The Treasures of Geocaching

Last night was such a beautiful evening, we decided to drive up by English Point and grab the easy caches, because it was too late to get all of them. We found 2 out of 3 caches, but the best part was the treasures we spotted along the way. We saw three bucks in full velvet, one of the bucks was huge! The sunset took our breath away, and a bit further down the road, I spotted a buck in a field, then looked closer and there was a set of tiny fawns that the buck was watching over. Mama was up above eating some lush grass. As soon as I stopped, the twins took off in a run, as fast as their tiny legs would take them. Interestingly, the buck was very protective of the two. As soon as mama deer spotted us, she came running down the hill to protect her young. We were a good 300 feet from them, and in our car, but mama wasn't taking any chances. Unfortunately, it was almost dark, so I didn't get any good pictures. I did include one of the buck directing the fawns from the road, but you have to look very close to see the tips of their heads.

One of the reasons I love geocaching so much is the treasures we discover while out caching, whether it be a new area, a beautiful sunset, or the wildlife we've seen.

(sorry, I know it's blurry!)

Moving into the 21st Century

Today we are supposed to be getting high speed cable internet! We've had dial up forever. I thought when we moved down here to Suburbia, we would have numerous options. I was wrong! Verizon dsl is not available in this part of Rathdrum, neither is wireless because we don't face the right direction. We have friends who live in the old part of Rathdrum and they have all options, so it's strange. Our only option here is cable, and though it's a bit spendy, the problems with dial up are about to drive me crazy. Many times I try to work from home, and between the slowness and recently, the programs not responded until you go on them three or four times, it is very unproductive and frustrating. They are running a half price special for your first six months, so at least that will be affordable. Anyway, I'm excited for the upgrade.

My parents and nieces are also coming for a visit this morning, so that will be nice. I'm sure we will be getting out the little bikes, and if the wind comes up, the kites. The girls love to fly kites here because we normally have wind, and there aren't any lines to get tangled up in. So, it will be a busy day, but a hopefully a good one.

Hurry

Never be in a hurry; do everything quietly and in a calm spirit. ~Saint Francis de Sales

Find ecstasy in life; the mere sense of living is joy enough. ~Emily Dickenson

To get all there is out of living, we must employ our time wisely, never being in too much of a hurry to stop and sip life, but never losing our sense of the enormous value of a minute.” ~Robert Updegraff

Disorder is always in a hurry.” ~Napoleon Bonaparte

Seems summer is speeding by and I'm wondering where the month has gone, and how it's already coming up on July 4th. We get ourselves in such a hurry in life that we sometimes forget to just sit and enjoy the precious few moments of life. Summer especially seems to speed by here in the Northwest, and we have long lists of things that need to be done. This morning, I'm wondering how many people put some fun on their lists, or is it just things like, plant the garden, weed the garden, pick the garden, paint the house, mow the yard, clean the garage, and so on. I think we need to remember to enjoy life, too, and include on our lists a drive in the mountains, fishing a quiet stream, sitting out in the middle of nowhere and enjoying the silence, taking a canoe ride on a quiet lake, enjoying a flower garden, hiking to a waterfall, driving to the ocean, swinging at a playground, or flying a kite. My nieces were here a few days ago, and we spent time blowing bubbles with huge bubble wands, sliding on slides at the park, coloring pictures in their color books, playing on the swings, and most importantly giggly and building memories. We have to remember to include some down time, some play time into our lives. Life is short and yes, there's a lot to accomplish, but will anyone other than you really care if the garage isn't clean? On the otherhand, will your family notice that you spent quality time with them, and enjoyed God's beautiful creation that is all around you. He created you to work, but He also created you to have fun and enjoy life. We have to find a balance, something this world doesn't seem to remember anymore. Take time this weekend to have some intentional fun, some intentional down time. Build some memories.

Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. Psalm 62:5

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

Manito Beauty

Sunday we went to Manito Park and enjoyed the gardens, especially the rose garden.

"Some people are always grumbling because roses have thorns. I am thankful that thorns have roses" - Alphonse Kerr

Brandon Update

Brandons 1SG Doug Shepherd took time out on his way back to Iraq to see him. Along side is LTG Glynn Mallory. Mallory and his wife are retired.They have made their retirement time into a continued care service to the service men, women and they're families to ensure excellence in all areas and needs.
Shepherd enjoyed time with McCall and Adam on Sunday. Shepherd awarded Adam with a medal of accomadation. This is Adam's second. He received his first during his first tour. He also received his Brigade coin from Col. Wolack via Sheperd. Adam shows much appreciation for his fellow soldiers.
All in all the weekend was great. Adam still battles with the body calling out for the meds that he does not receive any longer.He now understands what detoxing feels like.He feels better daily! Keep up the prayers.

In Christ Doug

Happy Birthday Marianne!

Happy Birthday to Marianne Love, a long time friend, and my former teacher and employer. I hear she is celebrating a milestone birthday today, and want to wish her a wonderful day, and a year ahead filled with happiness and laughter. Pop over to her blog and wish her a happy birthday: http://www.slightdetour.blogspot.com/


Marianne, it has been a privilege to have been a part of the Love life for so many years! I treasure our friendship and the words of wisdom that you pass along from time to time. You have given me inspiration, and encouragement many times and I appreciate it so much.

Happy birthday, Marianne, and thank you for all the Lessons in Love that you have passed along to me.

Nice Surprise

Late yesterday afternoon, we decided to venture out to the mountains for a drive, and some exploration. We entered behind Twin Lakes, on private paper company property, which you have to have a permit to enter. We had not ventured up this way before, so we did not have a clue where we would end up. The lady checking us in told us they were logging on 10, so it was closed. We were a bit concerned we would end up in the middle of the logging operation because our previous experience has shown us that they aren't very good at marking their roads on their land, and their maps leave much to be desired. We came upon many roads, and 10 was actually marked '10.' We took 8. We kept looking at the map, but really didn't know where we were, but we were up for adventure, so we kept going. We came around a corner, and we were looking at huge condos, and we were way up in the mountains. We both looked at each other and wondered why they were developing so high up in the mountains. Suddenly, a light came on, and we realized we were straight across from Mt. Spokane.

We kept driving, enjoying the Bear Grass and the beauty, and amazingly we took the correct roads and made it to Mt. Spokane State Park. While in the park, we decided to take the road that said Vista House. Wow, we are so glad we did. Amazing views from the top. You can see eight lakes when you are up there, and you feel very much like you are on top of the world!! It was a bit nippy, but I figured that left less chance of picking up a creepy crawler in the form of a tick, so I endured it. The overwhelming beauty left us speechless. The world suddenly looked very small.

On our way down, we knew there was some place to cut across, to avoid going to north Spokane, but we didn't know where it was since this was our first venture to Mt. Spokane, so we just guessed, thinking we would end up at Neumann Lake. I glanced at the GPS unit, and it showed we were actually driving away from Neumann Lake, but we kept going, as the GPS showed we were nearing Trentwood. We ended up on Forker Road, and watched a dozen or so deer along the way, as they enjoyed dining in the lush grass fields. We were also blessed to partake in an incredible sunset over a wheat field. Finally, we came to an area we had been before and we made it home just after dark.

It always seems to leave my heart smiling when we just go and find places like that, on accident. Maybe it wasn't an accident at all and God kept directing us through the maze of roads so we would end up enjoying the majesty of His creation, once again.

Recovery Request

My hubby and I need help. We need help in the biggest of ways. Last night we were getting ready to head to bed around 11:15, when I did a quick email check. Mistake number one! Up on the screen pops [Geo] notify:MT Fellwalker published No Horses Allowed (traditional cache). Now, I received a couple of those yesterday, just to give them a quick glance and think, we will get those later, maybe over the weekend. However, this newly published geocache was less than a mile from our home, so I went in to see if anyone had found it yet. According to the log, no one had. I read it to Thane, his eyes started dancing, and he says, 'want to go get it?' I looked at the clock and it is 11:25 pm. The need for sleep seemed to be forgotten as the coveted First to Find toyed with our minds. We soon were slipping on our shoes and running out the door. I told Thane that we might need a recovery program, because this was for sure, addiction! We found the cache in fairly short order, considering it was very dark! We were back home by midnight, and happily logging our First To Find on geocaching.com.

Does anyone know where there may be a recovery program for those with the geocaching addiction? We may need it soon!

Brandon Update

Brandon is trying to catch up on e-mails. He is chipping away at them and thanks everyone for them. Tonite he will enjoy a real bed here at the hotel, mine! I'll take the couch happily! He is the next step of his journey independence. PTL Keep on praying!


In Christ Doug


A letter Doug received yesterday:

Mr. Adam,
I just wanted to inform you that we had another unfortunate attack
yesterday. Private Jonathan Gast was driving a HUMVEE when an IED came
through the driver's side below the engine compartment. The main slug burst
into the passenger compartment beside the accelerator pedal, striking
PV2 Gast. After another heroic evacuation of PV2 Gast by his platoon
medic and outstanding Soldiers and NCO's, he was taken to the Combat
Support Hospital in Baghdad where his right foot had to be amputated above
the ankle. I visited with Jonathan today at the CSH, and he was in
great spirits. He has accepted the loss of his foot with the same
incredible resilience that your son has, and he just wants to get back to the
States so he can start getting better and back on his feet. I am in a
constant state of awe at the heroism I see on a daily basis from these
Soldiers in my command.
At any rate, I wanted to let you know that another Alpha Company
Soldier will probably coming your way out to San Antonio in order to recover
from his injury. Please let Brandon know about this... hopefully the
two of them will be able to meet up and be a source of encouragement for
each other as they deal with their ordeals.
Thank you for your continued updates on Brandon. I look forward to
hearing about his progress, and I can't wait for the day we all get to see
him up on his new legs.
We continue to pray for you, as I know you do for us.
Take care,
Bob Gordon

Advice for the Day

So what to do? Two things, it seems to me. At least two. Use up each day. Fill it overflowing with good. Deliberately enjoy it. Two, begin now. Mend a fractured friendship, mail an overdue letter, repair a broken heart, lay aside a grievance, act on a noble impulse. As we all know, the night is coming. ~Lanny Henninger

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

12 Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.

Colossians 3:12-14 (New Living Translation)

Brandon

Well this is Brandons last day in a hospital bed! He is doing great! We are trying to move into the Fisher House with him, but if it does not happen he will be put into barracks.His advancement is astonishing to the staff, if they knew him before this they would have no question in their mind of who and what he is about. Today he'll climb the rock wall at PT, yep without legs! He also has started with his shrinkers. He will do one leg at this time, his left. The shrinkers will form his legs shape.Yesterday he wore it for the first time and it was a bit uncomfortable for him.Today will bring its own so keep up the prayer for the family. We need it!

In Christ Doug

Milestone

Today marks a milestone. 20 years ago today, I married my best friend. I can't believe it's been 20 years! Where has the time gone? Seems like it was just yesterday that we stood before our family and friends and said that we promised to love each other for the rest of our lives. It isn't always easy, but life isn't easy, so we continue to work on loving each other every day, through good times and not so good times, and when we ask God for help and rely on him, things are much easier than when we try to do life by ourselves.

Thanks for the 20 beautiful red roses, babe! Happy Anniversary!!

Chains do not hold a marriage together. It is threads, hundreds of tiny threads which sew people together through the years.

~Simone Signoret

More marriages might survive if the partners realized that sometimes the better comes after the worse.

~Doug Larson

A great marriage is not when the 'perfect couple' come together. It is when an imperfect couple learns to enjoy their differences.

--Dave Meurer

The more you invest in a marriage, the more valuable it becomes.

--Amy Grant

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8

Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor Ecclesiates 4:9

Week in Review

Our trip went well, overall. There were a few snags in the road, but that's to be expected. We left on the 9th, and had rain most the way over, which didn't stop Thane from grabbing a couple of caches. When we hit Snoqualmie, it was heavy rain and fog along with heavy traffic so we cut through Maple Valley and Auburn to Olympia. We stayed in Ameritel, what a nice motel!! I highly recommend it if you are in that area. The next morning, we toured the capitol building and all the war memorials on the grounds. Very moving.

We then headed to Aberdeen and went down 101, along the coast. We grabbed a few caches, walked on the beach, saw some elk in a field, marveled at how huge trees and shrubs get along the coast, and arrived on the Long Beach Peninsula in time to grab a wonderful dinner of fresh halibut and sturgeon. After dinner, we visited North Head Lighthouse and drove up the peninsula. It was getting dark and misty rain, so we just thought we would take a quick tour and scope out a few things to do on Monday. On our drive, we saw many black tail deer, an opossum, a great horned owl, and a momma and baby porcupine.



On Monday, we spent the morning touring the old houses in Oysterville, as the rain was quite heavy. Oh, did I mention that the historic tour was part of a multi-cache? By noon, it cleared up and we spent a lot of time on the beach. At one point, we had a bald eagle sitting about 6 feet from us, waiting for his lunch to wash up on shore. We hiked to the Cape Disappointment lighthouse and listened the the powerful waves slam into the rocks below us. We toured Fort Canby and then watched an amazing sunset from North Head Lighthouse, with a deer grazing on grass a few feet away.

On Tuesday we decided to drive over to Astoria, where we went to the ocean, watched as they rebuilt a jetty, geocached, enjoyed the sunshine and quiet, saw seals and sea lions, rode a trolley car, Thane went to the top of the Astoria column, while I stayed on the ground and enjoyed the scenery from ground floor, went back to Long Beach and walked the boardwalk and got eaten alive by giant mosquitos, and ended the evening with window shopping and strolling through the very quiet streets of a town that appears to go to bed at 8:30.

On Wednesday, we headed back to Olympia area, and unfortunately the Ameritel motel was full, so we had to stay in a motel that was very close by, the same price, but very sub-standard conditions and staff! We did have a great dinner at Budd Bay Cafe on the Sound.


Thursday took us to Mount Rainier. It was cloudy and misty as we started the day, but cleared off just as we got to the first major viewpoint. Wow! We walked to a couple waterfalls, went to the summit, and enjoyed the day. We went over White Pass, where we were blessed to see two young cow elk right next to the highway. We spent the night in Yakima at a very quiet and restful B & B, Apple Country Bed and Breakfast. We felt more like family than a guest, and the breakfast was so yummy!

Friday brought us home, once again in the rain. We did have a wonderful trip and God blessed us with amazing weather while we were on the coast. The beauty of His majesty surrounded us every day! We were in awe of His creation, from the lakes, to the ocean, to the majestic Mount Rainier. Now, it's time to recover from vacation and try to get some sleep!!

Happy Father's Day

The imprint of a father remains forever on the life of a child.

My dad has always been the one I look to for strength. He is a man of strong character, a man who holds to his word, and a man of God. He has always worked hard and he gives back to others in so many ways. He loves his family very much, and has given my sister and I an example of how a marriage should be. I love you dad, and thank you for the countless hours you worked to support us, thank you for instilling the value of truth and strong character in us, and for raising us in a home filled with love and for showing us who Jesus really is. I'm proud of you, dad and so greatful that I was blessed with you for my dad!!

Honor is a trait not born in a man, but earned by him through self-sacrifice and full commitment to the purpose God has for his life. You are a great dad, a man of honor who has earned my admiration.

No leadership is greater than the example found in a man who leads his children with God's direction.

We also remember Thane's dad this weekend. He has been gone for 7 years now and we miss him and think of him all the time. You are loved and remembered, Jerry. Thank you for your son and for the lasting memories we will cherish for the rest of our lives.

I'm Back

Well, I'm back. We have been on vacation to the Washington Coast, with a day trip to the Oregon Coast. It was good to get away and relax. I'm too tired now to write too much, so will just give this update on Brandon and catch up later.

Brandon has been weaned off the Narcotics and will be on a as need basis now. His awareness is much better I've noticed over the past few days. Grandma and his youngest sister will join him today and I leave Friday for San Antonio. He fell on his right leg again. Today they are going to x-ray his leg to check any damage. Pray for him.

In Christ Doug

Brandon Update

Well he has been working very hard at PT. He fell on his right leg, in his words it really hurt! He said that he landed on the end of his bone. They were practicing getting in and out of his wheelchair. He went down from the chair when he landed wrong. He is already being shown to the other soldiers as a example of the strength that should come with hard work. To all out there that aren't an Adam, you won't find our strength in our muscles but in our minds and in our determination. We only see victory, so are physical strength follows as a result of our mindset. Brandon comes from a great legacy of fore fathers. An one day he will also be a father and live out his ultra ego thru his sons. Until then I say Run Brandon Run! Love the Lord with all your heart mind and soul brother! Pray without ceasing Amen!
In Christ Doug


Busy week, so will catch up on blogging later. Thanks for checking in, will post in a couple days.

Brandon Update

Brandon seems to be getting back to normal. He spends as much time as he can outside of the hospital. He has been turning down the pain meds! He will continue with his twice a day workouts. I am so happy that your prayers are being answered. Lets not stop, the journey has only just begun for him and the family. We will always remember to say thank you to all of you. So thank you thank you thank you. We will always remember your support and someday we will do the same!

Brandon says that his wheelchair also doubles as a chairseat! They went to the Alamo! Too cool always amazed at the work and promises of God. Prayer is great thank you.
In Christ Doug

Today

Nothing is worth more than this day. You cannot relive yesterday. Tomorrow is still beyond your reach. ~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

We sometimes fail to recognize the greatest gift any of us could ever receive. What gift is that we may ask? It is that amazing gift called today. While our past has provided us some of our fondest memories and our future holds the promise of many more memorable moments, today is the only day that really matters at all.
We often spend way too much of our time reliving the past. There's nothing wrong with looking back and revisiting all the joyful and happy times we enjoyed long ago. Going back in time is fine, as long as you don't stay there. Sometimes we feel happy when we think about the good times and good friends that made life so very special in our past. Sometimes we feel sorrow and regret over the things we wished we would have done or opportunities that somehow slipped away. We need to forget about any of our past mistakes since they are just a part of life. We simply need to learn from the past and apply those lessons to today. Sometimes we get stuck dreaming about the future as well, and let that dream overtake us so that we aren't living in the present. Today is always the one day which you can control from start to finish. Today is your opportunity to set yourself free and start setting the world on fire. There is no telling how much you can accomplish when you start spending your precious time in the present, making the most of today-day after day.

When we start making the most of every moment, today will be one of those days we will never forget.

Footsteps

Live in such a way that there will be no regrets when someone else follows in your footsteps. ~Roy Lessin

Mark out a straight smooth path for your feet so that those who follow you, will not fall and hurt themselves but become strong. Hebrews 12:13

(The Living Bible)

Troops

After receiving the pictures of Brandon last night, that is all I've been able to think about. I cried as I saw those pictures. I've known Brandon since he was 11 years old. I think of all the men and woman who have lost their limbs, and their lives as they fight for this country. Then, I think of people like Rosie O'Donnell who say our own troops are the real problem, not the true terrorists. I have a cousin fighting in Iraq, there are kids who went through our youth program, like Brandon and Terry Dunn, who have sacrificed part of themselves for this country. My close friend has a brother in Baghdad and he has been shot several times, received a purple heart, yet continues to serve over there. She fears for him and prays for him continually. Other friends of ours have their brother heading to Iraq in September. We know of several over there serving, and though I thought of them and prayed for them before Terry and Brandon were injured, I think of them and pray for them throughout the day now, and pray that they will be brought home safely to their loved ones. It really doesn't matter what you personally think of the war, I don't think anyone likes war, do they? Show support to our troops. Mail them packages, letters, cards, send them emails and let them know you are on their side.

Face of a Hero

Brandon and Sgt. Major Kilpatrick, shortly after returning to the States.

Brandon receiving his purple heart.

First trip out.

Maddox was in the RG with Brandon he sustained a broken back and healing well. Soon he will return to the unit in Iraq.

Brandon now. The reality of war.

A chaplain was speaking to a soldier on a cot in a hospital. "You have lost an arm in the great cause," he said. "No," said the soldier with a smile. "I didn't lose it - I gave it." In that same way, Jesus did not lose His life. He gave it purposefully. Anonymous

A Day in the Woods

Yesterday was very hot, so we packed up the truck and went to the woods. It nice to get up to the mountains!! This small town, country girl has a few problems living here in Suburbia, so her wise husband knows when she is about to explode and gets her to the mountains. AHHH, fresh mountain air, no people, and trees!

Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the ocean depths. You care for people and animals alike, O Lord.Psalm 36:6 (New Living Translation)

Prayers for Brandon

Brandon has been fighting a fever now for a couple of weeks . Still no real knowledge of its origin. Pray for the doctors to find where it is coming from. Brandon's wounds are healing well. His attitude is good considering all that has happen to him and his unit. He is always thinking of the guys still in the combat zone. He will await the return of his unit to receive his Purple Heart. The guys gave it to him as he was flown out of Iraq. The formal ceremony will happen with the unit when they return. God speed to them. Always pray for these men. We are their prayer warriors!
In Christ Doug

Brandon

Good news Brandon is moving to 4 west! This is where he will learn how to basic daily needs.I travel back home Sunday, Karen comes in tonight. I will keep all updates current!


Brandon had a visitor today from one of my old bosses Jean-Claude VanDame. It was great! Jean-Claude told the people around him that this is one of mine.I shoot Double Impact with him many years ago. Jean-Claude asked me why I was here at BAMC? Then I told him about the son that he knew about so many years ago. He looked at me and said,"NO!" It was a great time that they spent together. Brandon told him," Thank you for all the money that my dad made on Double Impact it bought lots of toys." Jean-Claude lower his chin and said, "No, I thank you Brandon",as his eyes started to well up. They held each other, he gave Brandon a kiss on the cheek. He told me to get in to the photo with them. Then he asked me for my phone number again and said he would give me a call. The visit was really good for all of us. Brandon is buzzing all all around the floor in his wheelchair. I see alot of hope in him. Pray for all of us.

In Christ Doug

Brandon Update

Brandon went on a tour of the "Center for the Intriped" this morning . He was VERY excited to get started with his physical therapy. He has now seen the plan for his new walk laid out in front of him. He is amazed at the forethought that has been set into action long before his arrival. He has even seen how his legs are to be built for him. He is alive with lots of hope for himself and those who travel the same journey with him. He is seeing way beyond the moment now.

In Christ Doug

Trust

It's been one of those weeks. Lots happening. Some good, some not so good. Some that lift my spirits, others that make me sad and wonder why. Through it all, though, I know God is in control and I have to trust that he knows what is best and that he has a purpose for all that is going on around me. It's hard to trust. Trust is something we seem to lose early on in life, and we have to relearn that virtue to make it through life because if we don't trust, we are always suspicious of people and their motives, even if someone is doing good for us. I'm not saying that we need to trust everyone, but I think we need to learn a balance. I know if I trust in God to work things out, and really trust in him and let him deal with it, then even if I don't understand why something happened, I understand there is a greater picture that I cannot see, or control.

8 Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning, for I am trusting you. Show me where to walk, for I give myself to you.Psalm 143:8 (New Living Translation)

5With all your heart
you must trust the LORD
and not your own judgment.
6Always let him lead you,
and he will clear the road
for you to follow. Proverbs 3:4-6 (Contemporary English Version)

6Love rejoices in the truth,
but not in evil.
7Love is always supportive,
loyal, hopeful,
and trusting.
8Love never fails! 1 Corinthians 13:6-8

Trust God as if it all depends upon Him, and work as if it all depends upon you. ~Bob Jones


All I have seen teaches me to trust the Creator for all I have not seen. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Four things to learn in life: To think clearly without hurry or confusion To love everybody sincerely; To act in everything with the highest motives; To trust God unhesitatingly. ~Helen Keller