Fair Week in review

I am not surprised that I did not do any blogging last week. I did about 6 or 7 shifts at the fair plus parts of other shifts, all of which I actually enjoy , besides being inspired by the work ethic and willingness that I see from our volunteers. Some of them worked through significant back pain problems, others are in upper 60's and 70's and 80's!... but cook in the kitchen or put in several shifts with a smile on their face. Others give up their days off or use vacation time. Almost all of them are reporting for duty after finishing their day job! So it seem like a good crowd to hang around with, beside the pastoral opportunities to visit with those who simply stop by the booth or walk around the fair.

Tom and Loree Yeager who have been working with the fair booth for about 25 years are stepping down from their leadership role. They finish on a high point in two ways: the booth not only had a good financial year but we got a perfect score from the state health; "Food Inspector." We have never had violations but he has usually had a suggestion or two.This year we were 100%!

But less enjoyable this week was the devastating fire on Friday at the Baden home. If you have ever been on site with the charred wood, ruined furniture and clothes, the water damage and the foam as the family is walking thought the mess, you know what heart ache it is.
Phyllis Anderson also died on Friday morning. Two hip breaks and surgeries in just a few months was just too much so her service is on Tues.

You might notice a new link again . Wilma Roberts was a presenter at the School of Christian Mission and her PowerPoint is now a blog. I recommend it. We have a group going to Rosebud South Dakota on Aug 17th so that might be a good preparation read. Also see the new links that Jeff Reed has added on his ever-evolving blog. I might have to add that Desert Wisdom site. Michelle Hargrave is a Minnesota United Methodist clergy blogger I need to link to as well at http://33namesofgrace.blogspot.com/

Here is clip from today's Spirituality and Practice site:
God will bring people and events into our lives, and whatever we may think about them, they are designed for the evolution of his life in us.— Thomas Keating in Active Meditations for Contemplative Prayer

(That's plenty to ponder..what do you think?)
Rory, rambling on...