Today's story comes from the far Northeast corner of New Mexico just outside of Clayton. As I drove toward the rising sun the oddity of snow covered cactus struck me. So, it was picture time.

I pulled well off the road into the shallow snow and grabbed the camera. Walking back several hundred feet I saw the picture that you see here:

After snapping the picture I walked South on the road in the direction of town. As I walked a driver in a pickup pulled up beside me and asked, "Trouble?"

I realized he had stopped because he saw my car off the side of the road and that I was walking to town. I smiled and held up the camera and stated, "Just taking some pictures." He spoke to me in Spanish and I guessed he spoke little English so I pointed to the camera and said, "No problemo." Waving and smiling he went on driving.

I found a dead coyote in the snow. (Yes I took a picture, it is to gross for publication here.) It was partially eaten and there were wallows dished out in the snow where some animal family or pack had been eating. As soon as that picture was taken a small S-10 type pickup came to a stop on the road bed. Windows were rolled down and a couple spoke at the same time, "Car slide off the road? Need some help?" I thanked them for stopping and told the story of the unusual snow drifts and cacti combination. They replied, "Oh, we see that all the time. Good luck." I turned again to the pictures waiting to be captured.

Click, Click, Click. Then I discovered a truck at a distance was slowing. Being somewhat flippant I decided to get in the first word. So, as soon as the window started down, I turned and said, "High is there anything I can do to help you? Are you having a problem? Need directions?"

The man behind the wheel caught the smile in my voice and the twinkle in my eye and then he replied, "No, just carin' for my neighbor."

I looked to heaven a said out loud, "Lord, I got the message." We talked for a few minutes about the blizzard that went through the area the previous day and the number of stranded people and the fact that most people in this part of the world know what it is like to need a pull, push or a helping hand.

When I got back in my car, I heard, "Who is my neighbor?" Followed by, "No, just carin' for my neighbor" This went on for the next 50 miles and I rejoiced that the last driver was my neighbor. His words about the blizzard had made my flip manner seem small and reminded of the need I have for people to love and be loved by. I felt touched by kindness and blessed to know people do care for this stranger.

So often in this trip the views, moments, and work have all been able to take place in country that lifts the spirit. See pictures:
This is the Mogillon Rim. The rim is the edge of the Colorado Plateau. The night I spent here in the middle of more Ponderosa Pine than I have ever seen, the low temp was 22 and the wind kept the tops of the trees whispering all night. The sound touched something in the back of my mind -- I could not understand what the sound was tapping.

The next day while walking the trail I found a flat rock. It was to inviting to pass so like a snake sunning itself I stretched out and let my spirit listen. The voice of the Holy Spirit provided me with peace and the key to the whispering pine trees. For, God the Holy Spirit brought my daughters face to mind and the sound was the sound of satin over crinoline in a young woman's white wedding dress as she danced with her father. His one and only dance in 40 years. Her name was Erika and it was a good dance.

Erika's smile took me to my family. There are two wonderful children born to my life and they have been blessed with extraordinary mates, friends to love and with whom to live this adventure. I am assured of love for Jessica and Joshua, my children by marriage. I am at peace to know all my children as friends. I am blessed. Daily I pray for each couple to grow old together and enjoy God's presence every day. Both couples are parents of a child that has captured the deep place of my heart. Amelia smiles and I could sit and watch her without pause. JP is simply a joy who lights the room with his laughter.

I want my children and generations beyond to live for God. Diane hoped for me to be a Godly influence on the generations she would not see. What better life can be had than to fulfill the promise I gave to Diane to live as Christ before the children. I know I will be imperfect, having so many human foibles and frailties but the work done today with God affirms that He will be in charge and all I need to do is Love God and then the children with my all. I will do that.

I am headed home. From the desert scapes to the wheat fields the miles will pass and just so will the miles affirm the path that is the desire of my heart. See you soon.

On the far right side of this picture is the Salt River. Persistently the river has moved along carrying little bits of the mountains with it. Now the sight will cause a chatch in your breath. I wonder if there is a sermon illustration in there?

Note the ball exploding out of Zach's hand. Three out of four innings tonight were vintage Zach. The fourth inning he seemed to be working only on off speed stuff with no fast balls. That inning he was hit several times and gave up 3 runs. In the season i feel he will have a better mix and he looks smooth.

Speaking of ball -- the blur flying into Gordon's ribs is the ball. Alex dropped the bat and took several deep breathes before walking to 1st. He stayed in the game and moved with no problems.

This is Jacob's at bat. He laced the ball to right center and looked good doing it. There was a head in the next picture I took when Mike contacted the ball so trust me -- it was squared up and driven.

As long as I am on a Alex Gordon kick, here he is running to the out field. It was a long run and he arrived at the ball by sliding face first. He was going full speed. The boy is playing hard and looks relaxed.

Now for the spiritual stuff, today's work was/is built around trust. As of this moment the thought is not finished and polished so it is hard to state clearly. See if you can help me. I am highly suggestible at this time.

I learned to repeat the verse, "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not to thine own understanding," as a child. There have been times during the last 9 months that Psalm 37 seemed filled with words I could not feel, understand or choose; and yet, the Comforter seemed to constantly call me to its words. Jesus was saying trust in Me when He stated, "I go to prepare a place for you... many mansions..." I have seen Diane in heaven with her mom and dad praising God in my prayers. I know her trust in God was complete. And yet trust carries more depth than mear acceptance of His signage.

As I work my way through aloneness I have come to a heart place. In this place only God and I sit together. God and I honestly listen and speak to each other. This is my garden walk with God in the cool of the day; after the burning tears have released my spirit to tender touch.

In this place is trust. And for me it is not good enough to accept God's will and plan for my future -- though, yes I do accept. Praying through, this is when I have loving desire only for God's will, is doorway to trust. Regardless of the direction or implications of God's desire for me, my motive are devoid of want for anything outside of God's sight. Accepting God's will is receiving; desiring God's will is seeking. I am actively seeking, knowing nothing else matters.

In the midst of all the answers God has already given I choose to seek more, even more.

And now for some baseball! Recently, two wonderful people from work called and sang the national anthem, "Take me out to the ball game. Take..." It will not be long!

I watched several players in practice and game situations. And --- I ammmm ready for the season today. Let's go Royals!


Okay, so that's a little over the top, yet, there are some good things happening. David DeJesus is settling in to a comfort level at the 2-3 slot.












Mark Teahan is stroking the ball well and seems content to show the manager he is able to be one of the tallest second basemen, utility men, ever. So far, no glaring problems. A word of caution: I have yet to see a double play in game conditions for Mark. He has handled the routine plays acceptably. So, with his stick on fire he is saying to everyone, "Got'a play me."


Mark continues to run the bases well, even stealing bases. Good jumps are being taught in camp and I look for improvements.






I know, it is only spring. I know we have holes. I know the pitching has not rounded into form. I am afraid of the Ponson experiment.



For the #5 starter -- I can not see a contender at this point, pitching, pitching, pitching.

Right now I see a .500 team, I'll rejoice with that level of improvement.

On 3/23/09 my chart is:

• C-Olivio, B. Pena -- John Buck is being showcased and with the lack of catching and game management. Buck's batting this spring may create enough interest to get some help in the bull pen.
• 1st: Jacobs, Gload -- Everyone else elsewhere.
• 2nd: Bloomquist, Callaspo
• 3rd: Gordon
• SS: Aviles
• Left: DeJesus
• Center: Crisp, Maier
• Right: Guillen

• DH: Butler
• Super Sub: Teahan, 500 bats at every position on the field except pitcher.
• Bull Pen: Soria, Mahay, Farnsworth, Tejeda, Cruz
• Starting 5:
• 1 Meche, 2 Greinke, 3 Davies, 4 Hochevar, 5:-)
• Presently on the Roster -- I don't expect them to be on the team opening day:
• John Buck, traded
• Shealy, trade away, give away, or cut
• Costa, AAAA player
• One pitching spot is available for: Bale, Bannister, Peralta, Ramirez, and Waecher. None have earned the position at this time.

These mountains are the last stop before Mexico and the Border Patrol had roadway stop points and lookouts posted often.





This is the fruit on a Teddy Bear cactus. Don't know if it is a munchy or no, but it is pretty.




Some thoughts are both pointed and fun. When taking a picture always check the background and ask yourself, "Do i really want that growing out of my head?" Sometimes YES.

A Day with Friends

I enjoy being with people; understanding living that brings newness of life. Privileged to spend the day with friends, Jim and Marni Polly I was blessed physically and spiritually as Jim drove in the Sonora Desert while my car issues continued. What a blessing to see a young couple in love and caring for each other with grace.

Jim is a friend I had not yet met until this trip. A friend waiting to happen. A carpenter, construction leader, developing minister and christian. He has the gift of extending God's grace by presence and insight.

Marni, a childhood friend who is a sister. Singer and song writer Marni has matured into a strong woman of God that I think may have books unwritten in her soul.

To say I am blessed by my time with the Polly family would only show my ability to state the obvious -- yet in grace the smile on my lips reaches to spiritual peace -- I am blessed.

Thursday back Safely in Tucson

Well good evening from Tucson, AZ. For those of you who wanted details I will endeavor to speak to two issues. First, the joys of being run over. Second, my dating life.

It was like this: I wasn't do'n' nutn. I had been out walking, watching the sunset and breath; then drove down the hill into Bisbee, AZ. (100 miles SE of Tucson) I pulled into a parking lot, turned off the engine and watched as the sun painted the sky pink. AhHHH! Serenity!

While watching, I noted a big pickup (Dodge Ram 3500 -- extended cab and lots of lights) enter the parking lot and swing around the row in which I was parked. The truck pulled into and through the space next to me and then proceeded to turn right and role the rear tire over my driver's side fender, headlights and front bumper. Yes the fluid on the ground is windshield washer fluid.

So the results: After some work on my car this AM I chose to drive back to Tucson for analysis of the suspension and situation at hand. Yes I agree that was risky, however, the locals I talk to stated flattly that Bisbee is not gifted with body men. They TO A PERSON stated they take their cars to Mexico for better sevice. Go figure.

The car will be in the shop tomorrow for evaluation and then I will know what changes to the schedule are in order. Here are a few more pictures to clarify the damages:

Then item two: I heard from a few people today about the blog that mentioned I went on a date and that I would give details later.

When I was young say about 12-14 there was a family in the church I grew-up around whose parents were Ken and Jean McClain. They had five children and I spent many Saturdays at their home. Mrs McClain played the piano. Her daughter Marni and I sang together. It took a lot of practice for me to figure out how many notes are to be sung at one time. Mrs. McClain always had lunch -- I specifically remember chili with peanut butter sandwiches -- I still love that combination. About 40 years ago Ken McClain died. Mrs McClain moved eventually to live with Marni.

When I talked to Marni Sunday evening I arranged to surprise Mrs McClain by taking her out for a meal. Marni assisted by keeping the details quiet. Mrs McClain was all gussied up. I appeared with corsage in hand and we went out.

Mom McClain is now 85 and she seemed to enjoy herself a great deal -- I had a blast!

So I get to start out this bog with the words that no one wants to hear.

"First of all, I'm okay. I was not hurt and the other people are okay to."
That would be the front of my car on the ground.

There was this lady in a Dodge Ram 3500 Pickup who was looking to the left while she was driving and turning to the right. Her very big right rear tire rolled up over the fender and front bumper, clip, grill, and so forth. The lady stopped and was very sorry and the car will get fixed sometime in the future.

I went on a date last night. More about that later. I am in Tucson, AZ. Today I went to Sabino Canyon, a place of great beauty. A place of peace and for me prayer. The work done today resulted in the knowledge that God's plan is different that nay I had previously imagined. So, I am thankful for the time of insight. Here are a few pictures of the canyon:
How did that rock get there? And, this is what happens when your tie is to tight.
Lumpy cactus.
Talk about living on the edge. Yes, this is life on a shear cliff face.
It looked was just standing there to long, trying to hold up the weight of the world and it got tired.
I love the rib patterns, the locals think it was caused by lighting blowing off the cactus top.
Pretty, yes?
Cholla -- bad stuff.

baseball teaches:

That there is no success in giving up. Tony Pena, Jr. to the left had a great day. He has been working hard with the hitting coach and had a couple of hits and a walk. In the spring baseball teaches sometimes it is good to try easier.

If he can swing the sick, we have a better team.
If he can take some walks, we the defense gets stronger.
If Tony Jr. can.... then.... Ahh! Spring Training!



Luke looked very good. We are talking about the smoothest delivery I have ever seen him produce. The ball seem to suddenly accelerate and then dive. He seems well on his way to being the number three starter.




John Buck was right on several balls and then powered on over the wall. Baseball teaches that what a person has done in the past is the best indicator of what he will do in the future. Buck looks like a backup catch, historically.


Now is the time to enjoy a good swing. This is Mike Jacobs swinging easily and dropping the ball over the wall in center field. Look out below. Baseball teaches that we look into the details before we go to far. The homer was off Barry Zito -- a real disappointment for the Giants.

Mike Jacobs had a couple of good plays at first base. His reputation of having a brick for a glove did not show itself today. Note that baseball teaches us to play for more experience;what can not be seen in one play will show itself over the season.


So, if baseball teaches -- what have I learned?

Baseball teaches me to not force life. This is a difficult lesson for me. I have an innate drive to make life happen and yet I know that since Diane died I have forced life into directions that may not be best. I went back to work to soon. I cleaned out Dee's closet and gave away her clothes to early. I have created to much noise and to little reflection. I forced myself to visit patients when I had little to offer in hearing and objective care. Baseball has reminded me -- try easier, know my history and what success looked like, take coaching, and make the team better by working the plan.

Trust has never been my strong suit. Yet, I am certain I can trust my team and that if I do not force life I will be able to smile from the inside out. Thereby I will be a better team player. A hit looks the same in the box score whether it was a Texas blopper or a screaming line drive. Baseball teaches.

Days 8 & 9

Did I say, I love my Garmin? Thanks Wes, Jess and Amelia for the birthday present.
The Royals will get several good tests later in camp; for now they look good. The pitching staff looks like there are 5 pitchers contending for 2-3 spots. Jamie is one of my favorites even though I know the chances for him to stick are limited. I just like the way he has been throwing strikes.









John Buck sends one:
long, deep out o' here!



Next Day: Nuts! The entire team looked bad in today's game. However, when i looked around there were people playing out of position all over the field. Ross Gload in Left gave up four outs David DeJesus gets. That saves 4 out of the 5 runs Bannister gave up.



This was first inn work and Bannister looked sharp. In the following days it will be educational to she how he overcomes the rest of the team failing.




Can you find me?







These are some minor league players I met and sat with during the game. The young man on the right in stripes is Juan Abreu who was able to improve the second half of last year enough that I expect him to get to Wilmington (High A) out of camp. If all goes well look for him in Arkansas by the end of the season.

I love my Garmin Nuvi 255W, and the sweet voice that gently guides me to the next quiet place.

Sometimes life and traffic are just to funny.

At a stop light in Peoria, AZ, I am enjoying the breeze, sun and temp -- about 74 degrees and partly cloudy. Then, as a car pulled up beside me there was a woman streaming ;%#! "I told you you turned the wrong way. You could get someone killed. Why don't !*#%&@*(#&%!)+~$*)+!^(@#^*^^* Can't you listen?" What worried me is that she was facing me. As we both had our windows completely down her blast was less than 3 feet away when they came to a stop.

I looked over at the woman thinking I had been daydreaming and missed something. I wondered what terrible thing had happened due to my neglect -- for, no one would speak to me like that without some strong reason. Then I saw the driver.

He started to turn toward his steaming passenger and as I also turned to her our eyes met. When he saw that steam was seemingly spewing out the window at a total stranger, though he himself was the object of her ire, and that he could not move due to traffic; his head fell; and bounced off his chest; then fell again; and bounced again. The guy looked like he wanted to find an ant hill and invite them to lunch.

My first thought when I came to reality -- "Can I get my camera up fast enough to record this living movie?" The camera was next to me. It was in picture taking mode. A few quick buttons pushed would allow movie taking. I looked away to give the couple privacy and considered the reach for the camera. The traffic jerked to a go and they were off -- he may have guessed what I was considering.

At the next light was more of the same, when the man very slowly turned his head toward me and realized I was intentionally listening in on her blessing of everything but his soul. Sadness filled his eyes and he raised his eyebrows, corner of his mouth and hands all at the same time as though to say, "What can I do?" At that moment mercy filled my heart for him and I mentally put the camera down. I leaned forward so that he and I were in direct eye contact and said, "I have a Garmin Nuvi 255W; Love my Garmin."

I think I saw a tear in his eye as again the traffic moved forward, he signalled to get into my lane so I slowed and waved him over. As he turned right I was sure I heard the words, "Not this right --- THE OTHER RIGHT>?~!#%&(_+/;@$^*)~`........"


I love my Garmin. The sweet voice says, "Recalculating," if I change the course. AHHHHH!

NOW for Baseball:
This is the berm beyond left-center field. Great place to watch baseball. People just enjoying the game and watching 40 players being used by the two teams. Note the blue sky with clouds just full enough to give the occasional opportunity to put on more sun screen. Look for me on the berm.





The TV will show the center field flowers. Just to the left field side will be my home for the next several games. I promise not to take off my shirt. There were several guys who did this and I started to offer a bag of peanuts to one guy to put his back.

Kyle Davies continues to pitch well and may give the coaches tough choices. He may end up being the number 3 or 4 starter; if he falters he may be number 5 and garbage time.












Chris Lunbanski sends one deep.