Sunday, August 21, 2016

As the week begins: “Are you true to your calling?”

As the week begins, I am asking you, “Are you true to your calling?”

I met Sue Hogan originally at the Seattle University’s School of Theology and Ministry. When she became as a resident of mine, Mama Sue left an unframed piece on my desk. I framed it, and I take in the words in each morning. Mama Sue’s friend, Sister Joyce Roach, O.P. created it.

I am called daily to Living Stones Ministries Rock On! As the week begins, I give gratitude to my friends and the strangers, who continue to be supportive of this venture.

I also give gratitude to my most recent supporters including Deb, Diane and Theresa; friends in Bremerton, who made yarn and loom donations; my friend Michael, who will be making a donation of his talent to raise funds; and even the staff at The Central. As I ate my turkey wrap, the staff at The Central shared with me about the neighborhood so I took the time to look in the faces of those in need, and possible ways to serve.

Mostly, a big thank you to my new friend, Keri Pollack, who believes in my projects and those I am serving. She has connected me with a possible partner for Living Stones. Loving it!

A previous team member and always a friend, Michael appeared at my office door one morning. He presented me with a painting, “The Holy City of Juju.” I was surprised. I never knew Michael had this talent and developed it.




How blessed are you
for you have remained
true to your calling
and have carried the torch
of light for all to see.

You are an
instrument of change,
a prophet of hope,
a catalyst for transformation!

Be glad and rejoice,
For you are the voice
Of a new creation
And you are the
new light of the word.

Thursday, August 4, 2016

More Gravy, Please!



Grandma Ruby and Grandpa Kenny celebrated a birthday in the 1980’s.



My Grandma Ruby (Figert) Kirby would have been 99 today. She passed away at 95. I celebrate her and the memories of the old farmhouse in Wabash, Indiana, which was filled the smells and sounds of the fried chicken crackling away in the frying pan or as Grandma would say, “The chicken is in the electric skillet.” I loved eating the fried chicken as much as hearing my Grandma saying ‘the electric skillet.’

The gravy was delicious she made after the chicken popped and crackled in the electric skillet. Life needs to have more gravy. Yum and more gravy, please!



My Aunt Judy or Uncle Roger shot this photo of Grandma Ruby with her sister-in-law, Arline and sister, ReBerta (Bert). Besides celebrating Grandma Ruby, my Great Aunt Arline had her birthday a few days ago, and she is in her nineties and living on her own.  Arline is a hoot and a holler! My Great Aunt Bert passed away at the age of 92 on May 15, 2014. Bert certainly lived life each day in between her dash between birth and death.