mornin’ in the ‘nook

A quiet, beautiful beginning to this day in my hometown, Minooka, IL.

matthiessen moments

Spent about 3 1/2 hours hiking at beautiful Matthiessen State Park, in Utica IL. Winter here has been a bit strange: lots of unusually warm days, and not much snow. The park was especially beautiful, with a mix of winter, and a way too early for Spring vibe. The park is named for Frederick William Matthiessen. This was his estate and private park!

my happy place

Just love visiting my elderly parents in New York and, going to my happy place…

ransom sunset

A bitter, cold sunset (we have been spoiled with warm weather lately) helps bring Thursday to an end. I am pretty sure there are more wind turbines than people in Ransom, Illinois.

goodbye sunday

Sorry for the lack of posts… new granddaughter (yay!), lots of rehearsals in preparation for our Christmas performances and, your general, everyday, crazy busy life. So… after taking care of some long over due yardwork, decided to slow down and say goodbye to Sunday. Hope you have a wonderful week, and a Happy Thanksgiving.

looking up

One more from a recent trip to Starved Rock State Park.

what i saw at starved rock

My day job is as a worship pastor. I have the privilege of working alongside a fantastic team of leaders and friends. Our team culture includes celebrating each other’s birthday. Each year we head out to Starved Rock State Park (a real gem of a place in the midst of the Midwestern plains) when my birthday celebration comes around. These images are some of what I saw today. Thanks for stopping by.