The summer of 2015 has been a hot one!
At least every week we have experienced 30+ degrees Celsius for a day or two. It is glorious at the beach; not so much when trying to get any outdoor work done.
Over the weekend, Walter and I (and our daughter, Caylea) helped my step-mom move to a new senior's apartment. She and Dad had shared the previous two-bedroom suite for almost ten years, including Pepper the cat. Dinah wrestled with moving, parting with memories and having to give away her companion to a good home (her son, Lance, took the 14-year old cat into his home). But all of us kids supported her in moving into a brand-new apartment in a 55+ senior's complex, complete with elevator and a garbage chute on her floor.
The two guys from the moving company were perspiring heavily within the first 20 minutes of moving furniture and boxes down half a flight of stairs. The heat by 9:30 am this fine July Saturday was stifling and humid. As we helped sort, give direction and load up our vehicles with odds and ends that Dinah didn't want in the moving van, we were also sweating profusely! By mid-afternoon, she was moved into her new abode with rooms beginning to take shape.
We took a coffee break when her youngest son, Scott and wife and family joined us. Then they assisted in organizing the labelled boxes into the appropriate rooms and stacked them out of the traffic flow.
The movers were a help but were also painful to watch. Slow, but careful. We chose to organize things and set up beds and other items just so they could continue to haul in the heavy and awkward stuff.
Caylea and I made another trip to the old apartment to haul over the refrigerator contents. Unfortunately in all the excitement and confusion, I forgot the keys, so we made a detour and headed back to the new place. Sigh! Details, details!
By 6 pm, the cable guy was showing up to do his "technical thing"; we ordered pizza for a late supper and ate it in front of him, feeling a little guilty but we couldn't really unpack while he was back and forth into 2 or 3 rooms for about an hour total.
Finally, the three of us from my household called it a day. Dinah had to unpack and set up her home according to her preferences. Our services were no longer required and we were ready to relax.
Now today-Monday-was cleaning up the old place on the agenda. In a virtually empty suite, the cleaning went quickly. In 2 1/2 hours we had everything up to Dinah's clean standards. Hauling the last stray items in pouring rain (is that better than 30 degrees?), I decided I was done with moving! I can't imagine what Walter and I would have to sort and downsize in order to relocate.
I am so happy for Dinah to have a fresh start in a new place that she can call her own.
May God bless her!
Monday, 27 July 2015
Wednesday, 22 July 2015
I must be honest.
I have struggled with adjusting to our new ministry style as Healing Hearts Ministry has grown.
God gave us an opportunity to participate in a pastor's retreat at Kerith Pines Retreat centre at East Braintree, Manitoba. It was kind of a last minute thing, but we had the week open on our calendar. We had wanted to check this out, for ourselves personally but also to see if it is a possible resource to recommend to our Healing Hearts staff. So we packed up our Jetta and drove 8 hours.
A brand new lodge had been constructed on a lovely piece of forested land just before the Whiteshell Provincial Park. We pulled in to the parking area and were greeted by the host staff. Entering the beautiful spacious foyer, we probably looked like the Beverly Hillbillies gawking around at their Hollywood mansion! We were shown upstairs to our private suite, tastefully decorated in very modern furnishings and artwork, in grey with orange accents.
The meals and the accommodations were definitely 5-star quality. With the other two ministry couples and the staff, we were a small and intimate group. Walter and I relaxed, took walks or drives, even rode the bicycle built for two-now that was an experience for trust-building and teamwork in marriage!
But the highlights for us were the sessions we had with the teaching/facilitating couple. Three private sessions were scheduled for us to go over the Taylor-Johnson and Meyers/Briggs tests we completed prior to going to the retreat. In this way, the staff could anticipate and get to know our needs and how they could minister to us. So we wanted to take advantage of this chance to improve our own relationship and discuss anything God might point out to us while we were here.
Well, when you pray that way, God tends to answer directly! Our first session was mostly evaluating the evaluation of our personal preferences. It helped to know we are people in process, and that God is not finished His work in us.
Our second session was actually quite intense as we discovered some conflicts that we hadn't really resolved. In fact, they were the type of conflicts that resurface and repeat. We realized part of our personality differences (one of us being more impulsive and the other preferring "ducks in a row") played against our childhood issues and we had never really got to the bottom of these tensions. After 26 years of marriage, we still had things to learn about ourselves and each other!
Sam and Pauline were very competent listeners and counselors. It is not easy to counsel people who also DO counseling as part of their ministry! So we appreciated their insightful questions and comments to us. Gentle yet firm. Direct yet loving. God really met us.
We took the discussion beyond that meeting and continued to seek the Lord. The next session we talked things through and then shared some specifics we wanted to implement in our lives, especially around keeping our home as a base for us and our family as our kids are in the midst of launching.
And I committed myself to trusting Walter and the Lord more in how our new ministry lifestyle is developing. I needed to let go of the way things had been, the role I had settled into and the changes to the "ducks" in my life. I saw how I do have a place and calling; it just looks different as we work with missionary staff, not necessarily the folks who are yet to come to Christ.
As we drove away from the beautiful retreat setting, we set our sights on home, on the future. I know I felt challenged and refreshed. My attitude had been adjusted and I had hope that my ministry could have impact, not because of ME but as I prayed, "More of You, Lord and less of me."
P.S. ~ We would highly recommend Kerith Pines for those in ministry, whether married or single. I was glad we went at a time when we were NOT in crisis, but could hear God's voice in the quiet of that place. They hold retreats once a month so call or check out their website to see if this is something for you or ministry folks you know who could benefit from such an opportunity.
I have struggled with adjusting to our new ministry style as Healing Hearts Ministry has grown.
God gave us an opportunity to participate in a pastor's retreat at Kerith Pines Retreat centre at East Braintree, Manitoba. It was kind of a last minute thing, but we had the week open on our calendar. We had wanted to check this out, for ourselves personally but also to see if it is a possible resource to recommend to our Healing Hearts staff. So we packed up our Jetta and drove 8 hours.
A brand new lodge had been constructed on a lovely piece of forested land just before the Whiteshell Provincial Park. We pulled in to the parking area and were greeted by the host staff. Entering the beautiful spacious foyer, we probably looked like the Beverly Hillbillies gawking around at their Hollywood mansion! We were shown upstairs to our private suite, tastefully decorated in very modern furnishings and artwork, in grey with orange accents.
The meals and the accommodations were definitely 5-star quality. With the other two ministry couples and the staff, we were a small and intimate group. Walter and I relaxed, took walks or drives, even rode the bicycle built for two-now that was an experience for trust-building and teamwork in marriage!
But the highlights for us were the sessions we had with the teaching/facilitating couple. Three private sessions were scheduled for us to go over the Taylor-Johnson and Meyers/Briggs tests we completed prior to going to the retreat. In this way, the staff could anticipate and get to know our needs and how they could minister to us. So we wanted to take advantage of this chance to improve our own relationship and discuss anything God might point out to us while we were here.
Well, when you pray that way, God tends to answer directly! Our first session was mostly evaluating the evaluation of our personal preferences. It helped to know we are people in process, and that God is not finished His work in us.
Our second session was actually quite intense as we discovered some conflicts that we hadn't really resolved. In fact, they were the type of conflicts that resurface and repeat. We realized part of our personality differences (one of us being more impulsive and the other preferring "ducks in a row") played against our childhood issues and we had never really got to the bottom of these tensions. After 26 years of marriage, we still had things to learn about ourselves and each other!
Sam and Pauline were very competent listeners and counselors. It is not easy to counsel people who also DO counseling as part of their ministry! So we appreciated their insightful questions and comments to us. Gentle yet firm. Direct yet loving. God really met us.
We took the discussion beyond that meeting and continued to seek the Lord. The next session we talked things through and then shared some specifics we wanted to implement in our lives, especially around keeping our home as a base for us and our family as our kids are in the midst of launching.
And I committed myself to trusting Walter and the Lord more in how our new ministry lifestyle is developing. I needed to let go of the way things had been, the role I had settled into and the changes to the "ducks" in my life. I saw how I do have a place and calling; it just looks different as we work with missionary staff, not necessarily the folks who are yet to come to Christ.
As we drove away from the beautiful retreat setting, we set our sights on home, on the future. I know I felt challenged and refreshed. My attitude had been adjusted and I had hope that my ministry could have impact, not because of ME but as I prayed, "More of You, Lord and less of me."
P.S. ~ We would highly recommend Kerith Pines for those in ministry, whether married or single. I was glad we went at a time when we were NOT in crisis, but could hear God's voice in the quiet of that place. They hold retreats once a month so call or check out their website to see if this is something for you or ministry folks you know who could benefit from such an opportunity.
Saturday, 18 July 2015
The sky was blue and clear, almost cloudless. With only the morning to spend doing whatever was most on our "wish-list", Janet and I chose to get up and after a quick breakfast, take another walk to her special spot overlooking the Yukon River.
We followed the paved path circling the man-made lake, past new homes in the subdivision and then Janet located the path through the woods. I didn't recognize the path, coming from a different direction, and the first time through we were talking so I wasn't paying attention to navigating. At any rate, the coolness and freshness through the wooded area was lovely and emerging over that rise was just as breathtaking the second time!
We walked slowly along the high bank, admiring the beauty, enjoying the warmth of this June morning. I was intentionally praying and seeking opportunity to share what God had shown me that morning in my quiet time. Janet and I sat down on the sparse grass growing in sandy soil. Small wildflowers graced the bank. Birds sang; and two eagles were sitting in their nest in an evergreen tree across the channel. I chose to speak up.
I shared with Janet how I looked out my bedroom window at the purplish, hazy mountains and thought of Psalm 125. The psalmist found such comfort in the mountains and ultimately to the Lord who made them. From my bedroom window in Regina, Saskatchewan, I don't have the luxury or privilege of gazing at majestic mountains and experiencing that inspiration. We laughed at the irony of that scripture for prairie folks!
"Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved but abides forever. As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds His people..."
These words felt so right to speak to Janet, as she and Tony and their family faced some challenging times. They are a family who serves the Lord in ministry, who have been faithful and trustworthy servants of the Gospel of Christ. Yet they are going through health and other trials that are testing them deeply. I shared how God seemed to be saying that they cannot be moved, that as they trust in God, their Lord, He will surround them and give them His abiding presence that is mighty and eternal.
In light of the unknown details of their future, I shared how the last verse of the psalm was such a wonderful promise..."Peace be upon Israel." Ultimately, God wanted to give Janet (and their whole family) His peace. No matter what was to come. No matter how details played out.
I told Janet that I would always read this psalm with the image of these mountains in my mind, reminding me of God's Word, promises, peace...this trip and special time spent with her, my friend!
As we took some time to pray for and with each other before heading back to prepare for my flight home, the eagles took flight and it was such a divine gift. God's presence was very real, through His creation. Isaiah 40:31, rising up with wings as eagles...
Making our way down the path, it was bittersweet knowing in mere hours this long-awaited adventure would end. Packing my bags and double-checking my boarding passes and passport, my heart felt heavy. It would be months, maybe a year or two before Janet and I would see each other again. But we kept on talking while browsing around the old downtown gift shops for some souvenirs to take back home. We stopped in at Tim Horton's for me to grab lunch food and then before I knew it, we pulled up at the airport.
Saying good-bye was hard. But it had been such a full and rich time that we knew God would sustain our friendship even though many miles separated us. I pulled my luggage through security, went through with no troubles, and found a seat in the small waiting area. It was full of musicians, folksy looking folks! Must be flying out from the festival that had been held in Haines Junction on the weekend. I wished they would play something while we waited but they were busy chatting, draping themselves over their cases and instruments and carry-on items.
I chewed on my sandwich and relaxed as I anticipated the three flights that would lead me back home.
Several hours later, my heart pounded at the sight of Regina's city lights. The darkness, actual darkness, seemed foreign after five days of virtually constant daylight! It was wonderful to be welcomed by my husband's embrace and share the highlights of my journey.
Until my next adventure...
We followed the paved path circling the man-made lake, past new homes in the subdivision and then Janet located the path through the woods. I didn't recognize the path, coming from a different direction, and the first time through we were talking so I wasn't paying attention to navigating. At any rate, the coolness and freshness through the wooded area was lovely and emerging over that rise was just as breathtaking the second time!
We walked slowly along the high bank, admiring the beauty, enjoying the warmth of this June morning. I was intentionally praying and seeking opportunity to share what God had shown me that morning in my quiet time. Janet and I sat down on the sparse grass growing in sandy soil. Small wildflowers graced the bank. Birds sang; and two eagles were sitting in their nest in an evergreen tree across the channel. I chose to speak up.
I shared with Janet how I looked out my bedroom window at the purplish, hazy mountains and thought of Psalm 125. The psalmist found such comfort in the mountains and ultimately to the Lord who made them. From my bedroom window in Regina, Saskatchewan, I don't have the luxury or privilege of gazing at majestic mountains and experiencing that inspiration. We laughed at the irony of that scripture for prairie folks!
"Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved but abides forever. As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds His people..."
These words felt so right to speak to Janet, as she and Tony and their family faced some challenging times. They are a family who serves the Lord in ministry, who have been faithful and trustworthy servants of the Gospel of Christ. Yet they are going through health and other trials that are testing them deeply. I shared how God seemed to be saying that they cannot be moved, that as they trust in God, their Lord, He will surround them and give them His abiding presence that is mighty and eternal.
In light of the unknown details of their future, I shared how the last verse of the psalm was such a wonderful promise..."Peace be upon Israel." Ultimately, God wanted to give Janet (and their whole family) His peace. No matter what was to come. No matter how details played out.
I told Janet that I would always read this psalm with the image of these mountains in my mind, reminding me of God's Word, promises, peace...this trip and special time spent with her, my friend!
As we took some time to pray for and with each other before heading back to prepare for my flight home, the eagles took flight and it was such a divine gift. God's presence was very real, through His creation. Isaiah 40:31, rising up with wings as eagles...
Making our way down the path, it was bittersweet knowing in mere hours this long-awaited adventure would end. Packing my bags and double-checking my boarding passes and passport, my heart felt heavy. It would be months, maybe a year or two before Janet and I would see each other again. But we kept on talking while browsing around the old downtown gift shops for some souvenirs to take back home. We stopped in at Tim Horton's for me to grab lunch food and then before I knew it, we pulled up at the airport.
Saying good-bye was hard. But it had been such a full and rich time that we knew God would sustain our friendship even though many miles separated us. I pulled my luggage through security, went through with no troubles, and found a seat in the small waiting area. It was full of musicians, folksy looking folks! Must be flying out from the festival that had been held in Haines Junction on the weekend. I wished they would play something while we waited but they were busy chatting, draping themselves over their cases and instruments and carry-on items.
I chewed on my sandwich and relaxed as I anticipated the three flights that would lead me back home.
Several hours later, my heart pounded at the sight of Regina's city lights. The darkness, actual darkness, seemed foreign after five days of virtually constant daylight! It was wonderful to be welcomed by my husband's embrace and share the highlights of my journey.
Monday, 13 July 2015
Last full day in the Yukon with my dear friend...
Sunday morning is always the beginning of a wonderful day when you serve the Lord. I awoke and set my thoughts on Him. Not difficult when that amazing view out my window reminded me of His faithfulness and good gifts to His children! I quietly prepared myself for church by showering and laying out my outfit; I also prepared by reading Scripture and praying. It was blissful to have nothing else to do and no one else to worry about except my own personal readiness for the house of the Lord.
After another tasty breakfast together, Janet and I drove to church by ourselves. Tony was on the worship team so had already been at the church for an hour to practice. Brett and Justin were unable to come to the morning service due to health issues. And Elijah left early to pick up a friend.
Its always a little disconcerting when I am about to enter a new environment. Whitehorse Baptist Church was a new environment to me and I wondered how the service would be. We pulled up and parked about half a block behind the church building. The day was warm and slightly cloudy. As we walked into the old-style building, with a small foyer in light brown paneling, I felt at home. It reminded me of the little Alliance Church in Arcola, Saskatchewan, where I went to youth group in highschool. The only differences were chairs instead of pews and a full worship band up front rather than a pulpit and single piano!
We slipped into the second row, middle section with just a few minutes before the service began. I enjoyed the music and knew all but one song. Then a unique feature: their associate pastor was away for wilderness safety training and did a brief video of the announcements for the upcoming the week. He ended with a dramatic dunking of his head into the frigid Yukon River!
Janet and I gave each other a meaningful look when the pastor revealed the title of his message: prayer. With the very special times we had enjoyed in the Word and praying together, this was "icing on the cake" as the saying goes. She took notes and even picked up the handout with quotes on prayer. I can never get enough on that subject!
I turned around at the close of the service to greet the Ens kids sitting behind us. Chris was the only son I had not seen yet, so it was nice to catch up on his life and work. My knowledge of his line of expertise, mechanics, is limited, but I did converse somewhat intelligently on the old 1928 Dodge Brothers car that Walter is rebuilding. I used terms like "flat-head six" and "suicide doors" so hopefully he was impressed!
The plan was to have lunch at a nearby park but all their sons were otherwise occupied. So Tony, Janet and I went back to change and then load up the food for a simple weiner/smokey roast. Nothing tastes as good as meat cooked over an open fire. We enjoyed a pleasant meal and afternoon in a park that is actually about 15 or 20 minutes away from Whitehorse proper, yet is still within city limits! It got warm enough to pull our lawn chairs into the shade of their vehicle for a while. We chatted, laughed, reminisced and shared as old friends. I missed Walter particularly then and wished we could have shared this trip together! Well, that would have certainly changed the dynamics of the "girls getaway weekend" but Tony would have had guy company then!
Someone glanced at their watch and realized it was almost supper time. We packed up and drove back to their home. Janet quickly prepared a stir-fry for the boys' supper but we weren't all that hungry. I grabbed a coffee while there, knowing it would be a long day yet. Daylight and the fact that this was my last evening meant I would not have trouble falling asleep even with caffeine after 5 pm!
At sometime around 8 pm, Chris picked us up in his suburban and five of us headed up to Grey Mountain. Again this mountain is within the city limits, I believe. We picked up his friend and her mountain bike because Chris and his friend were going to ride the trails up there while we hiked. Crazy Yukoners! So by the time we reach the top of the road (a cell tower perched at the peak), it was already 9 pm and still plenty bright. I was glad to be sitting in the middle seat, not on the edge overlooking the valley! This prairie girl was out of her element up the narrow, winding gravel road. Once at the top, the view in all directions was spectacular. Mountains off in the distance, the Yukon and various other rivers meandering below, dark green trees, tiny specks indicating houses and other points of interest below.
The trail the young people took off on their bikes wound up and then down this mountain. We planned to hike a ways and then text them when we were turning back to the vehicle. (Technology is alive and well, even in such wild and remote country!). Janet had brought a book on plants in the Yukon and we stopped frequently to identify this purple flower or that yellow blossom. I was interested in it all but most were foreign plants to me. Janet laughed at one point as Tony stood patiently up ahead, while we bent down to examine the delicate and short-lived northern vegetation.
"I bet you're glad Cindy is here, or you'd be the one nodding and pretending to be fascinated with my flower fetish!" Tony didn't exactly protest her comment!
Along a particular spot on the trail, we spotted a tiny chipmunk perched on a ledge and munching something tasty! It must have been 15 feet or so above us, not concerned with our noise or business at all. Thankfully, this was our only encounter with any wildlife. No bears! We did hear some beautiful bird calls and I don't think any of us recognized the distinct song/trill.
At some point still quite a distance from the actual summit of the mountain, I mentioned that I was fading a little. Tony and Janet both could have kept going but I think they are in better shape and are used to the altitude. At least, that's my story and I'm sticking with it! We turned around and retraced our steps. I also realized nature was calling and didn't think I could last another hour until we reached civilization. So I wandered down into some cover...at least I thought it was okay until Janet called down that some folks were pulling into the parking area and had a clear view! Glad she had my back on that!
Chris and friend joined us at the Suburban and we drove down the mountain. Although cloudy, it was not even twilight yet at nearly 11 pm! By the time we got to Janet's friends place, we all were quite hungry. So we raided the fridge and warmed up various leftovers. It was so fun!
The guys left when the food was consumed. Janet and I sat up and talked awhile, knowing it was our last precious hours before I flew back home.
Another sweet time of fellowship and my final sleep through the almost
shortest night of the year!
Sunday morning is always the beginning of a wonderful day when you serve the Lord. I awoke and set my thoughts on Him. Not difficult when that amazing view out my window reminded me of His faithfulness and good gifts to His children! I quietly prepared myself for church by showering and laying out my outfit; I also prepared by reading Scripture and praying. It was blissful to have nothing else to do and no one else to worry about except my own personal readiness for the house of the Lord.
After another tasty breakfast together, Janet and I drove to church by ourselves. Tony was on the worship team so had already been at the church for an hour to practice. Brett and Justin were unable to come to the morning service due to health issues. And Elijah left early to pick up a friend.
Its always a little disconcerting when I am about to enter a new environment. Whitehorse Baptist Church was a new environment to me and I wondered how the service would be. We pulled up and parked about half a block behind the church building. The day was warm and slightly cloudy. As we walked into the old-style building, with a small foyer in light brown paneling, I felt at home. It reminded me of the little Alliance Church in Arcola, Saskatchewan, where I went to youth group in highschool. The only differences were chairs instead of pews and a full worship band up front rather than a pulpit and single piano!
We slipped into the second row, middle section with just a few minutes before the service began. I enjoyed the music and knew all but one song. Then a unique feature: their associate pastor was away for wilderness safety training and did a brief video of the announcements for the upcoming the week. He ended with a dramatic dunking of his head into the frigid Yukon River!
Janet and I gave each other a meaningful look when the pastor revealed the title of his message: prayer. With the very special times we had enjoyed in the Word and praying together, this was "icing on the cake" as the saying goes. She took notes and even picked up the handout with quotes on prayer. I can never get enough on that subject!
I turned around at the close of the service to greet the Ens kids sitting behind us. Chris was the only son I had not seen yet, so it was nice to catch up on his life and work. My knowledge of his line of expertise, mechanics, is limited, but I did converse somewhat intelligently on the old 1928 Dodge Brothers car that Walter is rebuilding. I used terms like "flat-head six" and "suicide doors" so hopefully he was impressed!
The plan was to have lunch at a nearby park but all their sons were otherwise occupied. So Tony, Janet and I went back to change and then load up the food for a simple weiner/smokey roast. Nothing tastes as good as meat cooked over an open fire. We enjoyed a pleasant meal and afternoon in a park that is actually about 15 or 20 minutes away from Whitehorse proper, yet is still within city limits! It got warm enough to pull our lawn chairs into the shade of their vehicle for a while. We chatted, laughed, reminisced and shared as old friends. I missed Walter particularly then and wished we could have shared this trip together! Well, that would have certainly changed the dynamics of the "girls getaway weekend" but Tony would have had guy company then!
Someone glanced at their watch and realized it was almost supper time. We packed up and drove back to their home. Janet quickly prepared a stir-fry for the boys' supper but we weren't all that hungry. I grabbed a coffee while there, knowing it would be a long day yet. Daylight and the fact that this was my last evening meant I would not have trouble falling asleep even with caffeine after 5 pm!
At sometime around 8 pm, Chris picked us up in his suburban and five of us headed up to Grey Mountain. Again this mountain is within the city limits, I believe. We picked up his friend and her mountain bike because Chris and his friend were going to ride the trails up there while we hiked. Crazy Yukoners! So by the time we reach the top of the road (a cell tower perched at the peak), it was already 9 pm and still plenty bright. I was glad to be sitting in the middle seat, not on the edge overlooking the valley! This prairie girl was out of her element up the narrow, winding gravel road. Once at the top, the view in all directions was spectacular. Mountains off in the distance, the Yukon and various other rivers meandering below, dark green trees, tiny specks indicating houses and other points of interest below.
The trail the young people took off on their bikes wound up and then down this mountain. We planned to hike a ways and then text them when we were turning back to the vehicle. (Technology is alive and well, even in such wild and remote country!). Janet had brought a book on plants in the Yukon and we stopped frequently to identify this purple flower or that yellow blossom. I was interested in it all but most were foreign plants to me. Janet laughed at one point as Tony stood patiently up ahead, while we bent down to examine the delicate and short-lived northern vegetation.
"I bet you're glad Cindy is here, or you'd be the one nodding and pretending to be fascinated with my flower fetish!" Tony didn't exactly protest her comment!
Along a particular spot on the trail, we spotted a tiny chipmunk perched on a ledge and munching something tasty! It must have been 15 feet or so above us, not concerned with our noise or business at all. Thankfully, this was our only encounter with any wildlife. No bears! We did hear some beautiful bird calls and I don't think any of us recognized the distinct song/trill.
At some point still quite a distance from the actual summit of the mountain, I mentioned that I was fading a little. Tony and Janet both could have kept going but I think they are in better shape and are used to the altitude. At least, that's my story and I'm sticking with it! We turned around and retraced our steps. I also realized nature was calling and didn't think I could last another hour until we reached civilization. So I wandered down into some cover...at least I thought it was okay until Janet called down that some folks were pulling into the parking area and had a clear view! Glad she had my back on that!
Chris and friend joined us at the Suburban and we drove down the mountain. Although cloudy, it was not even twilight yet at nearly 11 pm! By the time we got to Janet's friends place, we all were quite hungry. So we raided the fridge and warmed up various leftovers. It was so fun!
The guys left when the food was consumed. Janet and I sat up and talked awhile, knowing it was our last precious hours before I flew back home.
Another sweet time of fellowship and my final sleep through the almost
Monday, 29 June 2015
No dawdling this fine Saturday morning!
We hurried our breakfast and beauty regimen. Janet brought a book and Bible so we could share devotions somewhere along our road trip. Again, the weather was cloudy and could either pour or clear up so we prepared for it all!
Janet steered the mini-van out of their subdivision, winding through another neighbourhood to point out where her oldest son, Chris, lived and worked. Then we were on the open road, heading some direction that I could not discern. What did God have in store for us today?
Trees, hills, some larger mountains in the distance...wildflowers in bloom on the roadside. I was anxious to see some wildlife, too, especially from the safety of a vehicle! We talked and the miles flew by.
Soon Janet turned off the main highway towards a lake and campground. Their family had often canoed from this point along the river and she wanted to show me some of these special sights.
As we pulled in to an empty campsite, we could see evidence of recent rain. I pulled on a windbreaker jacket and was ready to follow Janet on a tour of this lovely spot.
Mmmm... the fresh scent of evergreen, heightened by the wetness of the rain, filled my nostrils. A waft of campfire drew out the outdoors-woman in me. Our shoes crunched on the gravel road. And the blue-green of the river flowing along a valley of picturesque mountains completed this Yukon postcard moment!
To see the joy in Janet's eyes as we shared this experience made me even happier to be here. Our lives had taken us thousands of miles apart, our families had only spent rare times together and our journeys in ministry had been similar yet quite unique paths. The Selkes were urban church planters; the Ens' were camping, hiking, discipling and teaching focused. But to share these few days in Janet's "happy places" was a gift from God.
It was cool and drizzly as we walked a ways down the narrowing road, so we didn't venture too far. I soaked in the sights, listening to the various stories of Janet and her adventuresome husband and sons on this river. She explained the history and meaning of the various names of places in the area-I should have taken notes so I could pass the fascinating information on in this blog! (We were so busy that I didn't actually get to journal too much.)
Then we headed back to the van to carry on to our desired destination: Haines Junction. It is a crossroads along the Alaska Highway and the road leading to Skagway, Alaska, I believe. A significant centre in First Nations trading, gathering and also a beautiful tourist attraction. So away we went.
The only wildlife we saw were ravens and little bush bunnies (so tiny compared to our beefy jackrabbits in southern Saskatchewan!). We met a couple cars with kayaks or canoes strapped on their roofs. It was a pleasant Saturday in June-perfect for such an outing. Soon, we turned back on the highway and carried on towards Haines Junction.
Soon, a huge patch of purple-magenta wildflowers appeared and Janet was curious to identify them. We both realized we were getting older as both of us loved birds and flowers these days. Much different than our college-years conversations about homework, assignments, boys and our futures!
Then as we drove up a slight rise, a view of the mountains up ahead nearly took my breath away! White, snow-capped peaks emerged, with a slight purple hue because of distance and hazy clouds. All these new and spectacular sights were assaulting my senses! I sat in silence to marvel at the work of God.
And then we arrived in Haines Junction. It was a small community surrounded by huge mountains, with lots of evergreen trees. Many of the buildings were log-constructed and looked very "northern" to me. Janet pointed out various places: cabins they had stayed in, restaurants they had enjoyed and a new cultural centre that was just opening. We saw various people on foot around the town, carrying musical instrument cases and Janet remembered there was a folk festival on this weekend. So we decided to find a place to have lunch before exploring more.
Choosing a cabin-like fast food place called "Frosty's", it at first appeared to only have outdoor tables. We stepped up to the window and ordered our lunch and they promised to bring our food to our table. Then we saw the sign for an indoor dining area and thankfully seated ourselves by a window. It was quaint and warm. We sipped our hot drinks. A few others came in, a mixture of First Nations folks and tourist-types. We continued to chat and enjoyed our tasty lunch.
Anxious to check out the place, we hopped back in the van and turned towards the cultural centre. A big white tent was set up and I assumed it was the folk festival venue. No, it was a gathering of various dance groups from Alaska, Yukon and even the Northwest Territories to celebrate the opening of this cultural centre.
It felt like a God-moment. Our passion and heart for First Nations people became more alive as we shared our experiences and compared the customs of our respective regions of Canada. Single drum and hand drums. Beadwork designs. Characteristic red and black of the coastal people. The ribbon shirts of the prairies.
Everyone gathered in one of the outdoor tents, sheltered from the wind and threatening rain, to watch the Grand Entry of the dancers. The local chief in the Haines Junction area welcomed each guest and then introduced a song written specifically for this event and to welcome or awaken summer. In repeated phrases and hand drum beats and the pounding of decorated wooden boxes, the dancers moved in synchronized rhythm in front of the audience. A row of dignitaries stood on the platform as button blanket capes, woven headdresses, "Eskimo" printed summer parkas, and varied regalia on adult and child danced before us. At least seven rows of fifteen or twenty participants stood in the end. What a beautiful sight as these ones celebrated and enjoyed the event and the gathering!
The speeches of the dignitaries were short and sweet as everyone was becoming chilled outdoors. Then Janet ran into someone she knew and we talked while. They invited us to stay for the supper meal. But we were thinking of heading back to Whitehorse, so I bought an Indian Taco at the canteen, while Janet had bannock and jam. We both had tea, dipped from a big pot on an open fire. On our drive back, we made one stop at a Native cemetery, a short hike up a steep hill. The fenced in area held several graves, each topped with a small house, complete with roof and window. One grave was fenced with a wire enclosure. Unique.
We hiked down towards the creek, discovering a tumbledown cabin in the process. There were so many "Kodak moments". The sun began to shine through a clearing sky. It must have been between 8 and 9 pm and felt like 6 pm in Saskatchewan! We pressed on back to Whitehorse, feeling the fatigue after a stimulating and full day.
Realizing our day had been so full of surprises and blessings we had forgotten to take time for devotions, we quickly changed into our pajamas, made a hot drink and settled into the comfortable furniture for reading and sharing.
That night, we both took a while to fall asleep; the beating drum and swirling fabrics and feathers, the beauty of the scenic drive and images of creeks and cabins filled our minds. Eventually I succumbed to God's rest.
We hurried our breakfast and beauty regimen. Janet brought a book and Bible so we could share devotions somewhere along our road trip. Again, the weather was cloudy and could either pour or clear up so we prepared for it all!
Janet steered the mini-van out of their subdivision, winding through another neighbourhood to point out where her oldest son, Chris, lived and worked. Then we were on the open road, heading some direction that I could not discern. What did God have in store for us today?
Trees, hills, some larger mountains in the distance...wildflowers in bloom on the roadside. I was anxious to see some wildlife, too, especially from the safety of a vehicle! We talked and the miles flew by.
Soon Janet turned off the main highway towards a lake and campground. Their family had often canoed from this point along the river and she wanted to show me some of these special sights.
As we pulled in to an empty campsite, we could see evidence of recent rain. I pulled on a windbreaker jacket and was ready to follow Janet on a tour of this lovely spot.
Mmmm... the fresh scent of evergreen, heightened by the wetness of the rain, filled my nostrils. A waft of campfire drew out the outdoors-woman in me. Our shoes crunched on the gravel road. And the blue-green of the river flowing along a valley of picturesque mountains completed this Yukon postcard moment!
To see the joy in Janet's eyes as we shared this experience made me even happier to be here. Our lives had taken us thousands of miles apart, our families had only spent rare times together and our journeys in ministry had been similar yet quite unique paths. The Selkes were urban church planters; the Ens' were camping, hiking, discipling and teaching focused. But to share these few days in Janet's "happy places" was a gift from God.
It was cool and drizzly as we walked a ways down the narrowing road, so we didn't venture too far. I soaked in the sights, listening to the various stories of Janet and her adventuresome husband and sons on this river. She explained the history and meaning of the various names of places in the area-I should have taken notes so I could pass the fascinating information on in this blog! (We were so busy that I didn't actually get to journal too much.)
Then we headed back to the van to carry on to our desired destination: Haines Junction. It is a crossroads along the Alaska Highway and the road leading to Skagway, Alaska, I believe. A significant centre in First Nations trading, gathering and also a beautiful tourist attraction. So away we went.
The only wildlife we saw were ravens and little bush bunnies (so tiny compared to our beefy jackrabbits in southern Saskatchewan!). We met a couple cars with kayaks or canoes strapped on their roofs. It was a pleasant Saturday in June-perfect for such an outing. Soon, we turned back on the highway and carried on towards Haines Junction.
Soon, a huge patch of purple-magenta wildflowers appeared and Janet was curious to identify them. We both realized we were getting older as both of us loved birds and flowers these days. Much different than our college-years conversations about homework, assignments, boys and our futures!
Then as we drove up a slight rise, a view of the mountains up ahead nearly took my breath away! White, snow-capped peaks emerged, with a slight purple hue because of distance and hazy clouds. All these new and spectacular sights were assaulting my senses! I sat in silence to marvel at the work of God.
And then we arrived in Haines Junction. It was a small community surrounded by huge mountains, with lots of evergreen trees. Many of the buildings were log-constructed and looked very "northern" to me. Janet pointed out various places: cabins they had stayed in, restaurants they had enjoyed and a new cultural centre that was just opening. We saw various people on foot around the town, carrying musical instrument cases and Janet remembered there was a folk festival on this weekend. So we decided to find a place to have lunch before exploring more.
Choosing a cabin-like fast food place called "Frosty's", it at first appeared to only have outdoor tables. We stepped up to the window and ordered our lunch and they promised to bring our food to our table. Then we saw the sign for an indoor dining area and thankfully seated ourselves by a window. It was quaint and warm. We sipped our hot drinks. A few others came in, a mixture of First Nations folks and tourist-types. We continued to chat and enjoyed our tasty lunch.
Anxious to check out the place, we hopped back in the van and turned towards the cultural centre. A big white tent was set up and I assumed it was the folk festival venue. No, it was a gathering of various dance groups from Alaska, Yukon and even the Northwest Territories to celebrate the opening of this cultural centre.
It felt like a God-moment. Our passion and heart for First Nations people became more alive as we shared our experiences and compared the customs of our respective regions of Canada. Single drum and hand drums. Beadwork designs. Characteristic red and black of the coastal people. The ribbon shirts of the prairies.
Everyone gathered in one of the outdoor tents, sheltered from the wind and threatening rain, to watch the Grand Entry of the dancers. The local chief in the Haines Junction area welcomed each guest and then introduced a song written specifically for this event and to welcome or awaken summer. In repeated phrases and hand drum beats and the pounding of decorated wooden boxes, the dancers moved in synchronized rhythm in front of the audience. A row of dignitaries stood on the platform as button blanket capes, woven headdresses, "Eskimo" printed summer parkas, and varied regalia on adult and child danced before us. At least seven rows of fifteen or twenty participants stood in the end. What a beautiful sight as these ones celebrated and enjoyed the event and the gathering!
The speeches of the dignitaries were short and sweet as everyone was becoming chilled outdoors. Then Janet ran into someone she knew and we talked while. They invited us to stay for the supper meal. But we were thinking of heading back to Whitehorse, so I bought an Indian Taco at the canteen, while Janet had bannock and jam. We both had tea, dipped from a big pot on an open fire. On our drive back, we made one stop at a Native cemetery, a short hike up a steep hill. The fenced in area held several graves, each topped with a small house, complete with roof and window. One grave was fenced with a wire enclosure. Unique.
We hiked down towards the creek, discovering a tumbledown cabin in the process. There were so many "Kodak moments". The sun began to shine through a clearing sky. It must have been between 8 and 9 pm and felt like 6 pm in Saskatchewan! We pressed on back to Whitehorse, feeling the fatigue after a stimulating and full day.
Realizing our day had been so full of surprises and blessings we had forgotten to take time for devotions, we quickly changed into our pajamas, made a hot drink and settled into the comfortable furniture for reading and sharing.
That night, we both took a while to fall asleep; the beating drum and swirling fabrics and feathers, the beauty of the scenic drive and images of creeks and cabins filled our minds. Eventually I succumbed to God's rest.
Thursday, 25 June 2015
Yawn! Stretch!
Open my eyes to check the time...8:30?
Where am I?
Oh yeah, Whitehorse! Still seems surreal somehow.
I tip-toe to the bathroom so as not to wake Janet.
I guess she didn't want to wake me either, so was quietly reading in her room.
We had a whole day ahead of us so I didn't rush in getting ready. Pulling up the window shade, I gaze out at the amazing view of mountains and the serene lake behind the house. Giving thanks to my God was not difficult when I saw His handiwork and felt His blessings on my life. I sneak down the stairs to find the fixings for coffee (couldn't find coffee filters so fashioned paper towel in the basket to hold the grounds). A few minutes later, I am armed with a steaming mug and sneak back up to my room.
I take the usual opportunity to begin my day in God's Word and prayer. And then I hear Janet rattling around down in the kitchen, so I make my bed, tidy up the room and join her.
It was lovely to enjoy a leisurely breakfast of baked oatmeal, yogurt and fruit. The day looked to be pleasant outside, but a few clouds were scattered in the June sky.
Rather than rushing off, we decided to spend some time sharing some of the things we had been reading lately and take time to pray together. What a rich time! How often do missionary wives, with children, have the freedom to lounge around and simply fellowship with dear friends? The next thing we know, it is lunch time!
We made a quick sandwich and headed out to the MacBride Museum in downtown Whitehorse. Janet wound around the new traffic circle near the subdivision and drove into the city. We passed several businesses, made a turn or two and then found the museum located on a main street near the Yukon River. Inside the main building, we looked at some First Nations bead work and other artifacts of the area. The next section had stuffed animals native to the Yukon: bears, coyotes, various birds and I think even an albino moose! In the background was the call of an owl. No matter where we went in that section, the owl hooted. Yep, kind of annoying!
We headed out a door to see a boat commonly used on the river in days gone by. The cabin of "Sam McGee", made famous by the poet Robert Service and various gold rush items were outside in this fenced area. Then back inside to find another whole area in the basement of the old building. There was a display of Jim Robb paintings - whose perspectives of cabins and people always leaned in an exaggerated style! We both took our time appreciating the artwork and reading about other artists and personalities of the Yukon Territory. The north certainly attracted colourful characters!
By this time, my head was swimming with names, faces, and facts about this interesting part of Canada. And we were only half way done! We went upstairs and then found another outdoor section with more items from the railroad, gold rush and history of the region. Another door led us into a whole new area showing typical homes, developments in the city and more write-ups on famous people. As we neared the end of this winding maze, we realized we had done that entire tour backwards! Laughing with humour and some embarassment, we made our way to the gift shop and then to the exit.
It was almost 6 pm - where did the day go? We jumped into the van and headed towards home. Janet slowed down along that main street as a pedestrian with a pet on a leash crossed in front of us. We were both busy talking and didn't notice immediately how slow and wandering this pet was making its way across the street.
"That's quite an overweight dog!" Janet commented as we waited.
"Dog? I think that's a pig!" I exclaimed.
Incredulously, we watched and laughed at the pot belly pig on a leash!
Janet had prepared food for our supper and we stopped by her house to pick it up. We checked in on her family and then carried on to our own place.
Not only was I somewhat lost and disoriented as to what directions we were driving, but with it being somewhat cloudy and overcast, I couldn't tell the time of day either. I felt hungry, so it must be mealtime. But everything seemed "off" to me!
Supper was delicious. We cleaned up our accumulation of dishes and then decided to have a movie night. Changing into our p.j.'s in what seemed to still be early evening - it was already 9 pm or so - we settled into the comfortable sofa and put on "Mom's Night Out". A perfect flick for two middle-aged women who could totally relate to that desperate need for busy women/moms to have some fun! Janet fixed us some hot cocoa/chai tea mixture and taco chips and salsa for our snacking pleasure. We laughed until our sides ached.
Again, we chatted until the wee hours and finally said good night about midnight. We needed our rest for tomorrow's adventures...
Open my eyes to check the time...8:30?
Where am I?
Oh yeah, Whitehorse! Still seems surreal somehow.
I tip-toe to the bathroom so as not to wake Janet.
I guess she didn't want to wake me either, so was quietly reading in her room.
We had a whole day ahead of us so I didn't rush in getting ready. Pulling up the window shade, I gaze out at the amazing view of mountains and the serene lake behind the house. Giving thanks to my God was not difficult when I saw His handiwork and felt His blessings on my life. I sneak down the stairs to find the fixings for coffee (couldn't find coffee filters so fashioned paper towel in the basket to hold the grounds). A few minutes later, I am armed with a steaming mug and sneak back up to my room.
I take the usual opportunity to begin my day in God's Word and prayer. And then I hear Janet rattling around down in the kitchen, so I make my bed, tidy up the room and join her.
It was lovely to enjoy a leisurely breakfast of baked oatmeal, yogurt and fruit. The day looked to be pleasant outside, but a few clouds were scattered in the June sky.
Rather than rushing off, we decided to spend some time sharing some of the things we had been reading lately and take time to pray together. What a rich time! How often do missionary wives, with children, have the freedom to lounge around and simply fellowship with dear friends? The next thing we know, it is lunch time!
We made a quick sandwich and headed out to the MacBride Museum in downtown Whitehorse. Janet wound around the new traffic circle near the subdivision and drove into the city. We passed several businesses, made a turn or two and then found the museum located on a main street near the Yukon River. Inside the main building, we looked at some First Nations bead work and other artifacts of the area. The next section had stuffed animals native to the Yukon: bears, coyotes, various birds and I think even an albino moose! In the background was the call of an owl. No matter where we went in that section, the owl hooted. Yep, kind of annoying!
We headed out a door to see a boat commonly used on the river in days gone by. The cabin of "Sam McGee", made famous by the poet Robert Service and various gold rush items were outside in this fenced area. Then back inside to find another whole area in the basement of the old building. There was a display of Jim Robb paintings - whose perspectives of cabins and people always leaned in an exaggerated style! We both took our time appreciating the artwork and reading about other artists and personalities of the Yukon Territory. The north certainly attracted colourful characters!
By this time, my head was swimming with names, faces, and facts about this interesting part of Canada. And we were only half way done! We went upstairs and then found another outdoor section with more items from the railroad, gold rush and history of the region. Another door led us into a whole new area showing typical homes, developments in the city and more write-ups on famous people. As we neared the end of this winding maze, we realized we had done that entire tour backwards! Laughing with humour and some embarassment, we made our way to the gift shop and then to the exit.
It was almost 6 pm - where did the day go? We jumped into the van and headed towards home. Janet slowed down along that main street as a pedestrian with a pet on a leash crossed in front of us. We were both busy talking and didn't notice immediately how slow and wandering this pet was making its way across the street.
"That's quite an overweight dog!" Janet commented as we waited.
"Dog? I think that's a pig!" I exclaimed.
Incredulously, we watched and laughed at the pot belly pig on a leash!
Janet had prepared food for our supper and we stopped by her house to pick it up. We checked in on her family and then carried on to our own place.
Not only was I somewhat lost and disoriented as to what directions we were driving, but with it being somewhat cloudy and overcast, I couldn't tell the time of day either. I felt hungry, so it must be mealtime. But everything seemed "off" to me!
Supper was delicious. We cleaned up our accumulation of dishes and then decided to have a movie night. Changing into our p.j.'s in what seemed to still be early evening - it was already 9 pm or so - we settled into the comfortable sofa and put on "Mom's Night Out". A perfect flick for two middle-aged women who could totally relate to that desperate need for busy women/moms to have some fun! Janet fixed us some hot cocoa/chai tea mixture and taco chips and salsa for our snacking pleasure. We laughed until our sides ached.
Again, we chatted until the wee hours and finally said good night about midnight. We needed our rest for tomorrow's adventures...
Monday, 22 June 2015
Back in the spring of 1988, my roommate, Janet and myself were making plans. We were young and single (dating handsome young Bible College grads like ourselves) and dreaming of adventure. Our plans were not elaborate but they were taking shape and I actually went so far as to make a couple of phone calls. I had a place to park my car and had inquired about the train schedule...
Janet and I were going to drive to Thompson, Manitoba, leave my car at a local missionaries' home and hop an overnight train to traverse the miles of tundra and muskeg to Churchill!
Alas, Janet's beau took the plunge and proposed to my travel partner. So the jar she had labelled "Churchill Fund" suddenly became "Wedding Fund"...and our adventure faded as I, too, became engaged and began making wedding plans.
Fast-forward twenty-seven years, as Janet and I drive off in her mini-van to unload luggage and bedding and a few groceries at her friend's home (she was house-sitting so we could have an actual girls' get-away). Oh, don't underestimate the potential fun and mischief two 40-something women can get into! We had some lunch and visited before making some casual plans for the afternoon.
First stop, "Farmer's Market" where we wandered from booth to booth. I was amazed and impressed with the local artists, selling wares ranging from painting, woodwork, jewelry, to home made preserves and baked goods! The weather had been rainy and we stepped around a few puddles. Under one awning, as we were checking out some antler-earrings, I suddenly felt a cold chill down my back. Rainwater streamed from the awning down the collar of my jacket! We broke out in giggles and sidestepped further trickles. I didn't want to leave the market empty-handed, so I chose a container of assorted mini-cupcakes for a snack later.
The day was cool, cloudy and windy so we opted to check out the local library and cultural centre. As both of us have spent the past 25 years in First Nations ministry, we enjoyed the displays about the local Native tribes and clans and customs. We wandered and talked about the history of Whitehorse and before we knew it, the centre was closing.
We jumped back into the mini-van and headed to Janet's house, where we were going to have supper. It would be great to see her husband and whichever sons were home. Their four boys range from 18-25 years old, with the youngest three living with them. The oldest, Chris is out on his own in a neighbouring subdivision of Whitehorse. It was great to see Tony and be given the grand tour of their new home. Back in 1997 when Walter and I and our 3 young children had last visited them, they lived in the community of Pelly, Yukon and we stayed a night with them. So it was wonderful to once again see their family in their home environment and be blessed by their hospitality!
After a delicious BBQ chicken supper with Brett and Elijah, two of the boys, Elijah offered to take us out to Miles Canyon along the Yukon River. I was up for an outing. It was later than it felt, with the sun being still quite high in the sky at 8 pm. I felt energized and so Janet and I scooted in the front seat while Elijah drove us out to the canyon in his brother, Chris' Vista Cruiser! We were feeling pretty cool as we cruised in this loud and obnoxious station wagon (like the one in the TV sitcom "That 70's Show").
We took a couple pictures beside the car with a view of some spectacular mountains behind. Then we carried on down the road to the river's edge. We parked and walked a short distance to a bridge that spanned the river. Elijah thought it would be fun to swing the bridge a bit-me, not so much! He stopped when his mother reprimanded him for my sake. Thank you, Janet! The high rock walls along the swift river was absolutely beautiful. We crossed the bridge, then walked along the edge of those steep walls. I took a route farther from the edge, while Elijah chose to skip and cavort much nearer! Once, he actually disappeared over the side, landing on a ledge that was not visible from my position inland and I nearly had a heart attack! Janet just laughed with amused acceptance at her youngest son's antics. Raising four boys made her quite used to this behaviour! Our two boys and even our daughter were not nearly the risk-takers that these northern missionary kids seemed to be!
Who knows how long we were down at Miles Canyon? Time seemed to stand still. Elijah graciously drove us back to our accommodations where Janet and I settled in for a cup of tea and our tiny cupcakes.
After being awake since 4 am, a day of three flights and then several hours of activity, I had to call it a night around 11 pm (midnight Saskatchewan time). Janet had a couple of options for Friday's itinerary, depending on the weather, so we said good-night. I pulled down the black-out blinds to shut out the twilight, read my devotional book and fell asleep in an instant.
Janet and I were going to drive to Thompson, Manitoba, leave my car at a local missionaries' home and hop an overnight train to traverse the miles of tundra and muskeg to Churchill!
Alas, Janet's beau took the plunge and proposed to my travel partner. So the jar she had labelled "Churchill Fund" suddenly became "Wedding Fund"...and our adventure faded as I, too, became engaged and began making wedding plans.
Fast-forward twenty-seven years, as Janet and I drive off in her mini-van to unload luggage and bedding and a few groceries at her friend's home (she was house-sitting so we could have an actual girls' get-away). Oh, don't underestimate the potential fun and mischief two 40-something women can get into! We had some lunch and visited before making some casual plans for the afternoon.
First stop, "Farmer's Market" where we wandered from booth to booth. I was amazed and impressed with the local artists, selling wares ranging from painting, woodwork, jewelry, to home made preserves and baked goods! The weather had been rainy and we stepped around a few puddles. Under one awning, as we were checking out some antler-earrings, I suddenly felt a cold chill down my back. Rainwater streamed from the awning down the collar of my jacket! We broke out in giggles and sidestepped further trickles. I didn't want to leave the market empty-handed, so I chose a container of assorted mini-cupcakes for a snack later.
The day was cool, cloudy and windy so we opted to check out the local library and cultural centre. As both of us have spent the past 25 years in First Nations ministry, we enjoyed the displays about the local Native tribes and clans and customs. We wandered and talked about the history of Whitehorse and before we knew it, the centre was closing.
We jumped back into the mini-van and headed to Janet's house, where we were going to have supper. It would be great to see her husband and whichever sons were home. Their four boys range from 18-25 years old, with the youngest three living with them. The oldest, Chris is out on his own in a neighbouring subdivision of Whitehorse. It was great to see Tony and be given the grand tour of their new home. Back in 1997 when Walter and I and our 3 young children had last visited them, they lived in the community of Pelly, Yukon and we stayed a night with them. So it was wonderful to once again see their family in their home environment and be blessed by their hospitality!
After a delicious BBQ chicken supper with Brett and Elijah, two of the boys, Elijah offered to take us out to Miles Canyon along the Yukon River. I was up for an outing. It was later than it felt, with the sun being still quite high in the sky at 8 pm. I felt energized and so Janet and I scooted in the front seat while Elijah drove us out to the canyon in his brother, Chris' Vista Cruiser! We were feeling pretty cool as we cruised in this loud and obnoxious station wagon (like the one in the TV sitcom "That 70's Show").
We took a couple pictures beside the car with a view of some spectacular mountains behind. Then we carried on down the road to the river's edge. We parked and walked a short distance to a bridge that spanned the river. Elijah thought it would be fun to swing the bridge a bit-me, not so much! He stopped when his mother reprimanded him for my sake. Thank you, Janet! The high rock walls along the swift river was absolutely beautiful. We crossed the bridge, then walked along the edge of those steep walls. I took a route farther from the edge, while Elijah chose to skip and cavort much nearer! Once, he actually disappeared over the side, landing on a ledge that was not visible from my position inland and I nearly had a heart attack! Janet just laughed with amused acceptance at her youngest son's antics. Raising four boys made her quite used to this behaviour! Our two boys and even our daughter were not nearly the risk-takers that these northern missionary kids seemed to be!
Who knows how long we were down at Miles Canyon? Time seemed to stand still. Elijah graciously drove us back to our accommodations where Janet and I settled in for a cup of tea and our tiny cupcakes.
After being awake since 4 am, a day of three flights and then several hours of activity, I had to call it a night around 11 pm (midnight Saskatchewan time). Janet had a couple of options for Friday's itinerary, depending on the weather, so we said good-night. I pulled down the black-out blinds to shut out the twilight, read my devotional book and fell asleep in an instant.
VIEW FROM MY WINDOW
.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)