Sunday, April 30, 2006

Fun in AZ!





Today is pool time and dinner out.
We also hope to do a portrait of Jessica for her senior photo.
The surroundings here at the JW Marriott are gorgeous.
A very nice destination!

With Love from AZ,

Dad J

Thursday, April 27, 2006

What do Grandparents look like????


This was taken at the moment we heard from Meggan & Bryan......

"It's a GIRL!!!!!"

Blessings to Meg & Bry,

GrandDad & GrandMaMa Jones

P.S. Bill & Denise....Welcome to the fraternity!

Wednesday, April 26, 2006

Well....I think its finally safe to say that spring in MN has arrived!!!


Here is a photo from the front yard that proves the point...(I hope).
Even though the last two nights have had temperatures in the thirties, it seems we are on track for the onset of spring and summer.

We look forward to our meeting up with Meg & Bry in an area that is more like "summer"!
I heard that the temps last week were in the 90 degree range.

"Break-out the shorts and sandals!

With love from MN,

Dad Jones

Wednesday, April 12, 2006

A few new photos of Evelyn.....




Here are three choice photos, one from Jodie's time in FL, and two from last week.

MMW....Enjoy! (I'll send a CD)

GrandDad J

Friday, April 07, 2006

Safety First!.... Second... Third!!!


Well, GrandMum & GrandDad are preparing
for the grandkids!
This week we added to household belongings an umbrella stroller & car seat.

My doesn't Evelyn look happy and safe?!!!

GrandDad J

Saturday, April 01, 2006

..."Today, I think I shall hold Evelyn!"


Ah yes.... today we meet Sarah & Evelyn at the airport.
What a week we'll have!

Dad J

Monday, March 27, 2006

"Don't Curse the Darkness....."

Don't Curse the Darkness!......

V
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V
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V
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"Light a candle!"





"Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person."

By this, I don't mean we should tip-toe around the truth, (or, as is said in MN... "sanding off of the truth"). But I do proclaim with scripture's support.... "watch what you say"!

O.K. that last part was my paraphrase... but I believe it holds true to the author's intent!

With Love,

Dad J

Wednesday, March 22, 2006

Exciting Opportunity -- Worthy Cause! -- Cristo Vive International

I am posting below, a poster for an event that I will be participating in early May 2006.
Cristo Vive International is a Christ-centered organization that reaches out to children with both physical, and cognitive disabilties. Their work is both here in the USA and abroad. This year they will have camps in Osceola WI., and in Ecuador, South America & Ireland, U.K.

Jessica has participated in their camping progam the last three summers, and will again go to Cristo Vive camp this year in June.

We cannot speak more highly, or with more respect and admiration for this organization.

Their efforts are truly making a difference for these individuals and their families.

Please consider this organization's needs.

With Love & Christ's encouragement,

Duane & Sandra Jones

Friday, March 17, 2006

May we present..."The New Wolff Baby Wheels!"

Well, we're not exactly Vana White & what's his name....
But we present to you (Meggan & Bryan and ?????) the new baby's wheels!

With Love,
Dad & Mom Jones + Jessica

P.S. We'll bring it with when we visit.

Thursday, March 16, 2006

Truly, a sermon worth hearing!

Meggan & Bryan, in a recent post on their blog, provided a link to a sermon they heard at their church in CA. (Grace Community Church).

Dr. Steve Lawson delivered this message to their church while in CA. last month.

The link I am posting below is from Dr. Lawson's church website. He originally preached this message on January 1st, 2006 at his church in Mobile, AL.

You can find it by looking for the Hebrews sermon on 1/1/2006.

The download of the sermon's streaming audio takes a bit of time, but is well worth the wait!

Please consider taking the time to hear this. It is delivered by a pastor who seems to have done his homework well, has a passion for the Word, and how it relates to each of us.

Blessings,

Dad J

http://www.cfbcmobile.org/site/cpage.asp?sec_id=377&cpage_id=421&secure=&dlyear=2006&dlcat=Hebrews

P.S. "Springtime is nearing" just recieved another 5-7 inches of snow!

Monday, March 13, 2006

Did someone say "Springtime is Nearing!"????




On Sunday there was virtually no snow.
We awoke today to heavy snow falling. You'll see by the photos!

Dad J

Saturday, March 11, 2006

Springtime is nearing!


During the night, we awoke to great flashes of lightning. There was not much in the way of thunder however, and neither did we receive much of any rain.
It was however, a dramatic display & quite unique for this time of year.


No the image is not mine...merely a visual representation to accompany the post.

Blessings from MN,
Dad J

Monday, February 27, 2006

A "Jewel" on the Emerald Coast!

Last evening we enjoyed a walk along the beach with Mike & Julie, Rachel and Evelyn. We saw the sun set and enjoyed the time with the Mosley's.

Thursday, February 23, 2006

"There's someone sleeping in My bedroom!!!"... "Its GrandDad & GrandMum Jones.....Yippiee!!!!"

"I woke up during the night, and who was in my room?... GrandMum & GrandDad Jones"

We are going to party!!!!!!

Wednesday, February 15, 2006

BREAGAN..."The Adventure Continues..."


I read this today from the "Ships Log" of BREAGAN.
Leg 09 Log 16

http://www.breagan.com/cgibin/s_read.cgi?order=Sort+by+Log+Name

LEG 09 LOG 16 Feb 14, 2006 04:21 pmFeb 12th 2006, LEG 09 LOG 16Our current location at 6:30 CST, on Feb 13th , 19° 16’.800N 49° 57’.400WWow, as I write this just 840 NM to go. That may seem like nothing, but to us it means we have covered almost 2,000NM already. We had a great fast ride for about 9 hours, going wing and wing (the main sail to one side, the genoa to the other, with the wind pushing us). We set a new speed record for this trip, 9.44 knots; it goes to Clete, because it was on his watch. Our average was around 8 knots, which is pretty good for a boat whose theoretical hull speed is 7.5 knots. We really had too much sail up for the wind speeds, but it was variable and Breagan seemed almost to enjoy it. I made pancakes and bacon for lunch, they were the kind that would stick with you, if you know what I mean. The moon was full and the skies clear and with high rolling swells it was a breath taking evening. You have to imagine the moon’s light dancing on the waves and Breagan goes up to the top of a swell and you see the whole ocean under this bright moon light. Then, she goes to the bottom of the swell and you see the next one coming and it looks like it is going to go right over the top of you. But it gently lifts you up and pushes you forward. I do have to tell you, not all the swells are that thoughtful. Some slap the stern and send seawater into the cockpit. That is just a reminder to let you know whose domain you are in.

__________________________________________

I would love to reply, but I don't want to use too much satellite airtime. $$$

It made me think of how the Lord shows us how far our sins have been removed from us...
"As far as the East is from the West"!

...And then comes "the deceiver" to try to tell us otherwise!!!!

We need to stomp on satan's head, and quote back to him, the truth of scripture that tells us otherwise!

Sojouning on this side of heaven,

Dad Jones

Tuesday, February 14, 2006

Olympic Goals - Imperishable Crown


As I was reading today about Luge events at the winter games, I came upon a story about "Grandma Luge". A 52 year-young, luger who is appearing in her 6th winter Olympics.

Follow this link to learn more about Anne Abernathy, loving known as "Grandma Luge".

Enjoy! ... and be Blessed!

Dad J

http://www.thegoal.com/players/luge/abernathy_ann/abernathy.html

Monday, February 13, 2006

Job Search - UPDATE


Last Friday evening I came across a posting for a position at ATMI, Inc. in Bloomington, MN.

I have never before come across a posting that I felt fit me more closely than this.
Saturday morning, I submitted my resume and filled out the online portion of their application process.

I am hoping to secure the name of the hiring manager to make direct contact.

Please be in prayer along with me in this pursuit.

Blessings,

Dad Jones

Tuesday, February 07, 2006

Parental / GrandParental "Doting"...


Look what we found!
We think our 2 cm. GrandBaby will have to wait a little bit before riding in this!

Oh, but what fun "doting" is! *








* see: http://bryanmegganwolff.blogspot.com/2006/02/babys-first-picture.html

(Bry, keep up the studies, the posts on your blog, and loving "Little Meg")

Love Ya,

Dad J

Wednesday, February 01, 2006

BREAGAN, UNDER SAIL!



As I was posting the previous posting to the blog, my cellphone "beeped" a message received tone.

Message reads:
GOT THE 2-6AM WATCH.
25 KNOTS WIND,
GENOA OUT MAKING 7 KNOTS,
LOVING LIFE. BRAD

I'll bet they would have liked this technology when Christopher Columbus sailed across the Atlantic.

REPLY:
GODSPEED DEAR BRAD & MATES!

Duane

The longer days...mean springtime is nearing!!!


While going through some files on my computer, I came across this image. Today the weather reminded me of this image, and I looked at it more deeply. Sarah & Nathanael look so much younger (must be that bushy head of hair Nathanael is sporting in the photo) but it made me think "our babies are having babies!"

This was when our family was still five, with two handsome men knocking on the door.

Now we're eight, going on ten!

PTL!!!!!

Love Dad Jones

Tuesday, January 31, 2006

A strange and surreal commute.

Today marked the last day of employment at Johnson/Anderson. My drive home was,... well to say the least, a really different experience.

My thoughts reflected on how familiar the tracks were of my daily commute.
Today at 2:00PM, I was planning to leave early to begin the transition to job seeker.

I was glad that I didn't, because as I was headed to our HR director's office, I met her in the corridor with an ice cream cake in hand.
It would have been well, embaressing to say the least had I ducked-out early on my last day and missed the kind farewell of my co-workers.

While the transition to a new place of employ is upon me, I will still enjoy the relationships and friendships of co-workers and customers a like.

The experiences and knowledge gained will provide basis for future work.

I will truly miss the day to day interaction with fellow co-workers, but I trust my "new" endeavor will bring me back across their paths, as a customer, and we'll be able to continue where we left off.

Duane

Thursday, January 26, 2006

For behold, I bring good news of a great joy...!

I've often thought of the news that was brought to Mary & Joseph and later to the shepherds.
The wonderment of hearing and then realizing that you are soon to be parents, we'll it can be... overwhelming!

We are blessed to share the news that... "Like arrows in the hand of a mighty warrior, so are the children of ones youth, how blessed is he whose quiver is full of them."

Today marks the day that we declare both Sarah & Meggan are expecting! I still feel young! Perhaps Nathanael & Bryan will allow me to feel like a mighty warrior!

We share in the exitement and anticipation of these new lives.

This evening we spoke with a dear brother from church whose daughter married just two weeks ago this Sat. He shared how truly blessed they felt to have a son-in-law that loves the Lord.

We can second that... for we've been twice blessed! Our family of five, grew to six beginning in July 2004. Jumped to seven in January 2005, eight in July 2005.
Now in 2006 were looking at ten!

Add to that the addition of Mosley's and Wolff's extended family, well we are blessed!

PRAISE GOD, from whom all blessings flow!

Dad Jones (to 3+2)
GrandDad Jones (to Evelyn + ? + ?....)

Wednesday, January 18, 2006

And I thought "My World" was in turmoil!

Please read this link to Chuck Colson's daily commentary.
http://www.pfm.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=BreakPoint1&Template=/CM/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=17789

It truly makes the words of scripture come to life. "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem".

More importantly, pray for the peace in our hearts, that only God in Christ can truly provide.

Our world is truly, a "Kingdom in Conflict".

Blessings to all, with a prayer that Christ will rule in all our hearts,

Duane

Saturday, January 14, 2006

Who is GOD?.....

No, I haven't "lost it" amid the transition and stress that a new job search can create.

Last week we began a home bible study, based on a book our pastor, Daniel Henderson wrote entitled, the 7 Most Important Questions You'll Ever Answer.

The 7 Questions are:

1. Who is GOD?
2. Who Am I?
3. Why Am I Here?
4. What Really Matters?
5. What Shall I Do?
6. How Shall I Do It?
7. When Shall I Do It?

I do look forward to this study. I believe it comes at a very appropriate time for me personally, and also for our church as a whole.
In the past 5 years I've become somewhat of an expert in the field of job searching (not that I have sought out this added expertise). There are times that the devil tries to bring discouragement and dispair. I delight in the fact that we have a God who; desires us to know Him, a God who does have a plan for us to walk in, and who does give purpose and direction for our lives now as well as for eternity.

One of the goals our pastor is looking for, is that we each individually write a "Mission Statement" and "Purpose Statement", and to set goals that help us live our life with more direction and purpose.

These are areas that will be good for me. I sense that I tend to be more "go with the flow" in my nature, and a more directed and purposeful approach to daily living & "abiding" in Him, will do me well.

I will keep you informed of the journey, Dear and Gentle readers.

Duane

Tuesday, January 10, 2006

"He went Public!!!"

The following is from an email annoucement at Johnson/Anderson.
_____________________________________
Subject: Duane Jones
_____________________________________

I am sorry to announce Duane Jones’ plan to leave J/A.
At this point, Duane’s last day will be January 31, 2006.

Duane has a great deal of experience in printed media, predominantly in the area of print design & print production management. While his plans are not yet formalized, he likely will look for a position in that area.

Today he told one of our customers, "There have been great relationships and friendships both inside the company and outside the company that I have enjoyed over the past 16 months, and I look forward to continuing them."
"I'm not sure where I will land as yet.... the "networking process" begins! "

Please join me in wishing Duane well.

Jon


________________________________
It is now public knowledge.
Personal and corporate prayer for a new position is cherished & welcomed!!

Duane

Thursday, January 05, 2006

Lets just say..."enough said!!!"


Lets just say..."enough said!!!"

Love,
GrandMum & GrandDad Jones

Wednesday, January 04, 2006

U.S. Faces Severe Worker Shortage in Future

U.S. Faces Severe Worker Shortage in Future
By JIM ABRAMS, Associated Press Writer

WASHINGTON - The United States faces a severe worker shortage in the near future, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce' said Wednesday in advocating better education for Americans and changes in immigration law to allow in more foreign workers.

Chamber President and CEO Thomas Donohue, at a news conference outlining business prospects in 2006, said the country is ill-prepared to deal with the impending retirement of 77 million baby boomers.
"We have yet to secure an adequate supply of working taxpayers to run a growing economy and support an explosion of retirees," he said in his organization's report on the state of U.S. business.

(end of quote)_______________________________________________

I know of about 25,000,000 - 30,000,000 who would have been of legal age to vote and be a part of the workforce, if it were not for the 1973 Roe vs. Wade decision.

GOD, save us!
Help us to see our need for You, our need to repent.
May we seek Your face, and Your heart for life....


Duane

Tuesday, December 27, 2005

CHRISTmas Caroles around the tree!

wee E joined in as we sang caroles to the new born King. Posted by Picasa

Monday, December 26, 2005

Santa has a way with young and old alike!

 Posted by Picasa

"I saw Sarah kissing...Santa Claus!!!

Say, did I hear Santa Claus say something about wanting to be in Miami Beach?
Santa must have never heard the Beach Boys sing about the "Northern Girls and the way they kiss...!" He'll come around.

The time has gone WAY TOO FAST!!!
We are thankful, however, for each and every moment.

Blessings to all,

GrandDad Jones Posted by Picasa

Who says that CHRISTmas is for kids.... Its for Grandparents!!!



These celebrations with family have been great! One more today (12/26) at Dale & Jodie's.
More to come as far as photos and reflections... but had to post this one from CHRISTmas Day.

Love,
GrandDad Jones

Wednesday, December 21, 2005

"Well the winter outside is frightful, but the fire is so delightful..."


We have three of the five winter travelers under the roof. Sarah & Nathanael along with our darling GrandBaby Evelyn, arrived Monday evening. Meg & Bry will fly in on Thursday.

The days will be enjoyed greatly. I will have to post some new photos soon. (I snuck this photo into an older blog post). It was taken on CHRISTmas Day.

Blessings to you & yours,
Merry CHRISTmas

Duane

Friday, December 16, 2005

In the words of Max Lucado (with a twist)..."Its Friday, but Monday is a comin!"

The anticipation of the arrival of the Mosley's & Wolff's is building strength in our hearts!

As I thought of this, my heart was directed to the fact that as we celebrate our Saviour's first advent, we are to be even more thrilled as to His second advent.

Looking forward to the appearing and great glory of our God and Saviour, Christ Jesus!

"For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men,
instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Saviour, Christ Jesus, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds."
Titus 2: 11-14 NAS

Merry CHRISTmas & Maranatha!

Dad Jones

Tuesday, December 13, 2005

I'll be Home for CHRISTmas...



Well, the long awaited photos have arrived. We are so looking forward to this CHRISTmas.
The distance from home and the time between visits, makes the time anticipated so much more special.
The house, and its decorations are coming together nicely, it is however, family & love that make a house a "home". We can't wait to have ya'll in the house! (I mean ...HOME!)
Enjoy the photos...its even better in person!

Love,
Dad to most, GrandDad to one, wee E.,

Duane

Thursday, December 08, 2005

May I have a drum roll please?!

The long awaited photo of the CHRISTmas lights gracing our home is likly to arrive this weekend on our blog.

As to CHRISTmas, I have decided to always and forevermore, write the word CHRISTmas, as written.

With all the broohaa in the media, and the seeming removal of CHRIST from the season, I shall do my best to be an agent of change.

"And change he did, for there was never a man who could keep CHRISTmas as well as Ebenezer Scrooge "

With Love this CHRISTmas!,

Dad Jones

Sunday, December 04, 2005

Jessica & Danielle out for a walk!




This photo was from two weeks ago today. I was working in the yard and with the CHRISTmas lights. Sandra was doing errands, and these two went out for a walk and an outing to Bachman's.
Jessica loves the photo and wanted me to share it with you all.

Love Dad

Wednesday, November 30, 2005

We DO love Nathanael Eleos!


I submit this image as proof to the world!

Love Dad

Wednesday, November 23, 2005

One Day...Two Postings...Two Bathing Beauties!


And now for another treasured photo of two of our beloved.

Two images worth sharing!



In an effort to give equal press coverage... I submit the following.

Duane

Monday, November 21, 2005

An Image worth sharing!


While going thru some photos recently, we came across this photo of Sarah. It was taken at a Control Data costume party that I was covering for the employee magazine. I scanned the image to be able to send it to Sarah & Nathanael, and then I thought I'd post it for all.

N., I guess this image fits Ansel Adams' 3 corners vs. 1 corner that you mentioned.

Love Dad Jones

Monday, November 14, 2005

Dad Jones is Jealous!


We are thrilled to hear of your opportunity to go camping in Yosemite. Ansel Adams, truly one of America's finest outdoor photographers, traveled and photographed Yosemite extensively.

I wish I could be there too!

Enjoy!

Dad Jones

P.S. Take photos!!!

Sunday, November 06, 2005

Missing our Children....(indentured servants)



We miss you!
Wish you were here!

We love you all......blessed Lord's Day

Dad & Mom
Dale & Jodie, E.J. & J

Thursday, November 03, 2005

Color GrandDad Blessed.....












I had to post these photos from yesterday before Sarah & wee E. left MN to return to Nathanael in FL.

We had a great time with almost all the family together. We did miss not having N.

Today is Sarah's birthday!

Happy Birthday to You...
Happy Birthday to You...
Happy Birthday Dear Sarah.... Happy Birthday to You!


Love GrandDad Jones

Wednesday, November 02, 2005

Saddened hearts, Post-visit day approaching!

Sarah & wee E. will return to the loving arms of N. on Wed. 11/2.
While we will feel the loss here, we look forward to Nathanael being able to wrap that wee E. & Sarah in his welcoming embrace.
The time with Sarah & E. has been wonderful.

My thoughts have turned to missionaries who have left home and kin to relocate to places far from home. This week is our "Missions Festival" at our church. We need to uphold those who have gone, and those who have been left behind for the sake of the call to make disciples of all nations.
I look forward to viewing the new documentary, "Beyond the Gates of Splendor", based on the lives of 5 men who were killed in January 1956 in Ecuador, South America.

God is good... His mercies never fail!

GrandDad Jones

Monday, October 31, 2005

Happy "All Saints Eve" day!

Meg & Bryan have returned safely to CA.
It was great to have them with us for the weekend!
Meg starts her new job today. We are thankful for the Lord's provision.

Duane

Thursday, October 27, 2005

wee E. visits GrandDad at Johnson/Anderson

wee E., Sarah & Auntie Meg all stopped in the see GrandDad at his place of employ.
GrandDad was a bit proud to host the tour to co-wokers! Not that I can claim responsibility for any of God's handi-work.

HE, did a fine job in spite of GrandDad.

Evelyn was delightful to all.

Blessings,

GrandDad

Wednesday, October 26, 2005

The changes a day can bring!

As I looked at the time piece on my desk a moment ago, I was reminded of all that has transpired in the last 23 hours.

- Meg called with news of a new job.
- We offered the possibility of her flying in to Mpls to see Sarah & wee E.
- It worked with Meg & Bry and we got a GREAT fare on a last minute notice.
- Bry could also come after classes on Thursday.
- They both will be here for Kelly's confirmation.
- They both will fly home on the same flight Sunday.
- Sarah & wee E. arrived.
- GrandDad rejoiced!
- We ate out together.
- Picked up Sandra at the airport.
- GrandMum & GrandDad rejoiced!

and that was just until 9:00 PM last evening!

We are very thankful in the Jones & Wolff households.

Dad

Tuesday, October 25, 2005

A day to rejoice!

In addition to Sarah & wee E. arriving today (if that wasn't exciting enough)....
Meg arrives Wed. - Bry arrives Thurs.
They go back to LA Sunday evening on the same flight.

And---- Meg starts that new job Monday morning!

Oh what a weekend we'll have!

Duane

Today, GrandDad gets to hold Evelyn!

I just stopped by the house to p/u the car seat for our grandbaby.
Sarah & wee E. will arrive at 3:41 PM.
I am looking forward to their arrival, and I plan to meet them at the bottom of the the escalator on their way to baggage claim. Sarah will have to turn-over Evelyn to GrandDad's waiting arms. I do pray the flight(s) are un-eventful and wee E. is patient with all of the bustling and shuffling on the connecting flights.
Sandra too arrives back in Mpls. later in the evening.
A blessed time is expected.
N., M&B will be missed!

Duane

Late breaking NEWS!!!!!.....
Meg called with the announcement of an accepted job offer at a Cardiovascular doctors office! PTL!!!!!!!!!!!!
She starts Monday 10/31.

Monday, October 24, 2005

25.5 hours... and counting!

wee E. & Sarah to arrive soon!!!!

Sandra too, back from NYC. (30 hours...and counting)

Dad J

31 hours.....and counting!

GrandDad to one, and Dad to the other is waiting with great expectation for the arrival of wee E. and Sarah.

I spoke with GrandMom this morning. She is in Manhattan at a conference. She will arrive in Mpls about 6 hours after Sarah & Evelyn. Our prayer is for safe travel & a blessed time.

Jessica is looking forward as well. She was so happy to see Meg & Bry last weekend.
I have never experienced such a whirlwind schedule with all this travel.

GrandDad

Friday, October 21, 2005

Cool wet weather.... docks, boat lifts, and boat to bring in...Brrrr!

This weekend will be waterfront equipment to be hauled in weekend.
Sandra will leave for yet another NYC trip, returning Tuesday evening.

Speaking of Tuesday...Sarah & wee E. arrive from FL!

Yea!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

GrandDad is excited, to say the least.

Please pray for safe travel for all.

Duane

Tuesday, October 18, 2005

Talbot (our Westie) revisited....


A distant relative of our little "warrior" has come by to help us all with computer maintenance.

.......Keeping our screens "clean"!

Duane

Back, between two coasts

We arrived safely in Mpls. at 11:45 PM Monday evening.

Our time with Meg & Bry was wonderful, restful, and much needed. Jessica was thrilled to see them and seems that she was reserved and a bit pensive on the way home. I told her we would call Meg & Bry on the phone after We Can Ride Tuesday evening.

Please be in prayer for the Lord's "best" as far as employment for Bryan & Meggan. Meg has had some real good leads and promising interviews, but has come up empty so far.

Our desire is a job for Meg that would have her somewhat close to home, so there is not all that CA highway commuting, that she could work near enough to their home so she could be back to it, in time to prepare dinner and have a bit more of a normal home life. (Trust me when I say, Californians like to live life in the "fast lane").

We now jump back into the work week with both feet. Next big event is this weekend with raking and waterfront chores, Sandra's next business trip to NYC and wee E. and mother's arrival from Florida.

Monday, October 17, 2005

Today we head East!

We have had a wonderful & relaxing time in Castaic, CA and surrounding areas with Bryan & Meggan Wolff.

Today we went to Grace Community Church and enjoyed the fellowship and ministry of the Word.

A somewhat leisure afternoon with the beginning of Wedding Album photo selection underway. Meg & Bry will continue the selection process with a goal of having the album completed before their visit at Christmas.

This evenings dinner was steak & crab legs, salad and biscuits. We are all satitated and content.

It's about 10:30 PM and time to retire for the night.

Duane

Thursday, October 13, 2005

Dear and Gentle Reader.....

Today we head west!
It may be some time before I can post again to you, Dear and Gentle Reader.

Until then...

Duane

Wednesday, October 12, 2005

T minus 26 hours...and counting!

As we tucked Jessica into bed this evening we explained that in the morning she would go to school, and after school Danielle would pick her up, we'd meet them at home and head off to the airport!

I said, "Jessica, tomorrow night at this time we'll be on an airplane going to see Meggan & Bryan!

We packed most of the luggage this evening while watching a little TV. These days (well, last month) have been a whirlwind!

Mom spoke with both Bill & Denise this evening. We had to cancel a planned dinner a couple weeks back and we're trying to re-schedule. It was good for me to see the photos of Mike & Julie from last weekend in FL. Those photos, the phone conversations, they are all reminders of the blessings that God has given, both though our daughther's husbands, and in the close friendships & love we are experiencing in and thru our larger families... (Mosley & Wolff).

Thankful GrandDad

Tuesday, October 11, 2005

Loads of smiles.....across the miles!







New pics of wee E., Mom, Dad & GrandMum!

Home Again...(for a little while)

Sandra made it home safely last evening. All went well except I was late to meet her flight. ooops!

The film is at Walgreens I'll p/u at lunch. (Sarah, I would recommend using 200 or 400 ASA film and not 800 ASA)

We'll be in touch.

Love Dad to some, GrandDad to wee E.

Monday, October 10, 2005

3 Days... and counting

The day of our departure is drawing nye.

JJ had a great weekend. Special Olympics bowling on Saturday, she came home with a Blue Ribbon!!!! Saturday evening was with the Eden Prairie group. Sunday was Barnabas & an afternoon adventure at WoodLake Nature Center.

Sandra returns this evening at 12:33 AM (I guess that means Tuesday early morning).

I can't wait to see the photos of wee E.

GrandDad Jones

Friday, October 07, 2005

Touchdown!

No, not football season, airplane wheels on the tarmac.

Between business trips, family visits etc. Sandra & I have truly entered the "Jet-Setting" crowd.

..."perhaps we'll fly to Nova Scotia to view a total eclipse of the sun"....

Please keep us in your prayers as we travel to visit the Mosley's & Wolff's and yet another NYC business trip for Sandra.

Duane

Thursday, October 06, 2005

7 Days... and counting

As the days tick by, we are getting more and more excited about our visit to Califorina.
Tomorrow, Sandra leaves for Florida to visit the Mosley's. Please pray for safe travel and a precious visit with Sarah, Nathanael and Evelyn.

GreatGrandDad Jones arrives in Minneapolis today and will spend the weekend with Jessica & Me. This afternoon we will tour Mainstreet Village in Richfield. Mainstreet is a retirement community endorsed by the Minnesota Baptist General Conference and operated & managed by a group of christian investors. It is in a nice location and will provide a place that is close to us and Dale & Jodie. They also have shuttles that run to a number of churches.

This weekend I hope to do chores around the house with dad, as well as have some fun and good meals. I'm thinking of a Lake Trout & Rainbow Trout dinner. We will see...

Blessings to all dear and gentle readers,

GrandDad

Tuesday, October 04, 2005

Lakers, Smallmouth, Walleye, Rainbow & Splake

We returned from the annual "Fall Fishing Trip" Sunday evening.
We limited on Lakers Thursday and had good numbers of all other species on the following days.
The weather was the warmest we have had in all the years we have done this.

It was a joy to return home to Sandra & Jessica. We are truly looking forward to FL & CA visits. I wish that we were all going to both places, but we will do what we can at later visits. GrandDad's arms are itching to hold Evelyn Gwendplyn.

Love you all,

GDad