Christmastime is here...

...and the Mrs. is rockin' the Spritz cookies.  Mmmmm!

Cover Story in the local newspaper

I read this, and it made me somber and grateful:

‘I’m really thankful to have work’

Merry Christmas, part 1

It's Monday, the week before our first Christmas in Montana... and so far, a moderately white one, PTL!  Here's something else I've noticed, that's much different than my experience lately, having grown up in Southern California:

There are many, many signs -- on local businesses, mind you -- that boldly (defiantly?) proclaim MERRY CHRISTMAS.  They're everywhere!  And what's more -- people actually say that greeting to you, as well.  I think that is very, very cool.  If you think that's cool, too, please leave a comment here, or send me an email.  It'd be nice to hear from you.  Tell me what's been most meaningful to you this Christmas.

Now, I'm headed home to enjoy another of my family's Christmas traditions -- home-made "psghetti & meat bulbs", from scratch.

Merry Christmas!

"To Be One"

We are thoroughly enjoying this amazing documentary film about 3 inspiring courtships that represent such victories in the midst of such relational catastrophe, these days.  Amazingly enough, the family of the bride in the first story — Ashley (Haymond) Baird — have become such dear, God-sent friends to our family, that we are sure that the Lord has been guiding us to this very place in the Flathead Valley of Montana.  If you are a parent and desire to "add fuel to the fire" of multi-generational holiness in your family, pick up this DVD from Amazon.  Enjoy!

Aspirin, or a guillotine?

Internet piracy bill: A free speech 'kill switch'

Agenda

Another faith-filled week in beautiful Flathead County, Montana.  Totally out of what was once familiar to me, unable to trust in anything but the constant companionship and provision of the Good Shepherd, and the sweet love of my family.  By this time of year, I was expecting to be bowled over by how mind-numbingly cold it had become, with snow everywhere, right?  Well, not so much.  It hasn't really stayed below 20 degrees at night, and the snow that came a few weeks ago has mostly melted away.  Hah!  Montana Winter, you ain't so tough!


(Of course, in a month or two, my new hometown will have the last laugh, and all my little chest-beating trash talk will be trampled like the grit they pour on the icy roads every year.)

Anyway, tonight Jenna and Emily and I went to our friends' house, a dear family with whom we Calvi's worship the Great King every Sunday.  (Caleb and Chloe got to practice their babysitting skills this evening, for which they are rapidly earning the nickname of "the dynamic duo".  They did great -- when we came home, their little sisters were nestled all snug in their beds, and the house was clean and organized... wow!)   One of the cool things about our home church family is that we will occasionally get together and watch some informative DVD, discuss it in light of the Gospel, and pray over what the Lord would have us do with this knowledge, if anything.  Tonight's feature was a new documentary called simply, "Agenda".  I won't tell you what it's about, but I will say this:

Make it a high priority to watch this film.  Then, host a get-together with some friends or family and watch it together.

There are things we should be aware of, details that could change the life-choices you make, the things you would pursue.  Perhaps "Agenda" will reveal something(s) that will shape you for years to come.  At the very least, watching it with others will make for some lively discussion, and will help to clarify the worldview of those in the room.

You can buy it from the movie's website, or from Amazon.  Once you've seen it (the whole movie, not just the trailer), post a comment here to tell me what you thought.

Chloë

Happy, Happy 10th Birthday Chloë... My double-digit midget!

I'm on a Montanan, Ray-dee-o...

Today is the first in a long line of radio upgrade installations for Flathead County Road & Bridge dept., getting all their road plows (etc) ready to keep the roads safe this Winter.  I'm blessed to be serving the hardworking people of Kalispell, and blessed to be working with my hands.

WOS-dom

There's a thread that seems to run through a life lived among wide-open spaces (WOS).  The WOS-man (or -woman) knows how to hunt most wild game, and has the trophies to back up the claim.  He has an assortment of hand-made trout lures, which he uses every spring off the banks of the [insert river name here].  He has the ability to deal productively with every season of the year -- snow or shine.  Spent more than half his days on the back of a horse, or driving a John Deere, or some other studly activity.  The WOS-man owns a 300-acre ranch at the base of the Northern Rocky Mountains, which has been in his family for 4 generations.  He can survive anything, build anything, learn anything and be trusted.  Makes his (very lucrative) income by being his own boss.  Above all and in all and through all, he honors his Maker by living a life of wholehearted faith, simplicity and humility.

Well, as much as I want to be the WOS-man, I'm not there yet.  And given the legacy that I was born into, I may never be.  But that's OK.  Because you can't attain WOS-dom living in a large Southern California city.  You have to pull up stakes and move.  And even then, it may not be possible for you.

But it just might move your children toward WOS-dom.

Yes, they can learn to hunt!  (--Together with you, of course.)  They can learn to fish and plant and grow and build and sacrifice and save and dream and lead.  And by you having the faith to trust God's promises (in places like Joshua 1:9), you can bring about A Different Legacy, for generations to come.  And faith can change the course of history, one generation at a time.

(Thanks for sitting in on my little pep-talk to myself.  :-)

S.A.D. and Technology

I like TLA's.  Most of them are pretty functional and cool (USA, GFA, CGO, I-N-O, etc).  However, I'm not big on ascribing a TLA to every malady a person can experience (e.g. ADD, etc).  Still, I've been hearing a lot about SAD lately — or maybe its just that I'm more aware of it, since I'm heading into a long, snowy Winter for the first time.  Anyway, a friend who's lived in the area was telling me about a "sunrise simulator" he bought, to help him wake up with what would feel like the rising sun... even when the sun doesn't peek out at all, for days.  So I've been looking into things like this, wondering if it could or would make a difference in my or my overall outlook, heading into the cold, dark season.  Does anyone reading this blog have any advice or experience with this topic?  Please leave a comment, if you can.

Have a sunny day!

Now that we're here...

Well, as far as the Columbia Falls post office is concerned, we are now officially Montana residents.  Truth be told, we have moved into a house where, because the postmaster hasn't seen their way clear to put a mailbox at our residence, they feel compelled to give us a free PO box:

#171.  Zip=59912.  Feel free to drop us a note. :-)

Anyway, we finally have our own place, after camping out on the Tams' backyard for nearly 3 months.  Good thing, too.  We had had our fill of the "Frosty Coleman Tent", with many a night below freezing.  (Many, many thanks to our dear friends for hosting us as long as they did... much longer than any of us expected.)

So now, as we hunker down for the long Winter, we must remain focused.  For we were called by the Spirit of God to this region, to make it our home, to establish a different legacy than the one we grew up in.  We do not know what He has in store for us, but we are becoming sure that there are things to be studied, proficiencies to be gained.  Spring will come again, and with it, the further study of even more ways of making a life here, perhaps even gaining the land necessary for practicing what we study.  That is our hope and prayer.

I heard it said --  no, predicted -- that the next twenty years will be completely different and unrecognizable from the last twenty (or more).  I believe that is true.  And so, a different legacy is necessary, on a very grand scale.  I only hope that I can lead my family into it.

How about you?  What will be your legacy?  What will you trust God to accomplish through your lifetime, by faith?

God and man

Don't confuse "pleasing your pastor" with "pleasing God".  One does not imply the other.

Dr. Baldwin's annual "Survival List" column

Troubling times are imminent.  If you care to survive them, please read this.  Dr. Baldwin is a kind-hearted and level-headed man of God with a burden for the long-term persistence of the body of Christ in the U.S.

Chuck Baldwin Live | Fighting for Constitutional Government in America

It's time to rise up.

A day that will live on in infamy...

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I took one step closer to being a true Montanan today:

I hit a deer.

Yessirree, just doing my morning commute on state highway 2, breezing through God's country, awake and vigilant... and under the speed limit, mind you.  (There's no greater deterrent to speeding, like the thought of hitting Bambi at 75mph.)  Suddenly, from the brush on the right, out she jumps -- characteristically oblivious to her impending doom.

I brake.  I swerve and honk.  I curse (in German, so it doesn't count).  She pauses, and I think I may escape this one.  But nooooo, she just continues on her merry way, and THWOP!! -- gets slammed against the starboard bow of the good ship Sienna.

I groan.  I mumble something about canine offspring.  I pull over to assess the damage.  Hmmm... no blood, no guts, no hair... no dent, no broken glass... (I look back, expecting a twitching victim) -- no deer??  I guess (I hope) she just got a little car-spank, and scuttled back off to the forest, to brag about how close to death she came.

I breathe a sigh of relief and drive on, gratefully humming an old worship song about a deer & water.

Thank the Lord for little miracles.

Happy Birthday, my Love

Yesterday, I got to enjoy the birthday of the most wonderful person I've ever met.  The book of Proverbs says that whoever finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the Lord.  So it necessarily follows that the Good Shepherd must be awfully fond of this here dumb sheep, to give me such a bride.

Homemade gifts and cards abounded yesterday, and Little Miss Puff even went to great lengths to "bake" a mud cake for her mama.

Life is good.

Lots to catch up on

"Part of the difficulty of blogging is that it requires so much writing."
--Anonymous

..OK, it's not really an anonymous quote.  I said it.  Or rather, I typed it.

Today marks our 72nd day in Montana, and much has happened... and much has not.
Happenings:

• Found a job, with the most scenic commute I've ever had.
• Got snow tires for the L-O-N-G winter
• Found a place of our own to live for the winter.  (And no, it's not in our big Coleman tent.  That novelty wore off some time ago.)
• Met some good friends
• Visited Glacier National Park in the summer
• Went river-rafting with the kids (except the smallest :-)
• Kids got to milk a cow, ride horses (prepping for our own), and just generally completing their metamorphosis into "country-folk".
• Helping to build a friend's house (also prepping for our own)
• Had relatives over for a visit (Dad, Uncle and Cousin)
• Discovered the blessing of these local and highly-organized thrift stores... we even know some folks "on the inside" ;-)   (Nice pants for $3!  Who knew?!?)
• Bought the Mrs. a gun and a knife... it's legal in this state to carry both in her purse.  Boo-ya!
• Checked out some scary properties
• Made use of an outhouse.  More than once.
• Slept outside in 30-degree-ish weather.  Regularly. (Don't worry Mom... we're safe and warm at night!)
• Performed "surgery" (so-to-speak) on fire engines, ambulances and heavy construction equipment

OK, on to the [drum-roll please]...

"Not-(yet)-Happenings"

• Buy a homestead of our own
• Own a dog, and various and sundry other domestic animals.  Some for milking, some for laying.  Fill in the blanks.
• Build our own house.
• Feel like we are prepared for winter... Brrrrrr!
• Acquired a pickup truck with a full gun rack, a metal grille and a winch.
• Earn as much as we did "B.M." (Before Moving)

WON'T Happenings

• Losing faith, or losing heart.  Won't do it.

Keep praying for us, as we continue to see the Lord's provision more clearly, in the most mysterious ways.  Pray that He uses this time to make us more like Him.

Oh, and a very happy birthday to my dear Bride.  She is truly the most amazing creation I know.  "Thank you for saying 'yes'!"

Hold them close, hug them tight

INSTANT SURVIVAL TIP: Hold your loved ones close

Freedom

"Freedom isn't the right to make your own decisions... freedom is the result of the right decisions made."

Home Improvement

Laughter doeth the heart good like a medicine...

We had a great time reading this... My friend Mr. Tams tells me he's made most of these blunders in the last 3 weeks alone!  :-)

Wood Cutting 101 by Husband of the Boss

The "War on... Freedom??"

America, if you think your government is acting in your best interests, you've got another thing comin':

Chuck Baldwin Live | Fighting for Constitutional Government in America

Tie a knot and hang on...

They say that's what you do when you come to the "end of your rope".  Well, I'm very nearly there, friends.  I don't think it would be wise or prudent to go into detail at this point in the process, but we sure could use your prayers.  We need courage, determination, patience and clear direction.... or at least the fearlessness to act in the absence of it.

True Story

Greetings from the increasingly-chilly Northwest!

Today, I'd like to share (with permission) the amazing journey of faith of some friends whom the Lord called away from the house where we are currently landed.  May you be blessed as you read it.  (Sorry about the funky extra characters; I'm posting this from my phone, while my lovely bride is sleeping...)
____________________

Hello everyone,
>
> We have had an amazing journey traveling to Maine.  As most of you know, it has been a faith journey not unlike Abraham’s faith journey to a land that he did not know.  At the beginning, before we knew we were going to move to Maine, we felt that the Lord was preparing us for a completely new season in our life and were preparing ourselves to go wherever He would lead us.
>
>   Initially we thought that we were to move to Missouri.  After our trip there, we realized that it the Lord definitely wanted us to travel to Missouri, but only to teach us and show us some things.  It was really the beginning of what we call our “Journey of faith”. The Lord has really taught us to depend on him as our provider in ways that we have never experienced.  We have been stretched and molded, but in the end the Lord has always taken care of us.
>
>  One of the biggest things that He has taught us about is the difference between our wants and needs.  We have been so accustomed to living and eating a certain way that we have confused the two.  We really can live much simpler and be content with less than what we thought we could.  We are learning to be content with what we have and to bei satisfied with a simple life.
>
>  The Lord showed us that we were to move to Maine and that there would be an “Amish connection” in His plan for us there.  We did not know exactly what this connection would be, but we knew that our relationship and time spent with the Amish in Libby and Bonners Ferry was preparation for this journey. 
>
>  We needed to sell or rent our home in Montana to be able to move.  We also decided to either sell or give away everything that we owned and only keep a few changes of clothing.  Wherever we ended up we would have to start over. 
>
>  Once we decided to move forward in faith making all the preparations to move, the Lord stepped in and did some amazing things.  I put in add in the paper and on Craigslist at about 12:30 am.  That very morning we received a call from a couple from Texas who were looking for a home to purchase and were going to be in Kalispell one more day before they would have to return back home.  When they arrived we found out that they were Christians and that the Lord had led them to move to the Kalispell.  They told us that they had not found a home after searching all week and were discouraged.  Right when they saw our add they felt an excitement that they had found their home.  They told us the first day that they wanted to purchase our home.  They ended up spending two days with us until 1am each night with all of us sharing about the wonderful things that the Lord has done. We sold our home in one day! 
>
>  We had a moving sale and sold everything that we could and gave away the rest.  We loaded up our travel trailer with some basic necessities and headed off to Maine.  One thing that we have realized serving the Lord is that He will allow difficulties and challenges in our lives so that He can test us and also reveal His love and goodness.  Our faith journey has been a testimony in the making because of this.
>
>  We had pretty smooth sailing until we were about an hour outside of Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota.  At about 9:30 pm, traveling on the main interstate, I noticed smoke pouring out of the side of our travel trailer.  I then heard and felt a loud thud.  I immediately pulled to the side of the freeway and had the entire family get out of the van.  Our trailer had caught fire. 
>
>  As I ran back to put it out, I noticed that I was missing a tire and axel on my trailer.  I put the fire out and found that the axel had snapped off and that the friction of the tire rubbing on the wheel well had started the fire.   No one was hurt but I did not know the extent of the damage.  A wrecker came and hauled the trailer off and we stayed at a hotel that night. 
>
>  My wife and I had an incredible peace in our heart, even though this had just happened.  We both felt that the Lord had allowed this to happen and that He would take care of it some how.  We had only enough money for fuel and food to get to Maine.  We had obviously not planned for this.  We also had to find a hotel, since we could not stay in our trailer.
>
>  The Lord blessed us with a very discounted hotel rate.  We received two rooms for the price of one, since they would not let us rent only one room because the size of our family.  We basically ended up with an unplanned three-day vacation in a hotel with a pool and other recreational activities.
>
>  I called the mechanic the next morning and he said that it would take three weeks to get a new axel.  I was shocked realizing that there was no possible way for us to stay in a hotel for three weeks, let alone have the money to replace our axel and tire.  He also said that the wheel well was tore up and would need to be repaired.  We prayed and asked the Lord for help.
>
>  The next morning the mechanic called me and said that they were able get an axel and have it the following day.  We were surprised and thankful to say the least.  The Lord provide the materials for me to repair the wheel well myself so I did that at the mechanics while they were waiting for the axel. 
>
>  The Lord made a way with our finances to pay for the repairs.  When I went to pay the mechanic, he said something that caught me off guard.  He definitely did not seem to be someone who feared God.  He began to tell me that God had to be in this whole thing.  He said that nothing like this had ever happened to him.  He began to tell me that the day after he had ordered my axel, that would take three weeks to get in, a man that had never come by dropped in.
>
>  As the man was talking to the mechanic, he noticed our broken axel on our trailer and mentioned that he could make a new axel for it and get it to the mechanic the next day.  The mechanic had no idea that this man could even make an axel, let alone he had never even come to his shop before.  The mechanic then went on to tell me that they do not even make the tire size that is on my trailer any more.  He said that he had looked far and wide but could not find a replacement tire.  He incredibly found one at a tire shop that did not even sell that size tire.  They found it hanging on a wall as a display.  After telling me all this he said that God must have been in this whole thing.
>
>  After hearing the details, I told him that he was absolutely right.  The Lord was in every bit of it.  Jesus is an awesome God who is worthy of all of our praise honor and glory!  We loaded up and headed out continuing our journey.  The first place in Maine that we planned to stop at was a little town called Unity.  There is a small Amish community that we wanted to drive by and take a look at.
>
>  We made it to Maine safe with no further vehicle/trailer problems.  As we were driving through Unity, I saw smoke pouring out of the back of our trailer again.  I quickly stopped with the thought that they had not repaired the axel properly.  That was not the case though.  I found that my leaf spring had broken on the axel that had been repaired.  I believe it was cracked when the axel broke and finally failed.
>
>  I pulled off the road at the first available place, which was a parking lot right in front of the Amish community in Unity.  What were the chances of that?  I do not believe in chance so I recognized that this was the Lord’s doing.  I felt that we were to somehow connect with the Amish there but did not know exactly how this was going to happen.  I began to pray and asked the Lord, “If you want us to connect with the Amish here, please have some of them come over and talk to us.”  In the mean time, an older couple next door came by and asked us if they could help us in any way.  They brought over lawn chairs and let our children come and pick sweet corn and vegetables from their garden.  Within a half an hour of praying that prayer, a group of Amish young men came over and started talking with us while they were on their way to go swimming. 
>
>  When they found out that we were broke down, they invited our family for dinner and to stay the evening in one of their homes.  Over the next week, we stayed with one of the families and ate with different Amish families getting to know most of them in their community.  There are about thirteen families there with about four families moving there within the next few months.  All of them were very hospitable and giving.
>
>  I was pleasantly surprised to find out that the men I spoke to seem to all have a relationship with Jesus and a clear confession of faith in Christ for their salvation.  We attended their church services and were able to do some odd jobs for work while we were there.  
>
>  Once I replaced the broken leaf spring on the trailer, we traveled north to Smyrna, Maine to visit the Amish community there and check out the area.  While in Smyrna, we quickly met many Amish families and were invited to stay with a family there.  After staying two days they asked us if we would like to stay in their home for the next two weeks while they were traveling west to visit family.  Many families brought us fresh vegetables from their gardens, cold cows milk from their icehouses and fresh eggs from their chickens.  The Lord provided for all of our needs.  While we were staying there, I began looking for work and for a home to rent.  We like Northern Maine and find it very similar in many ways to Montana.
>
>  We just had an incredible series of events take place this last week.  There are almost no rentals in the area, especially one that will accommodate a family of our size.  After looking for about a week and a half, we came up empty handed.  While driving last week we came across a neat old farmhouse with and incredible dairy barn.  It had a “for sale” sign so I called the realtor listed on it and asked him if the owner would consider renting it.  He said that they do not rent homes and recommended calling someone else.  The next day a friend that I had met told me that he spoke to a man who has a farmhouse for sale across from the field that he is haying that he might possibly rent. 
>
>  I called the number he gave me and spoke to the man.  He said that he was the father to the man who owned it and that he might consider renting it.  We met him that evening and he showed us the home.  It turned out to be the same farmhouse that we had looked at the night before that the realtor had said was not for rent.  It was my wife’s "dream farmhouse".  The only drawback that he mentioned after showing us the home was that it would probably cost us more to heat it during the winter than it would be in rent, since it was poorly insulated and used heating oil for heat.  When we heard this we immediately realized that this was not going to work.
>
>  Before we left, I was able to witness to him. He told me that he was getting ready to leave the next day and travel to California because his three-year-old great granddaughter was dying in the hospital.  I could tell that the man was lost.  When I told him that I would pray for his great grand daughter, he replied by telling me not to.  I was obviously surprised to hear that.  He said that she had brain damage and that it would be better for her not to live.  I told him how great the Lord is and that the He can do miracles.  I even shared a little bit about my life and how the Lord had healed my eyes.
>
>  The day that we were packing up to leave the Amish home that we had been staying in the last two weeks, Keelee and I sat talking about the situation that we were in.  My wife mentioned that she felt like Israel when they were backed up against the Red Sea.
>
>  Whenever the Lord leads us to do something, He never gives us the full picture.  I had a pastor tell me when I was a young man, “Whenever you take a step of faith in the natural, God will then move in the supernatural.”  The Lord will never do what we can do.  He will always requires us to do our part by obeying His leading.  But His leading will always take us to a place where we can only go so far with our own efforts.  He “sets us up” at times and lets us “walk” up to the Red Sea of our circumstances with Pharaoh’s army at our rear.  We come to a place where there is no humanly possible solution to our predicament that we can see.  This is a perfect place for a miracle.  Then the Lord steps in and does what only He can do. 
>
>  This was the place we found ourselves in, with no home to rent and winter coming very soon.  I felt pretty discouraged about the situation but the Mrs. remained strong and faithful.  She said that we were right where the Lord wanted us to be and that we were ripe for a miracle.  Later that afternoon the same friend that had told us about the farmhouse came by and asked if I had checked my messages.  He said that the man with the farmhouse was trying to get a hold of us because he wants to rent the farmhouse to us.  I called him and he said that he wanted us to stay in the farmhouse over the winter.  I asked him how much he wanted to charge for rent.  He replied by saying that he wanted us to stay in it free over the winter.  I did not even know how to respond.  He said that all he wanted us to do is pay the utilities and do a little work if needed.  He then said that he would hook up a wood furnace in the basement for us to use instead of the oil furnace.
>
>  He said that ever since he met us he could not get our family out of his mind.  He talked to his son, who owns it, while at his great granddaughters funeral and that they wanted our family to stay in their farmhouse.  I told my family and everyone was ecstatic. My wife told me that her prayer that same morning was for us to be able to live in that farmhouse rent-free for the winter.  God answers prayer!
>
>  It gets even better!  We moved out here with nothing – no furniture, beds, kitchen appliances, bedding, etc.  This farmhouse is fully furnished!  It has everything we need down to pots, pans and bedding.  The owner’s father asked us to move in immediately while he was still out of town.  My wife also prayed that they would give us the freezer full of meat, fish and fruit.  The parents of the owner came by today and gave us everything in the freezer.  The Lord is amazing!
>
>  I have some possibilities for odd jobs and short term consulting work at a log home company in the area.  I have also had many opportunities to witness and pray for people. 
>
>  Thank you for all of your prayers!  We are excited to see what the Lord does but are just as excited to put roots down and get some stability back in our family.  This has been a whirlwind so we are thankful to have a place that we can call home again.
>
>  We will continue to keep you updated periodically.  Please feel free to call us.  We bless you in Jesus’ name and praise Him for your love, prayers and friendship.
>
>  Blessings,
>
> The _______ Family (Mr & Mrs and 9 children)

Great preparedness info

Our "guest post" today comes from "Enola Gay"* at the Paratus Familia blog, one of my fav's.  (I've never actually met this wise lady, but she's a welcome "guest" here, anytime :-)

Preparedness Organization - Inventory

*Not her Real Name ("NRN")

A message to my dear ADL readers

Dear friend:

You may be aware of my family's interest in preparing for the unforeseen, and thankfully, you probably share our well-founded concerns for the future.  Well, in case no one in your circle of influence has asserted this, let me be forthright:

The best way to prepare for your future is to invite Jesus Christ into your life, to be the Author and Finisher of your faith.  Don't delay... we're not promised tomorrow, and eternity is the eventuality.

Now having said that, it's time to once again re-motivate ourselves toward greater preparedness for the likely future of our society.  Don't be a victim, be pro-active.  Do what you can, when you can -- it doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg.

6 reasons Why Even Skeptics Should Prepare

Leave a comment, and let me know what you did to prepare, this week.  God bless your efforts, as you put Him first.

Born to be Wild?

Fill in your own blanks, friends, and be warned:  we have a clever enemy, hell-bent on our destruction.  Is that ol' deluder using convenience and the "broad road" to trap you?  God forbid...

Catching Wild Pigs

The days of maintaining a clean car...

...are OVER.

Juicy Gossip

Found:  The inside scoop on all the Flathead County miscreants... of all species!  :-)

Flathead Valley Police Blotter | Flathead Beacon

Happenings

Today, I'm being comforted in some melancholy way by the rumbling of thunder and the steady but unobtrusive beat of rain outside the dining room window.  It's a day that looks like the advent of Autumn, which is bound to be beautiful here in The Last Best Place.  So much has happened in the 27 days we've been here.

We have been finding an amazing sense of community with the Tams family, with whom we are staying until we find a home of our own.  We are praying that we do not find ourselves moving into a new place in the dead of winter, God forbid!  In the meantime, I've found some temporary work, and we're all just doing what we can to prepare for the needs that accompany long days indoors (during the Montana-Mega-Winter).  The ladies have been canning, among other things.  Little Mister and I have been trying our hand at wood-chopping.  Here's Mr. CJ, doing battle valiantly with his hapless victims.  He done me proud... brought a tear of joy to my eye!

Last Sunday, we traipsed around Glacier National Park for the first time -- what amazing sights!  From the minute you drive into the place, all of creation seems to shout God's praises.  Lake McDonald has to be the most pristine lake I've ever seen.

Lake McDonald

Meanwhile, back at the ranch...
Our temporary bedroom has become quite comfortable, and represents the longest "camping trip" I've ever been on.

"Chez Calvi"

(Actually, don't cry for us, Argentina -- we are very comfortable.  Most of the time we hang out in and around the Tams' home.  As it has worked out, only 4 of us are usually sleeping in the tent: Me & the Mrs., and our 12-year-old son and 5-year-old daughter, whom I very affectionately refer to as "The Puff".  Puff gets to sprawl and snore all over a queen-sized air mattress.  She ain't complainin', and she probably never had it so good!  :-)

Life isn't all blissful hear in bear country.  The Tams and we seem to be passing around a 24-hour flu bug, which has been affecting us in different ways.  It forced me home on my second day on the job... not exactly the kind of first impression I'd like to present, but I'm leaving that in the good Lord's capable hands.  He knows I can work hard... when I'm well.  I'm feeling well enough after the last 12 hours to jump back into the call-center frenzy tomorrow.


This afternoon, we're off to look into what's called a "cow share".  It works like this:

• Pay $1 to buy a "share" of a local cow.  This one happens to be pasture-fed, free range, and happy.  Happy cows, happy milk.
• This "cow share" then gives you the legal right in Montana to buy raw milk from said cow, which, despite the MSM hype, is extraordinarily good for you.

I remember paying as much as $14/gallon for raw milk in the organic stores in California.  FOURTEEN STINKIN' DOLLARS!  Aichee-wawa.  Well, no more, my friends.  Our cow share gets us delicious raw, whole milk for --- wait for it -- $5/gallon.  Man, this stuff tastes SO good, I could NOT stop drinking it when we were recently invited to a local farmer's home for dinner.  No more plasticized, homogenized, store-bought white goo for me, no sir.  My next big effort is to make home-made ice cream with raw milk.  Then, my friends... I will have arrived.  :-)

Today's Utmost

My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers

Thanks, Ozzie -- We needed that.

Psalm 34

I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad. Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together! I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed. This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him and saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them. Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him! Oh, fear the Lord, you his saints, for those who fear him have no lack! The young lions suffer want and hunger; but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing. Come, O children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord. What man is there who desires life and loves many days, that he may see good? Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit. Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous and his ears toward their cry. The face of the Lord is against those who do evil, to cut off the memory of them from the earth. When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all. He keeps all his bones; not one of them is broken. Affliction will slay the wicked, and those who hate the righteous will be condemned. The Lord redeems the life of his servants; none of those who take refuge in him will be condemned. http://bible.us/Ps34.1.ESV

Stool Sample

So I'm considering making my custom step stools available for purchase through this blog.  If you would like to order one, personalized with a word or phrase of your choice (in any simple font), send me an email here.  

I'm also considering making some more "Potty Thrones", as well:

Both of these items can be made of the wood of your choosing.  Prices will be based on the cost of materials.  If you know someone who may be interested, please let me know

(P.S. - sorry about the coarse post title.  I thought it was amusing.)

To the "Outback"... and back.

Today, we boldly drove where no minivan has gone before!

We drove out to what I will hereafter refer to as the "Montana Outback":  Elmo, MT!  Checked out a 40 acre parcel that was... I don't even know how to describe it!  Remote.  Scarry.  That's it.

Anyway, having survived that ordeal without a flat tire (wonder of wonders / miracle of miracles), we had some crazy/slap-happy time in the car, courtesy of the Partridge Family, driving back over the same buuuuummpy gravel roads we braved earlier.  As we left the area, we came to 2 conclusions:

1. The desire we would ultimately have for a piece of property was inversely proportionate to the density of detail in the directions on how to arrive there; and
2. We believe the Lord has been leading us to a particular area in NW MT... So let's stay there!!

 So, almost immediately after we decided to live by conclusion #2, a quaint little spot popped up on Craigslist, so we went to check it out.  It was smack in the middle of our desired area, and after having viewed it briefly, every member of the family (including Little Nugget-Baby) gave it a resounding thumbs-up, and our eyes glazed over with dreams of the future.  Yet, we are really trying to not get emotionally attached to this one.  (Yeah, right.)

Keep praying for wisdom, and we'll keep you posted.

Woke up this mornin'...

...to a brisk 39 degrees, smack in the middle of August.

I love Montana in the Summer.

For the love of dogs

I've always been a "dog person".  Even for those long stretches when I haven't owned one (say, the last 27 years), I can still appreciate how loyal to and supportive of us humans they typically are.

But never more so than the last 10 days.  No sir.  You see, for the last week and a half, my life and the lives of my family have been significantly dependent on the stout hearts, attentive ears and watchful eyes of one shepherd-mix ("Selah") and one Great Pyrenees ("Buster").  While we sleep peacefully within the wafer-thin walls of our 12' x 16' Coleman tent in the middle of the Montana wilderness (but still thankfully within the front yard of their owners' house), Selah & Buster diligently take up the night watch.  The previous owners of our friends' house said that their dogs kept them from seeing even a single predator (and hardly even a deer) anywhere near the property for the entire 8 years they lived there.

So while thousands of little "rat-terriers" get strollered around metropolises wearing embarrassing little pink monogrammed sweaters, Selah and Buster are naked, proud and aware, earning their status as "Mountain Dogs" every single day.  So tonight -- and every night -- I'm saying a little prayer of gratitude for them...

...But I still sleep with my Glock.

;-)

Sunday, Sunday, Sunday!

 Well, we have been in Kalispell for 1 week, as of today.  Looking around at the wonder of this countryside, and being saturated with the vibe and ethos of the local culture, I can't help but keep saying to myself, “Why didn't you do this sooner??”

The answer to that must be “It's all in the Lord's timing.”  It's best for me to just leave it at that.

Sometimes, in the middle of the night (after I've escorted one or two of the children to the bathroom), I feel compelled to focus my attention on the truth of God's word, lest I dive into a tailspin of “what if's”.  Like, “What if I can't produce an income?”, or “What if we can't find the land/living arrangements we so desire?”, and a hundred other such gremlins.  It has become an almost nightly ritual of prayer and resisting an aggressive spirit of worry and doubt.  But the Spirit of the Lord comes to my rescue, in the recesses of my mind, and I'm able to go back to sleep, as I dwell on this:

“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.  He makes me lie down in green pastures.  He leads me beside still waters.  He restores my soul.”  (Psalm 23:1-3a)

We have been intensely sharing time and space with our friends, the Tams (not their real names) since they arrived at the home they purchased from the Nez family, a couple of days after we showed up there.  The last four days have made us look like a couple pioneer families homesteading together.  I mean, no cell service, no landline phone, no paved driveway, no traffic noise, one bathroom for 13 people... For Pete's sake, even our internet service has been down for the last 48 hours!  By today's standards, most would consider this positively medieval.  For us and the Tams?  It's the whole reason we moved here.  This is how deep relationships are truly formed and solidified.  We talk together.  We cook together.  We explore together.  The kids spend so much time on the land and the trampoline that we wonder if they'll ever break for meals (they always do :-).  It feels more like Acts 2:44 than anything I've experienced in a long time.  I don't know how much longer we'll be imposing on the Tams by   “crashing their pad” and camping on their lawn.  (I do know they would lovingly deny that we are an imposition, I'm sure.)  Winter is coming, and by All Saints Day the ground will have frozen and the snow will be abundant, so I've been told.  So my humanity screams “get into a house of your own in the next 60 days, or you'll freeze or go crazy”  and “Get a job or you'll starve” or “Get a 4x4 or you'll crash on the black ice!”  See what I mean?  Just different forms of the “what if's”.  They're sanity-killers.  I mean, I either live like God will make good on His promises to care for me, or I won't.  I do believe that He loves me, and I'm choosing to prayerfully live one day at a time, and to not swallow concern beyond today.  Jesus ordered me not to.  It matters not that we are currently “houseless”: we are being well-cared-for, and we are a grateful family.

So, this Sunday will mark the first time we've had to go church-hunting in about 18 years.  It's a weird feeling.  I have the freedom to stay or go.  I don't have to attend because I'm on the staff, as I have been for the last 15 years.  We're praying that we find a fellowship that both encourages and admonishes, equally so.  Praying for a families we can minister to and be ministered by... praying for new and Christ-honoring friendships for our children.  If you've read this far, please take a moment and pray for us, that the process is a short one.

Verse

My heart is now unfolding into God's cupped hands
Though I cannot see beyond today
I'm trusting in His plans.
I need not man's accomplishments
To see me through each day:
But to acknowledge Him in all I do,
To just be still and stay.

The U-Haul is empty and our hearts are full

So many thoughts just buzzing around in my brain — as plentiful as the 'skeeters here, but not nearly as itchy!  Not sure where to start, so this will be a "stream-of-consciousness" post.  If you have any questions or comments about my ramblings, please post a comment... I'd love to hear from you!

We arrived at our "temporary home" deep in the woods near Kalispell.  Yes, there is internet, but no cell phone connection.  (We can only get that by driving 15 minutes into town.  I'm finding that being hard-to-reach has its benefits.)  We've had the amazing opportunity to meet and spend a few days with an incredible, Christ-honoring family with 9 children — the Nez family (NTRN*).  This is how selfless they were:  In the middle of their own zany-ness of having to pack up their stuff and move to Maine (to bring the gospel to the Amish there), they took half a day and helped us unload our very bloated U-Haul truck.  When we had such an overwhelming display of God's faithfulness in San Marcos, from our dear friends there who helped us pack and clean, we never imagined that the Lord would match His own kindness here by providing such amazing unpackers, here!  He is so good to us.

Our young'uns had the best time, making friends with them, before they vacated the house they sold to some friends we met long ago in SoCal.  Last night, we went with the Nez's to their friends' farm, where we had an amazing dinner.  All the meat, dairy and greens were grown on their land.  It was like a little piece of Heaven... and I've never had milk as good as that.  I must have had 5 glasses, at least.  Non-pasturized, non-homogenized, free-range, cream-top... and free (so-to-speal)!  Yum.  Our kids got a chance to try their hand at milking "Faith", the cow who survived being born in the snow.

So now, we are praying and asking/seeking/knocking for a homestead of our own.  Please join us in praying that the Lord's Name may be honored and glorified in all we do, and that He continues to turn our eyes upon Jesus... that the things of earth may grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.


*("Not Their Real Names")

"Family in a Suitcase"

This is the third fourth time I've started this post, and every time, it's been a challenge to hold back from vomiting my fears and apprehensions about the future.  I will hold them back, and not give them voice, because

1. I don't think it would do anyone any good to broadcast them
2. I'm tired, and I know I get persnickity and curmudgeonly when I'm tired.
3. (most importantly) I believe Scripture teaches that complaining, fretting or anxious-ing (yes, I made that up) does not honor the Lord, and only starts a vicious cycle.

I'm always telling my kids about self-talk: "Be careful what you say about yourself — your heart is listening."  I guess it's time to drink my own medicine.

So instead, I'm going on a "gratitude binge."  I'm going to thank God for the following:

• I have my health, as does my family
• I didn't run out of gas before the little 2-pump station in Melrose, MT
• We have lots of friends and family members who are praying for us, and checking in on us
• We've logged over 1,100 miles of safe driving
• I (Ric) have a little family who loves me, values me highly, and follows me as I follow Christ
• I had a loaded firearm in my truck cab today, and it was legal and normal
• Last night's Ben & Jerry's Mint Chocolate Cookie was out of this world!
• Cassie is talking up a storm
• Sophia is swimming on her own, no floaties!
• The kids are enjoying Montana as much as we parents do.  I can see their dreams inflating often, and we talk about them regularly

Tomorrow, Deo volente, we arrive in Kalispell.

Today's Devotional

This reading made me giggle uncontrollably, because of how TRUE it is proving to be.

My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers

Driving Day #3, or "Po-CAT-el-lo"

Today, I had one of those unstoppable laughs.  It was the best kind of laugh, the kind that is formed at no one else's expense, just my own.  After that good laugh — and more than a few prayers — everything else just worked out fine.  Here's how it came about.

We were headed away from a stop-over in Bear Lake..

My dear wife (whose preferred two-way radio handle is "Granola Girl") and our son ("Bubba") and daughters # 2 & #4 (can't remember their handles) were in the family van, following daughter #1 ("Little Chief" or LC) and #3 ("Ladybug") and me ("Mountain Man") in the U-Haul.  We had made it about halfway to our next stop in West Yellowstone, MT, when the power steering on the U-Haul went bye-bye.  (No small deal on a 26' truck getting ready to hit a 6% downhill grade!)  Then all of the sudden, myriads of warning lights and beepers started going off on the dashboard: brake light, oil light, alternator light, Miller light.  I looked down at the temperature guage and it was solidly in the red.  So I did exactly what you would have done.

I screamed like a little girl.

No, seriously, I pulled over.

It turns out that the serpentine belt came off as a result of the AC compressor clutch-wheel-thingy going kaput.  (So that's why we hadn't had any AC for the last 400 miles?!  They don't call it "serpentine" for nothing!)  So, I tried calling U-Haul, to no avail (no service where I was standing).  Then from across the highway comes Doug the Cattle Trucker Guy (who hauls cattle for 1,100 miles from Idaho to Kansas every week).  He helps me assess the damage, and offers me his cell phone to call U-Haul.  Apparently the reception was good enough on the other side of the road.

Anyway, long story short, we had to stay in Pocatello (pronounced "Po-ca-TELLO-o") for the night while they fix the truck — with everything we own in it.  So, we grabbed 2 adjoining rooms at the Red Lion, went for a swim to de-compress for a little while, had pizza delivered to the room, and everyone is crashed while I write this between big yawns.  Now rewind to the "laughing" story...

When my Droid phone was GPS-ing the area, it pronounced Pocatello as "Po-CAT-el-lo", which made me laugh in spite of myself, and I couldn't stop for a long while.  Kind of like Dudley Moore's "Arthur": "Sometimes I just think funny things."

So, laughter does the heart good like a medicine, no?  What trials are you laughing your way through, knowing that God is in control?  Pray that we who trust in HIM can "laugh at the days to come" (Proverbs 31:25).

First Stop

We made it, safe and sound, to our first stop in Utah... at 4am (MST)!  Made a 30-point turn (coined by my dear wife) in order to park the rig.

Keep praying for our safety.

The longest journey begins with...

...the first step.

The truck and trailer are packed (to the GILLS... shoulda bought stock in U-Haul), the family van is prepped.  T minus 30 minutes and counting.  In three days and 1500 miles we'll be at the "next chapter".

(My five year-old, Little Miss Puff, finding nothing else in the house to sit on, has just plopped herself on my back as I lay here in my room and type this post on my phone.  Now, she's singing a snowy Christmas song, with a big finish.  Now she's using the staples still stuck in the baseboard as a makeshift Kalimba.)

We have been - and continue to be - blessed beyond words by the amazing way our family-in-Christ have rallied around us.  Were it not for them, the sheer magnitude of this endeavor would have undone us, weeks ago.  Thank you, Lord, for the many ways You take care of us.

Friends, please continue to pray us to the Northwest.

A shot of encouragement amidst the cacophany of U-Haul boxes

So much craziness now, with 4 days left until Lift-Off!  We've been seeking God's peace and grace among all the tasks.  He remains the "Hub", even as our life's "wheel" seems to be spinning faster!

Had a nice talk tonight with a friend ("CP") whose family will be moving to the same area, around the same time.  We are so grateful to God for the miraculous way he brings people together from all over!  Praise Him for "instant community".

(Read this post from the "Life at Providence Lodge" blog: Caspian)

During our first trip to our new home state, we met a couple in Eureka who had a pair of these big beauties, and we were impressed by how lovable -- yet formidable -- these mountain-bred dogs are.

"So FATHER, we do ask You to grant us land enough to live from, and a sturdy canine or two to guard our home and children."

If you will join with us in prayer for fertile land in NW Montana, please leave a comment on this post.  Thank you all for your dear fellowship in Christ.

A moment of silence, please

You know, it was generally a good day.

Reserved the moving truck?  Check.
Packed more boxes?  Check.
Changed poopy diapers with a smile?  Check... times 3!
Destroy the fabled Calvi Playhouse?  Check.
Go on a date with the Mrs. to Yellow Deli?  Check.


"...WHOA, HOLD THE PHONE.  Back up just a bit.
You did what to the playhouse?"

Well, I didn't actually destroy it.  Here's how it went.


We decided yesterday that, while the idea sounded great at first, there was no way we could take the playhouse with us to our new home 1,300 miles away.  So I Craigslisted it under the "FREE STUFF" section...


I got over 20 calls in less than 1 hour.  My phone was ringing off the hook!  So, I briefly tried to test the "bites" and see if I could persuade any of the calls to pay some cash for it.   You know, auction it to the highest bidder?  Well, that didn't take.  No one wanted to spend the time and energy disassembling and hauling off a 2,000-pound playhouse, and have to pay for it, too.  So, back to "free" it went.


Now, when I built this thing, I had my 5 children's safety in mind above all else.  So I double-screwed every joint (pretty much).  Little did I know how hard that would make it to take apart!  (My new "Craigs-friends" Franky & Johnny (NTRN's) would later say that the house was built like a tank.)


I spent a lot of time, money, love and attention on that little shack.  And now, she's gone in 5 hours.  I think I underestimated how much this "donation" would take the wind out of my sails.  Still, in all of this, I have learned how to build, how to tear down; how to create and how to let go of the creation.


And that was just from a little 6'x8' shack.  I can't imagine how challenging it will be to "let go" of any of my children as they carve out their own futures and families.  I mean, it's hard enough leaving my church, my home state, my income and my career.  :-)

My cousin "Gerri"

So, I'm reading the Living Freedom blog from Claire Wolfe (of Backwoods Home Magazine fame), and who should I see - incognito - but my cool cousin "Gerri"?  How fun.

Living Freedom » Blog Archive » The First Annual Girls-Only Peep Shoot and Melon Exploding Expo

FAQ #1

Why are you leaving Southern California?
     We have lived in SoCal all of our lives (except for Ric's 2-year tour with the U.S. Army in Fort Stewart, GA), and since we were married, we have always dreamed of a more rural existence among wide-open spaces ("WOS").  It just so happens that most of our dearest, most trustworthy friends are "transplants" from other U.S. regions, who have given us a glimpse into other lifestyles and viewpoints.
     We have seen, firsthand and for decades, how this densely-populated area has become heavily-dependent on convenience, consumerism and spurious entertainment.  We believe this "colonized" mindset infiltrates all facets of life here, including matters and practices of faith.  In short, it sort of resembles a modern "Tower of Babel".  So, in order to pursue an environment that has the propensity toward greater peace and sustainability, we believe it's in our best interest to relocate, that we may begin "A Different Legacy".

Why Montana?
     Short question, long answer(s).  Ready?

1. Our country was founded as a Republic, not a Democracy (see the John Birch Society's "Overview of America"... go ahead and view all 29 minutes of this extraordinary video).  However, our legislators here in the Golden State seem to have forgotten that.  Or maybe they were never taught that, having been largely educated in the public/government school system.  Well, the truth of the matter, I regrettably inform you, is that they want the people to remain ignorant of their history, that they may annihilate our Republic from the inside out, creating something exactly opposite in its place.  (This is a recurring cycle in history, that most people are too complacent to recognize, let alone act on.)  The United States' founding documents, most notably the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were written, I surmise, to empower her citizens against the tyranny of an all-encompassing and invasive government — whether from distant shores, or right in our midst.  My research and recent experience has led me to believe that Montana is among the more Constitutionally-governed states... while California government continues in a trend toward the opposite, invading every conceivable sphere of our existence.  One can hardly buy a light bulb or flush a toilet without this state's government — and even the federal government — dictating how.
2. Montana has huckleberries!  'Nuff said.
3. Natural resources and plenty of water?  Got 'em!
4. No state sales tax.
5. Average number of firearms per household?  Twenty-Seven!  Mm, Mm-mmm!  (This document lists a lot of reasons to live there.)
6. "I'm... dreaming of a.... _________ ___________" (Yes, yes, I'm aware that the novelty of snow will wear off faster than I can say "below zero".  Still, this will be the first time in 15 years that I will be listening to Christmas music for purely non-professional reasons!)
7. The more harsh the climate, the more "filtered" the population.
8. Buying land is actually an attainable goal.
9. Together as a family, we want to take on the challenge of a more God-reliant, agrarian lifestyle.  We believe that as national and international events continue to unfold, greater skill in self-sustenance will be absolutely vital.  If/when "Grid" systems fail due to natural or artificial causes, we would like to be able to experience very little interruption of our normal standard of living.  So, becoming less reliant on large-scale systems of convenience can equate to becoming more reliant on Christ and His work in and through us.  That is our hope, in Him.

     I could go on and on, but the real bottom line is that we Calvi's are united in our belief that the Spirit of the Lord — for some as-yet undisclosed reason(s) — is calling us there.  And where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. (2 Corinthians 3:12, 17 / John 3:8)

     "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." — Joshua 1:9 (emphasis mine)

Thomas Aquinas

“To one who has faith, no explanation is necessary. To one without faith, no explanation is possible.”

Oh, the humanity!

Here's something I'll have to (ouch!) get used to living without:

Full Circle

I want to tell you a story, one that started eight years ago.

I was sitting in my new office at Daybreak Church, which (at the time) shared a door with the main sanctuary, which I had propped open.  I was working at my desk, and the sanctuary was unlit.  Out of the corner of my eye, I saw someone walk to the front row of chairs, and kneel down quietly to pray, probably counting on being unseen.  When I looked over at him, I realized he was a military (Navy) guy, in fatigues.  When he was done praying, I introduced myself to him, and we started a friendly dialogue that has only deepened and broadened these last eight years.  Today, I count him as a brother-from-another-mother, one of my closest friends, whom I would trust not only with my life, but with my family's lives as well.  He is significantly larger than me in stature (a nice feature to have in a friend, but not so much in enemies), and yet his meekness and humility have always exemplified Christ in a very real way.  Through all the trials we have helped each other bear, through all the victories, he has become one of what we call "the 2a.m. phone call club".  I don't have to explain that one.

So it was a fitting and divine appointment that, recently on one of my last days in the main sanctuary of our church, I should unexpectedly find him once again, in uniform, come to lay his burdens before the Lord in prayer.  My friend — and you know who you are — you truly are "God's Man".  I hope to find that the Lord brings your family, also, to the Flathead Valley soon.  You have my deepest respect and gratitude for your permanent friendship.

Sunday, Sunday, Sunday!

Yesterday was my last Sunday leading worship for the foreseeable future.  But now that I think about it, all of the future is unforeseeable, right?  Who knows what I'll be doing with my time, even a month from now?  I think a little "new home vacation" might be in order.  We'll need a little "pause" to enjoy this change with our kids... in "God's Country".  :-)

All my brothers and sisters in Christ here have been so encouraging and generous these last few weeks — as usual, of course, but it seems concentrated, lately.  (It feels like I've put on at least 5 pounds from all the "farewell lunches" I've been invited to!)  Everything seems so surreal right now.  Right now I'm fighting off a headache, from lack of sleep, but I'm sure that some unexpressed emotion or stress has something to do with it.  We trust God for the outcome of all of this, but the "legwork" required is quite dizzying.  Even so, the little miracles he provides are evidence of His concern for even the smallest details.  Like this:

Today, I sent off a rental application to a property management group in Kalispell, and what should come across my desk today, but an anonymous greeting card with the exact amount of the rental application fee enclosed!  Wow!

Please pray for us as we look for the joy and excitement amidst all the busy-ness of uprooting and replanting our lives.

Bartles & Jaymes

How many of you remember this slogan of those "pioneers of the wine cooler"?

"Thank you for your support, and keep those cards and letters coming."  :-)

I'd like to piggy-back off of that sentiment by asking those of you who in the blogosphere to leave comments on these posts, whenever you feel like it.  It's good to know who's out there!

Have a blessed day.

--rc

Quote of the Day

"The king is not saved by his great army; a warrior is not delivered by his great strength. The war horse is a false hope for salvation, and by its great might it cannot rescue."
http://bible.us/Ps33.16.ESV

Ozzie nails it

A timely message...

My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers

Moving Day looms large in the near future

I've always said how much I hate moving.  You know what I mean — all the junk-purging, box-labeling, dust-bunny killing, muscle-wrenching, BenGay-smelling madness.  It's enough to convince even the most nomadic wanderer to plunk down roots FOREVER!


(OK, I went away there for a while, but I'm back now...)

Anyway, all that angst aside, it is gloriously invigorating to imagine our family in a completely different life.  And perhaps this "imagining" is a clue to my greatest struggle during this season of my life.  You see, by design and default, I am what I call a "realist".  (My DW jokingly refers to my "pessimism" as the providential opposite of her optimism.)  Not only do I see the glass as half-empty quite often, I often take it to the extreme (another of my wife's wise assessments :-) by brooding over such other related topics:

• How in the world am I going to procure the H2O necessary to fill that glass enough to hydrate my entire family?
• How can I make sure that the water in that glass is a refreshing 60°F in the summer, and how can I be sure that I don't freeze my glass off in the Montana Winter?
• What if I can't find employment or a source of revenue sufficient enough to afford the glass rental?
• When will I be able to afford a down payment on my own little 10-acre glass?

My only hope, my only anchor is my Sovereign, King Jesus.  As I look back over the course of my life — and my family's — I know he's had me covered, all along.  So, I have no reason to entertain and nurture the fear that He will all-of-a-sudden just up and desert me.  He does love me, after all, and even good old Apostle Peter says I can throw all my cares on Him, 'cuz He cares for me!  (1 Peter 5:6-11)

So today, I'm going to take one step at a time.  I'm going to do what I can do, and leave the rest (and there is a lot more, let me tell you) to God.  I'm going to IMAGINE the BEST.  I hear Him speaking to my heart, "Go ahead and move forward, I'll never leave you, I'll never forsake you.  Be strong and courageous...
...and go ahead and jump in the glass, the water's fine."

And in the words of the Reverend James Cleveland:
"I... don't... feel no-ways tired!
I've come too far from where I've started from
Nobody told me the road would be easy,
But I don't believe He brought me this far
to just leave me!"

"...Yes, it's gonna take a miracle..."

I've entered into a dialogue with someone on the inside.  Someone who, for the last 7 years, has been living the life we're aiming for.
Let me tell you -- from what I'm hearing, we're in for a rough ride.
From a human standpoint, we are conspicuously lacking in skills, money and experience.  Every time I receive a correspondence from my new friend (and he is undoubtedly a friend, as evidenced by his generosity, concern and candor!), I find myself wanting to... I don't know — cry, maybe.
But here's the thing: I believe it would be both foolish and unconscionable to revert to the "familiar" existence I've known thus far.  Indeed, it seems the Lord has providentially prevented us from doing so.  So my family finds ourselves at a crisis of faith...
Move forward into the unknown, armed with nothing but faith — or stay with what is comfortable and familiar.  Never before has it become so necessary for us to take Jesus at His word in Matthew 6:25-34.
Please, friends, pray for us.  "Lord, we believe -- help our unbelief."

Sweetpea amazes me.

My (almost) 15-year-old daughter just sent her old man the most amazing text message:

"I just wanted to tell you that I am overwhelmed by the blessing God gave me through you.  You're the dad every girl dreams of having (if they don't have one almost as good).  I can't imagine life without you, and if I try, I feel like I could cry for a year straight.  Or more.  I was telling Mommy yesterday that I want to marry someone just like you.  You are my hero, my role model, comfort, protector, source of wisdom, and one of my best friends.  The list goes way on.  I just love you."

Yes, my friends (snif, snif) — these are the things dreams are made of!  Praise God from whom all blessings flow... to Him alone be the glory for the things He has done!

--rc

Aim High

As a child of the Living God, I aim to live by the Scriptures - that is, the Bible - and as a citizen of the United States of America, I aim to live by the Constitution.  Here I stand, I can do no other.

-rc

Where can I get a copy?

Finally!  Someone crystalizes what we've been wrestling with for years!

Watch "Consuming Kids: The Commercialization of Childhood (Trailer)" on YouTube