Giant Reindeer -
Tokens of Winter

You know it's wintertime and close to Christmas, when everywhere you look there are colorful displays and winter themes. My favorites, of course, are the ones depicting the Christ child and His birth. I was returning from Europe and passing through the Charlotte International Airport, where they had these giant colorful animals.  While returning from Germany on a mission helping Eurasia colleagues, Charlotte NC.  December 2021

Oh Holy Night -
The Wonder of Jesus

In celebration of the birth of the Christ, God's great gift to us.

Love Notes -
Sending Christmas Greetings

At the Jericho Congregational Church, families took turns writing and sending personalized Christmas cards to our many missionaries and even prisoners in our local prison system. For some, this might be the only love note they might receive from anyone in this world. When we were overseas, we might get these cards as late as March while living in PNG, but it was always great to receive them from far away friends and relatives. It is always "good news" to be remembered; God remembers us too.  Fellowship Hall, JCC Church, Jericho, VT.  December 2021

Germany -
Visiting My Sister

A special workshop assisting trainers in our WBT/SIL technology related to Bible Translation, had me over in Germany for a while, on business. I took the time to visit my sister Lisa, now a missionary with award-winning, GemStone Media (www.gemstone-media.com), with offices in Kandern Germany. She lives just down the road from Black Forest Academy, on the edge of the Black Forest. The town is quite picturesque and Lisa was busy studying the German language at the time.  On the way to her office, near a canal in Kandern, Germany.  December 2021

Christian Missions -
Encountering the Third-World

At the annual Global Health Missions Conference (GMHC) Helen and I have the honor of representing the medical work of Wycliffe overseas to thousands of young people from all over the US. What a privilege! Among the workshops and plenary speaking engagements, there is also an exhibition area trying to simulate typical third-world scenarios for would-be medical missionaries. Here we see a medical bed complete with protective mosquito net and a model fire-pit with wood fire (off camera on the left) glowing.  GMHC Conference, Louisville, KY.  November 2021

The 7 Damas and Caballeros -
Recruiting at the GMHC

Helen and I have a blast joining the recruitment team at the Global Health Missions Conference (GMHC) in Kentucky. An amazing gathering of thousands with the common goal of preparing and assisting anyone who is prayerfully hearing the call of God on their lives with possible service overseas. Helen of course, represents WBT and SIL and our smallish Papua New Guinea clinic, but really there are plenty of open positions around the world represented by all the medical groups at this conference. Beloved CMDA is here in full force as well. GMHC Conference, Louisville, KY.  November 2021

Causeway Park -
The Rails-to-Trails System

Vermont has a network of abandoned train track roadbeds that have long since been abandoned. Years ago, enterprising people from the "Rails to Trails" network converted this rail bed into a wonderful bicycle path that marks the "outer bay boundary" and Malletts Bay. There is a bridge to cross in the first third of the journey out into the lake, and then just near the Island of South Hero is a human bicycle ferry crossing. Large sailboats can use the crossing to gain access to the broad Lake Champlain and sail the islands. Colchester Causeway Park, Colchester, Vermont.  October 2021

Our Street -

Halloween Stick People

Our neighborhood decided to start a unique tradition for late October, where each household dresses their "stick people" on the side of the street. People have been seen cruising our lane to take in the various funny people created. The Andersons made our favorites: this happy skier who obviously appreciates his guardian angel. Our 'stick people' will greet all the parents with kids that safely come by for the traditional "trick or treat" season.  Black Walnut Lane, Jericho VT.  October 2021

Island Pit Stop -
Sun and Waves

On a particularly windy day, Helen and I stop and rest on the leeward side of tiny "O Camp" Island, according to the topo maps. It was time for lunch after a few hours of paddling. Note the waves rolling by, (perhaps a motor boat went by) and the rather overcast skies. We can never get enough of that gorgeous scenery in Vermont.  On the way to Coates Island (but not a place to stop- private residences there), Malletts Bay, Colchester Vermont.  September 2021

Maine Berries? -
Botanical Gardens

While on an anniversary holiday, we saw this unusual Korean Kousa dogwood (Cornus Kousa) while strolling around a wonderful Botanical Garden. The fruit balls are larger than a silver dollar, and are said to edible, with a mild raspberry taste. The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens hosts the famous giant trolls that are towering wooden statues found in the forest (see www.mainegardens.org). Quite entertaining for the kids and you have to hike around the park to see all of them in one day.  Boothbay Harbor area, Maine.  September 2021

A Northeast Kingdom Run -
Sailboard Parts

"Ms. Blu" the solar EV car, carrying highly prized, classic Windsurfer parts found on Craig's List. I purchased three sails, various parts, two wishbones, and two masts, for a song. These were genuine Windsurfer Brand parts, so this is like finding classic automobile parts - they don't make these any more <grin>. Unlike expensive golf or skiing as a sport, Windsurfers are extremely affordable. There is a fixed cost in equipment (inexpensive), and then NO usage fees for lake access around Vermont. It's free sailing at its best. Perfect for that 'unwind' you need from time to time.  Northeast Kingdom, near the dinosaur, near Newport, Vermont.  August 2021

Cool Kayaking -
At Cave Island

As a young buck, around 40 years ago, I sailed to "cave island" and this is what I found. Helen and I went kayaking to the same place, on a very cool September day. Hasn't changed much, I see. There are no bats in this one, unlike PNG. I have no idea who actually owns this tiny island off "Malletts Head", a small peninsula on Lake Champlain.  Near the Marina at Marble Island, Malletts Bay, Colchester, Vermont.  September 2021

Dave Visits -
Joy in the Sun

Our son David comes by for a visit! Joy at our place! And of course, we must run off kayaking with momma Helen. Dave's pondering of Vermont goes: "Vermont is so beautiful. You have NO billboards here". Which is true. We tend to take for granted those "little details" that other states long since threw away. It's always good to see Vermont through the eyes of visitors. Our pristine waters await your visit!  Waterbury Reservoir, Waterbury VT.  August 2021

Bottle Redemption -
Whimsical Dinosaurs

Traveling to the Northeast Kingdom, a very rural part of Vermont, I passed by Steve Myott studios, on Route 100. I couldn't help but notice this dinosaur statue out front made from used plastic bottles. Very creative. There was no one home to ask any questions, but the "village" had maybe 10 houses on the road. Plastic bottle recycling, is a big thing in this very green state.  Westfield Vermont, on the way to Newport Vermont near the Canadian border.  August 2021

July Means... -
Summer Bible Camp

A huge event, taking a planning team months of prayer and preparation each year, is the Jericho Congregational Church's Summer Bible Camp. A host of families pitch-in and volunteer their time to make the SBC a wonderful time. Children of all ages learn about God and His faithfulness, and there are fun exercises to do along the way. Here a group learns cooperation and teamwork as everyone needs to be perfectly still to succeed in the task of "balance" in their lives. No easy thing as you can imagine! The camp is open to the community, however there is limited enrollment space.  Jericho Center on the Green, in front of the church.  July 2021

Faith and Trust -
Summer Bible Camp

Husband Jimmy has to trust in the loving watch-care of his wife, Justine, as by faith, he falls into her arms. By illustrating Father God and His Trustworthiness, we learned that He is more than willing and able to look out for us. But of course sometimes, we have to completely let go of our lives and trust in His tender loving care. He knows what He is doing, and there are no limits to His Strength.  Jericho Congregational Church.  July 2021

Old Math Teachers -
"There and Back Again"

We celebrate the gift of many friends from years gone by (sometimes 40 or more), and some that we admire actually take us up on our offer for a place to stay and rest awhile at our place. Cliff White is a fabulous math teacher and musician. He now instructs at a boarding school in Spain. Teaching math skills to high-school age has always been his passion. Note the very appropriate tee-shirt logo here. Many an hour was spent in our living room discussing how life in America has changed so much, which shocks us when we return from life overseas. We also talked about the world-wide advances of the Kingdom of God by His Spirit. At least those that we knew about.  Our living room, Black Walnut Lane, Jericho VT.  June 2021

Waterbury Reservoir -
The Lake of Tranquility

No surprise that Helen and I still love outdoor activities. Summer in Vermont is glorious, with mild temperatures and lots of sunshine. This state park has official tent camping sites along the shore, that are only accessible by boat, canoe or kayak. Fishing is wonderful and once in a while you might even see a sailboat here. Loons are common along with bald eagles. God's creation at it's best.  Waterbury Reservoir, south of Stove, Vermont.  July 2021

Old Style Commerce -
Jericho Market

A rite of Jericho VT. in June is an outdoor market on Thursdays, where local artisans and fresh produce can be purchased. This stimulates the local economy and provides an outlet for those with fertile and prolific gardens, to increase their income.  Our favorite vendor is "Delicious Dirt" and their fresh lettuce and vegetables. Some entrepreneurs serve up ethnic takeaway foods, like "Mediterranean" for an easy carry-out meal.  Near Mills River Park and the Browns River, Jericho VT.  June 2021

Outdoor Services -
Jericho Congregational Church

The Pandemic wasn't easing off, and so the church moved to outdoor services during the pleasant summer months. This farm setting afforded a nice view of Mount Mansfield and some members, possibly the Davis family, provided the tent pavilion for us to use. The Browns River meanders nearby.  On the Davis' dairy pasture land, Davis Farm, Jericho VT.  June 2021

Garden Windmills -
The Rites of Spring

In Vermont Spring only barely begins in May. The trees are just starting to bud at this point, and therefore, off we go to the local florist to purchase flowers for the house garden. Besides all the colorful flowers, store visitors are greeted with a range of colorful mobiles to purchase, and one sees these from time to time in people's yards, catching the wind.  Claussen's Florist, Colchester, VT.  May 2021

A COVID Portrait -
Mirror Masking

During a cold spell, while helping a friend up north, I (Brian) took a moment to catch myself in the car's rear-view mirror. I never get too many pictures of me, because I'm always the photographer behind the lens. Expressive COVID masking was the rage, and I'm into learning lots of useful rope knots. Bowline anyone?  Near Lake Carmi, East Frankin, VT. April 2021

Church Meetings Return -
Mask Up Everyone!

One of our favorite families at church, the Henaults, were captured here just as physical church gatherings were returning, but with masks. Everyone was tired of endless self-isolation at homes and virtual meetings exclusively on-line. It was so nice to get together almost "face-to-face", except you only saw smiles through everyone's eyes.  Jericho Congregational Church, Jericho Center, VT.  April 2021

Outdoor Meetings -
Church Planning

Since inside meetings were becoming risky, our church went virtual more often, and sometimes sub-committees of the church would meet outdoors. Here, Rev. Dave Coons, (center) armed with a white-board and warmer weather, tries to determine Jericho Congregational Church's core values, with hand-picked members of our congregation. It took many such meetings to synthesize ideas into a short statement articulating just who we are as a congregation.  JCC Church, Jericho Center, VT.  April 2021

Local Hangouts -
Westford Country Store & Cafe

In the heart of town, right on the green, one finds this beautiful country store. They offer homemade baked goods, deli specials, and many local products, such a Vermont Maple syrup and farm-to-table fresh eggs. The cafe inside is the perfect place to gather with friends, and one church has a Friday morning men's Bible Study that meets there regularly. Like all country stores here, there is a rustic feel once inside- something not experienced, as for example, with a "McDonalds". Our EV LEAF parked here.  Westford Vermont, April 2021

A Blessed Easter -
Greece

On holiday, just before Easter this year, Helen and I ascended (by foot) to the ancient sanctuary of Athena, now in complete ruins.  We celebrate conquering this physical hill of around 500 ft..  Once there we were greeted with fantastic views of the Euboean Gulf, (not shown) and the Cross of Christ!  So fitting to find this here, where Christ's resurrection conquers everything, including death itself.  The acropolis (high city), overseeing the port town of Eretria, Greece.   April 2022

Skiing -
Trapp Family Lodge

Friend Ben Courtemanche and I go cross-country skiing at the famous Von Trapp Family Lodge. Remember "Sound of Music"?  Yes, the same Von Trapp family, and this is the backyard forest of where they settled. Ben leads the way on an extensive trail system with nicely maintained trails. There's a chapel and a "tea room" lodge deep in the forest with a hand-pump well for water. Ben helps me unpack disciple-making issues, particularly with younger Christians, since he is on staff with the Navigators in my region. Trapp Family Lodge, Stowe Vermont, March 2021

Outdoor Fireplaces -
Trapp Family Lodge

Deep in the woods, is a cabin with an indoor fireplace for skiers to come rest and warm up, but this is Covid season! Yikes! Socializing just got a whole lot trickier. So enterprising people set up an outdoor fireplace where one can feel a bit safer meeting up with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. A great oppor-tunity to sit around and reminisce about "the good ol' days" of carefree skiing (and also what God might be doing). Classic S'mores anyone?  Trapp Family Lodge, Stowe Vermont, March 2021

My Favorites -
Two Women Chatting

The two most important women in my life, Helen and my sister Lisa, enjoy a moment together via the wonders of Zoom. A very common sight in the winter months where people are cooped up in their houses, and trying to stay more isolated. Although we all grew tired of virtual meetings, I wonder what the 1918-21 pandemic was like, in an age where there was no Internet. In 1914, at the start of World War I, there were 10 people for every working telephone in the U.S.  Our house, Jericho Vermont.  January 2021

Snowman Burials -
Saying Goodbye

A large snowstorm descends upon Vermont and our friend, the snowman, (see a few weeks back) says good-bye. A "bump" is the only reminder that he is "sort-of" with us still. Our regional weather systems come from Canada mostly, and often our weather patterns are different than the southern New England states. So for example, New York City gets buried, and we hardly have any snowfall. In this case, after digging out their driveways, the skiers rejoice and soon hit the slopes in droves.  Our house, Jericho Vermont.  January 2021

River Cascades -
Winter Tranquility

The Browns river, like any river, awaits the fresh snow melt of spring, where new meanders create sand bars in new places from the year before. The abandoned threads of years past are where the very first grasses grow, and wild-life make new homes. There's something special about cascades with ice in the "frigid" weather. And of course, a special quiet tranquility, because there are no birds and insects to be heard and the snow dampens sounds while walking about. Our visible breath is a constant companion.  Off Old Pump Road, Jericho VT.  January 2021

Backyard Skiing -
Winter Sports

Vermonters generally speaking, know how to play with snow. Neighbor Peter Anderson, shows off his cross-country skills on a track running through our backyard. It's normal for skiers and snow-shoers to pass through your property, and for the most part, no one minds. For my part, I had culture shock figuring out all the different cross-country ski types and incompatible shoe/binding systems that had changed while I was away for 30 plus years. Gone are the days of simplicity, even for Nordic skiing.  Our house, Black Walnut Lane, Jericho VT.  January 2021

Bicycle Restoration -
Indoor Activities

As the Pandemic forced everyone to isolate more, what better time than to get those "back-burner" projects done?  This classic 1985 vintage Univega bicycle was waiting in our storage over 35 years for someone to apply some tender-loving care and restore it to new life. (Kinda like Christ with us, correct?) My efforts paid off handsomely after re-taping the handlebars and stringing at least one new cable. Note the simplicity of the design back then. The continuous movement shift-levers are mounted on the front down tube. What could be simpler to repair?  Note the very exotic bicycle stand built into the workbench <grin>.  Our house, downstairs workshop, Jericho VT.  December 2020

A Visitor -
The House Snowman

Helen made a tiny snowman out on the back porch. This little buddy brought joy and cheer to us, as he grew in stature with each fresh snowfall, but alas, like all snow-persons, this one had to say good-bye in the end. If you can't think of fun things to do with snow in Vermont, you will go stir crazy in the wintertime. Some call it "cabin fever".  Our house, back porch area, Jericho VT.  January 2021