of winter. |
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| Look! A beaver sighting! |
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| Little Red Riding Hood was also spotted. |
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| Sarah, we took this for you, knowing you would appreciate how they've improved on the trail. Shiny new signs! |
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| And this is my collection of different kinds of moss we found. |
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