Today isn’t just about the trees and trails for me. I’ll always be in awe of this Earth and its miracles. The changing of the seasons-the brisk coolness to warmth, leafless branches to colorful fullness, and buds to blooms. In the Ozarks, just add more stones! But much BIGGER than my neck of the woods…
…the earth took on a whole new view for the crew of the Artemis II mission!
The amazing Artemis II Crew didn’t just see a planet; they saw a masterpiece that screams the presence of a Creator!
Divine Design
It’s my nature to want to BE in nature. My nature changed for the better when I made the decision to surrender to the Creator of our nature. Home CAN be heavenly if we choose to look outside the walls of our price-tagged stick and brick homes. Do we still live in AWE surrounded by man-made stuff?
I don’t want to WAIT for the future for the best when we have the choice to create heavenly homesNOW.
Have you experienced nature in a way that leaves you awestruck?
Let’s take care of our home–and even better, let’s take care of one another! That’s HEAVENLY!
FD02_for pao
This nighttime picture of Earth was taken on April 2, 2026, by an Artemis II crew member aiming a camera through a window of the Orion spacecraft. The image was captured after Orion completed its translunar injection burn, the critical maneuver that sent the spacecraft on its path toward the Moon and back It’s divine delight to views these photos in the link above!
Rooted Reverence
Have faith, my friends. 💚
“Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul.”
I’m in awe of those facing challenges with faith. From cancer to chronic disease, celebrations to sappy moments, and joys to juggling daily tasks.
Each day brings the unexpected. Try as we might to create our OWN schedules, I’ve learned through surrendering to Christ, each day is filled exactly with what HE desires.
When we live by an hourly schedule–whether with work outside of home or in, hobbies, or tasks, it’s easy to think that we have control. We TRUST the things that man does and makes–from a rocket to a car, sitting in a chair to the technology we use. We live to expect that each day will go according to our plans.
What if we lived on this Earth ONLY putting the Creator’s desires first? How might our lives look? How might the lives of those around us change?
I’m quick to remember that all the things that go “ring” and “ding” won’t last. If it costs me my peace and abiding in Christ, it’s too expensive. If it’s a distraction of the divine and just a people-pleasing project, it won’t produce the right “fruit”.
May we remember that below the tree of life flows the living waters. I’m so thankful to hike, walk, float, and explore this Earth with all of you. This world can be even more heavenly if we would lift one another in prayer and blessings. Remember that YOU are a miracle. YOU are loved. 💚
Seven beautiful people were tragically killed in a plane crash on Friday afternoon: Kelly Nelon Clark, her husband, Jason, and daughter and son-in-law, Amber Nelon Kister and Nathan Kistler, Assistant Melodie Hodges, pilot Larry Haylie and his wife, Melissa. They were traveling to join the Gaither’s Alaskan Cruise.
Surviving daughter, Autumn Nelon Streetman, and husband, Jamie thank people for their prayers and support for them, their soon-to-be-born baby boy, and Jason’s parents.https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna163931
May we all honor and remember their beautiful music (I’ve listened to them for many years).
In honoring this gifted family, we can pay tribute to those in our lives that have journeyed home~and those that remain in our immediate midst.
The brevity of life braces us for the brutal, breathless, breathtaking, and brilliant.
It was small-town America in the 1970’s and 80’s. Basketball and softball games, parties, church gatherings, neighborhood garage sales, bonfires, and face-to-face fun! There was even a time when home visits were scheduled to meet neighbors (gasp!)! Some of us would even Christmas carol during the holidays. Halloween included the whole town, not just one “safe” neighborhood. Everyone knew everyone and everything. A tiny Main Street, a small school, a hometown grocer, a bank, gas stations, and many steeples. The bookmobile even visited in the summer (an idea I had—bring back the mobile bookstore in an RV—The “Roaming Reader”). My community was small, and I still love it.
Growing up in a small community had its advantages. It was tight-knit, similar in people and experiences, and unique to its culture. Shared experiences, good or bad, can bring a community together. They can also separate them. Communities have cliques. Communities aren’t perfect. We’re human-so how can they be? The community from which I recently moved was “made up” of several tiny towns. Before that, a campfire was a central meeting spot to create community at the campground I lived and worked! Do you enjoy your community? Do you feel a sense of community where you live?
Cultivating a cooperative community requires miracles effort. Do we even desire community? Or would we rather keep to ourselves?
Recently, I checked on my near 87 year old neighbor, and retired pastor, Edward. His first words to me were, “Why am I still here?” At his VA check-up he was asked, “Do you ever feel like not being here?” “Of course!,” he replied to the nurse; who looked strangely at him. “Shouldn’t every Christian feel that way?” He told me she laughed in understanding. Edward DOESN’T want to die…he just knows what’s waiting. And he’s lonely. My neighbor to the right of me, Ms. Pat, is so lovely. Across the street is a precious young family (reminds me of my own sons and their families). To the left, another incredible small family. There are several singles, like me, living among the neighborhood. Another neighbor and his wife invited me to church. Generally, we all wave, close our garage doors, and slip into our homes.
Could we start an infection of kind invitations? What if we looked outside of ourselves to SEE others. Yes, it’s hard. It’s not easy to LOVE or even less, just to LIKE (unless you tap it on a screen). Maybe being alone is safer? Or maybe your safety is being only with those who look, think, say, and feel as you.
If we don’t share the same values, beliefs, and experiences, we may not get together for personal coffee chats often. I’ve had situations in which I “morphed” into someone I don’t know. Faith-grown maturity halted that. At my very CORE is a love for God. At your core, who are you? What do you believe? Even if we don’t agree, I will try very hard to show love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (I want to be VERY FRUITY-Galations 5:22). YOU and I are STILL valued as community members; or should be. A community can’t be created without communication. Certainly, Facebook, Instagram, or other social media outlets are a form of community—there are reasons why I prefer face-to-face. The community in which I’m writing about is not about whether one is married or single. I’m talking about the DESIRE to contribute to the human race. Ironically, many goals and visions of schools in my past included, “To become a productive member of society” (now, let’s add, “ …by working remotely from home, 90% on my device, to develop authentic and long-lasting relationships?) I’m not trying to sound cheeky. It’s my observations.
Why is this on my mind? Last week a dear friend and I had a conversation about this very topic (and our shared “longing” for the mountains). It wasn’t a “coincidence” that community had been on both of our hearts. Both of us have experienced a community campground that is near and dear to our hearts. Two days later I was commenting on a blog post about community. So WHERE do we create community? At our workplace? In a church? At a campground? In our homes?
Workplaces offer unique situations; we don’t CHOOSE who we work around (or most of us don’t). What can WE do to create a sense of community? How do we stop the spread of indifference, unconcern, coldness, insensitivity, passivity, detachment, and boredom? Can we provide a booster shot of care, concern, sensitivity, warmth, passion, interest,…and LOVE? Could we prevent cynicism? Many might criticize modern-day churches due to mixed messages or politics (because we can’t have life without politics, correct?). There are many things I may not agree with in organized religion, but I don’t discredit people, with shared values and beliefs, operating and living with the truth and GOODNESS of God. My truth may not match what you believe to be true. I will listen to yours. Let’s have a dialogue and conversation. You’d also like to talk about a new show you’re watching? I will try to find interest; listen and relate the best I can! Families? Grandkids? Nature? Or history? I’m all about that! Do you know Jesus? I’m really all about him, too.
Last weekend I watched a movie titled, “Land”. After experiencing an unthinkable tragedy, a woman secluded herself in the mountains of Montana. She had no desire to be around humans. The actress, fishing in her flannel, was surrounded by stunning scenery. For many reasons, I could relate. Mountains and the river were her community; then another human came along at just the right time (it helped that they both communicated well with one another after TIME). It’s easy for me to want to seclude myself. It’s easy to be a loner (especially when facing health challenges). After learning to love myself, being alone wasn’t a bother. It can be inconvenient, yes, it can be lonely at times,…but God reminds me I’m NEVER alone. HE COMMUNICATES BEAUTIFULLY.
Heavenly Father, you got me right in the heart, right on time. 💚
Tragedies are occurring daily; friends close to me are living with the unthinkable. Can we reach out? Can we help create a compassionate community? Can we cause a crumbling of comparison and callousness? Will we nurture neighborly? Can we extend an invitation? I’m so thankful for the communities in which I’ve lived, the relationships I’ve had and have now, and the ones I’m left to cultivate during my time here. It’s a bit tricky, given my current health journey, but I can STILL be better at community (my doctor’s office is its own little community filled with amazing humans!). No matter what, surrounded by a loving community or alone, you are loved. 💚
Have faith 💛
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” Hebrews 10:24-25
Community Call:
Friends (some of you I’ve known my entire life and others for a few days, weeks, months, and years), I’m so thankful for you and our community here. It’s such an authentic and heartwarming place! To keep my creative side growing, I’ve designed 3 logos for Flannel with Faith. I’d love to take a “community” vote on your favorite one. Feel free to join in and choose your favorite! Thank you for being such a collaborative and considerate community. 💕 Your friends, Karla & Finn
They were both small-town kids. She was raised a preacher’s daughter. He had to make bowling more Baptist if they were to date. Revivals weren’t revelry to teens in the 60s. Both families were known throughout the sprawling hayfields, curves, and dirt roads between the towns of Billings and Nixa.
The ice cream parlor and small downtown, the church and the gym, a schoolhouse and family dinners, a ball player and homecoming queen…alongside each other. In tandem, they exchanged their vows on June 12th, 1964.
Fifty-nine years. “Where did the time go?” they asked one another. It was years of babies, ballgames, and teens. Grandkids, responsibilities, careers, and the church. Forgiveness, love, grit, and determination. Do you see the wheels turning? Do you see their beautiful tandem journey? Tired legs, pulled groins, gray hair, and health scares. They’re still riding tandem; not on a bike. I watched them pull out of my driveway as we waved sweet goodbyes. Such an amazing couple-tandem, fifty-nine years.
Love is not about having someone fight for you (like I once believed). It can certainly get old fighting with someone…love is about giving up the fight…and giving it to God. Let faith and belief work in tandem. Cooperation, collaboration, and a Christ-minded combination-it worked for these small-town kids. Happy 59th Anniversary to my amazing parents. I love you, more.
Not tandem, but still together–pic by Jay Snook (my son)-Wenatchee, Washington
Speaking of love…
I grew up listening to OLD country music (and southern gospel, The Eagles, Boston, musicals, etc…). Music is life to me. Music is love. The nights I hardly slept I watched a series, “George and Tammy” about George Jones and Tammy Wynette. The sounds of the old country songs and those UNIQUE VOICES (unlike many of today), fierce love and fights, …and a reconciliation right before her death. Those two were just alike. Yet, couldn’t make it work, in tandem. I could relate to Tammy. For Hollywood purposes, much was exaggerated (keep in mind it’s rated R). Another night I finished a documentary about Sheryl Crow-a Missouri girl who I can definitely understand. Love was the root of both stories. And it was FELT in their art, their craft, their music. Just as I loved singing growing up around mom’s piano, with Dad singing tenor, under the steeples, in a canoe, hiking a trail, and the best, singing with my sons, I’ll not stop singing. Especially songs of love. I’m going to attach a YouTube video of George Jones and his daughter singing the most beautiful song (written by Georgette, George, and Tammy’s only daughter together). This song, along with one of my favorites by him (“He Stopped Loving Her Today”) made me think of days in the past. But also, how love, if given the right foundation and forgiveness, can bring such healing and comfort.
Have you heard of NET, yet?🦓
Surreal. It’s the only word I can think of to describe this journey. Last week was filled with trips between “floors” of the cancer center, insurance hiccups, long hours, and side effects. Due to low platelets, red and white blood cells, and risk of infection, my oncologist ordered several consecutive days of shots to increase the counts. I’ll have bone-strengthening infusions every 3 weeks. My body must recover to receive my last treatment.
In the lobby area was one of our small-town friends. I hoped that I would never run into anyone I knew. The odds prove I will. On the day of the bone infusion, was another familiar family. He, a former school superintendent (MY boss), shared hope and prayers. He has always reminded me of my dad, growing my grit and teaching a toughness (with added tenderness). His loving and caring wife offered hugs and love, too. It gave my mom and me comfort. Words can’t describe what this meant to me.
After a year crammed with research, learning, scans, treatments, and teaching, I felt like a new student at school. The ZOOM virtual support group and meeting last Wednesday still have me pinching myself. Did I just meet nearly 40 other new friends with this cancer? Although the curriculum was somewhat familiar, in tandem, there were new partners pedaling with me. Many have been on this journey for a long time. Some new, like me. Like zebras, we are all different, I was reminded. Surreal. There were others that are inoperable. Nearly two hours went by. New faces, smiles, and frustrations. Shared symptoms, an amazing doctor, and a meet-and-greet. I’ve exchanged information with a doctor in Maryland who specializes in this cancer (thanks to the resources in this group). New friends have reached out by email and future ZOOM meetings will be held. Priorities, other than faith and family, must shift as I participate in support that will strengthen my steadfastness. Each Wednesday I will do my best to attend the ZOOM meetings. This has, and will, impact my time reading your stories and communicating at times. It’s essential I celebrate the new connection by being active. It’s my goal to listen and learn from those who have been battling this cancer. After my first meeting tears of joy ran down my face. For those of you that have had breast cancer, you know what it’s like to meet someone who has had breast cancer. Or pancreatic. Perhaps colon. Or even leukemia. It’s no different from connecting with friends that have like-minded beliefs, hobbies or have experienced similar life experiences. Human connections.
The best part of my week? On Saturday I felt strong enough for the drive to my youngest son’s and daughter-in-law’s house to have an early 3rd birthday for my precious granddaughter, Whitley. There was laughter, memories, and delicious food. To be here to celebrate her 3rd, another birthday next month of my amazing grandson, Asher (his 4th), and his sister, another precious granddaughter (Ainsley) in August (her 2nd); that’s what life is about.
I dream of laughter, games, zoos, and books. Of music, mountains, naps, and movies. It’s the simple things. I don’t have to climb any more mountains for I have stood on the peaks already. I’ve floated on faith in the rivers at the bottom and found victories in the valleys. My heart is filled with hope, although my body feels weaker. Find the things that tandemly transform your thinking and fuel your faith.
In tandem, faith, and family, will keep me moving forward. Can you find the things that tandemly transform your thoughts and fuel your faith? You are loved, my friends.
