Basement Work -- Installed Water Guard and Sump Pump - 1

The work begins

A lot to be done

Wesley watches from the hotel window

While Charles is in Nebraska this week, Belinda has been overseeing the installation of the badly needed water guard/"beaver system" and sump-pump in our basement. Spending a few nights in a hotel has given Wesley a quieter week and a nice view!

Another Academy begins

The Academy logo

Welcome!

A much-loved sight by all attendees

The labyrinth is ready

Charles is attending the 5-day Academy for Spiritual Formation at St. Benedict's Retreat Center in Schuyler, Nebraska this week. 

The theme this week is "Eyes to See and Ears to Hear – Attentiveness to the Wor[l]d."

A morning in Winside

The "new" church

An inviting place

Patty Skokan (in purple), Rose Ann Janke (blue slacks),
& Gene & Linda Barg (seated)

With Bonnie Wylie

Charles took the opportunity to drive about an hour north to Winside UMC, one of his former congregations from his time in northeast Nebraska. The last time he was there, it was before he left for the Navy in 1999. It was such a treat to be able to worship in the "new" church (about 15 years old now) and a blessing to be able to assist with serving communion.

Today in Omaha

The Little Fourteen-Year-Old Dancer
by Edward Degas

Art from around the world

Sculpture and the old/new parts of the museum

Charles made his way this morning to Omaha where he visited the recently renovated Joslyn Art Museum.

Tonight in Schuyler

After a long day of driving, Charles arrived at St. Benedict's Center in Schuyler, Nebraska. We have been there several times over the years; Charles is there for the 5-day Academy for Spiritual Formation event which starts Sunday evening.

On the road again

Near Blue Earth, Minnesota

Brandon, SD

Osmond UMC

Osmond UMC parsonage

Charles ventured away from Albert Lea today, bound for Schuyler, Nebraska and the 5-day Academy for Spiritual Formation (which starts Sunday).

Along the way across southern Minnesota, he spotted an interesting historical marker (where I-90 was completed), played nine holes at Hidden Valley Golf Course (Brandon, SD), and after meandering across northeast Nebraska, he paid a brief visit to Osmond, Nebraska (site of his first parish).

For a good cause

Charles spent time this evening with the Board of Directors of the Albert Lea Art Center at a fundraiser for the center. Held at the Moose Lodge, the "Burger Baskets" were a big hit with 156 tickets sold!