Don't forget the pic-a-nic basket

     "Goin' on a picnic, leavin' right away, if it doesn't rain, we'll stay all day."  

 — Raffi

     Those of you who grew up in the 70s and 80s, will relate to the above. Raffi's delightful songs so popular in that era. I used many of his fun songs in my programs during those years,when I was involved teaching kindergarten and preschool children. 
     

     Now, whenever I think of summer fun involving picnics, this song immediately comes to mind. Picnics just seem to fit with the lazy, hazy days of summer. It's a great way for families to connect and enjoy each other and God's beautiful world, whether at a park, at the beach or beside a babbling, country stream.  
     As a young child, a highlight for me each year, was the Sunday School picnic that our country church sponsored, just as school closed for the summer holidays. Held in a large, grassy field surrounded by stately elms for shade, it was ideal for the families of our community to meet together for fellowship and fun. 
     

     "The day was filled with various kinds of races: sack race, three-legged race, dash, etc., a baseball game was a must, and thrilling rides on a high rope swing."

     A wade in the nearby river, cooled us kids from the intense summer heat. 
     Of course, no picnic is complete without food. I recall plenty of it spread out on long tables as families pooled their special dishes. 
     

     One year, especially, remains vivid in my memory. Our family started off to the picnic on the back of my dad's flatbed truck, along with several neighbours who were hitching a ride. It seemed there were people and food everywhere! 
     Arriving at the picnic, my mom discovered someone's perfect foot print atop the potato salad. No one wished to own up to it, so us siblings tried to blame it on our sister, Doris. It made for a great laugh, and Mom's delicious salad still disappeared in a jiffy. 
     We kids always looked forward to the last event of the day — delicious ice cream from a local creamery, a rare treat, as these were the days of limited refrigeration. 
     I believe there are families who place importance on continuing traditions and get-togethers such as picnics and reunions, reminding them of the importance of family life.

Early days spent holidaying at Okanagan Lake with Krista Osborne (Beulah's grand-daughter, and daughter-in-law Carolyn (Owens) Eagles.

Nelson plays with grandchildren Ashton, left, and Brayden Eagles (Roger's children).

Joining family for a swim in the pool. From left: George Robertson, Nelson, Merle (Estabrooks) Robertson [Beulah's sister] and Beulah in sunny Kamloops.

Nelson shows his love the water with family on holidays at Okanagan Lake.

Cuddling up with her honey for a romantic peddle-boat ride.

Nelson's love for playing games with family, like croquet, always was apparent.

Beulah's youngest daughter Debi and husband Mark Harvey enjoy a picnic outing to the park in younger days.

  

Beulah and daughter-in-law Carolyn Eagles relax in the sunshine in Kamloops.

     But, the community togetherness I experienced — though now long gone in our fast-paced modern society — has left me with warm memories of a bygone era, when getting to know and appreciate neighbours was an important part of growing up.

— beulah

Kickin' it old school

     

     The term "old school" is often heard in conversations these days. It is not the same as "old," but, it's related. 

     Old School can refer to a way of doing things in an earlier era. This new term also describes something slightly out-of-date, old-fashioned or uncool, but, possibly still in use by the young or old — a good example, being "Converse sneakers." 
     Something that is considered "Old School" could also be looked upon with high regard or respect, as it is applied to things perceived to be timeless. 
     In earlier times, decades would go by before any great changes took place, be they inventions, advances in medical research or styles. 
     Now, major changes surrounding our lives with another new word popping up in our vocabulary, seem to be happening at a fast pace — almost every day, it seems.  
     

Just to name a few:

1. Texting instead of telephone conversations. 

2. On-line banking has become the norm. 

3. Purchasing almost anything on-line. 

4. Absence of land line phones. 

5. Handling issues with companies via the internet. 

  

     And, a brand new name, that to me, I 

found fascinating — 

"Earworms," a term once used exclusively for insects, is the name for those unrelenting tunes that you find hard to get out of your head.  

Here are some examples of "old school" in this, our modern day world: 

1. Driving a stick shift in a brand new car. 
2. Reading a hand-held printed book. 
3. Posting a hand-written letter. 
4. Using a hand-held, printed dictionary instead of using Wikipedia. 
5. Some men now choosing to use a straight razor for shaving.  

     So, I concur, "old school" can either be to our advantage or disadvantage, depending on our perspective.

  

     "When I was little, I used to pick dandelions as flowers. When I got older, I learned they were weeds. The dandelion didn't change... but my perspective did!"  

— Unknown

—  beulah

It's a marvellous night for a moon dance...

     

     Last night, I was moon-struck, again.  I have always had a fascination for this, another of God's great wonders, as I feel nothing is more beautiful than a large, full moon casting its silvery glow over my world.

 
     Some believe that weird things are suppose to happen during a full moon, and it is often linked to all sorts of behaviours.      
     However, we know that weird things happen each and every day with or without a full moon. 

     

     

     

     Scientific studies have been carried out in an effort to find proof, and as yet, no strong evidence has been found. But, scientists know that the moon does affect ocean tides. 

     

     
     
     They are now learning so much more since that amazing feat of Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin, as they took that first "giant leap for mankind," on July 20, 1969. 

     How thrilling it was to watch it on T.V., with my young family, as we observed history in the making.
     
             
     Last evening, I sat alone on my patio, (all the birds and bees had retreated to their nests), enjoying the complete stillness and the beauty of the night. 

    

     My thoughts took me back to other moon-lit nights throughout the different seasons of my life.           

     As a child, I recall walking home amid siblings and friends, from the open-air, ice-skating rink, frozen snow and ice crackling under our feet, and a big, full moon lighting our way; 

     The rays of an autumn moon dancing over the water, as my sweetheart asked me to marry him; 

     The nights when I sat in the rocker by the moon-lit window, soothing one of my little ones whose body was fighting a fever; 

     The times on my knees, in my moon-lit living room, offering up prayers for my teens, that 'His light' would guide them safely home; 

     The many memorable moon-lit evenings Nels and I sat together on this very patio, so in awe of God's goodness; 

     And, the long, moon-lit nights of care, as with a heavy heart I watched my dear one slowly slip away from me.  

  
     We know that the moon does not produce its own light, but acts like a mirror, reflecting the light of the sun. I am reminded, that I, too, as God's child, need to reflect the light from His Son, letting His love flow from my heart to the sometimes dark places around me. 

     Looking forward to tonight, and my tryst with the moon, and my quiet, moon-lit moments on my patio.     

     "When I consider Your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him."  

— Psalm 8:3

— beulah

Uniquely crafted, cracks and all

"Well, no one's perfect!" 

     I'm sure you've heard that comment many times. Perhaps the phrase was often used as a reason for not measuring up to an appointed task. Nevertheless, it is certainly true. We all have flaws in our lives, each of us with our own idiosyncrasies, even though we have been uniquely crafted by the Divine Architect. 
     Of course, because of that disobedience in the Garden of Eden, we now deal with our humanness as we relate to each other. 
     Someone has likened us humans to cracked pots with all our cracks and flaws, but I think these are what make life interesting. We learn sooner, rather than later, that life is full of imperfect things and imperfect people. Accepting others' faults and celebrating the differences we see in each other, makes for healthy, lasting relationships. 
     I recently came across this saying, 

     "Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people." 

     There may be some truth to that. I have tried throughout my lifetime, to look for positive qualities in others. Sometimes though, I found myself involved in conversations regarding the lives of others which were totally inappropriate. Life is teaching me that words can hurt and I should choose them carefully. 
     

My mom, Lena (left), Terry Robertson (my sister, Merle's oldest son) and my brother Vincent Estabrooks.       

     Now, when I sense a conversation going in a direction that might suggest gossip, I try to redirect the thoughts of those involved. 

     I think my mom's rule was a good one, "If you can't find something good to say about someone, say nothing at all." 

Here is a wise poem I learned as a child:  

If you, your lips, would keep from slips, 

Of these five things — beware; 

Of whom you speak, 

To whom you speak, 

And How and When and Where.     

     A few thoughts to remember on our travels through life:  

1. Be kinder than necessary because everyone you meet is fighting some kind of a battle. 

2. Never forget that justice is what love looks like in public. 

3. Don't be one who never gets over things. 

4. Don't be afraid to say, "I made a mistake. I'm sorry." 

5. Don't put the key to your happiness in someone else's pocket — keep it in your own!    

     Maxine says... "Even doctors make mistakes. Mine asked me to undress!"

 — beulah

A time of the season

     

     

     Three summers ago, my two sons and I had some delightful experiences, as together, we took a sentimental journey east, visiting places of my childhood, introducing them to their Maritime roots.  

     A visit to their father's homestead was a must, though we knew the house and most buildings no longer existed.           

     The only remaining suggestion of the past was the lonely, old barn, reminiscent of better days. Today, as I received this story by email from my niece back east, it triggered my memory, and I became nostalgic once again. 

     Not knowing the tale's authorship, I cannot give rightful credit, but its beautiful analogy has a message for us all, especially those of us who are a bit weather-beaten. I, myself, have already turned a silver grey. 

     I apologize for its length, but, it is well worth the read, so please, read to the end. 

     

     I just wish to share these beautiful thoughts of encouragement with you, my blog readers.  

Old barns and old people   

     A stranger came by the other day with an offer that set me to thinking. He wanted to buy the old barn that sits out by the highway. I told him right off, he was crazy. He was a city type, you could tell by his clothes, his car, his hands and the way he talked. He said he was driving by and saw that beautiful old barn sitting out in the tall grass and wanted to know if it was for sale. I told him he had a funny idea of beauty. Sure, it was a handsome building in its day, But, then there's been a lot of winters pass with their snow and ice and howling wind. The summer suns beat down on that old barn 'til all the paint's gone and the wood has turned silver grey. 
     Now, the old building leans a good deal, looking kinda' tired. Yet, that fellow called it beautiful. That set me to thinking. I walked out to the field and just stood there— gazing at the old barn.

     The stranger said he planned to use the lumber to line the walls of his den in a new country home he's building down the road. He said, "You couldn't get paint that beautiful. Only years of standing in the weather, bearing the storms and scorching sun, only that can produce beautiful barn wood." 
     It came to me then. We're a lot like that, you and I. Only it's on the inside that the beauty grows with us. Sure, we turn silver, grey too, and lean a bit more than we did when we were young and full of sap. But, the Good Lord knows what He's doing. 
     

My nephew, Richard Robertson looking at the old barn of Nelson's homestead.

     And, as the years pass, He's busy using the hard weather of our lives, The dry spells and the stormy seasons, to do a job of beautifying our souls that nothing else can produce. And to think how often folks holler because they want life easy. 
     They took the old barn down today and hauled it away, to beautify a rich man's house. And I reckon some day you and I'll be hauled off to take on whatever chores the Good Lord has for us on the Great Sky Ranch. 
     And, I suspect we'll be more beautiful then, for the seasons we've been through here. And, just maybe, even add a bit of beauty to our Father's House.        

     "May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be."

— beulah

A day of rest for the heart

     

     It has been my habit throughout the years, to attend a place of worship when possible, each Sunday. This, being a priority in my family as I was growing up, it became a pattern during my adult years. The fourth commandment says, "Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shall you labour and do all you have to do, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God."

— Exodus:20:8

     God himself, rested after his week of work, so why shouldn't we? Growing up in my family, it was the rule that no unnecessary work be done on Sunday. I recall being scolded if I was caught ironing my dress or some other task. Someone has called it, "a day of rest for the heart." 
     It makes sense, after a busy week of work, to refocus and recharge, physically and spiritually. God knew what we needed. But, more than abstinence from labour, I believe it is a day to honour God with a thankful heart, although this should be our natural way of living. Many folk observe Saturday as their Sabbath day of worship, while others in commemoration of Christ's Resurrection have Sunday, the first day of the week, as their Sabbath. Does it actually matter which day of the week we "set aside to honour Him"? 
     Last Sunday morning, I had a new experience of worship awaiting me. I had been invited by a family member to this little country church. None other than the quaint, Benvoulin Heritage Church, built in 1892, as the first Protestant church south of Vernon at that time, and now a Kelowna landmark. Quite impressive, with its Gothic Revival Architecture, based on a church in Aberdeen, Scotland. Surrounded by a yard of colorful flowers, lush, green grass, and stately, shade trees with its' old country welcome', I was momentarily taken back in time, to the little country church of my childhood. This building, popular for many community events, now, each Sunday, accommodates the Resurrection Anglican Community Church. 
     Although a slightly different way of worship than I am used to, yet, I found myself freely entering into Christ-centred praise and thanksgiving to our God, coming away truly blessed. 

     

     We are all created differently, with no two of us alike, thus, why we each find our own expression of worship. 

     How wonderful, then, when His children commune together, lifting praises of thanksgiving to our same, loving God and Heavenly Father.

— beulah

Old-fashioned ways, still in style

     

     As we age and find ourselves in the golden years, we often have a tendency to look back with nostalgia and a longing for those simpler times. But, maybe we have forgotten that many of those happy, simpler times were also hard times. 

     I feel blessed to have lived long enough to have experienced both worlds. 

     I was born during the 1930s, in the prewar days and in the middle of what was known as the Great Depression.

     A severe worldwide economic downturn, its negative effects lasted until the end of the Second World War. 

     

     Daily life was hard and stressful for many, with no jobs and no bread for their families to eat. I know my family felt the effects of it all, but, even though I was from a large family, I don't ever recall being in want for the necessities of life. 

     After wartime, the economy brightened and life improved drastically for many. How then, was life simpler back then?  

     To me, life seemed slower paced and less hectic. Many of the conveniences we now enjoy were lacking back then, so, of necessity, people physically worked harder. They slept well and were generally happier. It seemed they were more satisfied with life. 
     

     Though times were hard, I believe, there was less pressure and stress, especially in the workplace. 

     "Things" were not as easily acquired as they are today, and so, perhaps, it's why many became satisfied with less.

     No easy credit or "plastic money" and therefore, fewer bills to pay. There was no paying "up front" for items, instead they saved up for big purchases.   

     There were fewer cars, so, less traffic — with one car per family, if that.  Without a doubt, the modern technologies, great inventions, and increased medical knowledge that have appeared during the past decades, have enhanced our way of living. It has changed our lives forever in amazing ways.  
     

     So, what do I miss from those "early days?"  Here are some "old-fashioned" things I do not wish to ever give up: 

1. Good manners and politeness (taught at home and at school). 

2. Respect for one's elders. 

3. Taking time for Sunday afternoon visits with family and friends. 

4. Good old-fashioned charm. 

5. Tea served in china cups. 

6. The art of conversation. 

7. Hand-written thank you cards and notes.

8. My word as my honour; keeping my promise. 

9. Being able to dial a telephone number and speak immediately to a person. 

10. Using a smiling bank teller for my banking.   

     "How our lives have changed, and how much we all take for granted."

— beulah

Patio promises

     "Because of the Lord's great love... His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." 

— Lamentations 3:22-23 

     What quiet, calm and peace I feel this morning, as I relax on my patio, basking in the warmth of the sun. Awed again, I am surrounded by the beauty of God's creation right before my eyes: the quiet chirping of birds, the flitting of the occasional, colourful butterfly, and even a new, little quail family passing by my patio. It all reminds me once again of God's loving provisions, all for my enjoyment. 

     1 Timothy 6:17b, reminds me, ..."God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment."  

     The soft breeze and warm sun reminds me that as God's child I need to think about His love and bask in its radiance and warmth all day long. How amazing it is that He loved me even before I was born, for ..."Your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be."

— Psalm 139:16 

     
     He knows everything about me... and, I am still His "beloved child."  I am blessed each time I recall these words of an old hymn I learned as a child — one of the first piano pieces I learned to play.  

I am so glad that our Father in heaven, 
Tells of His love in the Book He has given. 
Wonderful things in the Bible I see — 
This is the dearest, that Jesus loves me.

— beulah

Talking in tongues... "Hello?"

    

"I've heard said that English is one of the hardest languages to learn. I believe it!' 

— Beulah Eagles

 
     English is my native tongue, but I have often wished I had learned the French language while growing up in my home province of New Brunswick.

     It is the only officially bilingual province in our country.    
     The English language seems to change according to the way people use it, and perhaps that's a good thing, otherwise, we'd still be speaking like Chaucer in the 1390's. 

     "Be not wrooth, my lord, though that I pleye. Ful ofte in game a sooth I have herd say."

— Geoffrey Chaucer, The Canterbury Tales

     

      New words appear as we need them, as if by magic: byte, internet, hip-hop, wellness, etc. 'Cool' from the 50's is still 'cool' now in 2013, 'groovy', a child of the 60's, was 'lame' by the 70's.  
     


     Here's a few reasons why the English language is so hard to learn: (Note a different pronunciation for each of the two words spelled the same). 

1.The bandage was 'wound' around the 'wound'. 

2.The farm was used to 'produce' 'produce'. 

3.The buck 'does' funny things when the 'does' are present. 

     How much more confusing can it get?  Let's face it — English is a crazy language. For example: There is no egg in eggplant, or ham in hamburger. English muffins weren't invented in England or French fries in France.  
     What about these paradoxes? Quicksand can work slowly, boxing rings are square, and a guinea pig is neither from Guinea, nor is it a pig.  How can a 'slim chance' and a 'fat chance' be the same, while a 'wise man' and a 'wise guy' are opposites? Indeed, we marvel at the lunacy in which your 'house can burn up' as it 'burns down', and an 'alarm goes off' by 'going on'. 
     English, being invented by people not computers, reflects the creativity of the human race, which, of course, is not a race at all. And, what about, when the stars are out, they are 'visible', but, when the lights are out, they are 'invisible'. 
     

     Highly confused with our English language yet?  

P.S. By the way, Why doesn't 'buick' rhyme with 'quick'?

— beulah