A friend of mine at church recently made a DVD of a fun little skit I wrote.  It is now on YouTube.  You can check it out at:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0GCnG6gmbFE

“Dad, can’t it wait until tomorrow?”

“Sorry, Eli, I need you to clean out the barn.  It’s pretty smelly out there and we have a couple that needs somewhere to stay and that’s the very last place we have available – besides, we need to keep our animals healthy.”

“But, Dad, Abe invited me over to his house.  All of his family is in town and they are having a big party.”

“I know, I know but Eli I’ve told you what to do and I need your help.  You know that it’s really busy today.  You can go to Abe’s house after you’re done in the barn.”

Eli stomped out the back door – shutting the door none too kindly.

“Stupid barn, stupid guests, stupid animals, stupid hay,” grumbled Eli as he entered the barn and picked up the pitch fork.

The cows mooed as Eli shoved against them as he started to clean up. 

Eli had to admit that it really was pretty stinky in the barn.  The whole family had been pretty busy with all the travelers during the week.  Eli paused just a minute to rub the soft nose of Lanny, the donkey.  Lanny pushed his nose up against Eli’s cheek.  

The sheep baahed as he entered their pen to scattered some fresh hay.  This rooster went cock-a-doodle-do as Eli swept out the chicken roost.

Eli started out the barn when he remembered he needed to feed Lanny.  Eli went back inside and saw that his manger was empty.  “Here you go, Lanny,” said Eli as he filled the manger with fresh hay.

As Eli closed the door behind him he realized he had finished just in time.  He saw his father bringing a man and women around the corner of the house.  This woman was obviously going to have a baby – and soon!  Eli kind of felt sad that they had to stay in the barn.  But, at least he had just cleaned it up and there was fresh hay.  Hey, a few blanket and it would be just like home.

 

As Eli walked home from Abe’s house that night, he noticed a bright star in the sky that seemed like it was hanging right over his house.  He had not noticed this star before.  It was beautiful.  Other people in the town seemed to notice it too – many people paused to gaze into the sky, whispering quietly with family and friends about this being a sign of some sort but then turning to continue on about their business.

 

Eli was tired from all the activities of the day and the party so he was thankful to be tucked into bed for the night – after saying his nighttime prayers, of course.  When his Mom left his room he snuck over to the window to peak at the barn.  He kind of wondered if the man and woman were okay.  There was candlelight coming through the windows of the barn and he saw his Mom carrying a jug of water out to the barn.  It’s pretty late for her to be carrying water out to them.  He noticed that the bright star light filled his room with a pleasant glow as he crawled back into bed; but, he the light didn’t bother him as he soon drifted off to sleep.

 

Sometime during the night he was awakened to a baby’s cry.  It sounded like it was coming from the barn.  Eli hurried to his window and to his surprise he saw a group of men with long staffs, shepherds perhaps, talking with some going into the barn.  They too were pointing to the bright star.  He heard one say, “This is from God.”  He heard another one mention angels singing in a great chorus in the sky and telling them to come to this place.  It was clear that they were all excited.

Eli quickly dressed and ran downstairs.  His Mom and Dad were serving food and water to these men.  There was excited talk about a king.  Eli could not believe it.  A King?  Where? In the barn?  No way!

Eli went out to the barn but it was crowded with people coming and going.  He went around to his secret entrance – loose boards in the back – where he would sometimes play with his friends.  Eli easily slipped through the opening.

It was dimly lit in the barn but his eyes quickly adjusted.  The lady he had seen earlier was covered with a blanket and laying in the hay - rubbing Lanny’s nose.  Lanny had to like that Eli thought.

The shepherds were starring at a little bundle held by the man.  A few were kneeling in front of him.

The man turned and put the bundle into Lanny’s manger.  There was a little cry as the bundle was gently snuggled into the fresh hay.  

The man looked up and saw Eli.  He motioned for Eli to come closer.

“What’s your name, young man?” asked the man.

“I’m Eli.  I live here – in the Inn.”

“Very nice to meet you, Eli.  I am Joseph and this is my wife, Mary.  And this is our first child - just born tonight – we will name him Jesus.”

Eli looked at the little baby laying there in the hay.   Eli almost thought the baby smiled at him.

“Sir,” said Eli looking up at Joseph. “Is that star in the sky for Jesus?”

“Son, I think so.  This is a special night and Mary and I don’t understand everything that is happening.  But, it’s clear that God’s hand is in all of this tonight.”

Eli just nodded.

“Sir,” said Eli once more.  “Can I get more fresh hay for Jesus?  I know it is not much but I will be glad to get it for you.”

“Eli, I am sure that Jesus would be very happy to receive that small gift from you.”

Eli burst from the barn - so happy to be getting him fresh hay – so anxious to be helping Jesus.  Eli somehow knew this was a special night and a very special child.  Eli was glad to be serving in his little way - maybe somehow serving God by bringing a little fresh hay as a gift for Jesus.

    I am pleased to announce a limited time opportunity for you to invest in TACMRN.  Yes, that's right, now is the time for you to own a part of The All Christmas Music Radio Network.  I have to believe that I am not the only one with an addiction to Christmas songs.  I absolutely love those songs (although, I struggle a little with Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer).  Unfortunately, we only sing these songs at Christmas time.  What's up with that?  Are there secret laws preventing Christmas songs outside of the Christmas season?  I can see the scene now,

                "Is there a problem, Officer?"

                "I'm afraid so, Sir.  Did I hear you singing Joy to the World?"

                "Yes, Officer, you did. It's a wonderful song isn't it?"

                "That's true, Sir, but I'm going to have to cite you for a 12-25 violation."

                "A what?"

                "That's a 12-25 violation, Sir."

                "What's that, Officer?"

                "That's singing Christmas songs outside of the legal season." 

                "No kidding?  There's really laws?"

                "Yes there is.  Here's your ticket.  Enjoy your Labor Day, Sir."

    For me, there is nothing better than radio stations switching over to all Christmas music for their programming.  You have to understand that I even dream about Carolers singing Christmas songs in wonderful harmony while standing in neat rows as shoppers linger to listen on a snowy winter night (excuse me while I get my hot chocolate).

    The holiday season is quickly approaching and I always dread the rushing around, the pressure of buying presents and attending all the parties for fear of offending someone.  But, on the other hand, I enjoy the rushing around, buying presents for everyone and attending all the parties to see friends.  I'm conflicted I guess.  The medications sometimes help.

    I wanted to be one of the first to wish you Happy Holidays.  Take time to be with family and friends.  Enjoy some time by a crackling fire.  Bake some cookies.  Read the Christmas story.  Wrap up in your favorite quilt and read a children's pciture book to any little ones that happen to be scurrying around.  (I can recommend a children's picture book if you need help!)  And, by all means, sing a Christmas song!

Recently I was granted an interview with King David - from the old testament - you know, Goliath and all.  I know it struck me as hard to believe too but what can I say.  I have been fascinated with King David for years.  I've taught about him to children and adults but I can't say I ever completely understood him.  How could he really be a man after God's heart?  I knew this was my chance to ask him some questions. 

He asked to meet in a Buffalo Wild Wings (turns out he likes spicy wings).  After a little chatter to get to know one another, I launched into my questioning.  I thought you guys might be interested so I provide the following from our dialog.

Dalen: So, David, may I call you David?

David: Certainly.  We can be informal here today.  I get a little tired of all the "King" stuff anyway.  I was a shepherd after all.  It's not like I grew up in a palace.  I spent most of my youth in a tent with the smell of sheep hanging in the air - and that was none too pleasant let me tell you!

Dalen: Great, thanks.  So, David, I'm going to focus on parenting during our conversation.

David: Ouch!  Why don't you pick a tough subject.  I'd rather talk about warfare, or even the Philistines, anything but parenting.

Dalen:  I'm glad to hear you say that.  I sometimes think it is just me that struggles with parenting.

David:  Are you kidding!  Parenting is tough, Dalen, I struggled with it my entire life.  As I look back on my life, I wish I had done things differently.

Dalen: Really?

David:  I don't think I represent God well in my own parenting.  I turned my head on too many things my children did.  It's funny, I could rule a nation but not my children.

Dalen:  You know where I am going with this conversation.  You know I am going to ask about the tough times with some of your children, David.

David:  I figured as much. 

Dalen:  Tell me about Amnon and Tamar.

David:  Wow!  You jump right into the tough stuff don't you? 

Dalen:  Yes, sir.

David:  This is one event when I should have jumped into the middle of it early.  But, I was busy with politics and I let it go.  I had heard things and I knew I should intervene but it is tough to deal with family matters.  It was much easier for me to focus on work.

Dalen:  This is still happening today.

David:  As you know, Amnon and Tamar were half-brother and sister.  Amnon became sexual attracted to Tamar to put it bluntly. I know he said he was in "love" with her but it was not love - it was lust.  Unfortunately, my nephew, Jonadab, did not help things.  In fact, he made it worse and he got me into the middle of it.

Dalen:  So, what did you do when you found out what happened?

David:  I was furious of course and I should have taken strong and decisive action.  Maybe not to the point of death for Amnon but some punishment was needed.  I should have spoken with Tamar and Absalom but I let it go.  This allow disappear to grow in Tamar's heart and rage to grow in Absalom's heart.  I take the blame for this.

Dalen:  You and I both know this is not the end of the story.

David:  The sin was avenged in the murder of Amnon by Absalom but this just allowed caused the rage to continue to grow in Absalom.  Even when I brought Absolum back to Jerusalem, I did not talk with him.  For two years I did not even let him come to me.  As his father, I should have been talking with him and counseling him but I did not. 

Dalen:  Tell me about Absalom.  Things got worse with him.

David:  He was a beautiful child  and a handsome man - whom I loved - and always will.  But, he was rebellious and proud.  Sin had grown in Absalom's heart and Absalom was listening to the wrong people.  When you couple bad advice with his pride and his rebellious nature - well, you get the point.

Dalen:  How can you still love him?  He overthrew your government.

David:  He was my son.  Don't get me wrong, I hated what he was doing and I knew what I had to do but I loved him.  God gave this child to me.  Even in the bad times with Absalom, God was in control.

Dalen:  How can you even say that God gave him to you?  This was a very bad situation.

David:  True.  But, our God does not make mistakes.  I don't know why God allowed this to happen.  I don't know why Absalom had to rebel and then die; but, it was for a reason that only God knows.

Dalen:  You mourned for Absalom.

David:  Absolutely!  I did not want his death.  I miss him to this day.  But, Joab, did a wise thing.  I had a duty to my men.  Yes, I missed Absalom and I mourned his death but my men had served bravely.  I had to recover and honor them for their service to me.

Dalen:  David, in Acts 13 you re called "a man after God's own heart."  It goes on to say, "that you will do everything God wants you to do."  However, It sounds like there were shortcomings in your parenting skills.  Help me understand Acts 13?

David:  Just keep in mind, I was a man - just like you.  I had weaknesses and I struggled everyday to grow closer to God.  There are many things in my life I would like to have done differently.  But, God was leading me - even in my times of weakness.  I sought his forgiveness often!  I trusted his wisdom always!  I tried to learn from my mistakes and live a God told me to live.  But, please remember, I was not some mystical hero that lived above real life.

Dalen:  Do you have any advice for fathers?

David:  First, seek God in your family and in your relationship with your children.  This is sometimes uncomfortable but do it!  Second, insert yourself into the lives of your children.  Do not turn your back on them - ever.  Third, don't accept their mistakes and sins - take every opportunity to correct and teach.  Lastly, seek God in your family and in your relationship with your children.

Dalen:  David, you repeat that last point twice.

David:  I know.

Dalen:  David, thank you very much for your time today.  It has been an absolute pleasure talking with you.

David:  Likewise!  God's blessing on you!

I was invited to participate in a children story time at the Manheim Library.  I had a great time - it was fun.  Thanks to Dan Coleman for inviting me - and helping me with "If Your Happy and You Know It" including some special quilting verses of the song.  Of course, I read Just A Quilt? to the kids but I decided to add another story.  Below is the story I wrote just for this event.  I wanted the kids to participate in the story so the words in bold and underlined were added for the kids to do an action.  Enjoy!  Those of you familiar with Just A quilt? will recognize the connection to the book.

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Chase loved flying over the countryside on his quilt.  His was no average quilt – it could fly - and do so much more.  Chase swooped over the wide (arms) plains in front of him.  The zebra and giraffe ran elegantly in under him.  Scores of animals were running and jumping across the vast countryside.

 

Chase was glad he was up in the sky because he was a little scared of the lions (growl) hiding in the tall, tall grass; although, they didn’t look too scary sleeping (lay on hands) lazily under the bright sun.

 

Ahead he saw what he was looking for - a tall mountain (use arms to form a peak) covered with trees.  He knew that he could find a nice, and cool, place for camping under those trees.  Chase landed his flying carpet quilt with Riley, his dog (bark), jumping off first and scampering around searching for any bugs or frogs she could find.

 

Chase made a tent out of his quilt and enjoyed his dinner while he sat beside the glowing fire as the stars danced in the sky above.  The cries of the wild animals (animal noises) kind of scared him but he knew he was safe on the mountain side – especially with Riley protecting him.  Chase pulled secret and ancient papers out of his pocket.  He wanted to study his map one last time before he went to bed.  The map showed that he was close to the cave where the treasure of the Lost Tribe was hidden.  Probably just a short hike up the mountain – but first a good night’s sleep.

 

That night Chase dreamed about dragons (roar).  His quilt shielded him from their fierce fire.  A fierce fight seemed to be building when suddenly one of the dragons called out, “Wait, we just want cookies!”  “Really?” Chase answered.   It turned out they weren’t trying to hurt him.  They were just hungry.  He and the dragons sat down to a delightful snack of cookies and milk (dunking cookies in milk).   However, when they burped – watch out!  Suddenly, he awoke to a bright and clear morning but no dragons or cookies were anywhere in sight!  Chase cleaned up his camp site, put his quilt in his backpack and he and Riley set off to find the cave of the Lost Tribe.

 

After a short walk, Chase easily found the cave.  After putting his helmet with a flashlight on it on and one on Riley, he took his own flashlight out of his backpack.  Then he carefully headed into the darkness of the cave – very thankful he had his flashlight and extra batteries.  He heard the squeaking sound of bats (make squeaky sound) overhead but he could not see them.  It grew cooler and cooler (shiver or rub your arms to keep warm) as he went deeper into the cave.  Stopping for a rest Chase heard the distant sound of a waterfall.  Chase grinned (everyone grin) because he remembered that the map showed a waterfall near the treasure.  Riley barked anxiously – ready to go.

 

Chase set out again with renewed energy.  He came to the end of the low tunnel he had been exploring.  As he stepped out of the tunnel (stand up straight after bending over) he found himself in a larger cavern – he looked up (look up) but could not see the top.  It was huge!  He looked left and right (look left and right) but he could not see the ends of the cavern to either side.  This cavern was huge!

 

But, he could clearly see the deep and endless cliff right in front of him (look down and kind of step back).  And he could see the waterfall across from him on the other side of the deep valley in front of him.  Water rushed out of a tunnel in the cavern wall and fell into the deep valley – a cool mist of water rose up from the deep valley. 

 

He knew the treasure was near but how could he get across this deep and wide valley?  Kids what do you think?  Chase needs help?

 

Fill in here

 

Reaching the other side, Chase found that there was a small cave behind the waterfall. Chase used his flashlight to look into the hole – he was a little nervous to climb into a tight hole without seeing what was in there first.  After a first glimpse, he couldn’t believe it!  He looked again.  He could see the glimmer of gold (gasp) as the light from his flashlight scanned the room.  He also saw bright silver and sparkling diamonds – some of them as big as tennis balls.  

 

Chase took off his backpack so he could try and squeeze through the tight hole.  He could barely pull himself through the hole but with one big pull he shot into the treasure room.   Riley came right behind him crashing into him.  They could not believe their eyes – so much treasure. 

 

Then suddenly he saw something very strange (eyes wide and point).  It was a drawing on the wall.  How could this be?  No, it couldn’t be – no way – impossible.  It was a drawing of a little boy – that looked just like him.  And, the little boy was holding something incredible - a quilt.  It was him – and his favorite quilt!!  This treasure room was made just for him.  How did the Lost Tribe know?

 

Suddenly, he heard his name, “Chase!”  Distant at first but then louder, “Chase!”

 

Chase step out of his clubhouse into the bright sunlight with his quilt draped over his shoulders.  “Yes, Mommy, I’m right here.”

 

“Lunch is ready,” Mommy called back.

 

As Chase came in the house Mommy asked, “What were you doing?”

 

“Oh, nothing special – just finding hidden treasure,” Chase replied.

 

“That’s nice, dear,” said Mommy.

 

Chase could hardly wait to get back to the treasure room. But the grilled cheese sandwich tasted pretty good right now.  And besides, Mommy was baking cookies for him to share with the dragons!

A baby quilt was being shown at the Red Rose Quilt Guild meeting in Lititz, PA.  From the fabrics this little quilt, it was obvious that this quilt was from years ago.  Her mother had made this quilt for her when she was a just a baby those many years ago.  It kind of made us sad to see the open spaces in the seams of the quilt; but, things do happen to quilts over the years.  Threads weaken and children will be children.  But, to our surprise, she said the quilt was not damaged - it had been made this way.  It wa then, under careful examination that you could tell that the slits were finsihed.  Her mother was paranoid about her children getting cold.  "She dressed us warmly," she said.  At night, however, those pesky kids would kick off the covers.  So, mom exercised her creativity.  She made finished slits in the quilt to match with the slates in the crib.  The quilt fitted neatly around the slates.  Her precious babies could not kick off the covers and she could rest better knowing they were warm in their beds.

There is probably a thousand reasons this was dangerous by today's standards; but, for this mother, she had done what she thought best to care for her babies.  She used her creativity to address her critical concern for her children.  And, apparently, her daughter was doing just fine! 

I could tell immediately that the quilt being shown was made from the fabric of men's dress shirts.  I had worn some of those same shirts.  As she held up the quilt I can't say I was overly impressed - but then the story was added.

Her father's health was failing and he had been put in a home to provide the care that was needed.  No one likes to just leave a loved one in hospital gowns.  Doing that somehow feels like your giving up.  Somehow you are turning your loved ones over to the illness.  Such as the case with her father.  Her mother wanted to keep his spirits up by providing him "his clothes" to wear.  Unfortunately, her father was not able to get into his shirts even with his best efforts.  So, her mother, would lovingly slit the shirts up the sides so that he could get them on and wear them in some degree of comfort.  

What does one do with the old clothes once events pass and the tears dry.  You can't keep these old shirts - they are all slit up the side.  But, a quilter thinks differently.  They inherently know what to do.  So, these shirts made it into this not so dazzling quilt that we were now seeing in "show and tell" time. 

At first, I thought that this quilt would bring back the bad memories of those tough times with an ailing loved one and the pain of the final loss.  But then I realized, this quilt was not a sad memory - by no means!  This quilt is a tribute to the love between a mother and father - for better or worse.  This quilt captures the depth of love that the mother poured out upon the father even in those tough times.  How wonderful a tribute this daughter created in this quilt of "shirts."

I then realized the fabulous beauty I was seeing in the quilt! 

As I travel around speaking to quilt guilds about Just A Quilt?, I always have the opportunity to stay for the guild's meeting.  The guild almost always apologizes that I have to sit through their meeting but I quickly learned that they have nothing to apologize for!  Let me clarify, I can't say I enjoy the business part of the guild meeting but I absolutely love "show and tell."

The talk I am most often asked to present at quilt guilds is titled, "Quilting, Creativity and Kids Books."  I present some of my adventures as a new writer - a lot of people are interested in writing and I am more than happy to share my experiences.  But, I move past writing and into creativity and then creativity in quilting.  I have found that the most memorable quilts are those in which the quilter's creativity is expressed by including their emotions in the quilt.  The emotions always come from a story in their life.  These stories those shared during "show and tell" at the guild meetings and I love listening to them!

I thought I would share a few of the stories I have heard in my next several blog entries.  So, keep watching, the first story will be coming soon!

I encourage you quilters to challenge yourself to put your emotions into your next quilt.  Start your quilt from a story in your life - then base your quilt on that story.  (Please feel free to share your story and a picture of your quilt with me! - I love them!) 

Tom: After nearly four months of anxious anticipation we are pleased to announce the latest in the ezWorship portfolio of products.

Bob: That's right, Tom.  This product is going to be huge!

Tom: Once again ezWorship has leveraged proven technology to enhance our Christian experience.

Bob: That's absolutely right.  Let's explain a little about the incredible science behind ezPrayer.
 
Tom:  Great Idea, Bob!

Bob: Our ezWorship scientists have worked closely with hidden doggie fence technology.  You certainly might know this technology if you are a dog owner.
 
Tom: You mean those wires that get buried in your yard so that when your dog gets a little too close - zap!

Bob: Exactly, Tom.  Our worldclass scientists have used that technology to create the ezPrayer.

Tom: Do you mean we have to bury wires in our houses to use the ezPrayer?

Bob: Absolutely not.  Our ezPrayer worship collars will pick up any electrical signals that are in the air around us everyday and turn it into a stimulating prayer reminder.

Tom: Electrical signals?

Bob: That's right!  Electromagnetic signals are generated from almost every electrical device; like a toaster, cell phone, TV or even a light switch.

Tom: No kidding!

Bob: We can't see them or smell but they are right here with us waiting to stimulate us in building our relationship with God - through the ezPrayer.

Tom: Bob, these lovely collars not only enhance our commitment to prayer but they are fashionable too.

Bob: Absolutely right, Tom.  We have had some of the leading fashion designers work with us on the ezPrayer so we can offer these collars in a variety of attractive and functional styles such as the studded black leather goth, -

Tom:  Yikes, that one is scary.

Bob: I know, Tom, but they pray too.  We also got the diamond encrusted "I'm better than you", the ever popular WWJD and the newly added design, "I've just been in an accident" neckbrace look..

Tom: Bob, I have to admit that I sometimes get distracted by my daily activities and I just don't pray as much as I should.

Bob:  I know what you mean, Tom.

Tom: Have you tried the ezPrayer yet, Bob?

Bob:  No, I haven't, Tom.  

Tom:  I've got an idea.  Let's demonstrate this for the viewers right now, Bob.  Here put this one on.

Bob:  Well, Tom, I prayed just before coming out here.  I'm not really sure we need to do this right now.

Tom: Come, come, Bob, we can never raise enough prayers to God.  There you go, that seems to fit.  Does it feel okay?

Bob:  Well, yes, it feels fine.  How does it look?

Tom: Very handsome.  It's now so easy to receive a reminder to pray (turning on a lamp sitting on a nearby table)

Bob: (grabbing his neck, fallng to knees and shouting) Oh, my God!  Oh, God please.  Please, God!

Tom: Praise the Lord, it's working already.  You were already calling out to God, Buddy (turning off the lamp).

Bob:  Wow!  (Getting up and taking off the collar) That was certainly, um, incredible.  You know, Buddy, I think you should put this one on and try it yourself.

Tom:  Great idea Bob but, oh my, look at the time (checking his watch).  Viewers, if you call within the next 5 minutes  we will send you the family pack.

Bob: That's enough ezPrayers for a family of five and we'll include a free remote control - which is a fun and easy way to teach your family to pray wherever they may be.

Tom: And remember, a family that prays together -

Bob: Stays together.

Saturday, March 14, 2009 was a wonderful day!  Susan from The Village Quilter in Mt. Holly, NJ invited me to join her at her booth at the Love Apples Quilt Show to sign Just A Quilt?  This was the single largest sales day for Just A Quilt? so far!  Many thanks to Susan and The Village Quilter for including me.  Susan is a great person that seemed to know everyone at the show and I don't think she sat down once during the day.  I highly encourage all of you to check out The Village Quilter (which now handles Just A Quilt?). 

So, many great memories will now come from the great day yesterday:
    - the Love Apples Quilt Guild members - all were so kind!
    - reading to Bella and her family;
    - signing a book for Mallory;
    - talking about Germany with a wonderful couple - and his coloring book on recycling from the 60's (do re-issue it!);
    - conducting a test reading for the sequel to Just A Quilt? titled The Mess - thanks for listening folks!;
    - talking to Judy about a Guild meeting;
    - my wife's comment to me,"I can't believe we're going to a quilt show because of you!"

Many thanks to The Village Quilter, Susan, the Love Apples Quilt Guild and, of course, Bella.