Great Western Expedition - Trip Journal - Day 2/3

Tuesday, June 09, 2009 (Day 2):
Up a little after 06:00 without an alarm! Day seems to be dawning bright, warm, and beautiful. There is a long road ahead of us. Please guide and protect us, LORD. I would like to make it to Flagstaff, AZ today, but I ask that YOU give me peace and that we will travel with YOUR time schedule. YOUR timing is best.

Reading Jer. 28-29 this morning. It is wonderful to know that YOU, LORD, think about me! Who am I that YOU should even stoop to consider me? I am not worthy. But I praise YOU for YOUR love and mercy; for YOUR grace and truth; for YOUR power and protection. We are a long way from home and getting farther away with every turn of the wheel – but we are never away from YOUR presence. Praise YOUR name! Open our eyes and hearts to YOUR presence today. Help us see what special jewel YOU have hidden among the fields. I pray for my family left at home – they are all in my heart.

23:25
It has been a long day. We did not make it to Amarillo, TX – stopped for the night in Wichita Falls, TX.
Trailer swaying really got bad near Tyler, TX today. We talked to the “RV Doctor” (Calvin Cook). He said to really tighten down on the sway bar. I did so and it was great! (Thank YOU, LORD, for sending him.) Had trouble with it again outside Wichita Falls – the ball had come loose. Retightened and it was fine. YOU took such care of us today. Thank YOU, LORD.

While in Longview, TX (to eat lunch at Grandy’s) I met a black man who was “down on his luck”. He had spent all of his money on auto repairs and was now out of gas. He was trying to get home to Fort Worth. I gave him $20.00 to help get him home. He seemed sincere and in need. I was glad to be able to help him. (YOU turned around in just a few hours and sent the RV Doctor to help us out!)
Kathy’s CPAP quit tonight also! Thankfully she brought her old one. Wow, what’s up here??? LORD, satan has seriously turned up the pressure. I look to YOU. Hopefully we will make it to AZ tomorrow!

Wednesday, June 10, 2009 (Day 3)
Start of Day 3 of the Great Western Expedition! It has thus far certainly been an adventure – just not exactly what I had in mind! I would like to have started this day with a trip to the Grand Canyon but we still have a full day of driving ahead to get there. Nevertheless, it is good to be on the GWE. LORD, please continue to give us safe and good driving. Prepare the place for us to stay. We are in YOUR hands.

On the home front, Diane is dealing with Nikki’s failing health. Nikki is twelve years old or older and seems to have some type of neurological (and maybe cardiac) difficulties. Diane will probably be taking her to the vet today. It’s possible they may have to euthanize her. That’s a lot for Diane to deal with.

Another night on the road – I-40 in Albuq. NM. Only 323 miles left to the Grand Canyon! It’s too late and I’m too tired to go into all of the adventures of the day. Remind me to tell you about a golf ball thrown from an I-40 pedestrian overpass in Albuq. NM. There’s a dent in the hood of our Explorer to remind me of it!
Met some nice people from Oklahoma at a NM rest stop. They were travelling to the Grand Canyon with their 7yoa granddaughter.
Met a young man at one of the many gas stops who asked me to pray for him. He was not sure where he was headed or what he was going to do. His name is Ron.

Great Western Expedition - Trip Journal - Day 1

Monday, June 08, 2009

What a day it has been! Certainly not according to my plan, but I trust according to YOUR plan, LORD. Buttons started the morning off memorably when she found and devoured a large Reese’s Valentine Heart. After a nervous telephone consultation with the vet, Kathy administered hydrogen peroxide until Buttons “got rid” of the chocolate. By the time Buttons got through it was 10:00am.

Kathy and I said our good-byes and set off (late but on our way). After topping off the tank and checking the air pressure we headed west – or so I thought. When we reached highway speed I noticed a distinct sway in the trailer. After a consultation with KBarK, it was determined that we needed an anti-sway bar added. It would be 2pm before they could work us in.

They managed to get us in by 1:30pm and out less than an hour later -- two hundred dollars lighter but ready for the road. We were (finally) on the road by 3pm.

After being beaten up by the sad state of the road conditions in Mississippi, we called it a night in Vicksburg, MS. Motel6 kept the light on for us!

It has been a frustrating start to the Great Western Expedition, but I know that YOU have a reason and something for me to learn. Thank YOU for YOUR watchcare, for getting us safely here, and for what YOU have in store. I am looking forward to each day. Please renew and refresh us. Draw us closer to YOU and to each other. I pray that YOU will be honored in this special time.

Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail 4/25/2009

Hike: Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail (North & South Loops), Sat. 4/25/2009, 12:30-16:00CDT
Distance: 4.7 miles Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Moderate
Conditions: Sunny, mid to upper 80's, light breeze, hot.
Thoughts/Observations:
Gorgeous day. Wild azaleas are in magnificent bloom. Many birds singing and busy with their daily activities. A good number of motor boats on the lake today. A few people at trail head with a grill but did not see anyone on the trail. Picked up several ticks - got three off of me; one attached on my upper right thigh. I used repellent, wore long pants, and tight fitting socks. Must be many ticks in this area. Guess it should be avoided until cooler weather returns (sigh).

Was great to get out after five straight 12+ hour days at work. Thank YOU, LORD. I thought a lot about (and prayed for) a person I love and who has been heavy on my heart lately.

Trip Journal - Phoenix Arizona - Spring 2009 - Page 6

Friday, April 03, 2009, 09:18MST

Happy Birthday Glenn!!!

Readings from Matt, Mark, & Luke this morning. Looked at the Resurrection account. Our LORD is Alive and Real and Relevant!

I never imagined when I first visited Phoenix in the summer of 2007 that I would be back two more times. This has been a tremendous experience for me. The skills gained from Honeywell Automation College certainly help me on the job, but what these trips have done for me spiritually is much greater. Thank YOU for working in my life, LORD.

The Valley of the Sun is a great place to visit but Prattville is home. I am continually amazed at the volume of life (flora and fauna) present in the Sonoran Desert but I prefer the Creation with trees, forests, and water!

Waiting at Phoenix Sky Harbor airport – I’ve found waiting to be a major factor around airports – for Northwest Flight 1920 to Memphis and then on to Montgomery. Should be home by 9:00pm (that’s 21:00 Emily). Looking forward to seeing everyone – yes, I have missed you all!

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Trip Journal - Phoenix Arizona - Spring 2009 - Page 5

Thursday, April 02, 2009, 07:13MST

Reading for this morning from Hebrews 1-2 and 12.

“How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation…” – Heb. 2:3

GOD is continually calling us to HIMSELF, but I fear that we seldom listen. We are wrapped in our own personal “worlds” and driven about by the mad rush of our age. How many of us are truly blind, stumbling, and bumbling about without a real clue as to what matters and what our ultimate destination will be?

For those of us who have a personal relationship with CHRIST, our lives should be characterized by purpose, passion, and a personal relationship. More about this later…

My plans have changed for today. Since I’ve been out to The Superstitions several times before, I am planning on heading southwest toward the Sierra Estrella Mountains – to Rainbow Canyon Trail. It is touted to have great spring desert wildflower blooms. We shall see!

Thursday, April 02, 2009, 20:43MST

Wow what a day! I got on the Rainbow Canyon Trail in the Sierra Estrella Mountains at 08:30 this morning. This park is not crowded at all – didn’t even see anyone else on the trail until near the end. But this park is FULL of local fauna! All types of desert birds were in abundance. Hundreds of lizards from small ones to some that would have probably weighed a couple of pounds. Snakes were also in residence. One small Western Diamondback Rattlesnake had staked a claim right in the middle of the Rainbow Canyon Trail and was not predisposed to move. I took his picture, which he was agreeable to and then I gave him a wide berth as I continued on down the trail. He watched me carefully, but he never rattled. Believe me I watched the trail a little closer after that. Altogether I made a large loop through the mountain preserve utilizing the Rainbow Canyon, Toothaker, Pederson, Gadsden, and Butterfield trails. Total trail distance hiked was 9.4 miles and I completed the hike at 13:00 (that’s 1pm local time). The Octotillion was in bloom but not much else. I was a little disappointed not to see desert wildflowers in regal array but the park was beautiful. I certainly enjoyed my hike and time with GOD.

During the last half of the hike I kept having the impression that I needed to go to The Superstitions again. So after a quick lunch at McDonalds in Goodyear, AZ I pointed the Chevy Colorado eastward toward The Superstitions. Since Hertz gave me a 4x4 pickup truck this time I decided to hike the Peralta Trail to Freemont Saddle and get a glimpse of Weaver’s Needle. The Peralta Trail is supposedly the second most popular trail in Arizona (after Bright Angel Trail in the Grand Canyon) but I only meet three couples on the trail. I knew I was going to be rushed a little since sundown comes about 18:30, but I calculated that I should have enough time.

Let me tell you that GOD saved the best for last! The Peralta Trail was a serious physical workout being about 1360’ total elevation gain (and all going in to Freemont’s Saddle). The trail almost “kicked my fanny” and I almost considered turning back before the saddle. I asked GOD for a little encouragement and almost immediately my cell phone rang and Diane was on the phone. She was just the encouragement I needed to get a second wind and get up over the saddle. I had seen pictures of Weaver’s Needle before, but as was the case with the Grand Canyon, I was not really prepared for the panorama that greeted me. Weaver’s Needle is the icon of The Superstitions (even more so than Flatiron) and the magnificence of the sight touched me.

In addition to Weaver’s Needle I was greeted by a glorious spring desert wildflower bloom all along the Peralta Trail. Birds, bees, butterflies, and the ubiquotus lizards were everywhere. I’m not certain what was putting out the wonderful fragrance, but I was bathed in the lovely sweet scent all the way to the saddle. The cliffs of The Superstitions ringed me in on both sides (the Peralta Trail basically follows a wash up to Freemont’s Saddle) with the ever-present Saguaro cacti standing guard. There was a small cave just before the saddle but the ceiling was very low and I was not about to crawl inside. You have to wonder how many ancient Indians and wild animals may have sought shelter in that cave through the ages. Total mileage for the Peralta Trail was 5.7 miles and time was 15:45-18:25. (Bringing the day’s total trail mileage to 15.1 miles!) I will probably feel it tomorrow.

LORD GOD, thank YOU for this special surprise YOU saved for last. I cannot adequately express in words what I felt on this hike. Thank YOU for getting me up that 1345’ to the saddle. I saw several large, high soaring birds (not sure if they were some type of eagle or vulture), but I remembered YOUR words, “But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” (Isa. 40:31)

Trip Journal - Phoenix Arizona - Spring 2009 - Page 4

Tuesday, March 31, 2009 05:53MST

Reading from Psalm 68 this morning.

The earth shook; The heavens also dropped rain at the presence of God; Sinai itself was moved at the presence of God, the God of Israel.

You, O God, sent a plentiful rain,

Whereby You confirmed Your inheritance, When it was weary.

-- Psalms 68:8-9 (NKJV)

O God, You are more awesome than Your holy places.

-- Psalms 68:35 (NKJV)

I remember reading this Psalm when I was in Arizona the first time – Summer of 2007 – after seeing the Grand Canyon. I don’t believe I can improve on what the Psalmist says, “GOD, YOU are indeed more awesome than YOUR holy places.” Thank YOU for choosing me – for calling me – for living in me and for doing such wonders in my life. Thank YOU for showing me just a small glimpse of YOUR majesty and care in YOUR Creation.

Tuesday, March 31, 2009, 21:12MST

After a full day of Graphics & Design class I was ready to get outdoors! I planned better today and was ready to go. Thunderbird Conservation Park in Glendale, AZ was within a 30 minute drive of Honeywell Automation College.

The park is situated in the middle of the suburbs, but the foothills and surrounding Sonoran desert-scape set it apart. Several trails ring the foothills, cross the summits of some, and meander across the desert bottom land. There are quite a few ramadas and other amenities in the park. Thunderbird is touted as a conservation park and there are several different types of fauna observed here. I was able to view many different passerines as well as the usual desert lizards. Coyotes, jackrabbits, ground squirrels, and other similar mammals probably venture into the park at night, but I did not observe any today. Set in the midst of the suburbs, you might expect the park to see lots of traffic, and you would be correct. There were quite a few other hikers and trail runners. About four mountain bikers shared the trail with us all this afternoon. The trails are also open to equestrian riders, though none were present during my hike.

Thunderbird Park is the classic igneous rock common among the mountains in Phoenix. (I am not a geologist, so understand I may not be classifying the rock correctly. But the rocks “look” like they come from volcanic origin.)

I started from the parking lot to the south and east of the amphitheater and hiked clockwise Thunderbird Trail H-3 and H-1 for a total of 3.8 miles. My pace was quicker than normal because (you guessed it) the park gates were scheduled to close at sunset. (I hate it when they do that – what time is sunset? More importantly is that time open to interpretation?) I gave it a trail difficulty rating of moderate due to the elevation gain, and rocky condition in some portions of the trail. The area was impressive – another example of GOD’s magnificent work. The trails were well maintained though rocky in spots. Signage was particularly good (thank you Glendale!) for this part of the country. Thunderbird Park gave me a good physical workout but it was hard to focus on the spiritual due to the volume of human traffic on the trail. Nevertheless, it was a great hike (rated it 4/5 on my scale) and very much appreciated. Glendale should be justifiably proud of their conservation park.

Trip Journal - Phoenix Arizona - Spring 2009 - Page 3

Monday, March 30, 2009; 05:51MST

Morning reading – Psalm 30.

“YOU have turned for me my mourning into dancing; YOU have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness.” – Psalm 30:11

GOD, YOU are so awesome. YOU have indeed so many times worked good in my life in the midst of troubles. I give YOU all praise and glory, in JESUS name amen.

Off to class this morning, Experion Graphics and Design.

Plans for this afternoon are to check out White Tank Mountains in west Phoenix.

Mon. 3/30/2009; 20:16MST

Well, “the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry.” By the time I got out of class at 4pm the combination of heavy traffic and spring-time sunset times prevented me from going hiking. Sunset comes a little after 6pm and most of the regional parks lock their gates by sundown.

I took the time to make a trip down AZ101 to Cabela’s Retail Store in Glendale. It was indeed impressive – a lot like Bass Pro but with the addition of a wildlife museum of sorts (Aftrican Big game as well as western US animals). The stuffed wildlife dioramas were well done, educational, and interesting. Believe it or not, I did not make a purchase while inside!

I will plan in more detail for tomorrow and take everything I need in the truck for hiking. This will allow me to head directly to Thunderbird Conservation Park from Honeywell Automation College. I should be able to get at least a little time on the trails this way.

Trip Journal - Phoenix Arizona - Spring 2009 - Page 2

Sunday, March 29, 2009 06:39MST (Page 2)

Reading this morning from Psalms 28-29.

“The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is full of majesty.

The voice of the LORD breaks the cedars, yes, the LORD splinters the cedars of Lebanon. HE makes them also skip like a calf, Lebanon and Sirion like a young wild ox.” – Psalm 29:4-6

The window of my third floor room faces east. It is impressive to see the sun rise above the palm trees and structures of Traveler’s Inn next door. As impressive as the sunrise may be, as impressive as the forces found in nature are, we would do well to remember that all of this is just a small testimony to how awesome and great is our GOD! HE controls all of HIS Creation and is also intimately acquainted and concerned with our personal lives.

My thoughts are toward Crestview this morning. I pray that GOD will work in the worship times today as HIS people seek HIM.

After breakfast this morning, I will point the Colorado 4x4 north on I-17 toward Red Rock country. My plans include hiking at Dead Horse Ranch State Park and Montezuma’s Castle National Monument.

Sunday, March 29, 2009; 20:22MST

Has been a very good day and my legs feel it! The drive up to Dead Horse Ranch State Park took a little longer than I expected due to some road construction, but I arrived about 09:30. The drive was a worshipful experience though, as I listened to KLOVE and ArizonaShine (among several) contemporary Christian radio stations. As a matter of fact I listened to them up and back. Worship was the order of the day on the trail and the road!

Dead Horse Ranch AZ State Park is adjacent to Coconino National Forest and includes typical “red rock” Arizona landscape with the addition of the Verde River and its riparian zones. The area is beautiful. Glenn would have appreciated the two lagoons that are in the park. Several anglers were busy at work and I saw evidence of many fish caught, including trout.

I hiked a large loop including part of the Lime Kiln Trail, Thumper Trail, Lower Raptor Hill Trail, Rattlesnake Wash Overlook Spur, part of the Mesa Trail, and the Tavasci Marsh Trail. All of these trails together with some hiking on park roads equaled about 10 miles of hiking! My legs feel the 10 miles tonight, but the day was certainly worth it.

The hike included washes (arroyos), small mesas, and everything in between. I observed numerous passerines and the ubiquitous lizard. (This is a lizard heaven!) Also saw the occasional raptor (some type of hawk, I think). It occurred to me that it could have been a Golden Eagle – though my knowledge of them is limited. Contrary to the Thumper Trail’s name, I did not see any Jackrabbits this time. The number of butterflies amazed me. They were drawn to the desert blooming wildflowers and cacti. It is wonderful to see the desert bloom. The desert is alive – GOD takes care of HIS Creation.

As I came down off Lower Raptor Hill Trail, there were splendid views of Tuzigoot National Monument. I found a little used trail (Tavasci Marsh Trail) that led down to the Tavasci March (part of The Verde River) which the ancient Sanaguin Indians worked.

After catching a late and quick lunch at Wendy’s in Camp Verde, I headed north to see Montezuma’s Castle National Monument. I was concerned that two hours might not be enough time to adequately explore this site but my fears were unfounded. The monument is not large and I was able to really explore and soak up the feel of the monument. It never ceases to amaze me how GOD works things out. I go and plan an entire day of time outdoors with 10 miles of hiking the back country and HE touches my spirit more in the two hours I spent at Montezuma’s Castle! I was impressed by the immensity and grandeur of this place. These were real people with real hopes, dreams, fears, and spirits. Why did they build these impressive structures? What happened to them? Why did they leave this majestic site after living there 400 years? What monuments are we leaving behind with our lives for others to admire?

Trip Journal - Phoenix Arizona - Spring 2009 - Page 1

Sat. 3/28/2009 – 05:42CDT

Sitting at the Montgomery Regional Airport waiting… flight delayed until 07:16 for required crew rest. Weather in the area is bad but seems to be confined mostly to extreme south Alabama. Kathy & Diane saw me off at the terminal in a light rain. Thankfully MGM has a partial cover extending over the unloading area.

This trip to Phoenix seems hurried – not as well planned out as my previous trips. Is it getting “old hat”? I don’t think so… just so much competing for time these last several months. I really do need an extended vacation. I hope we get to go on our Great Western Expedition.

Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord! -- Psalms 27:14 (NKJV)

LORD, I wait on YOU as best I know how. Forgive me of my sins. Guide me to walk daily closer to YOU. I ask for YOUR wisdom that I may know how to shepherd YOUR people at Crestview. Comfort and defend Kathy & Diane during our time apart. Thank YOU for what YOU have done and for what YOU will do. In JESUS name, amen.

Sat, 3/28/2009 20:35MST (Phoenix, AZ)

Plane was delayed a little over an hour due to time required for crew rest and the weather. I just did have time to gobble-down a bacon-egg-cheese biscuit and hash browns before boarding the plane for Phoenix.

Plane arrived in Phoenix exactly on schedule, 10:57MST.

Lots of people in Phoenix this week… some type of Spring-training (baseball thing), spring break, and other special events. Hertz was almost swamped. They rented me a 4x4 Chev Colorado Pickup because they were running short on intermediate size cars. Didn’t cost IP any additional money!

Remembering how I missed out last fall on Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park, I headed east toward the Superstitions and Superior Arizona. (I stopped this time at Carl’s Burgers for a quick lunch!) The drive was a little congested until after Apache Junction, but still enjoyable. The Sonoran Desert and Superstition Mountains are quite enchanting. As I entered Tonto National Forest through Gonzoles Pass, Picketpost Mountain loomed impressively on the right. Thompson Arboretum SP is nestled in the shadow of Picketpost Mountain.

GOD blessed me greatly with wonderful weather and a clear head and stomach this time. The spring desert flowers were in regal form today. I was genuinely impressed! I did not expect that much color, fragrance, and variety. The hummingbirds and butterflies were having a field day! Hope the pictures do them justice.

The 3.5 miles of hiking today covered areas from Sonoran desert gardens, to Australian Eucalyptus forests, to Ayers Lake, to Picketpost Mountain high trail, to a Demonstration Garden, a riparian (creek side) area, and everything in between. There were many lizards in attendance, along with several ground squirrels. As expected, birds were everywhere. Thompson Arboretum State Park is, in my estimation, a jewel in the crown of the State of Arizona! Thank YOU, LORD, for preparing this place and sharing it with me.

Needed Hike - Mountain Creek - 3/23/2009

Hike: Mountain Creek, Monday, 3/23/2009, 17:00-18:00
Distance: ~2 miles  Rating: 4/5 (hurried because the park closes at dusk)
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions:  Sunny, clear.  Light wind.  Sun headed down.  Very comfortable temps/humidity.
Thoughts/Observations:
Forest beginning to come alive with signs of Spring.  Brilliant red Cardinals, pure white Dogwood blooms, and passionate purple Wisteria are the order of the day here.  Dogwoods are well on their way to being in full bloom.  Wisteria seems to be just beginning to bloom here (a little behind some of the other areas I've seen).  Give it another week or so to be in full bloom.  (Note:  Some of the hardwoods in the bottom land as you enter the nature trail area have been cut due to disease or injury.  Wisteria may not be as widespread due to this culling.)  Azaleas are budding and will also burst forth into bloom by Easter.  Hardwoods have that light-green color that has always reminded me of Spring as their new leaves begin to stretch out to the sun.  Red Maples add a nice dash of red to the forest canopy and mid-story.  Squirrels are scurrying about along with many passarines.  I really needed this hike -- this time to get away from the demands of everyday work, ministry, and family.  Thank YOU, LORD, for providing this place for me and for meeting me here!  Thank YOU for encouraging, comforting, and strengthening me.

Sometimes you gotta go with Plan B

Hike: Mountain Creek, Sat. 2/28/2009, 10:41-12:43
Distance: 4 miles Rating: 4/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Cloudy. Fast moving clouds. Many strong t-storms earlier in morning (some tornadoes east of us). Several blow downs in the forest. Windy. Temps in upper 50's to mid 60's. Pleasant day in the forest.

Thoughts/Observations:

Was planning on spending Fri night through Sat evening with Dad & Mom but severe weather kept us close to home. Went to Mountain Creek after squall line of storms had passed our area to spend some time on the trail. Hard to be still and listen today for some reason - not sure why.

Many passarines about - getting ready for Spring. Wonder if they realize it is supposed to snow tonight/tomorrow morning?! Got quite close to some sparrows and thrashers on the Hickory Hill Trail. Several gray squirrels busy scurrying around. Vocal crows and high flying vulture. One species of hardwood is blooming already in the bottom land. It is a quite stunning, soft red bloom. Not sure of the species yet. (Maybe a red maple?) Most water I have seen in the small creek through this park! Verse on my mind, Psalm 121. Speak to me, LORD I desire to know YOU better and follow YOU closer.

C.O.M.E. #9 - Barton's Beach Nature Preserve

Hike: Expedition #9 Barton's Beach Nature Preserve, Perry County, AL 2/21/2009 09:25-13:25
Distance: Estimated at 4 miles (pedometer did not function correctly)
Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy. All trails were flat. Little to no elevation changes throughout the area. Some blow-downs to negotiate but bushwhacking required was not a problem.
Conditions: Absolutely gorgeous day! Bright blue, clear sky throughout the expedition. Temps started out around 40, but warmed up to low 60's by afternoon. Breeze was light to moderate and except for the sound in the tree tops was not noticeable in the forest.
Thoughts/Observations:
Martha, Jon, Nathan, Charlie & Cynthia (their first expedition) joined me for Expedition #9 to Perry Lakes & Barton's Beach Nature Preserve. We had a wonderful time, though we did miss some of our regular ones. Hiked Ridge Trail, Round Lake Trail (did a little bushwhacking through slough trail area), and climbed the 100' Birding Tower (views were amazing here and the wind was more noticeable up top). Also hiked the Beach Trail and Secret Trail. Spent some time on the white sand beach of the Cahaba River. The white sand is truly amazing - almost as pristine as one would expect on the Gulf beaches. We picnicked together and shared a devotional from Romans 1 and Psalm 1. A great time and, as Martha said, "This is one to do again."

Beautiful Day Hike @ Mountain Creek

Hike: Mountain Creek, Sat. 2/7/2009, 08:00-11:30
Distance: 4.7 miles Rating: 4.5/5
Difficulty: Easy
Conditions: Bright blue sky. Calm to slight breeze. 40 degrees at start, warmed up nicely.
Observations/Thoughts:
Many passerines in the forest today: cardinal, tufted titmouse, blue jay, eastern blue bird, American robin. Pileated woodpecker in high top of poplar tree - with his red pointed hat highlighted in the morning sun, he looked like a monarch surveying his kingdom. Many gray squirrels. Thoughts on Chiz, Great Western Expedition, and Crestview. I desire YOU, LORD GOD; to seek YOU. Please guide my steps. Be my TrailGuide.

Love of Nature's GOD

From my youth I have loved “getting outside” – hiking and observing nature. As I move away from the noise of “civilization” and into the solitude of the forest, desert, seaside, or mountain, I am enveloped with a gentle quietness that is hard to describe. The demands, deadlines, and disorder of the daily drudgery just evaporate as I hike deeper into the woods. The cacophony of the day is gradually replaced with the alluring song of various passarines, the buzz of the numerous insects, or one of the other living sounds of the forest. The rustle of the wind in the trees or through the broomsage is a caress on my spirit that reminds me of the gentle care of the CREATOR, HIS care not just for Creation in general but for me as well. Along the path HE places special little jewels to remind me of HIS love – small woodland violets (my personal favorite), majestic sycamores or oaks, vivid autumn leaves, a dogwood in full bloom, a brightly colored and inquisitive bird, a small babbling brook, sweeping panoramas of mountains or valleys, or the unexpected view of a coyote, fox, or bobcat. I never know what treasure awaits around the bend or over the hill – even on trails that I have covered many times. Such is the love and care of my CREATOR.

I hope that you know HIM too. I hope that you also experience this wonder and awe as you “get out” and “get away”. HE is waiting to meet you there.

Agape

Three New Species Discovered on Deep-sea Voyage

Man is still discovering new creatures and new things that GOD has already created. We serve an awesome and creative GOD! This news piece from ScienceDaily is a prime example. We are excited to discover these "new" creatures, but they have been there all along. We just didn't know it.

Get out and see what GOD has done! Spend time with HIM and see what HE will do.

(Click title above for link to entire article.)
ScienceDaily (2009-02-04) -- Scientists have returned from a month-long deep-sea voyage to a marine reserve near Tasmania, Australia, that not only netted coral-reef samples likely to provide insight into the impact of climate change on the world's oceans, but also brought to light at least three never-before-seen species of sea life...

Excellent Resource for Alabama Environmental Info

Pat Byington does an excellent job of compiling information and calendar events for environmental events germane to Alabama in one web location. If you're curious about what environmental events are coming up around the state or if you're looking for that special place in GOD's Creation you have not visited yet, then check out Bama Environmental News.

The current (calendar) edition can be found here.

Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail - Beautiful Day

Hike: Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail, Kowliga, AL 01/31/2009 09:18-11:39
Distance: 4.6 miles Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Moderate
Conditions: Gorgeous blue sky. Clear. Cool. Calm.
Observations/Thoughts:
Observed white tail deer, several passerines, crows, vulture, deer tracks, armadillos scratchings, Bird-Foot Violets still blooming. Aquamarine color and sparkling shimmer of the lake at the water's edge is quite soothing. Thank YOU for such a beautiful day and for what YOU are doing in my life. Thinking about "Dealing with Uncertainty" - topic for Morning Praise tomorrow.

Days like this really make me consider how great it would be to have a job relating to ecology or natural science; to be in GOD's outdoors most of the time (versus on weekends and other special events). I guess that Saturday is really my Sabbath. Obviously, Sunday is a busy day for me with sermons, discipleship classes, and other ministry. Saturday is my day to "get away" from distractions and spend time in GOD's Creation worshipping and communing with HIM.

eTrailGuide #006

Crestview Outdoor Ministry Expeditions

Adventures of Worship in GOD's Outdoors

YOU will show me the path of life;
-- Psalm 16:11 NKJV

eTrailGuide #006

http://pastorlarryt.googlepages.com/home

January 30, 2009

01. Free Trial Campout Set

02. Outdoor Ministry Calendar

03. C.O.M.E. #9 – Barton’s Beach Nature Preserve Hike & Picnic

04. Pond/Lake Fishing Event

05. Any interest in a Deep Sea Fishing Trip?

06. Creation Moment (Darwin’s Puzzle)

07. Ministry Opportunities

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01. Free Trial Campout Set

Perhaps you have always wanted to give camping “a try”. Perhaps you like camping but you have a little one that’s just not quite old enough to take on a camping trip far from home. Well, we may just have the answer for you! Why don’t you participate in our Free Trial Campout on Friday evening, 3/13/2009, until Saturday morning, 3/14/2009. We will set up our tents and campout under the stars (and street lights) on our church campus. There will be a campfire, camp food, smores, and plenty of fabulous fellowship! Camping out on our church campus means that you will not be very far from a modern bathroom, running water, and all the creature comforts we have become accustomed to.

Please DO NOT bring any electronic video games or similar – we want to focus on being together outside. The intent of the evening is to Worship GOD, enjoy HIS Creation, and fellowship together – all in a relaxing yet adventurous atmosphere. Please feel free to bring any camp related games (such as cards, various balls, Frisbees, etc.).

If you have any questions or suggestions, contact Pastor Larry at pastorlarry@crestviewprattville.org.

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02. Outdoor Ministry Calendar

Feb. 21, 2009 – C.O.M.E. #9 – Barton’s Beach Nature Preserve

Mar. 13, 2009 – C.O.M.E. #9.1 – Free Trial Campout – Church campus – you may start setting up your camp at 5:00pm (or join us whenever you can)

Mar. 21, 2009 – C.O.M.E. #10 – Location To Be Determined!

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03. C.O.M.E. #9 – Barton’s Beach Nature Preserve Hike & Picnic – What to expect!

Plan to depart the church NO LATER than 8:00am on Saturday, February 21, 2009. We will travel to Barton’s Beach Nature Preserve / Perry Lakes Park near Marion, AL. This is a riparian/ox bow lake area. Terrain is flat. Area is heavily wooded with mixed Pines and Hardwoods. The oxbow lakes/swampy areas have Cypress and Tupelo. Many different species of birds (from bald eagles to common passerines) inhabit this beautiful location. Many small mammals and reptiles also live in these woods and lakes.

We will hike from the trailhead/parking area several of the trails in the area with the highlight being a hike to the white sand beaches of the Cahaba River. Plans are to picnic together on the beach. We will hold our devotional here as well.

Hiking trails are all flat and rated easy. Expect a total of about 6 miles of trails. There is a 100’ birding tower, suspension foot-bridge, and several other architecturally unique buildings in this park.

Please wear hiking shoes or boots and appropriate clothing for the weather. You will need a small backpack, water, snacks, and a picnic lunch. Be sure and bring a small Bible, Journal, and pen/pencil. If you like, a pair of compact binoculars and a digital camera would be good items to pack.

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04. Pond/Lake Fishing Event

We would like to schedule a fishing event that would be suitable for families during the spring time. Ideally, the location would be a pond or small lake that provides easy and safe access for families and children. Grist State Park, near Selma, immediately comes to mind, but I would love to have input and suggestions from others.

Do you have a “favorite fishing hole” you would like to suggest?

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05. Any interest in a Deep Sea Fishing Trip?

Do you have any interest in a Gulf of Mexico Deep Sea Fishing Trip this spring or summer? Get your comments in to Pastor Larry.

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06. Creation Moment (Darwin’s Puzzle)

John 18:38a

“Pilate saith unto him, What is truth?”

How do you know that what you think you know is really true? Charles Darwin wondered just that, and the answer to his question sheds a lot of light on the origins debate today.

Since Darwin had no formal training in science, he made his case for evolution from philosophy, not from science. Philosophy and theology, after all, was the area in which he was trained. This background led him to ask a very important question. In Darwin's own words, "…the horrid doubt always arises whether the convictions of man's mind, which was developed from the mind of lower animals, are of any value or at all trustworthy. Would anyone trust in the convictions of a monkey's mind, if there were any convictions in such a mind?"

In other words, what Darwin was saying was that if his theory was true, it was the product of a mind not much greater than a monkey's. And who, including Darwin himself, could trust such a mind? The only way in which human thoughts might be separated far above the animals is if creation is true. Either way, the logical conclusion of Darwin's puzzle is that creation is true and evolution is untrustworthy!

It is no accident that as the teaching that man came from lower animals has grown, the number of people who act like animals has also grown. Darwin's own statement seems to show the twisted logic that results from evolution. (From http://www.creationmoments.com)

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07. Ministry Opportunities

• Crestview Outdoor Ministry Expeditions needs you! We are an outdoor-Creation-themed ministry designed to point others to GOD, to worship HIM in HIS Creation, and to promote appreciation of and care for GOD’s Creation. We would love to have you join us on our next Expedition.
• C.O.M.E. #9 – Barton’s Beach Nature Preserve Hike & Picnic on the white sand beach of the Cahaba River – 2/21/2009 8:00am departure from church.
• Our Vacation Bible School this year will have a “Summer Camp” theme. Is GOD calling you to minister to HIS kids and their families? Join us as we pray, plan, and prepare for this Vacation Bible School Adventure! Please see April Bush or Pastor Larry if you’re interested in helping out with this vital ministry.

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This world, as a glorious apartment of the Boundless Palace of the SOVEREIGN CREATOR is furnished with an infinite variety of animated scenes, inexpressibly beautiful and pleasing, equally free to the inspection and enjoyment of all HIS creatures. -- William Bartram

Survivorman "Arctic Tundra" (2008)

Les Stroud, Survivorman "Arctic Tundra", is on Discovery Channel tonight from Baffin Island, Canada. Looks v-e-r-y cold there!

It is truly amazing - a testimony to how GOD has designed HIS Creation - to see how many animals flourish in the harsh, frigid conditions found in the Arctic Tundra. The amount of garbage and flotsam on these remote islands was also a little depressing to see. This far from "civilization" we still manage to interject our "cast off" plastic and other refuse. Hopefully we will learn to practice recycle and reuse rather than just throwing away.

The Arctic (and Antarctic too) are truly wondrous and inspiring places to see. Perhaps one day I will be able to visit. Anybody up for a summer expedition to Alaska?

C.O.M.E. #8 - AWF Nature Center Lanark

HIKE: Crestview Outdoor Ministry Expeditions #8, Saturday, 1/17/2009, 09:30-15:00

DISTANCE: 6 miles

RATING: 4/5

DIFFICULTY: Easy

CONDITIONS: Mostly cloudy, light to no breeze, quite cold (started with a low of 20 this morning. Almost no one else at Preserve (too cold for them, I guess).

OBSERVATIONS/THOUGHTS:
COME#8 (Kathy, Jon, Nathan, and me). Hiked all three regions of Lanark. Observed large flock of turkey at entrance to Hilltop Pass. Many passarines (as usual) but did not see any deer. Heard owl from tree top walk (Hilltop Pass). Kathy's wheelchair did well throughout the preserve. AWF had a roaring fire going in large fireplace at Pavilion (it was appreciated!). Good expedition. Gave a 4 rating because my cell phone kept ringing throughout most of the morning (I have weekend duty). (I had to leave after lunch to go in to mill, but they fixed the problem before I arrived - so I went back to hiking!) Nathan tried out a Tarzan vine in Still Creek Run - it didn't support his weight and he tested out a "hiney landing"! (Ouch!) Had a picnic lunch at the pavilion after Turkey Ridge (before hiking Still Creek Run). This was a very relaxed and enjoyable expedition. Thank YOU, LORD.