Charles Hinderager

We felt so thankful to be able to attend Charles' funeral yesterday in Great Falls. He was such a special man and had such a good testimony, so his funeral was not sad at all....just a time of rejoicing and being inspired.

It almost felt like we got to enjoy two Sunday's this week, with the funeral yesterday and Sun. morning mtg. today. Clarence and Bob had dinner with us after mtg. Marilyn flew out early this morning for Illinois to visit her family. This afternoon I spent some time reading updates about Joel Bridger and Courtney Nelson. Our hearts do go out to them and their families who are keeping a vigil at their sides. It reminds me that I do not have anything to complain about and so very much to be thankful for.

One other happening here....we enjoyed Kieth Braaten's overnight stay with us Thurs. night....just a day after his 50th birthday! He was undecided (because of the weather) if he would head to Harlem for some hay or go home on Friday....so when we awoke to snow on Fri. a.m. he knew he didn't want to head north for hay, but that worked out well for us, as he and Roger loaded up a load of our hay which he then hauled to Judith Gap....and then he got to go home, I think!?








I hope that you can see the pictures and words on the funeral flyer. Isn't that quite the spotted pony? And yes, that cowgirl is Alice riding it. I don't know how long ago it was taken. I do know Alice has been gone since 2001 so it was before that. We heard they were married in 1933...so by doing the math, they would have had 68 years of marriage. They professed in Nellie Williams and Fern Loebs meetings around the time they were married and spent the rest of their years faithfully serving God. They were ranchers for many years and were just plain, simple, good and kindly people.



A few thoughts shared at the funeral:



He had silver in his hair and gold in his heart.

He had big hands and a big heart...he was a calm and steadfast man.

Those big hands were working hand...he loved to fix and make things

He loved God's way, calling it "simply wonderful because it is a wonderfully simple way"

He looked forward to the end and did not fear it. "some look to the past and glorify it,

Some look at the present and complain about it and have no hope for the future, but

Charles looked forward to end of life and his hope for eternal life.

Charles was a "fellow laborer" He cared about the workers at home and abroad...and wrote to

them. One of his last hand written, but never mailed letters to a worker was shared with us.

Charles had a good testimony. Like Abraham, he was a friend to God and a Prince among us.

Spectacular morning

Yesterday began with this beautiful sunrise. We went on to have a record breaking warm day for November 18...nearly 70 degrees. But then today....its gray and dreary with a touch of snow...much more normal for November I suppose. We've been busy working on some projects. I can't wait to show you here, but I promised to wait until they are done, so thought I'd just show you a little of God's handywork instead. Nature is so awesome and there's much in it to appreciate.

Remembering Gary and thinking of his family

It was one year ago today that Gary passed away, and we are sure thinking of his family at this time. I'm sure it hasn't been an easy year. This photo of their family was taken at Brad and Amy's wedding in June '05. It meant so much to us at that time that they traveled so far to be there. Brad told me that he could get more prints of this picture if anyone would like one.

We are also thinking of my brother Larry today. Happy Birthday to you!

Favorite things to do on a cold dreary day

I discovered how easy it is to fix squash. I couldn't resist buying a couple of these beauties at the super market. When I was ready to fix them for a meal, I couldn't face peeling all that hard skin off before boiling in a pan. (it seems like that is how we did it when I was growing up and helping Mom cook) This time I just cut it in quarters and scooped out the seeds, covered it and microwaved them for about 10 minutes and it was ready to scoop out, add a little salt and pepper and it was ready to eat...and it was delicious...which leads me to one of my favorite thing to do on a cold dreary day...cooking and then getting to eat....things like home made soups or anything with pumpkin and apples. Funny how our menu changes with the seasons. Now, comfort foods and something that's been simmering in the slow cooker really hit the spot.





It is a cold drizzly post election day. Maybe you can see there was a little snow sitting on the grass this a.m. We are glad to be getting some moisture. It was drizzling all night and is still doing it today. We got cement steps poured (front and back) on Monday, and now they get to do some cold weather curing. We are keeping them covered and a little heat underneath. Our dog is a little put out right now, as his way into the garage through the doggy door is blocked off right now...but eventually she will appreciate the improved access.

I don't have too many comments about the election. I guess the people have spoken and we now have a couple months to get used to saying "President Obama". The Montana people must have been fairly happy with the status quo....our Governor gets another four years and we will continue to have Baucus and Rheberg (sp?) representing us in Wash. D.C. All the news commentators were commenting on McCain's gracious concession speech. Maybe he should have let a little more of that nice and gracious side show in his campaign. For my part, I know I need to always remember to pray to the one who is in control over all, for the rulers of this and other countries, that peace will remain and that all of our workers in overseas places can remain safe and continue the great work they are doing.