"Hatching a Snow Bird"

I am praising God for the blessing of the warm climate of Sebring, Florida.  I have a better understanding of the "snow birds."  I think I might really be one.

MORNING WALKS

I continue to enjoy the morning walks. 

It is so nice not to have to walk on ice and snow.

COLD SPELL

It was only 83 today, down from yesterday's 93.

 

THE REAL FLORIDA

Florida state park system was a wonderful experience.  We took a tram through various habitats of many species of animal and plant life.

 

Hope you enjoy the sights,

 

Did you notice the snake on the stump?

 

 

Cypress knees and trees

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SISTER STUFF

 

 

My sister, Donna, and I have enjoyed this time together.  We have shared many activities. Also we have had some theological discussions.  I get to say what I think, she's my sister!

 

 

However, when we differ on a Bible topic I know she is probably the one that has it correct. 

 

She has a master degree in Biblical Studies from Multnomah in Oregon.  She has a master in linguistics from University of Texas in Arlington.  In Ethiopia she translated the Bible into two different tribal languages.  Donna did the exegetical checking for accuracy.

I will give the second presentation here in Florida on Tuesday.  Please pray with me that each person that has heard of the injustice and abuse caused by the occupation will join the Palestinian and Israelis who are working together for a non-violent solution based on law.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It's a Village

THE JOURNEY CONTINUES

From the Orlando airport it was a bus ride to Amtrak and a couple hour train ride to my Sister, Donna, in Sebring.  I am getting better at this individual traveling at least more experienced.  I was graciously helped by people on my path and did not lack for people to talk with.  
 
Donna is a retired missionary.  She spent 30 years in Africa with her main responsibility Bible translation.  

 

A RETIREMENT VILLAGE

The Service in Mission (SIM) Retirement Village a wonderful facility.  About 170 people live here and all are retired SIM missionaries.  There are many activities to do right here in the village.  The village includes houses, duplexes, apartments and an assisted living. 


The street scenes are beautiful and the people are friendly.  I enjoyed my morning walks seeing the sun rise in many locations including the orchard in Donna's back yard.











The street scenes add beauty and variety.

The calm early morning allows us to see the beauty of God's gift twice.  The calm ponds reflecting the beauty of the neighborhood.  

God brings to my mind how beautiful our lives should be as we reflect the new nature we have as brothers and sisters of Christ!

Birds and small animals are a part of this Village scene.  The squirrels scurrying around are like those that I might see in Michigan. But check out their menu!  Florida Oranges.

There is a Fellowship Hall, decorated for Christmas and so is the yard!

The Lodge, an assisted living in the village has also been decorated for Christmas.  All that is missing is the snow.




There is a chapel in the village,  We attended the Thursday night service. 

Note the parking lot.

Each morning, from the swimming pool, laughter greets me as I take my early morning walk.  

I see the green volley ball and the tops of gray heads as the game goes on.












Donna's friend Sharon joined us for dinner on my first Saturday in Sebring.  I have enjoyed meeting Sharon and Donna's friends here in the Village. 

The wealth of knowledge is amazing.  I have been talking with people who have been on mission fields 30+ years.  They are sharing their knowledge with me. 

Praise God with me for allowing me to be here for this "training."

Continue to pray for Peace in the Middle East.  Pray for the refugees and for those who have extended them  hospitality.

Immersion Learning

 A LEARNING EXPERIENCE

I will have an immersion trip in Jordan learning about the history, culture, religion, faith and natural resources of Jordan.   I hope you travel with me via this blog and your prayers.

 

Amman		Azraq & Shawmari		Jordan Valley & The Dead Sea
Karak		Petra		Wadi Rum
Aqaba		Jerash		Ajlun
Irbid		As-Salt		Madaba
Umm Qays		Bethany Beyond the Jordan		Pella
Hammamat Ma’in / Ma’in Hot Springs		Umm Al-Jimal		Desert Castles
Iraq Al-Amir

MY OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE

I am heading back to school after 40 some years.  Praising God for the opportunity to be a teacher assistant in Mafraq, Jordan.  The school is for Syrian refugee children and is operated by the National Christian Missionary Alliance Church.  My start date at this school is January 17, 2014.

Your prayers and financial help are needed. 

Donations to help refugees may be made through the United Methodist Advance. 

Contributions are tax deductible.  One hundred percent of the donation goes to the named project.  The United Methodist Church pays the administrative costs.   Make donations on line at www.umcmission.org. or make check out to Advance, include Project Number and mail to Advance GCF, PO Box 9068 GPO, New York, NY 10087 9068

Your gift to International Disaster Response, UMCOR Advance # 982450, will help families fleeing the violence in Syria and the communities that host them.