Hallmark Christmas

Tonight in Nova Scotia we are preparing to celebrate the close of 2007 and to kick off another year. Snow and freezing rain have fallen most of the day, enhancing the close of the Christmas season with the wintry landscape that inspired "I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas." Dreamers and crooners everywhere fell in love with today, while somewhere an obscure poet wrote about how fitting this all is.

It is in this idyllic mood that we found ourselves at the mailbox today to read about a true Hallmark Christmas. Yes, for the few of you that actually know my dad, his Christmas letter arrived today. And in true holiday fashion, he entitled his epistle "Norman Rockwell is Bleeding." He's always been a poet - among other things.

Some of you have heard me say before that the movie "Big Fish" is about my dad. The first time I saw the main character on the movie I thought, "Hmmm..... He's just like him: witty, wise, active, charming, creative, and a windbag." Yes, windbag. They say today's wind came from a Nor'easter from New Brunswick. I know better. My dad, whom I love dearly, has finally begun to open his grinchy old mouth again.

Merry Christmas, Dad. I love you very much. This one's for you - :)

LE

December

A comment from a friend reminded me that we haven't blogged in awhile. It's easy to let Facebook pacify the update need when things get "busy." This will be a little more substantial.

For those who don't know yet, the biggest news in the last several weeks is that we found out our baby is a girl! She's very pretty, too! :) Her heartbeat is strong and fast, and she has a fixation with sleeping with her feet up over her head. Our more "realist" friends keep saying, "Her bones are like rubber right now." The rest of us tend to think that she might be a dancer, an athlete, or something. :)

This month has been much more active than we anticipated. I was happy to be involved in our community choir's Christmas musical last weekend. We had a fantastic time producing a Nova-Scotia-written musical based on the Fezziwig's from Dickens' "A Christmas Carol." Tons of fun! (I'm glad it's over, though, because I have several more hours in my week.) :) This weekend is our joint performance with St. James Presbyterian of "Agnus Dei: Lamb of God Born to Us." (It's a Christmas concert of worship.) Next weekend (the 21 and 22 December) is Symphony Nova Scotia's performance of "The Messiah." Add to that Natasha's birthday on Monday, our anniversary next week, and Christmas, and this is an action-packed month!!!!

Before anyone asks, we have no idea for a baby name yet. We have a list going, but we probably won't give any hints yet.....

In other news, I've been thinking a lot about "testing the spirit" of people who claim and even manifest Spiritual gifts. I know a handful of people who are certainly gifted but who have some pretty serious issues that they refuse to face. (Lest anyone begin guessing or name-dropping, these are a handful of people from various places at various points in my past and present.) It always intrigues me how some of these people claim to be so in touch with God because of their spiritual gifts. Meanwhile, the fruit of their lives doesn't quite resemble love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control - the fruit of the Spirit. It occurs to me that fruit is really the only way we can tell a "good tree" from a "rotten tree." Trees that bear fruit are rooted in God - not necessarily trees that manifest certain duplicable activities. Again, this is the beginning of some interesting thoughts that are going through my head. I'm looking for fruit in my life and in the lives of others. It's interesting what I see....

Vaca

Lynn and I are currently in Toronto Airport. My sister and brother-in-law are flying us to visit them. We are very excited for the opportunity to spend time with them and our adorable niece and nephew.

It is a little ironic that we are going to the States (Chicago, IL) where we will celebrate American Thanksgiving, when Lynn will be the only American there. It really makes us miss his family. We are already planning ahead for next Christmas in Delaware, and looking forward to some Erskine holiday fun :). There is talk of visitors coming when the baby is born... That would be exciting!

Well, hopefully we'll have some fun stories and pictures to post when we return from this vacation. You won't want to miss them! :)

Natasha

Some Long-Awaited Shots

Okay, folks, these aren't professional, but they'll give you a good start. Natasha is as lovely as ever!!

LE

Ramblings.

Speaking of not posting very much... It feels like forever since I last posted, likley because my mind has been so scrambled I don't know that I have anything of interest to say...

I am currently sitting in our family room on our rather uncomfortable but blessed couch in front of our propane wood stove that has been putting off beautiful heat on this cold day, drinking, not the usual herbal tea with honey, but rather Gatorade. (Gatorade has become my lifeline in recent weeks because of its electrolytes that keep me reasonably hydrated and a little more energetic.)

It was the most wonderful thing to wake up and see snow out my window this morning! I LOVE SNOW!!!! It remnds me of Christmas and hot aple cider, and decorating for Christmas, which reminds me of my birthday when we put up our tree, which then reminds me of our anniversary which happens in the midst of it all... December holds many exciting moments of twinkling lights and sparkling snow... The consumerism is a whole other thing, but I love the special family times, the parties and Christmas gatherings, the delightful presentation of everything, and the way our precious Atlantic provinces get white washed in sparkling snow. I just love it!!!

I think the Lord loves it when we celebrate; however I do think he gets a little lonely at Christmas time. He instituted so many feasts and festivals for the poeple pf Israel and then the Lord's Supper for his disciples... but they were all meant to be celebrations in remembrance of Him. I don't care if the world remembers Him so much because why would they remember and celebrate someone they don't know? I don't blame them for not being al about Jesus just because it's Christmas. But I do think I fall short of remembring Him during the season. It's not so much His birth... if it were all about His birth, then I would much rather celebrate His resurection!!! But I think He wants us, ME, to celebrate His presence, His promises, His Word... that He is among us and will never leave us nor forsake us.

I have been thinking about things like holiday seasons and other "in the world" issues because of our upcoming task of bringing up a child in the way that he/she should go. "As for me and my house, we wil serve the Lord."

Help us, Father to lead and guide our family in all wisdom and understanding by your Holy Spirit. Help us to be grounded in Your Kingdom, not the kingdom of this world with its upside down values and destructive habbits... but may your love radiate in our hearts that they might see you and glorify your name.

Well, in all things, God is at work in us! So here we go, one day at a tine.

(Natasha)

More Time

It seems more time passes between our posts lately. It reminds me of the summer, when we seemingly had so much free time! I remember thinking to myself, "The fall is going to kick in with a vengeance; I hope we're prepared for the adjustment!" It's been a good adjustment, but we're not posting as much. I could get into the philosophical implications behind how we spend our time, or I could whine about not having enough time. Instead, I'll face the fact that we have tons of time and give a brief update:

1) This is an exciting week because of the Symphony Nova Scotia Remembrance Day concert taking place Sunday night. We're performing Brahms' German Requiem, a requiem based on Scripture rather than on the traditional Catholic mass. It's a beautiful piece with some beautiful text! You can buy tickets online through the SNS website.

2) Natasha is no longer participating with the Cantabile Singers in town because she needs to spend more time taking care of herself and our unborn child. We're doing a music theater event, so stay tuned.

3) Post-Tropical Storm Noel (a name I frankly find funny - like "the storm formerly known as a hurricane) was a little scary, but it did little damage to our home. However, my favorite tree was almost destroyed. After a little yard work yesterday, I think it's salvageable. We lost no power, so that was a huge blessing!

4) Natasha's worship leadership at the Convention's pastors' wives retreat apparently went well. She enjoyed the speaker and times of worship. I'm glad she's home. :)

5) Baby seems to be doing well. We're going in for a check-up because we're having some weird pains. Don't panic though; no one else seems to be. Just pray. :)

6) I'm late to give a piano lesson, so that's all for now. :)

LE

Nothing Normal

If you know us at all, you know how frequently I say, "Nothing normal ever happens in our family."

Today's 24-week check-up was good, very good. Everything went smoothly until Natasha's blood pressure was low. That would seem bad, except that our doctor prescribed her to have caffeine! She recommended coffee, especially. I was elated; Natasha just looked at me as if to say, "Don't gloat." Who knew that after six years of attempting to make Natasha a coffee drinker that one day her doctor would prescribe it? While our prenatal coach says to limit caffeine, the doctor says, "Not now." This is indeed a good, good day. Maybe I'll eventually find a Keurig coffee maker in my home after all some day?

LE

Fall Update #3

Personal Stuff:

1) Most obvious of our personal updates this Fall is Baby Erskine growing in my womb :) Baby is now weighing a whole pound and is putting some fat on his/her little body. Baby moves around, sucks his/her thumb, and is slowly but surely taking over my body :) I couldn't believe it when I noticed my non-existent belly-button the other morning. Things are starting to get tight in there!

2) Also about Baby, Lynn and I have finished our first set of three prenatal sessions. There are 10 young couples in our class, all of whom are due right around the same time as us. The busy schedule has been a little tiring, but we've loved getting to know and share stories with other couples in the same or similar boat.

3) Other wonderful news is that the Lord is also providing the things we need for Baby when he/she arrives. It has been my personal favorite thing to write down very specific needs that we have and then leave them in the Lords hands, knowing that He will guide me in the purchasing, or provide some other way. I keep crossing things off my list because they just fell across my lap. Thank you Lord!

4) In general, we are growing and being stretched to be sure; but we are also in a safe place with loving friends and family nearby, and a supportive and caring church body. I've never known a church to be so in tune to our needs and ready to help. We are truly blessed, and so enjoying our new friendships here.

Well, be blessed!!!
Natasha

Fall Update #2

Church Stuff:
1) Lynn and Pastor Kaj (Pastor of seniors and visitation) were officially "sworn in" to the Immanuel body at their Induction Service mid-Sept. It was a beautiful ceremony that has been a tradition here and we had many friends and family celebrate our fellowship here. A picture of the two pastors and wives found its way into the Truro Daily News and we continue to receive congratulations throughout the town! (Even though we've been here since January!)

2) The day following the service, we hosted an Open House for the church body (and whoever) to come and see our new home and visit with us. My Mom and Dad, brother Robbie, and maternal grandparents graced us with their help. I'm not sure we could have pulled it off otherwise! We had quite a party and it was a blast. Thanks to everyone who was able to come and who brought unnecessary but appreciated gifts!

3) Our church has combined efforts this Fall to push the ALPHA program here at our church. God continues to draw new believers to himself and stir up a passion for evangelism in and outside this effective program. There are over 50 signed up this Fall, plus many leaders and helpers from our church. This is a powerful ministry we stand behind as prayer warriors! We also help out in one of the small groups when available.

4) I am especially excited for our Christmas Cantata this Fall. Our choir has such a beautiful sound and we are joining with the Presbyterian Church in Town to present a cantata arranged by David Hamilton and based on Micheal W. Smith's song Agnus Dei. It is soooo beautiful with powerful Scriptures dramatically narrated throughout... Can't wait!

5) Several people from our worship department here attended Willow Creek's An Hour on Sunday worship arts conference with Lynn and I. It was fabulous and refreshing! We were challenged, encouraged, and inspired. The following week, we had a debrief meeting that was just the beginning as many of our passions for worship arts were stirred. May God give us wisdom to proceed according to His will giving honor and glory to His Name!

There is much more to say about our church regarding small groups developing, and all kinds of ministries where God is stirring. However, suffice to say, the Lord is in control, leading and guiding us as a congregation, building us up in His Word and bringing us to our knees in His presence! We are thrilled to be a part of God's kingdom plans for Immanuel and this community.

End of Part 2 :)
(Natasha)

Fall Update #1

Well a busy September has flown by and October has brought a fresh, warm breeze our way. It's just fabulous going about October in flip flops and a T-shirt!

Well here goes:

Community Stuff:
1) The Camerata Singers of Halifax lost a baritone and asked Lynn if he would join them this Fall. He started singing with them early September and has "found himself" all over again amidst the early music tonalities and live symphony instruments :). I soaked in one of their concerts this past weekend and thoroughly enjoyed the rich tones, fugues, and overall Baroque sound. Yay for Lynn!

2) Lynn has also been recommended for a "dream" accompanying opportunity. The Lord seems to continually open doors for Lynn in the musical community around us. It is so wonderful! Neither the offer nor his acceptance have been confirmed; but we covet your prayers regarding this opportunity for Him.

3) The Camerata Singers are a part of the larger Nova Scotia Symphony Choir in Halifax. I hesitantly joined [SNS] for one of their concerts this Fall, Brahm's Requiem. It's quite a commitment to travel and rehears, etc, but I decided I was finished watching Lynn enjoy all of the fun :). I am absolutely loving it as I refresh and develop my German, and continue challenging my voice.

4) We are also busy learning music for the Cantabile Choir we are a part of here in Truro. We have a concert this October and then a Fezziwig Christmas performance this December. We are beginning to make stronger relationships with those in the community and enjoy these opportunities to explore our talents together.

5) Lynn has been building strong relationships with the other music directors (under varying titles) in several other churches in Town. Our church choir is so pleased to join with the Presbyterian Church for our Christmas cantata this December, to be presented at both locations. We are also building strong connections with Jeff Jodrey at the First Baptist Church who directs two of the choirs mentioned above. Chris and Laura Bowman from the First United Church are becoming some of our closest friends! We are excited to celebrate Chris' CD release this next weekend, on October 13th (another little plug!)

There's is much to tell and little question as to whether or not God has brought us to this place. His favor seems to follow us wherever we go as we carry His Spirit into all of these things. (The craziest thing is that almost all the music we do in these "secular" choirs are either Scripture or sacred music! We just keep worshiping!)

End of Part 1 :)
(Natasha)

Baby Erskine

Active

We had our September doctor's appointment today for Baby Erskine. Among other things, our doctor attempted to listen to the baby's heart rate with her dopplar instrument. She tried for several minutes, indicating a lot of static and trouble hearing the heartbeat. "There it is!...Oh...Hmm...," she'd say. We heard maybe a beat or two. Then she said, "The baby is rolling around, I can hear that!" Then after several more minutes, "Okay, those bumps are the baby kicking the dopplar." Finally, she said, "Okay, a baby who keeps kicking obviously has a heartbeat. I'm just going to write 'active baby.'" Active baby. That apple isn't going to fall far from the tree. ;)

In other news, our big ultrasound is tomorrow. We're not going to find out the gender. Natasha actually thinks she's okay with that, so we're just going to see our baby tomorrow and wait for the surprise. Sorry to Ang and all you other blog-reading, gender-interested friends.

LRE

Preganacy Insanity

I am currently reading a book a friend lent me from church called, "My Girlfriend's Guide to Pregnancy". Needless to say, I don't think I will ever be the same again :)

This afternoon I was reading a chapter called, Pregnancy Insanity. It starts off by saying that some pregnant women may read that title and assume it does not refer to them. They are the exception because they still feel rather normal. It continues, however, to reassure the pregnant women of one very simple truth: Crazy people are always the last people to find out that they're crazy.

When people ask me if I've had any cravings, I typically respond, "Well, no, not really. Other than some aversions, I eat about the same things I did before. I have this diet, you see, and well... I can only eat certain foods anyway so I guess that's why I'm not really having cravings."

When women ask me about the nausea, and whether or not it is subsiding, I typically respond, "Well, its hanging on, but its manageable. I just keep eating little snacks throughout the day and I'm just fine."

Then, some women pull me aside with that knowing and concerned look on their faces asking, "How ARE you?" as though I should instantly burst into tears. In these situations, I have typically responded, a little perplexed about their concern, "Well, I'm doing really well. I'm very tired; but for the most part doing great!"

I am discovering, however, that some people are asking these very same questions to my husband ...and he seems to have completely different answers!!!

Am I having cravings they ask... "Yes!" He exclaims. Apparently I am craving spicy foods, things like nachos with salsa (never without), this pasta dish with homemade, spicy marinara sauce we make, etc. I guess things are a little clearer from his perspective :)

With the nausea and emotional stability, I am a little up and down, but thankfully, we both agree that I am doing fine :)

(Insert note from Lynn: I do think Natasha's doing fine, really, particularly considering the horror stories that everyone feels will encourage our pregnancy. Compared to the majority of the people who talk about their pregnancies, Natasha's is great! However, it's little things like her "non-" cravings and when she lays in bed talking to me with a sparkle in her eye saying, "I'm really exhausted and need sleep!" that leave me puzzled. That and how worked up she gets about things. She said earlier today, "I feel like I'm on speed." All I could say was, "Mm-hmm.")

I guess I am to some degree experiencing what "the Girlfriends" call Pregnancy Insanity. I suppose my emotions and likes or dislikes have been a little extreme... I do sometimes feel like I'm wearing fuzzy glasses and have to squint to see the room clearly... Or I feel like I'm frozen in place due to all the anxieties of the rest of my life hitting me all at once... I also feel like somebody stole my body in the night and replaced it with something dramatically different that plays nasty tricks on me and always keeps me guessing about whats coming next...

Anyway, Pregnancy Insanity...

Sweetly Scheming.

Technically... we're not able to find out the gender of the baby in Nova Scotia. However, I am determined to be shrewd as a serpent and innocent as a dove :) I really want to find out!!! I'll be scheduled for the ultrasound in a couple of weeks, around September 20th.

So we shall see!

Natasha

A few pics.

Here is me, bare-foot and pregnant in the kitchen :).



Here is a closer-view belly shot, though I'm not showing enough for it to be super obvious:



And here is my handsome husband tearing apart the overgrown trees and bushes in our overwhelmingly "gardened" yard:





It sounds like we're from the 1950's, fulfilling our perfectly appropriate marital roles... no such luck :)

Too Tired.

One of my hidden quirks is that I sometimes find myself hysterically funny. I know you would never guess it; but really, my sense of humor (that rarely leaves the inside of my brain) is one of my favorite things about myself :)

This quirk in particular seems to intensify under serious lack of sleep... This makes my future in motherhood look very interesting. It is only under serious lack of sleep or highly effective drugs that I would probably ever post a blog such as this! But I am just deliriously delighting in myself for no other reason than because.

This has come to my attention today because I just wrote something in an e-mail that cracked me up... Yes, I am laughing at myself. Even worse, you may not find it the least bit funny :) But, in my current state, I am perfectly comfortable with that.

As an expression of how I feel today, I wrote:
I sometimes feel like a huge boulder the size of the sky is coming toward me ready to swallow me whole... That's an exaggerated expression of how I feel about all of this change in my life all at once :)

Blessings!
Natasha

Some of August 2007

Here are some pictures from August.

-We spent a weekend with some friends in "The Valley", explored Cape Split (absolutely gorgeous!), and randomly visited a goat and llama farm.
-We also received a visit from our dear friends, Adam and Heather Durkee. They came all the way from Virginia just to spend a day with us :) (jk!).
-We received a long awaited visit from my sister, brother-in-law, niece, and nephew, who are fabulously wonderful.
-Our good friend Shannon Skafte took some beauitful pictures of us at the Tangled Gardens in Grand Pre, NS, on our way home from Convention last weekend.

Enjoy!

Cool Slideshows!

The Conquer.

I just wanted to let you know that, after much scheming and strategizing against the enemy, we have conquered the fruit flies!

Many of you offered wonderful advice, but the war tactic that has proved most effective is this:

Take out a glass. Half-fill it with apple cider vinegar. The strong smell will attract the fruit flies. Put some dish soap on your finger and just swoosh it around in the vinegar. This (obviously, as my husband says) breaks the surface tension of the vinegar. That means that the fruit flies can no longer land on it. So... they drown! We have plastic wrap over the top with fruit-fly-size holes in it. This is so they fly in and then can't get out. They fly around for a while until they have to land, and then... they drown!!!

Happy hunting all you fellow fruit-fly-haters!

Natasha

Things you may or may not want to know!

Wow, I'm really pregnant!!!!!

So, I know I haven't posted pictures yet; it's because I feel a lot like my house right now... unkempt. I promise they will come.

But I am totally showing!!! My belly feels huge and I love it!!! I officially don't fit in any of my old clothes and the few middle-ground WalMart options we purchased are no longer satisfactory. (They still fit, but they're not enough. Really I desperately need preggo pants.)

So while Lynn and I were in Halifax for the Leadership Summit (which is a whole other topic and was amazing!), we went shopping for a Maternity store. I was so overcome by how cute everything was!

I tried on several options and fell in love with a number of different outfits. While I was trying them on, though, the store clerk said, "You should try them on while wearing the belly pillow." Then I realized that the strangely shaped white thing I had vaguely noticed on the chair in the corner of the change room was a makeshift belly so I could see how well the clothes would fit until the end of my term. (Captain obvious here.) Lynn agreed that I should try the outfits with the belly pillow. I felt a little silly, but thought, "Yes, that would be a very wise thing to do."

The problem, though, is that I am a very slow processor... I was just adjusting to the idea of having a growing belly, in a maternity store trying on real maternity clothes. When I strapped the belly on... well it kind of shocked my system...

I took one look at myself in the mirror and burst into hysteric bubbles of laughter and tears. I'm not sure how loud I was, but Lynn began laughing from outside the change room. I couldn't come out... I felt nervous and embarrassed, while feeling excited and anxious. Lynn finally peeked in which made the convulsions worse. I tried to go to him to lean in on him the way I tend to do when I feel embarrassed or shy, but then... I bounced!!! The carefully crafted pillow snugly tucked beneath my maternity outfit hit his midsection just as my forehead reached his chest... and I bounced back!!! This of course increased the bursts of spasmic laughter as it shocked me even further...

This was quite a fun experience. I had to take out the belly to calm down again and remind myself that I don't have to jump to month number eight, but the Lord allotted time for people like me who desperately need it for adjusting during periods of drastic change.

So I am thrilled to be showing, and love being pregnant! But I am also thankful that further growth will come gradually. It is a scary thought that one day in the not too distant future this child is going to be too big and need to come out of my little body!

Just in case you were wondering, though... I may be small, but have good birthing hips! :) (Okay, so it's not the hips so much; but I don't know how awkward it is to write about personal body parts on a public web log... The term "hips" seemed the safest at the time.)

God bless!
Natasha

Help Wanted.

Okay, what's the deal?

How do you get rid of fruit flies???!!!

I'd really like to know.

Natasha

Update.

I am working as receptionist at the church this week, covering for Pastor Peter and Lottie's vacation. No one is in the office except for me and Lynn (though his is down the hall), and, in the context of being very professional, we're having a blast :).

Little Erskine and mommy are growing very well. I am 11 weeks along, and looking forward to fitting into my new clothes. Right now everything is either too small or too big for my little tummy :)

Lynn and I spent Friday and Saturday as guests at Fox Harbour. It was so peaceful and relaxing. Saturday afternoon, several families from the church came over for a worship team party. We BBQ'd and went swimming in the SPA, and then Doris and I walked the beach along the coast of the Northumberland Straight, just across from where my family live on PEI.

We arrived home late and woke up early (though not early enough) for church Sunday morning, during which I was leading worship and Lynn was preaching. After church, we had a BBQ at our house with 4 young couples, 10 people in all! It was a blast, though the heat was scorching.

Around 3:00, my parents and two brothers arrived, one looking very much like a cave man (Joel - he works at Cape n' Rage). Much to my delight, they brought with them my aunt's crib and set it up in the baby's nursery! Yay!

We all watched the old Hugh Grant movie, Nine Months, and laughed hysterically. If you haven't seen it, I highly recommend watching it for some light humor regarding pregnancy and delivery.

This last coming month of summer is a busy one and exciting one. We hope to post some updated pictures soon, though I'm waiting as long as possible until our house looks somewhat put together for you to see :)

Lots of love!
Natasha

Showing

We are at Fox Harb'r (www.foxharbr.com) with the Faheys. Ralph showed me around the resort after meeting a few of his friends, and now we're showing Ralph and Doris around the web. So, if you're online tonight, make sure you say hello! (We're hosting, after all. Make our friends feel comfortable!) :)

LE

Our Little Erskine!

We just saw our baby!!!!!!

We had an ultrasound today to confirm that we have a live pregnancy and to discover how far along we are. We don't find out the details until my doctor's apt this Friday, but we still got to see the baby and it was so amazing!!!!! He/she is sooooo cute and was dancing around and has a strong heartbeat!

It was so beautiful!

After the ultrasound, Lynn and I both pretty emotional (though I have been on the verge of tears all day!), we had to get cash out and then go to a change machine in order to pay the $2 parking fee. Of course we had to take out a twenty from the ATM so sure enough, we won the lottery and had twenty loonies flying at us from the change machine. So we decided to get a late lunch together at Tims.

At Tims, we were enjoying each other's company and delighting in our little Erskine when a lady from a nearby table approached us. She said, "You don't know me, but you are the Erskine's right? Well I heard on the radio this morning that you're expecting! Congratulations!"

Can you believe it? A man in our worship department runs the Christian radio station here in Truro called HopeFM. He had teased us that he would announce it, but sure enough he did!

So little Erskine is already famous :) The poor thing... a PK and musicians' child...

Yeah for cute, adorable, precious little Erskine!!!

(Natasha)

Biggest Post Yet

Well, it's time you all knew: I'm going to be a DAD!!!!!!!!!!!!! Natasha is going to be a MOM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Whoo-hoo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Imagine: just a few weeks ago I told Natasha I wasn't ready at all to think about parenting. She went away on a short trip that week. While she was gone, I was overwhelmed with baby fever out of nowhere! I prayed about how to talk to Natasha about my new hopes, but she came home and told me she thought she was expecting. A doctor confirmed it, and now we're excited to report Baby Erskine will be born some time in mid-February!!!!! (We'll keep you posted on more details.) PRAISE THE LORD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

LE

Hope for Anyone

It often seems odd how quickly we who claim Christian faith can discredit one another. I live in an area in which many Christians (including many pastors!) give each other very little time becaues of "faith" differences. There are some Christians I've met who are so busy trying to save people from other churches that they've neglected legitimately hurting people who could meet Jesus. A Wesleyan (which I am) might look at a Baptist (which I also am) and wonder about their salvation based on doctrinal issues. A non-denominational (some of my roots) might look at a Presbyterian (also in my roots) and wonder about their salvation based on their lack of outward charismatic expression in worship. We look around and judge one another's faith based on our interpretive doctrine. Is doctrine important? Yes, it is, but doctrinal variance does not necessarily lead a person away from the Lord.

It's remarkable, too, that we can quickly judge and label someone outside the faith as hopless. For the latter, I think of people that we Christians consider "beyond hope." I think of the "good lady" at my sister's junior high school who called her "evil" because of behavioral problems. I think of the homosexual people gathered in the city today, against whom many church-goers around here have railed. I think of the poor treatment a community near my hometown gave to a convicted child molestor who moved into town. I think of the villains of world history and how our perceptions paint that education. There was no talk about whether my sister was beyond hope (which she was not, as we all see today). There was no question about whether the molestor had been rehabilitated. There is rarely effort made to looking at historical villains as whole people. Rather, we write people off, beginning with their minor behavioral infractions, all the way to some people's insatiable thirst for destruction. Is evil hopeless? Yes, but not that hopless.

The two paragraphs above are like me thinking out loud about something intriguing I read today. We read in 2 Kings 21:25: "But there was no one like Ahab who sold himself to do wickedness in the sight of the Lord." Read that again: "...sold himself to do wickedness...." We would have written him off as hopeless, evil. What about the Lord? Read verses 28-29: "And the word of the LORD came to Elijah the Tishbite, saying, 'See how Ahab has humbled himself before Me? Because he has humbed himself before Me, I will not bring the calamity in his days....'" Interestingly enough, the Lord - against whom all Ahab's sins, all the "hopeless sins" above, all the doctrinal "sins" above, and all our very real sins have been committed - the Lord looked at someone who sold himself to wickedness and gives him life and hope. NO ONE is beyond hope.

Our Neighbors.

Lynn and I had wonderful company last night, who even helped us clean up the kitchen afterward. At some point in the evening, these friends asked, "Have you met any of your neighbors yet?" We responded that no, we have not yet met any of them.

Later last evening, however, we decided to go for a walk. We turned onto several streets in our quaint subdivision, and explored one that we hadn't been on before. It was a dead end street set in behind, that had lovely homes on it and several large duplexes. We were admiring the neighborhood when a man came walking by us. We said, "Hello," of course, and continued walking. After a few steps, though, he turned around and said, "You fella's look new to the neighborhood!" We were surprised that he would know, since we weren't even near our own street! We proceeded to have a very friendly conversation with Ted and admired the size and design of his duplex. He then said, "Well why don't you come in and see it?"

We went in to see the duplex, met Sherri, his wife, and then proceeded to have an hour and a half long visit with these strangers/neighbors! We looked at pictures of their grandson and scrapbooks of their trips to Europe, and family pictures from weddings and such. Finally it was 11:00 pm and they offered to drive us home. I readily accepted because I was exhausted!

We exchanged phone numbers with these beautiful people and expect to connect with them again after their weeks of vacation.

Does that seem crazy to anyone else? Have you ever lived in a neighborhood with people so friendly? I'm simply amazed!

(Natasha)

The Island

There are few places more lovely than Prince Edward Island any time of year, most particularly in the summer. Green is my favorite color, and it's one of the Island's highlights this time of year. As my father-in-law said, it's all the varying hues of green contrasted with the red clay dirt that makes everything so striking. That and Tasha's aunt's gardens. They are beautiful! I couldn't help but think the Lord is a creative genius as we drove back to the mainland today. All those greens, the red clay, and the blue Northumberland Strait that reflected a nearly cloudless sky - they were truly breathtaking! Add a good time with aunts, uncles, cousins, and Grammie Currie, and you've got yourself a fabulous day trip! We even talked to our cousin in Ghana, courtesy of Skype. That's the way to spend a Saturday!

LE

Long Vaca

This has been the longest vacation of my life. We originally took this vaca so that we could actually go to Beulah, see some people we rarely get to see, and enjoy some necessary time away from "real life." Then came Friday, 29 June. That's the afternoon it became obvious that we would indeed close on our house. That was good news, particularly because we had already requested vaca and could move without interfering with "real life." So, beginning 6 July we moved. We had a FLEET of people who were extremely generous with their time and muscles (especially with the piano and boxsprings). Everything seemed ducky the first day or two. The next several days were spent moving things around, unpacking, cleaning, mowing, etc. I kept thinking, "I've got to get out of Dodge!" By the time we did, I was so exhausted that I hardly enjoyed any of it till last night.

Now we're at the in-laws' house and I'm enjoying the time away. The only trouble is that we have to be back home by Monday. No Beulah, no Wesleyan friends, no planned vaca. This ten-day vaca has turned into what feels like an eternity, except for these few days without responsibility. These are flying by. Sometimes growing up sucks. At least we're going to the Island tomorrow.... :)

Settling In

We're settling into the new place quite nicely. It took no time for this to feel like home. The more boxes we unpack, the more we see "home" coming into place. After living such transient lives in the last year or so, this feels really good. It's encouraging to settle into a place in which we already envision life unfolding. As I write, I'm in our downstairs family/small group room, imagining the people we'll host, the transformation we'll witness, the family development we'll enjoy. When we set up the piano and music bookshelf yesterday, I envisioned the music we could write, the practice hours our future children will hopefully have, the lessons we would strive to teach. At Canadian Tire yesterday, with a set of branch cutters/pruners in my hands, I envisioned removing the vine from our chimney, allowing the chimney to breathe and look beautiful again. (Okay, so that last one wasn't sentimental. It's a personal thing between me and all the plants in our yard.) We even put on the propane woodstove in the basement last night for good measure. (We just couldn't keep it on because it's summer.) :)

Where does all this lead? It leads us to praise the Lord again! Too many people I know would chalk this up to life happening and sentimentality, and perhaps those things are present. One thing I know with certainty is that God is truly here in this home. It is the peace of Christ that pervades my soul as I reflect this morning. It is an overwhelming understanding that this is the Lord's house that gives me such confidence in what we'll see. We're still settling in and likely will be for weeks. However, these are good times. Good, good times. (It helps that we found Laura's Scripture sketches two days ago, too!)

LE

Good News

We're moving in tonight! Brian and Paula have raised an army of movers, and we're on tonight! That means we're about to have our first permanent place to call "ours" (which we all know is the Lord's anyway) since we've been married! It means finding all those things we forgot we have that have been in Ken and Lois's basement since December! It means we'll have our own kitchen again - which means, Kristi, more recipes!!!

Big Day

Two important things happened today:

1) We signed everything and closed on our house. Praise the Lord!! We thought this was a no-go on Friday, and now we're "in." Long story, but let's just praise!!

2) I got my first white hair in my beard. It wasn't even gray - white! One of these days all of my hair will be white like that, and I can't wait! (I'm not kidding; I would love white hair.)

PS - We were given a piano. (There aren't enough exclamation points to put on that, so imagine our excitement. God is GOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)

Mom

Natasha and I were on the phone with my mom yesterday when we found out that she has been on our blog. Nothing beats that! I'm not sure why I think that's so great, but I find it a blast! If Mom keeps checking this blog, you might get to know her a little bit, which would be pretty fun. Here's a good story about her:

Once upon a time Mom was driving my brother and me from Lock Haven to our extremely rural home in Sugar Valley, PA. (We don't live anywhere close to that now.) We had just come from community choir practice, where our entire family older than seven sang weekly. We were having a fairly normal conversation when Ben and I started a SNL routine about Goatboy. Mom claimed not to like Goatboy, always saying he wasn't funny. The more I talked like Goatboy, however, the harder she laughed. We had almost arrived at the interstate when Mom laughed so hard she swerved in the road and had to pull over. She was laughing, crying, and telling us it wasn't funny. While she wouldn't admit it was funny, she was honest enough to stay pulled over for the next five minutes while we calmed down. To this day, I suspect you'll get at least a giggle from her if you bleat within earshot of her.

Congrats to our graduates!

Congratulations to our graduates!

Lynn and I are celebrating both Joel Currie's and Allison Erskine's graduation this year. But, unfortunately, we did not make it down to Delaware to see Allison walk. We do not have pictures of her, but she is fabulously beautiful and very accomplished. She's really quite wonderful and we miss her a lot.

We did see Joel walk, so here a few pictures...


(Joel and Sarah)


(Joel sang lead in "We're here for a good time" by Trooper)


(The fam)


(The fam now including Robbie!)

Another update :)

1. I led worship at our baptist associations ladies retreat last weekend and it was awesome. What an opportunity! Leading worship is such a "dream job". It's like, "Hi, can you come and usher in the presence of the Lord and watch as He does wonderful things in our midst?" ..."Okay!"

2. Lynn stayed home (he wasn't exactly invited to the Ladies retreat...)and partook of a beautiful service at our church. The Lord spoke to Pastor Peter that He was going to heal some particular people in the congregation of some particular things, and a beautiful healing service opened up with God ministering to many. There are some beautiful testimonies of some people getting healed in the Lord's grace.

3. I spent a wonderful few days with Joy Green on Grand Manan Island. We had a blast and talked nonstop for days :) I also chopped my hair off, which I have been waiting to do for ages, and it felt sooo good!



4. Last evening, Sunday the 17th, we had our choir concert of praise! It was the finale for our choir this spring and they did such a fantastic job! Lynn is so gifted at drawing out their strengths and pushing them to go beyond where they think they can. It was awesome!



5. This Wednesday morning, Lynn and I are leaving for my brother Joel's high school graduation in Moncton. We are taking some vacation days to spend with the family and are very excited to see my (one of my...) studly, talented, amazing brother achieve such an awesome accomplishment. Yeah for Joel!!!



6. We have not been blogging about this, but Lynn and I have encountered a situation that is resulting in something very sad... We are losing our house. As a first time home buyer, you can carry your RSP's over for your downpayment. Lynn and I had two substancial RSP's, personal and through the Wesleyan Church. We were under the understanding that we could consolidate them and use the money towards our downpayment. The transfer took about two months and our banker changed in the midst of the process. The new banker called us when the transfer was completed and we found out we had more than we needed in funds. However, we were then informed that the pension plan through the Wesleyan church was the one kind that we are not allowed to touch until we're 55 :) We have all this money set aside for retirement, but we don't have any (or very little) for right now! We have been working on other options but none are satisfactory. We do not know what this means or where we will live. We are very sad and have been heart broken through this process. It will be interesting to see what happens over the next few months and what the Lord has up His sleeve...

Continue to pray for us!

Natasha

Memories

As Tasha got on the Grand Manan V on Tuesday, I decided to walk around the side of the dock and watch the crew prepare to head to the island. I glanced at the boat and was stopped by the open deck on the top of the ferry. I was facing the very place on the Grand Manan V that was the breaking point (or, making point, rather) for Tasha and me. For those on BBC Chorale that year, you'll remember that Tasha and I both went to the upper deck to stare at the sunset. We weren't speaking because we were both confused and a little hurt, secretly madly in love with each other. (There's an imfamous picture in our home stuff to document this if you ever visit.) Suddently, Elizabeth was to my right, and she hip-checked me in Tasha's direction. We all talked for awhile, but Tasha and I eventually talked again and sorted through our (mostly my) emotions. There's something about that November weekend that was pivotal for where we are today. Staring at the spot on the upper deck of Grand Manan V this Tuesday has brought on a flood of feelings, thoughts, and gratitude for where we are today.

Today marks exactly one year from the first time Tasha and I came to Truro for our first interview with IBC. On Sunday, it will be a year from the time we attended our first service here and in which I perceived the Lord in a pillar of cloud right in front of Pastor Peter. The Lord still moves powerfully before us here! (Our spontaneous healing service has resulted in at least two miraculous healings literally on the spot, and that's just one small part of what happened among our fellowship this past weekend!)

Odd question...

Okay... bikini's or no bikini's?

I'd like both male and female opinions regarding the appropriateness of Christian women/girls wearing bikini's.

What do you think?

(Natasha)

Another (long) update.

May has been super busy!

1. Lynn turned 26! Yeah for Lynn! He's now officially old :). Myself and the Chute family pulled together a surprise birthday party for him. I babysat the two boys earlier that week, and we had a blast making decorations and planning a rather elaborate treasure hunt where we hid all the gifts in the dryer and had SEVERAL clues leading up to finding them :) What a blast! (You can see pictures of the event in one of the picture trails below.)

2. We enjoyed an all day prayer vigil at our church for God's guidance as we continue to investigate a possible building expansion. What a beautiful day in the presence of the Lord! We trust in his continued guidance as our church continues to grow.

3. We concluded our semester with Cantabile Singers with a finale Broadway Dinner Theatre. It was so much fun! We each had unique and creative costumes, but concluded the evening with our third set of songs in black tuxedos and formal dresses. It was long, exhausting, and wonderful!

(Lynn and I sang "Summer Nights" from Greece as one of the ensemble numbers. During rehearsal, our director, Ross, said, "Lynn, can you please be a little more raunchy?" Off stage at the performance, the other choir members were calling him "Raunchy Reverend"!)

4. Lynn and I received dreadful news as our financial plans for the house took an unexpected twist. We are still waiting on the Lord as He continues to minister to us, growing us into a family that is secure and content in Him, no matter what we have. It has been an amazing journey as we continue to hold God's promises in our heart, but seem to face obstacle after obstacle in regard to our house. He seems to be speaking into my heart, "I promised you blessings, but I AM your security. Rest in me today and I will provide for tomorrow."

In the midst of this trial of trusting, God keeps dropping hints of blessing in our lap. We unexpectedly received a washer and dryer, which are two of the three appliances we need for our home! They are good models and in good condition - the right size and everything for what we need! Also, some of our friends said they were convicted of the Lord about how much stuff they have and thought they might be able to give us some of their furniture! They are not at all bound if they happen to change their mind, but God is speaking to us through all of these acts of blessing.

Father make us trusters and givers, content to have our basic needs met, and then to bless others!

5. I am preparing to lead worship this weekend for our Baptist Association's Ladies Retreat. We convene at Camp Pagweak Friday night for a weekend with the Lord! There is much anticipation in my spirit; but I am also aware of unknown territory... I am praying for favor and grace as we gather from different backgrounds and are familiar with different songs of worship... I know God will unite us and far exceed my expectation of faithfulness and anointing on such a weekend. My experience with these women so far tells me that there is little I'll have to do to actually lead! They are very eager and hungry for the Lord!

Lynn and I continue to grow as we adjust to being out on our own, serving in ministry for the first time, in a new place, new denomination, and with new people. We are blessed beyond measure by our senior pastor and staff, and gracious congregation.

We love you all family and friends!

For Fun

Here are some more pictures to enjoy.

Lynn's Birthday Weekend

We just thought we'd share some of last weekend with everyone....

My thing.

I am a very passionate person, but tend to keep that passion under pretty tight reigns... when I can. However, there often comes a day when I encounter the thing... and suddenly passion begins to take over...

Life is moving along, there are dishes in the sink, the floor is filthy, my bathroom is filthy, and drying laundry is draped all over the house... no problem. We are having some financial stresses and have some uncertainties regarding the future... we're still okay... but then, out of the blue, there comes that one thing that pushes me over the edge. It's that one thing that makes me say, "Okay, that's enough! Lord, it's time to intervene!"

Right now I have a thing. It's the toilet. For some reason, I am incapable of flushing our toilet. I seemed to flush it fine from January through April, but the past few weeks, I find myself incapable of flushing the toilet. I'd like to think that it's not me, that it's a recent problem developing with the toilet flusher... but no. Every time I flush it makes a water-swishing sound and then... nothing. Lynn however, can come in the bathroom, press the flusher, and all is well. But no, not me. I am incapable of flushing the toilet. The worst part about the whole thing, is if it doesn't work the first time, then it takes another half hour to refill so I can try again. What am I supposed to do? wait for a half hour just to flush the toilet? or leave the toilet unflushed hoping that no one needs to use the washroom within a half hour, if I even remember to come back to it?

The long and short of it is, the toilet's flushing abilities have little if anything to do with it. It jut happens to be my thing right now. I've always remembered one of Pastor Kevin Matthews sermons at Moncton Wesleyan that talked about this. I don't actually remember any real spiritual content of the message; but I've always remembered that if Pastor Kevin has had a bad day and comes home from work and walks into the kitchen and one of the kitchen cupboard doors is open, then he loses it. He just can't stand when the cupboard doors are left open. But it's not really about the cupboard doors, it's about everthing else that happened earlier in his day.

So what do you think? Do you have a thing?

(Natasha)

My thing is not always a toilet problem... hopefully they're too rare to consistently manifest themselves in a season of distress...

Fences

Last night at SOAK, we talked about building fences (or boundaries) in relationships. Someone brought up an interesting point that got me thinking. Someone mentioned we are often too quick to put up a boundary with someone when we feel hurt by them. We feel hurt, so we begin to write that person off as a friend, sometimes calling them a "toxic" person. Often we need to realize that our boundary for someone is often put up, in such a situation, because of ourselves. We have a feeling, we took offense, or we wrote the person off, indicating that we have a problem.

Here's where my thinking begins. While you don't have the context of the conversation, hopefully you get the point above. We have problems, and we blame other people or other circumstances. (Maybe I should just say "I" here, but I doubt I'm alone on this.) Someone hurts us by hitting on a nerve we don't want to face, so we shut them out. The problem? My nerve. Or we begin to hold someone at a distance for fear that we might be hurt or they might not be a friend. The problem? My fear. Or even worse, we set up a boundary because someone's action or involvement in our lives uncovers an area in which we don't trust someone close to us. The problem? Either my mistrust or the problems of someone close to me that I don't want to face.

I have a few family members who say to each other in disagreement, "That sounds like your problem," if one or the other says, "You make me mad," or, "That was a hurtful thing to say." While I don't agree that a person has no responsibility for my feelings, I do think we are entirely too quick not to take responsibility for ourselves in our relationships. If we hurt someone, we often point to people in our past (or present), events in our past (or present), or circumstances in our past (or present) in order to provide a "reason" why we act the way we do. We're caught up in the "I can't help it" game just to save ourselves and/or our reputations. Rather than admit we have room to grow and allow someone close to us to help us through it, we push the problem on them, on our past, or on some factor in our present that renders us "helpless" to do anything but behave poorly or set up a fence too quickly. We make it inconceivable that we have any room to grow because that would make us capable of hurting another person and responsible for contributing to a relationship problem.

Let's face two things here: 1) Sometimes boundaries do need to be established, but we are quick to do that in order to protect ourselves rather than to work through something, and 2) We're human! That's right, human. In other words, we aren't going to have perfect relationships, and we're going to hurt and be hurt. Even very godly people who love each other can hurt and be hurt. Even "free" people who seemingly have "arrived" at a place in which they have no human foibles anymore are subject to miscommunication and misunderstanding, meaning that hurt is still possible. We are so quick to protect ourselves by building fences that demand grace be given to us for our past, our present, etc., but we rarely extend the grace to other people to consider their past, their present, etc. And we almost never acknowledge misunderstanding.

Two closing remarks:

1) In light of this, it seems, then, that we should work harder in our relationships not to hold people at a distance. We should bring people closer, taking the risk that hurt brings. After all, Proverbs tells us that a wound from a friend can be trusted. In other words, if someone loves us, they probably don't intend harm if they wound us. They're probably the ones who can help us work through it.

2) Sometimes boundaries really are necessary, but it's probably not a good idea to set one up until you've tried to work on a relationship through honesty among all parties. Once you've accepted your responsibility and brought that to the Lord to release offense/bitterness and/or unforgiveness, there remains a time of openness and honesty with the offender. If the offender chooses blindness and won't accept the possibility of shared responsibility, then it seems a boundary has already been drawn by that person. I'm not saying I'm 100% right on this, but it seems, at that point, that this is a good time to start building and painting that fence.

(Lynn)

Another one...

 

We're still missing our family. ;) Here's another one we wanted to share.

Missing...

We miss our niece and nephew!

Sketchy

There's a sketchy part of town off Brunswick St. that has scrap metal piled high and dirt all over the place. If you drive into downtown from the east side, you can't miss the eyesore, which happens to be close to the air force building that is in need of repair. This area is, of course, just off the railroad tracks, where several people are known to walk alone at night. As if that weren't sketchy enough, carnival rides and booths recently started being erected in the parking lot by the air force building, with the scrap metal pile in the background. Driving through there at dusk earlier this week, I couldn't help but take a second glance to see if any "carnies" would peek out from behind the ferris wheel or tilt-a-whirl.

Blessed!

Well, what can we say!? The Lord looks out for His own :)

Lynn and I went to the grocery store on Tuesday in fear and trepidation :) (Not really... I'm usually more afraid than Lynn!)

We were having family for company and were in much need of groceries... so off we went. We had a little difficulty at the cash, but lo and behold, we walked out with our groceries, ready to host our dearly loved family members!

When my cousin, her husband, and their nephew arrived just before 7:00 pm to stay for the night, we thought we were receiving a blessing of family fellowship. This we did receive, but also more! Steven, my cousin's husband, is the head chef at a restaurant on PEI. He has several contacts in the food industry and gets all his meats on special deals. As he was bringing in their luggage, they dragged in a big, blue cooler. They opened it up and presented to us a truckload (not really...) of meat! There were ribs, haddock, lobster (still alive!), and scallops galore! Steven then preceded to host us in our "own" home and we ate lobster and scallops for a late supper/snack :)

Isn't that wonderful! We had a surprise visit from our family and a surprise blessing of provision from the Lord!

What can I say? We're blessed!

Mothers

Neither of us is a mother, but we have lots of friends who are! We've sent congrats to our moms and will probably call them today, too. For our "mother" friends who check this today, be blessed and Happy Mother's Day!

FYI

Well, for your information, my personal blog is now open for anyone to read and comment.

www.natasha-erskine.blogspot.com

Natasha

Why I Blog Infrequently

A new post is better than commenting on Natasha's post below, particularly since we are sharing about two different topics.

Contrary to popular rumors, I check our blog frequently. I actually spend time reading it regularly. I have two excuses for not posting more frequently:

1) Natasha often posts, and I see little need to have two posts per day on a regular basis. She often posts about things we discuss, and I rarely have a better way of writing what she expresses. We think more alike all the time.

2) I post infrequently for the same reason I suspect many people we know post infrequently. We tend to think of good blogging ideas at inopportune times. Let's not lie; I forget what I want to write. I'm no less opinionated. I just exercise good time management at work (meaning I rarely open our blog there); I like staying active in the community (meaning I don't take my blog with me everywhere I go); and I can't remember everything I think or do in the run of a day or week. :)

There you have it.

A question.

(Editorial insert from Lynn: "Turnips" are now on recipe blog.)

I have a question. Please respond if you legitimately have an opinion.

Should I open up my other blog, a more personal journal, to be read publicly?

Here's the thing... I canceled my other blog ages ago because I found it difficult to balance sharing the private thoughts of my heart with "fellowshipping" casually among friends in this world of blogdom. I needed a outlet while I was on my internship, and thus started a blog... but didn't realize my own susceptibility to the comparisons that can easily take place when we begin sharing personal things about our journey with the Lord, etc on our blogs.

I then joined Lynn's blog - this blog - which He in turn transformed into a romantic expression of our oneness as only he would... However, now I find that He rarely blogs, I often blog, and comments are made mostly by the same females who had commented on my previous blog! So what have I accomplished in changing over to this blog? ...very little.

The problem is... I really enjoy sharing my thoughts with you. The Lord is often leading me to write and it burns within me to share... So I opened a new blog as my own personal journal that is not opened to anyone to read except Lynn. I have tried to keep this one more casual and focused on the happenings of mine and Lynn's life, a casual opportunity to keep in touch with friends. However, I still find myself sharing personal things on this blog because I really want to share. Sometimes I write in my other blog and its everything I can do not to copy and paste into this one where people can read it and share their thoughts...

Here's what I'm thinking... Keep this blog a family blog for Lynn and I (hopefully he will blog more...) and open up my other blog to be read by others... (though I may not allow for comments yet only because of my own susceptibility to get caught up in what you think...)


Does anyone else struggle with the line between personal journaling and casually keeping in contact with people? Does anyone else feel the susceptibility to compare your posts to someone else's? as though one could be more "spiritual" or better than another?

Weekend update.

Last weekend was extremely busy... and extremely rewarding!

Saturday, Lynn led our 2nd quarterly Worship Workshop, which was once again... fabulous. It started at 9:00 am and finished at 3:00 pm. This time we discussed such topics as Worship and Performance, Worship as Service and Obedience, the Function and Practice of Worship Teams, and Songwriting. We always begin with a time of worship (a setting where Lynn has a little more freedom to introduce new songs and new styles of worship); followed by a time of testimony and discussion concerning the positive aspects as well as the distractions during that time. So far, we have had small numbers, which has made for very intimate times with the Lord and one another! So good!
(Seeing Lynn in this role births so many visions in my heart. He is so excellent at bringing people together and learning about the Lord. God has blessed him with the anointing and gracious spirit that compels others to seek, ask, and knock... and of course find, and receive! Praise the Lord!)

Sunday morning was my (Natasha's) first time preaching here at Immanuel. It went well; though it was a humbling and stretching experience for me. I have "long" since settled my arguments with the Lord concerning my call to teach the Word of God; and now face the enduring hard work of obedience down the road ahead... I am incapable of such a life, nor would I ever have chosen it. But if I remain in Him and He in me, I will bear much fruit; apart from Him I can do nothing (John 15:5).

Sunday after church, Lynn and I left just ahead of our choir to New Beginnings Church in Dartmouth, NS as the guest choir and speaker (Lynn) for their Anniversary Service. This is a black church in our Baptist convention with which we are building a strong family and musical relationship. The evening was full of joy and excitement as we celebrated together, black and white, in many different styles, in the presence of the Lord, for the faithfulness of God. We sang, ate, and listened to a powerful message Lynn spoke on Jeremiah 29:11. We also ate and drank of the Lord amidst the fellowship of believers. "Poor" Lynn wore many hats that day as he played, sang, directed, and preached... jumping from one position to the next! But it was so worth it for the fellowship we shared and the impact this experience had on our choir.

As the cherry on the cake... (except no one even likes cherries, so why do we use that expression? It should be more like the yummy and decorative chocolate shavings...) we spent the rest of Sunday evening with the wonderful Wiedmaiers until we were kicked out of Starbucks, and then until our toes were numb from the cold pavement of the parking lot...

So life is good and God is great!
Praise His Holy Name!

A Miracle.

Yesterday, we saw a miracle. For the second time, our computer just died. It all of a sudden just wouldn't turn on. We had paid to have it fixed not too long ago and we have no more money to put into a computer right now. Lynn also had Greek homework due last night and thus needed the Bible study software and resources on this computer. So we prayed...

While Lynn was at work I said, "Lord, this is just not okay. It is, actually, unacceptable. You know we need this computer and we don't have the time or finances to make this thing work. For the sake of you Name, Lord, fix this computer!"

Lynn came home a few hours later and tried the computer. It didn't work. We said, "Lord there are no if's, and's, or but's about this one. You just need to make this work."

Lo and behold... it turned on!

We weren't yelling at God or wielding some manipulative power over Him. We just knew His will and this broken computer was not matching up with His will. So we boldly declared it to be fixed and God did it. We were so blessed by this miracle and immediately praised the Lord. He was with us! He heard our prayer and answered it immediately. Praise His holy, gracious Name!!

This has helped build our faith for the many things we are believing God for right now! In particular, the finances for our home, and the right job for me.

"Did I not say that if you will believe Me, you will see the glory of God!" John 11:40

Laughs.

You guys are awesome :). Your comments about babies and recipes were really very funny... Both will come soon enough (though hopefully recipes sooner than the other!).

For now, I would appreciate your prayers as I am looking for a job. I feel as though God has released something in me after graduation... I really want a job in the community where I can build relationships (and settle down... start a family...). There is a women's federal prison in town and I would love to work there!!! Can you imagine being a chaplain or something in a place like that!? Would they even let me talk about Jesus? And if they didn't... would I anyway!?

Anyway... who knows what the next few months will hold. My prayer is "Lead me, O Lord, in your righteousness... make straight your way before me... For surely, O Lord, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield" (Psalm 5:8, 12). The Lord brought me to these verses just prior to grad and then used the commencement sermon as confirmation (it was all about walking with God's favor). This is an act of discipline for me to not worry about how we're going to pay for our house, etc... and scrounge around in all sorts of directions looking for a job. But to keep walking straight ahead, not looking to the left or the right, and believing God to orchestrate divine appointments and lead us in the straight path of righteousness for His Name's sake.

So I am walking into the blessings of God, living by faith and not by sight! Here is my next season... A season of Life and community relationships, a season of radiating the dark corners of Truro with the glorious light of Christ...

Bring it!

(Natasha)

Fini.

Well, it's official... I'M GRADUATED!!!

It has been quite a journey! Thank you to everyone who came to graduation, sent cards, gifts, or supported in prayer and encouragement!

This season of life is officially closed. On to the next! (Which is what?!)

Natasha

Interesting Week

Tasha told me to blog a couple of days ago, which I neglected to do in all the week's activity. I'll get to Saturday and Sunday nights in a moment. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday were all days in which I left at 9:00 a.m. and got home long after 9:00 p.m. every day. There were only two days "in the office" this week, so I scrambled. This is also the second Music Festival week, so I'm doing a lot of accompanying. Add Matt's birthday to the mix, and you've got a lot going on. And I'm sleeping well as a result - so good!

Saturday: Tasha's brother Joel was in West Side Story, so we drove up to see the family and the show. What Tasha didn't know is that her sister and family flew up to surprise her for her graduation (this coming weekend). They came a week early so they could also catch the show. I was in the loop so that we could get us in the right place at the right time. After a fairly decent argument over switching the date of our trip from Friday (planned for me before I knew about Melissa) to Saturday (an awful day for me, but now I knew about Melissa), we began to plan. (Fortunately, Tasha's grandmother, who also knew about the surprise, convinced the family to plan our family night for Saturday, regardless of our original Friday plans.) I couldn't convince Tasha to pack anything because she wanted to come back home for church. After exhausting all of my plans, I prayed, "Lord, you know she's going to want to stay. You need to handle this." He did. Less than ten minutes after that prayer, Tasha called me in to the room and said, "You know, I think I should pack for the week in case I choose to stay with the family." Good thing!

Sunday: I got home at 1:00 a.m. Sunday morning after the show (in which Joel was GREAT!). I got up early, went to the church, and had a fairly normal Sunday. I arrived home that night at about 9:30 p.m., put all my things on the table, and received a phone message from Tasha. I thought, "Okay, I'll take out the recycling so I don't forget, come back in, and call Tasha back." Grabbing the recycling that was still in the house, I headed for the garage to retrieve the rest. Out of habit, I reached behind me and locked the door. As soon as the door shut I thought, "I just locked that." I checked, and sure enough I locked myself out of the house. I checked every window and was chagrined to discover my thoroughness in locking the house down for added security (we're sitting). There wasn't ANY way to sneak in. Neither was there any spare tool or implement in the garage small enough to pick a lock. I grabbed a crowbar at one point, ready to break in at any cost. Instead, I walked down to the Mini-Mart to call a locksmith (now about 10:45 p.m.). No one would come. He told me to break a window, and he'd come fix it in the morning. That call ended quickly. I started walking back home to the crowbar when it hit me: Micah and Jody would be awake! I walked up the hill to their house (with the wind in my face!) and crashed on their couch till the morning. Eventually, a man 40 minutes from my home came to let me in. I was in by 9:30 a.m., showered, and rushed out the door to accompany at 10:00 a.m. Guess how high my blood pressure was?

Recipe Inactivty.

I just responded to two comments on our last post referencing the inactivity on our recipe blog as of late. I thought I'd write a short post about it.

Lynn and I have a recipe blog. We have never been very active at posting new recipes on this blog; but our activity has apparently decreased even more as of late. The reason is this:

Lynn and I (moreso the "I") are out of sorts in our current kitchen. We are still house sitting because, as we've already mentioned, we bought a house but don't close until the end of June. The house we are sitting is lovely, but I find it especially difficult adjusting to someone else's kitchen, kitchen tools, and recipe books. I've never actually looked in her recipe books, though we don't have ours either...

Also, Lynn and I are conserving as much of our budget as possible due to house expenses. Therefore, most of our creative meals involve canned tuna in one form or another... We've actually really enjoyed it and are perfectly willing to post about our cheap, creative, canned tuna meals. (Lynn made one out of the very random ingredients in our kitchen one day that tasted delicious but looked like something too gross to write on this blog...)

One of our favorite benefits to house sitting thus far has been the George Foreman Grill! I don't know what we're going to do without it when we move!! We highly recommend it!

Anyway, we'll be sure to post more recipes, though they may be interesting, within the next little while!

(Natasha)

Repetition.

I read the most amazing thing the other day about repetition. It wasn't really about repetition; it was actually about joy. It is found in John Ortberg's book, "The Life You've Always Wanted".

Ortberg quotes G.K. Chesterton in regard to children and there innate ability to do the same thing over and over again with the same amount of enthusiasm:

"Because children have abounding vitality, because they are in spirit fierce and free, therefore they want things repeated and unchanged. They always say, 'Do it again'; and the grown up person does it again until he is nearly dead. For grown up people are not strong enough to exult in monotony. But perhaps God is strong enough to exult in monotony. It is possible that God says every morning, 'Do it again' to the sun; and every evening, 'Do it again' to the moon. It may not be automatic necessity that makes all daisies alike; it may be that God makes every daisy separately, but has never gotten tired of making them. It may be that He has the eternal appetite of infancy; for we have sinned and grown old, but our Father is younger than we."

Isn't it refreshing to remember that God is the most joyful being in all creation!? Can't you just picture Him exulting in the sun's glory every morning? Many of us would sit and describe how the universe moves and how the earth circulates around the sun, thus causing the impression that the sun rises and falls, when in reality, the earth is just spinning on its orbit... God set things in motion and now it moves on its own.

Truth be told, we can find just as much joy and creativity in the Lord by studying science. I have great respect for those who worship through such scientific research and study. But I also love being a child! When I wake in the morning, I love it when God says, "Good morning, my child!! It's about time you woke up! See, I have risen the sun again today! Today, all creation sings praise to My Name! Today, the Son is glorified once more because His mercies are new again today!! Today, the wind of My Spirit will blow to and fro and no one will know where it is going or where it will stop. Are you ready to come on another adventure with me today, My child? An adventure into the wonders and mysteries of God?"

There are so many facets to my God; but I think His joy is one of my favorites. Unfortunately, though, it may be the one characteristic that goes most easily unseen...

God show us Your boundless joy and the truth of Your Word that says, "the joy of the Lord is my strength"!!

(Natasha)

PMS

Okay, we're in a fun coffee shop in town right now having a spontaneous date. We're sitting on the couch by a real fireplace made faux for safety codes. A pew is across the coffee table from us. That's right, a pew. Who said pews are irrelevant? They're totally here in one of the coolest spots in the province. (Seriously - the place has a reputation.) We came here for Maple Tea, which, of course, the "other" cafe has. (There are two of these in town.) Bleh. So, I went with coffee and honey. Tash is having honey and ginger.

Is this the most boring post you've read in awhile? Likely. There's little content. The last time we did a "little content" post, we received more comments than ever. What does that say about us? Or about you? :)

Happy Easter!!!

Good morning and Happy Easter everyone!!!
The most amazing thing happened this morning... Our early church service was canceled on Easter Sunday due to the huge snow snowstorm we received last night!!! Many of you may be in a similar boat; but isn't it just absurd?!

Anyway, snow or no snow, service or no service, hallelujah! Christ is risen, Christ is risen indeed!

With love,
Lynn & Natasha


(Easter morning 2007 out our front window - good thing we don't get mail today!)

(We woke up to the sound of birds who will not be bathing and neighbors who will not be driving.)

Politeness.

There are many unique characteristics of our little town, Truro. Lynn and I are discovering them more and more as we become accustomed to the culture and traditions here. Though I would love to tell you about the many unique tree sculptures, or the interesting history and religious traditions of the town, I will save those for another day. Today, I'm going to talk about "politeness".

What is politeness? It refers to the mannerly behaviors of a community, in healthy relation to one another. Though my perspective is limited, I have observed this to be a very high value in the town of Truro. Being historically part of a "Bible Belt" area, it has strong roots in religious traditions (there I go talking about it...). Over the years, however, as our pagan nation has grown and developed, the town has evolved in its pagan culture. Thus, we live in a pagan community rooted in religious values and traditions. The result is politeness.

Here is an example of the complex pagan/religious culture of Truro:
Driving along, one will undoubtedly come to a four-way stop intersection. These are very common in Truro. Often, when coming upon these intersections, one will encounter some other Truronian in opposing root. Being a very polite community, whoever arrives to a complete stop first, graciously waves the other to go ahead first as if to say, "No, please, go ahead." The other, however, will respond likewise, "No please, you go ahead." After several of these interchanges, eventually one does move forward.

These exchanges are quite common, and frankly, irritating when traveling through town. Lynn and I have often thought, "This is getting dangerous!" The other day, I arrived to a complete stop at one of these four way intersections at (what appeared to me to be) the same time as three other cars, each at another stop. No one moved ahead right away, so I thought, "Okay, I'll go." I moved forward into my left turn (blinker clearly on!), when the car opposite me began moving straight ahead (as in directly i to me). I stopped and nodded apologietically while the other moved on through. I then continued my turn only to find that the car I was coming up alongside at my left was giving me "the finger" and swearing at me! I thought, "This is absurd!"

The poor man in the car is NOT an accurate reflection of our friendly fellow Truronians. However, it seemed so ironic to me. Somehow, the value of politeness in town was not upheld by me moving ahead first. Then, however, it was appropriate to cuss? ...interesting.

So what do you think of politeness?

(Natasha)