A Journey

I'm going on a journey.

It was not a trip that I ever thought I would take. I actually assumed that I would never go. But I did do the preparation work needed to take this journey, years ago.

Actually, this journey started January 7th in a remote place several hours from my home. I thought it would be a day trip. A short jaunt and then back to my simple life in upstate New York.

But it seems that this trip will be extended.

I need my VISA, my insurance card and minimal luggage for this trip.

But more than that, I need a foundation, the one that has sustained me, over the last forty-two years. This journey requires a particular part of my covenant, based on a Savior and His Word. A Word that does not lie. Studying, teaching, practicing concepts, those He bought for us, are the concrete and blocks of this foundation.

This will be a journey to several new locations and I will meet many intelligent and dedicated people. They will tell me where to go and what to do and how to do it. I'm not in charge of this itinerary, and I will accept their lead and direction.

Does a long and difficult journey require a departure address?

I don't know, but here is mine....

"My mouth shall show forth your righteousness and your salvation all the day; for I know not the numbers thereof.

I will go in the strength of the Lord God, I will make mention of your righteousness, even of yours only,

O God, you have taught me from my youth; and hitherto have I declared your wondrous works.

Now also when I am old and greyheaded, O God, forsake me not; until I have showed your strength unto this generation and your power to every one that is to come."

Psalm 71:15-19

Oklahoma Digs

Yes, it's cold out and I have not been outside for nine days now.

I'm still wondering how those tiny little birds stay alive outside in weather like this!

Only two short weeks ago we stopped outside 34 to say good bye again. I think Otis is going to be lonely.


Yes, the three of us rode in the cab of the blue truck for 1470 miles, only 23 hours and 12 minutes by google map! It was not that bad and Otis was extremely patient.


Stillwater is almost to Texas. It is cowboy land. Big sky and tremendous horizons. And big grain elevators in the middle of downtown. The university is huge with a gorgeous campus. I was only there for two days and the day I was leaving we were supposed to go and investigate the campus but it didn't work out. Hence, no pictures. Hopefully, Jon will get a camera soon and show us the buildings that he works in.



We set the apartment up quickly. He has nice digs. Hope he has some time to enjoy them. I think he spent the weekend with the food animals and dealing with some crises,

New Year's Day

I like to have all my peeps around me.

It's selfish, I know, and doesn't happen enough for my tastes. But we were all together on New Years Day. Ethan was up from the city, Laura was back from the midwest, Jon was in his final preparation for his next destination, and we were together for a great meal, prepared solely by Elizabeth and Laura at 34.

I guess I have just given my heart away to this small band of people I call family.

There is something comforting in their collective presence. Fun to sit back and listen to their banter. Stories of fantasy hockey, dogs, work stories, vet stories, community gossip, dogs, neighborhood interactions, questions about each of their new years, and did I mention, dog stories.

Yes, there's something comforting about tradition, plans, agendas, and promises kept.

We've learned a lot this year. Especially to live actively in the present.

But emergencies come and wildfires flare up, and we are caught in the never ending drama of real life.

Fears grip tight. And cause us to want to flee or escape or meditate on anxiety about the future.

But faith loosens strongholds and the Word of God brings light and hope.

And as we have done in the past, we take a thought and bring it into captivity, making it obedient to Jesus.