APRIL 24, 2012 – SUE, TIM (HIS BIRTHDAY), DICK, AND ME AT AUGIE’S CHEF’S TABLE

 

Dick had reserved the four places at the Chef’s Table.  It is always a pleasure for us to be there.  The delicacies which Augie cooks are always delectable.  This time he cooked “Grilled Chicken Breasts With Cucumber and Sweet Pepper Relish”, Pasta Margherita”, and “Green Bean and Mushroom Medley”.  Our plates were full of food when he divided it among us.  And we took home a Coconut Pie because Dick’s name was drawn by Rosie Raatz before the show began.  We also took home a cute little vase because my name was drawn.  It was very exciting.  Tim’s name was drawn too, and he got a figurine of two ceramic love birds.  It reminded us of our two live love birds, “Cheeky” and “Bonkers”, which we had when we lived in Waunakee, WI and Weslaco, TX.  Memories!  It was a great way to celebrate Tim’s 54th birthday.  Sue and Tim told us they were going somewhere after the cooking show; otherwise we would have eaten some of the Coconut Pie.  Anyway, it will keep until there is a family get-together.

 

APRIL 26, 2012 – FROM WATERTOWN DAILY TIMES – “MUELLER IS 1ST KRAHN AWARD RECEIPIENT

 

“The Rev. Tim Mueller, pastor and director of the Watertown Recreation and Outreach Center (The ROC), has been selected as the recipient of the inaugural Alfred “Mickey” and Helen Krahn Citizenship Award, the selection committee announced this week.

 

Alfred “Mickey” Krahn served as a member of the Watertown Police Department for 27 years. He worked his way from a uniformed officer up to inspector of police, the No. 2 officer after the police chief.  One of his lasting legacies is the juvenile division he helped start to keep city youths out of trouble.

 

Krahn’s son and daughter-in-law, Roger and Laurie Krahn, decided to establish the award to do something in Krahn’s memory, to have it impact Watertown residents and to acknowledge someone in the community who goes above and beyond to help others.

 

Mueller received three nominations, and was chosen from a pool of five nominees, Watertown Police Chief Tim Roets said.  The selection committee consisting of Roets, Common Council President Mark Kuehl, Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kim Erdmann and Watertown Area Community Foundation member Sue Rhodes were impressed with Mueller’s accomplishments at the Watertown Recreation and Outreach Center (The ROC).

 

“Watertown is a much better place because of the efforts of Pastor Mueller,” Roets said.  Furthermore, Mueller’s work with Watertown youths aligned him closely with Krahn, who started the police department’s juvenile division, Roets said.

 

Mueller, who has served as the pastor and director at the ROC since its inception, said he was very humbled and honored to receive the award.  “I’m very much humbled, and thinking of it especially being the first time it’s been given out,” Mueller said.  Mueller also noticed the connection to Watertown teens between himself and Krahn.  “I think it fits because my work is among teenagers who need anything I can do to help,” Mueller said.

 

The idea for the ROC came in 1999 when Watertown’s four Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod churches — St. John’s, St. Luke’s, St. Marks and Trinity — saw a need for a youth center.

 

The ROC opened on South Water Street in 2003, but had to move in 2009 when the building it occupied was razed to make way for a 54-unit senior citizen complex.  Temporarily housed at St. Mark’s Church, the ROC moved to its current home at 213 N. Third St. in 2010.  Teens can take advantage of billiards, foosball, ping pong, air hockey, video games, and computers with Internet access and counseling at the ROC.

 

Mueller will be honored at the beginning of Tuesday’s Common Council meeting.  He will receive a framed certificate and a $1,000 stipend for earning the award.  Mueller said once Roets informed him about the stipend, he immediately knew he should donate the funds back to the ROC.  “It should go there because then it’s connected to the young people,” Mueller said.  It has not yet been determined what the ROC will put the funds toward, although Mueller said the board felt it should go toward something special.

 

The other four nominees were excellent candidates, Roets said, and he encourages citizens to nominate people they feel fit the criteria in years to come.

 

APRIL 27, 2012 – A THANK YOU LETTER

 

                                                                                                    April 27, 2012

Timothy J. Roets, Chief of Police

And The Selection Committee for

The Alfred “Mickey” and Helen

Citizenship Award

 

Dear Friends,

 

On Tuesday, April 17th, my 82nd birthday, when my husband, Richard, our son, Timothy Mueller (Pastor/Director of the ROC for teens), and his wife, Sue, came back from celebrating it, Tim’s phone rang while we were still in the garage, and we heard “Chief Roets’” voice on our son’s answering machine.

 

When Tim called Chief Roets back, Tim was informed that he was selected to receive the 1st Krahn Citizenship Award, established by Alfred and Helen Krahn’s son, Roger, and his wife, Laurie.  It was very exciting news, especially since we found out about it on my birthday.

 

Thank you so very much for selecting him.  We are thrilled and very highly honored.  God bless all of you.

 

Very truly yours,

 

Richard and Irene Mueller

 

APRIL 28, 2012 – A LETTER RE: TIM’S AWARD

 

Dear relatives and friends,

 

A big thank you to all of you for writing to Tim and us about the 1st Krahn Citizenship Award established by Alfred ("Mickey") and Helen Krahn’s son, Roger, and his wife, Laurie, which Tim and the ROC will receive on Tuesday, May 1st, at 7:00 p.m. at the City Hall in front of the Watertown City Council.  We found out that they would receive the Award on my birthday, April 17th!  What a thrilling birthday present it was.  It made Dick and me very happy.

 

Tim is definitely deserving of the Krahn Award.  "PT" (Pastor Tim), as he is affectionately called by the teens at the ROC, is also focused on helping youths stay out of trouble, just as Alfred ("Mickey") Krahn was (he started the Juvenile Division of the Watertown Police Department).  Tim is making a significant contribution to the safety and/or welfare of the citizens of Watertown.  There are many success stories of former teens who came to the ROC.  Some have become "Junior Volunteers" who help PT at the ROC.  Dick and I visit the ROC often, and see the love and patience, yet firmness, which Tim displays for the teens.  Please keep him and the ROC teens in your thoughts and prayers.

 

Hope to see you Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. at the Watertown City Hall!

 

With love and God’s richest blessings,

 

Irene (and Dick)

 

APRIL 27, 2012 – GOOD SHEPHERD SONG SERVICE AT ST. JOHN’S ANNOUNCED

 

As quoted in the April 27th article in the Watertown Daily Times:

 

“All are invited to celebrate the risen Christ Jesus as the Good Shepherd of His people, the flock under His loving care.  This concert service will include songs from all the choirs and classes of St. John’s Lutheran School, along with the adult choir, a men’s chorus, and a number of special instrumentalists.  The Good Shepherd theme will revolve around Psalm 23, the familiar Good Shepherd Psalm, along with other familiar Good Shepherd scripture lessons. 

 

This special service also serves as partial fulfillment of the requirements for Kevin Poston’s master of church music degree through Concordia University Wisconsin.  Poston currently serves St. John’s Lutheran Church and School as teacher and music director”.

 

And as quoted from an April 27th e-mail letter from Jenny, Kevin’s wife: 

 

“Just a reminder that this Sunday, the 10:30 service at St. John’s is the Good Shepherd Song Service that Kevin has been working hard on as the final “project” for the master’s program.  Of course, this is not just a “project”, but a beautiful service giving all glory to God, but it will have many special songs in it that Kevin has been practicing with many choirs, school students, and instrumentalists.  I know some are unable to make it, but if you can come, we’d love for you to be with us on this special day.  Afterwards, you are all invited to lunch at our house, around 12:30 or so.  Please let us know if you will be coming”.

 

APRIL 29, 2012 – ATTENDING GOOD SHEPHERD SERVICE AT ST. JOHN’S

 

We attended the special service at St. John’s.  Kevin, Jenny, four sons, baby daughter, and many of Kevin and Jenny’s relatives and friends also attended.  Kevin, Jenny, and three of their sons took part in the service.  Kevin did wonderfully directing the choirs, Jenny also singing in the choir, and three sons singing in the children’s choirs.  Joshua also did well playing the violin accompanying one of the choirs. 

As Jenny said in her e-mail, the service gave “all glory to God”.  The Risen Christ is our Good Shepherd.  We are the people of his pasture, the flock under His care.

 

After the service everyone was invited to Kevin and Jenny’s home for a fabulous lunch.  Kevin has accepted the Call to St. John’s Evangelical Church in Lannon, WI. as 3rd and 4th grades teacher and music director.  We will miss them living in Watertown, but are sure we will see them quite often since Lannon is not far away.

 

APRIL 30, 2012 – “FOR OLD TIMES’ SAKE”

 

Way back in the 1940s my sisters, Beatrice, Doloris, and I walked from 911 North 4th Street where we lived, to go to see matinee movies on Sunday afternoons at the Classic Theatre on Main Street in Watertown.  The Classic is now the Towne Theatre, and many changes have been made.  The theatre is now divided into four small theatres.  One is located where there was a jewelry store overlooking Main Street.  Sue and Tim took us there as part of my April 17th birthday present, and we saw “The Three Stooges”.  It was great!  When my sisters (later Dick) and I went to see their movies in the 1940s, the movies were in black and white.  Now we saw them in brilliant color.  The actors must have studied the antics of the original ones very closely.  They were just like we remember the Three Stooges (Larry, Curly, and Mo), always slapping one another around.  It was a lot of fun seeing them again.  Thank you, Sue, and Tim, for taking us there…….. J J J J J

 

LATEST PEBBLES FROM THE ROC ARTICLE

 

(MAY-2012) PEBBLES FROM THE ROC           “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:12-13)   What Jesus did for us has impacted our lives tremendously as, by His death, we now have life.  Jesus teaches us to now impact the lives of others, especially with the Gospel of forgiveness in Christ.  You never know what impact your words and actions can make on a person.  Something that may seem insignificant to you can mean so much to another.   Our volunteers at THE ROC make an impact on the teens every day.  Brandon, a teen at our ROC Youth Center, shares an example:  “I appreciate all the adult volunteers at THE ROC.  I remember one time when Todd Morris (adult volunteer) did something extra for me.  I always wanted a ROC polo shirt because I’m working my way to be a ROC adult volunteer.  Todd Morris took the time to order a special ROC polo shirt just for me. The shirt says "ROC Videographer".  That day on I feel more included on ROC activities because I have to record them as the ROC Videographer.”  Don’t underestimate the power of God working through you.

 

FUTURE 2012 ROC EVENTS TO KEEP IN MIND:

 

Sun., June 24, 2012, golf at 3 pm, eat at 7 – ROC Golf Outing (Sign a team up by June 15th, reserve a dinner, donate an auction item, sponsor a hole – call Don at 920-261-1319)

July 19, 20, 21, 2012 – ROC Rummage Sale (Donations accepted July 15-18.  Please volunteer to help get tables, prepare, work the sale and clean up – call Ruth at 261-6772)

August 17+18, 2012 – Glenn’s Market Brat Stand – “Brat of the Week – Packer Brat”

 

MAY 1, 2012 – WHAT A DAY!!!! – THE HIGHLIGHT – TIM RECEIVES THE ALFRED AND HELEN KRAHN CITIZENSHIP AWARD!!!!

 

At 1:00 PM we went to Augie’s Elite Cuisine Cooking Show.  This time he cooked “Pretzel Crusted Cod with Apricot Dijon Sauce”, “Alabi Potato Salad”, and “Amish Style Slaw”.  We were in the audience, and got to eat samples of each dish he cooked after the Show.  It was all very delicious, and we even got to take some leftovers home.

 

At 4:00 PM we went to see and hear Joshua Poston play his violin at a Solo Recital.  When it was his turn to play, he played “Minuet 1” by J. S. Bach.  He was accompanied on the piano by his father, Kevin.  Both of them did very well.

 

At 5:00 PM we drove over to Riverside Middle School to watch Jonah, Joshua’s brother, play a soccer game.  We saw his team off in the distance on the field, but realized that we should have brought folding chairs along because there was no place for the fans to sit.  So we didn’t stay.  We found out later that Jonah’s team won – hooray!

 

At 7:00 PM we went to the Watertown City Hall to see and hear Tim receive the Krahn Citizenship Award.  I took my camera, but when I wanted to get it ready to take pictures, Dick and I found out that the battery was dead!  Thankfully, there were other people in our family who took pictures.  It was such a blessing to see and hear Tim receive the Award of $1,000. for the ROC.  Mayor Ron Krueger, the Watertown City Council, Police Chief Tim Roets and the Award Selection Committee (Sue Rhodes, Watertown Area Community Foundation – Mark Kuehl, Watertown City Council President – Kim Erdman, Watertown Chamber of Commerce), ROC teens and volunteers, family members, and friends were there.  Thank you, God, for this wonderful blessing!

 

MAY 6, 2012 – A VERY BLESSED DAY – CASSANDRA CHMIELEWSKI’S CONFIRMATION

 

The sermon was delivered by Pastor Paul White, newly installed Pastor of Loving Shepherd Evangelical Lutheran Church in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  The text was Proverbs 3:5, 6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight”.  The theme was:  1. Trust in the Lord.  2.  Love the Lord.  For many years I have written those Bible passages to older friends to encourage and comfort them, no matter what happens.  Even though we don’t always understand God’s ways, we trust in God to know what is best for us.  Now that Dick and I are in our older years, we apply that passage to ourselves more than ever.

 

Cassie, Nicki and Dave’s daughter, and four other children, Evan Braatz, Tyra Buckley, Devon Wesby, and Hannah White, who through the Holy Spirit were brought to faith at their Baptism, promised to keep faithful to their confirmation of that faith through that same Holy Spirit until their dying day.  It brought tears to our eyes to hear and see Cassie, our oldest great-grandchild, confess her faith. We are blessed that at 82 years of age, we were able to be there for this blessed event along with Debbie and Glen’s family and friends.  Cassie chose the Bible passage:  II Corinthians 12:9 – “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness”.  It is the same Bible passage which is on Lydia’s (Cassie’s younger sister) gravestone in Babyland at Graceland Cemetery in Milwaukee.  Lydia was carried to heaven by angels in 2001.

 

My husband, Dick was asked by Nickie, Dave, and Cassie to conduct the prayer at the beginning of the meal.  He was very honored to be asked.  He started with the prayer – Psalm 145:15 -“The eyes of all wait upon thee; and thou givest them their meat in due season.”  Then he talked about how we don’t always appreciate the work of the Holy Spirit, but it goes on and on every day, and that Baptism continues on through the work of our parents, teachers, and pastors.  He mentioned that Cassie’s chosen Bible passage is the same as also on Lydia’s gravestone.  He ended with the prayer – Psalm 107:1 – “O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever”.  As usual, Dick did very well.  I call him THE FOREVER PASTOR”.  He is like the forever stamp.  I also say that “the computer is his pulpit”.  Through it he comforts and encourages many souls through their troubles here on earth through God’s Word. 

 

After the prayers, all of us were served a sumptuous meal, including two delicious cakes, one baked by Ann Wilson, Cassie’s aunt, with the inscription – “God’s blessings, Cassandra – May 6th – II Corinthians 12:9:  My grace is sufficient for you”…, and the other decorated with the inscription – “Congratulations on your Confirmation, Hannah“.  Then it was time to visit together and part our ways.  We thank our great God again for another very blessed and happy family day in our lives.

 

MAY 8. 2012 – AN EXCERPT FROM AN E-MAIL FROM SUE WEILAND

 

“Yippee!!!  Hey, by the way!  Laura’s only one second away from beating Katie Edward’s 100m dash record and she still has the rest of this year and two more years to do it!  Woot, woot!  Her time is:  13.99 and Katie’s is 13.05”.  Congratulations, Laura!

 

MAY 9, 2012 – SEX OF CHRIS AND BEKAH’S BABY – A GIRL!

 

Bekah and Chris sent us ultrasound 3-D pictures of their baby, and they have found out that they are expecting a little girl.  What a miracle that Moms and Dads can see their baby inside the womb, and even find out the sex of the baby!  She is a little cutie, and is our 31st great-grandchild.  They and we are richly blessed!  We tried to find out what her name is, but were told that is still a secret.  So all we can do is wait.

 

MAY 12, 2012 – AN EARLY MOTHER’S DAY MESSAGE FROM MY LOVING HUSBAND!

 

Hi, Honey:

 

You are sitting right behind me, reading the newspaper.  Not much in it, is there?

 

Oh, yes, I know you are there.  I also know that I love you very much.  I haven’t gotten you anything for Mother’s Day — but I hope that just being together will make this Mother’s Day a happy one for you.

 

I wish I knew more "little somethings" to say.  Maybe this can count as a "little something".  I sure hope so.

 

With every bit of my love,

 

Your Honey,

 

Dick

 

MAY 13, 2012 –  A VERY BLESSED MOTHER’S DAY!

 

We attended the church service at St. Mark’s Church.  All of Sue and Tim’s family were there except Bekah and Chris, who went to Minneapolis, Minnesota, to visit with Bekah’s parents, who live in Lengby, MN.  We were surprised and pleased to see and hear Matthew Mueller (Sue and Tim’s son), who is in his first year at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, conduct the Liturgy.  He did so well, and both Dick and I had tears in our eyes.  Pastor Michael Jensen preached the Sermon based on Genesis 2:7, 18-25, was about “God’s Love in Marriage” – 1.  The Love of Choice and  2.  The Love of Companionship.  We were pleased to hear Pastor Jensen say that “the President is WRONG when he condones gay marriage.”  All of us had the blessing of partaking of the Lord’s Supper for the forgiveness of our sins.

 

We were invited to Sue and Tim’s home for a fantastic lunch for which everyone in the family contributed.  The men honored the ladies for Mother’s Day by serving the meal.  Tim barbecued hamburgers and brats which was great!  Sue made a delectable crab salad.  After the meal gifts were presented.  Sue and Tim gave Joanne Brandt and me very meaningful cards, beautiful Hibiscus plants, and Towers of Sweets which came from Harry and David in Johnson Creek where Sue works.  Jenny, Kevin, and five children gave Sue, Joanne, and me glass Ball jars suspended on sticks with roses in water in the jars.  She took Sue and other mothers outside to show Sue her gift – an added note – today, the 19th, they came to our home and Jenny armed with a mallet pounded my gift into the ground in front of our home.  What a grand idea, Jenny!  Megan, Tim, and Timmy gave me a very artistic flowered card.  Julie, Tom, and Addie gave me a very cute Mother’s Day card and also a picture of their pretty Addie who is growing so fast.  And Holly, Matt, and Liley gave me quite a large card with four wonderful pictures of Liley with her little footprints all over it. – also some yummy chocolates!

 

All of our six “kids”, their spouses, and other relatives and friends wished me a very blessed and happy Mother’s Day!  Wanda and Dick wished me one via Skype.  It was great to talk to them, and also see them.  What a miracle Skype is!  Steph and Jeff sent a Cheyenne Frontier Days spoon to add to my spoon collection.  It didn’t take me long to put it with my other spoons on the wall.  Cary, Grant, and four boys – Ben, Aiden, Mason, and Theron sent me such a beautiful card with special words inside all the way from Anchorage, Alaska!

 

Thank you all, family, and all for making my Mother’s Day a really special and happy one!

 

MAY 14, 2012 – A LETTER FROM SAMI JO, 2012 MISS FRONTIER , CHEYENNE, WY.

 

Howdy!

 

As Miss Frontier for the 2012 Cheyenne Frontier Days celebration, it gives me great pleasure to invite you to the Coronation Ball.  This year’s Ball will be held Saturday, July 14, at the Cheyenne Holiday Inn.  The evening begins with cocktails at 6:00 p.m. with dinner at 7:00 p.m.  I certainly hope you will be able to attend, as this will be a very special night for me and an enjoyable evening for all.

 

Please complete and return the enclosed form or you can purchase tickets at the CFD Old West Museum Store.  Tickets are limited so please don’t hesitate.

 

I am honored to represent Cheyenne Frontier Days in this spectacular event.  I look forward to seeing you there.

 

Sincerely yours,

 

Sami Jo Heitsch

2012 Miss Frontier

 

MAY 16, 2012 – SCRUMPTIOUS TREATS FOR ME

 

Dick and I went to Kohls and Menards in Johnson Creek, so we thought we would stop in at Harry And David to see Sue (Tim’s wife), who works there.  When she is there, she always gives us samples of food which they have.  But, she was on her way to her car in the parking lot.  She said that business wasn’t good, so she was leaving early.  But my loving husband had already surprised me by stopping in at the truck stop (Pine Cone) in Johnson Creek and buying a humongous crème puff and a huge yummy éclair.  I couldn’t believe my eyes!  Thank you, Honey!

 

MAY 18, 2012 – TIM IS INTERVIEWED ON TV BY MY COUSIN’S WIFE, ORA KUCKKAN

 

On May 11, 2012, an article appeared in the Watertown Daily Times.  The title of it was: “Running the ROC to air on cable.”  It went on to say:  “Watertown cable television will broadcast a show, “The ROC Interview,” at 8 p.m. Monday, 3:30 p.m. Thursday, 4:30 p.m. Friday, and 8:30 p.m. Saturday, May 19, on channels 98 and 985.  The program is an interview with the Rev. Tim Mueller, director of the Watertown Recreation and Outreach Center.  He was recently honored by the city for his work with the center.  The interview will be conducted by Ora Kuckkan.”

 

Dick and I watched the interview on TV at 4:30 p.m. Friday, May 18th.  Tim did great, and we are very proud of him.  His answers to Ora’s questions came from his heart with much enthusiasm.  He is so much like his father.  I called Ora after the interview and told her that she did very well interviewing Tim.  She said that there will be more interviews with Tim about the ROC.  She said it was a very high honor for him to receive the Krahn Citizenship Award.  Ora is a very hard worker for St. Mark’s church and the city of Watertown.

 

MAY 19, 2012 – TIVOLI ISLAND CLEAN-UP DAY

 

The Watertown Chapter of the Izaak Walton League held a Tivoli Island cleanup project.  Wood chips furnished by the Watertown Park and Recreation Department were used to cover all the walking trails throughout the island.  The park department also lent wheelbarrows.  Volunteers were from the Izaak Walton Club and the ROC teens with Pastor/Director Tim Mueller.  They do this every year, and Dick and I are among those who appreciate it because we like to walk on the trails throughout the island.

 

MAY 23, 2012 – ST, JOHN’S SING SPRING SHOW AND BAND CONCERT

 

On Wednesday, the 23rd, at 6:30, Dick and I went to the SING SPRING SHOW AND BAND CONCERT at St. John’s School.  Joshua, Jonah, Conner, and their father, Kevin Poston, took part.  Kevin played a guitalele while the children sang one song.  It will seem strange not to go to St. John’s church and school events in which the Poston family takes part when they move to Lannon, WI.  There were lots of people there.  Everything was very well done and enjoyable.

 

MAY 25, 2012 – A LETTER TO THE EDITOR OF THE WATERTOWN DAILY TIMES

 

A SINCERE THANK YOU – I am honored and privileged to have received the Alfred and Helen Krahn Award.  I am also very humbled as I think about the many people who are doing so much and helping so many people.   I applaud all those who are sincerely contributing to help others.  I am also humbled as I thank our Savior God for the opportunity to help and guide the teens spiritually, eternally and emotionally.  My thanks goes out to my parents for raising me and my family and wife who have also supported me along the way.   Thank you to the hundreds of people who have worked so hard in regard to THE ROC Youth Center over the almost nine years it has been open.  Literally hundreds of hours have gone into THE ROC and also the buying and remodeling of the permanent ROC building at 213 N. 3rd Street.   I wish to also thank the individuals who nominated me for the Krahn Award and the Committee that decided to give me the award.   I also thank the teens, who have and are coming to the youth center, for giving me their trust.  It is truly a joy to help them in any way.  Finally my thanks goes to the Krahn family for setting up and funding the award.  The $1,000 given with the award will go to provide something at THE ROC which will be remembered for a long time.  Thank you to everyone in the community for seeing THE ROC as such a benefit to our community and its teens.   Sincerely, Pastor/Director Tim Mueller

 

MAY 26, 2012 – ROC YOUTH CENTER PHOTO ALBUM

 

We received the very first ROC PHOTO ALBUM from Tim and the Watertown Recreation & Outreach Center for Youth, and thoroughly enjoyed it.  Tim wrote at the top of the Album:  “The most important goal at THE ROC is to share the Word of God with the teens so that they will have faith in their Savior Jesus and have eternal life.  In order to help them grow in Christ we have such events as Bible Talk Time every night, church trips, and C-2 (Christ Connection – transport teens from the high school to THE ROC for Bible Study).  We then show them how their Savior wants them to live their faith in the world.  We hope you enjoy the monthly ROC PHOTO ALBUM showing recent events.  Thank you for your help and support.”  Following that introduction there are beautiful colored photos with explanations of the activities below them.  The ROC WEB PAGE IS:  www.thewttnroc.com

 

MAY 29, 2012 – SOUTHERN WISCONSIN AIRFEST IN JANESVILLE, WISCONSIN

 

Our son, Tim, invited us to go with him on Sunday, May 29th, the day before Memorial Day, to the Airfest in Janesville, Wisconsin.  Of course, we wanted to go and were very excited!  We attended the church service at St. Mark’s church on Saturday night at 6:00 p.m. so that we would not be rushed on Sunday because we were going to leave at 10:30 a.m.  So off we went with Tim (Sue had to work) and some of the members of their family.  The temperature was 98 degrees, so we were very happy that we did as Tim told us all in a long e-mail letter and brought sunscreen, chairs, umbrellas, sun glasses, sandwiches (to eat in the car before we go in), water, etc.

There were seven little children, two little babies, Elliana Poston and Lilie Mueller (both born in February), and the other five were under nine years old.  Julie Pasch is very pregnant (baby to be born June 18th)), so her husband, Tom, brought a very huge umbrella.  It turned out that they had to park quite a ways away from the airfield and had to walk quite far.  Because we are VIPs, because we are elderly, we had a very nice young man by the name of Andy pick up our “katundu” and take us by golf cart to the airfield.  We all found one another, set up everything, and saw an absolutely fantastic air show!  The men and women piloting the planes are fearless, and did things which we had never before seen.  There was the Black Diamond Jet Team which did all kinds of almost impossible antics in the air.  There was an F16 Viper which was VERY FAST AND LOUD!  Mothers brought ear plugs for their babies’ ears.  I climbed the ladder of an F18 fighter jet and actually sat in it in a Boeing museum in Renton, Washington.  What a thrill to sit in it!  The cockpit is very small, but the plane – WOW!  There isn’t much of it in front, but looking back, it is huge!

There were also the Golden Knights, men and women who free-fell from planes high in the air and then opened their parachutes with pink trails behind them.  There were three Heritage planes:  P51 Mustang, Warthog, and F16.  The P51 helped win World War II with Germany.  And last, but not least, was the Sea Harrier Jump Jet F/A2, a plane which takes off vertically.  It was great to see it, especially when there was “Incredible Pyro” which created “booms” and “fireballs” which we could see, hear, and FEEL!  The temperature was 98 degrees, but it was even hotter from the heat of the fireballs!  Sad to say, we did not see the Harrier take off vertically (the high temperature made the engine too hot, so it couldn’t do that), although it was a thrill to see it take off and fly. 

 

But all in all, all of us had a fantastic time and we will not forget it!  We were all “spitting cotton”, as they used to say, when we left.  On the way to the airfield, Jenny and Julie had seen a Burger King with $1.00 Smoothies and Frappes, so we stopped and refreshed ourselves.  Thank you, Tim, for taking us to the great AirFest!  God bless you for your thoughtfulness.

 

MAY 30, 2012 – MEMORIAL DAY

 

This is the day we remember all of our men and women who have served and are serving in the Armed Forces – a time to remember the noble sacrifices made for our freedom.  Some of my cousins fought in World War II in Europe against the Nazis and saw their buddies blown up and killed right beside them.  We thank God who protected them so they could come back to the U.S.  Cary (Mueller) Anderson, one of our granddaughters, is married to Grant who is in the Air Force.  He has served tours in Saudi Arabia, so Cary and their four boys, Ben, Aiden, Mason, and Theron, were without him, living here in the States.  Now Grant is stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Anchorage, Alaska.  We thank all of them for the sacrifices they make, and especially God who keeps all of them safe from harm.

 

MAY 30, 2012 – THINKING OF YOU, SAMI JO

 

Dear Sami Jo:

 

We just have to drop you a little note.  Almost every day we think of coming to see you – as yourself – and as Miss Frontier.  We have even thought of driving to Cheyenne or taking the train to Denver and having someone pick us up from there.

 

Then I have another one of my episodes (I won’t go into detail) and that takes care of that.  I know what would happen if I were sitting in the stands and had one of those episodes.  It wouldn’t be pleasant.

 

So we have to stay here and wait for pictures and/or videos of “The Daddy of ‘em All”.  We hope that those videos and pictures will include many videos and pictures of you all dressed up – and nowhere —- no, everywhere to go.

 

God be with you, Sami Jo.  Have a great time all the time – always remembering who you are – a child of our heavenly Father and an heir of eternal salvation because of your faith in Christ Jesus, given to you by the Holy Spirit.  Continue to make your parents proud.  As you have said so many times, they have done so much for you.

 

With many, many hugs and kisses,

 

Grandpa and Grandma

 

Dick and I are very sad that we are not able to go to our dear granddaughter, Sami Jo’s, Coronation as 2012 Miss Frontier of Cheyenne Frontier Days, but we know that our dear Lord guides our ways, and we pray that He grants us grace to know and do His will.  God be with you, Sami Jo, and all in your family.

 

MAY 31, 2012 – DEBBIE’S VISIT

 

Our daughter, Debbie, surprised us with a most welcome but short visit.  She had come to Watertown to bring Brian Wilson, her nephew (her husband, Glen’s brother, Roger, and Cathy, his wife’s son) who attends Luther Prep, something.  So she called us on her cell phone and said she would be at our home in a few minutes.  It was great to see her.  She had to leave to baby sit her and Glen’s son, Mark, and his wife, Jamie’s, two children, Aubrey, and Brayden who live with them until they move into their new home.  Besides babysitting, Debbie works at Kohls as a cashier, and teaches swimming at the YMCA, and later at their own swimming pool.  She said that Jamie, Mark, Aubrey, and Brayden’s new place has to be painted, and since Glen is a painter, he will have that job.  Glen works at Marquette University and has the title “Paint Shop Coordinator Facilities Services” – busy, busy, busy!!!

 

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(JUNE-2012) PEBBLES FROM THE ROC “Let your light shine” (Matthew 5:16). As our faith lives to please our Savior God who died for us, we also hope people ask us about our faith so that we can tell them about Jesus. We thank our Lord that the ROC is regularly noticed by our community (example – Krahn Award) as a place that makes a big difference. When asked why, may we always point people to Christ as their Savior from sin.

 

Listen to a great presentation, enjoy a delicious meal and, if you wish, enjoy some golf. Please attend the ROC Youth Center Golf Outing on Sunday, June 24, 2012, golf at 3 pm, eat at 7 pm at Watertown Country Club – You can “Golf & Eat” ($58) or just come for the dinner ($20) and a great ROC presentation. Sign a golf team up by June 15th or reserve your dinner. You are also invited to help by donating an auction item or sponsoring a hole. Maybe you also know someone who can donate an auction item. Pass the word – For registration and other info. call Don at 920-261-1319 or e-mail at debartz@charter.net.

 

THE ROC (Recreation Outreach Center) Rummage/Bake Sale is also fast approaching. Receiving for the sale will begin on Sunday 7/15 from 12:30 – 5 and 7/16 through 7/18 from 8 – 5. The sale will be Thursday 7/19 from 8 – 7:00 (note new later time), Friday 8 – 5 and Sat. 8 – 12. The sale will again be at the Trinity St. Luke’s School campus on Western Avenue. Entrance for receiving and the sale is off the playground. Muscle will be needed to pick up tables starting on Friday & Sat. 7/13 & 14 and then again to return the tables on 7/21 & 23. Put aside your clean, undamaged, workable items for this sale. Help is needed to receive donations, sort, display items and then work the sale assisting customers, receiving money, and to carry out purchases. Bakers, please price your items and drop them off either on Wed. during receiving or during the sale hours. Please contact Ruth Uttech (920-261-6772, rmurru@charter.net), Pam Erdman (920-261-9674, perdman@gmail.com), or Joyce Zwieg (920-253-6788) with any questions or to volunteer. Please indicate your phone number and e-mail address in case we need to contact you. Many hands make the work easier and any amount of time you can donate helps! Thank you for your support of the ROC

 

JUNE 3, 2012 – ST. MARK’S CHURCH PICNIC AT RIVERSIDE PARK, WATERTOWN, WI

              

We went to Riverside Park for St. Mark’s school children’s picnic.  I thought of years ago when I was a child in St. Mark’s school and all of the children with their teachers would walk from the school to the park.  Dick and I encountered the children walking when we were on Dewey Avenue and they were walking on Division Street.  So we followed them to the park.  I remember that years ago Ma, Pa, my sisters, and little brother would all go to the school picnic.  It was lots of fun!  Ma’s birthday was today – she would be 98 years old.  Today we went with our son, Tim, wife and family.  Sue, Tim, Joshua, Conner, and Tyler came.  Sue and Tim were babysitting the Poston children because Jenny, Kevin, and Jonah (who participated in the wedding) were still in Madison after a wedding they all attended.  There was a very moving church service.  It was Trinity Sunday, so Pastor James Werner had a very inspirational sermon based on Ephesians 1:11-14 with the theme:  “Chosen – Rescued – Sealed”.  The parts were:  1.Chosen by the Father 2. Rescued by the Son  3. Sealed by the Holy Spirit.  The choirs sang beautifully, and the food was great.  We had a very nice time.

 

JUNE 3, 2012 – CALL FROM SUE WEILAND – CELEBRATING 30TH ANNIVERSARY

 

Our daughter, Sue (Weiland), called to tell us that she and Jim, her husband, would be going to Costa Rica to celebrate their 30th anniversary.  They are going to the Pacific coast to a province called Guanacaste, and will be gone from tomorrow, June 4th – Saturday, June 9th.  Our thoughts and prayers are with them.  We hope they have a very happy and blessed time.

 

JUNE 4, 2012 – WE MEET WITH ALLEN ALDINGER, DICK’S CHILDHOOD FRIEND

 

When Dick’s father was pastor at Wilson and Ridgeway, Minnesota, one of his boyhood friends was Allen Aldinger.  Imagine his surprise when Allen called him from Luther Prep.  He was attending a District Conference there and wanted to visit with Dick.  We went, but at first couldn’t find him.  He was waiting for us and we were waiting for him.  When we did find him, we had a wonderful visit with him.  I had never met him.  He and Dick had a great time recalling “old times”.  I was happy for Dick because his Dad was a pastor and moved around, so he doesn’t have friends and relatives close by like me who grew up in Watertown.  It is amazing how many people I have come across from years ago – a real blessing.  It was also a real blessing for Dick and Allen to get together after about 70 years – yes, 70 years!!!!

 

JUNE 11. 2012 – ANOTHER BLESSED DAY!

 

Dick and I went to the St. Mark’s 7:30 AM service.  Dick had asked the pastors for a prayer for our 59th wedding anniversary (which actually was June 7th).  When we entered the church, we saw my cousin, Georgie Kuckkan sitting in the back, and Louie (Georgie’s brother), his wife, Ora, and Ora’s sister, Marie (Schwefel) Dobbratz, sitting in the pew where we usually sit for the 10:45 AM service.  They usually attend the 7:30 service, so since there was still room for two people in the pew, we sat down.  It was very nice to see all of them again.  After the service, we went to Riverside Park to attend the St. John’s congregation and school picnic.  They had an outdoor church service there, at the end of which they said farewell to Kevin Poston, Jenny’s (Sue and Tim’s daughter), and their four sons, Joshua, Jonah, Conner, Tyler, and one baby daughter, Elliana.  They also presented him with a plaque commemorating his work at St. John’s.  They had a lunch at the park for which we did not stay.  We went to Sue and Tim’s around 2:30 PM and visited with Sue, Tim, and family on their deck.  Some of the kids and adults swam in their pool and sat in the Jacuzzi.  Dick and I held Holly and Matt’s sweet little baby girl, Lily.  She was so good and blew a lot of bubbles.  On June 18th Julie Pasch, Matt’s sister, will be delivering her baby girl, Amelia Annette Pasch, via Caesarean.  Jenny, Julie’s sister, Kevin, and their family were getting their house on Dewey Avenue set for a showing by the realtor.  Their house is for sale since they will be moving to Lannon, Wisconsin, where he will be director of music/teacher.  We hope and pray that they sell their house soon.  Sue, Tim, Jenny, Kevin, and family then left for Pioneer Park at Lake Delton.  Ah, we have some wonderful memories of that place.

 

JUNE 15, 2012 – BABY SHOWER FOR BEKAH MUELLER

 

All in Sue and Tim’s ever-growing family came to Watertown because the ladies wanted to come to the shower for Bekah who is expecting a baby girl.  We gathered at 1411 Wedgewood Drive.  It was great to see everyone again.  Debbie, Nicki, Cassie, Caleb, Jamie, Aubrey, and Brayden came too.  We ate the wonderful delicious food in the dining room which had been the family room, and there was plenty of space for all to be comfortable.  Then we retired to the very spacious living room, part of which had been the dining room.  Games were played, and beautiful gifts opened.  The men had gone to Julie, Tom, and Addie’s home, and enjoyed a meal of pizza (which Dick raved about) from Pizza Hut.  All in all, it was a very happy day! 

 

JUNE 16, 2012 – A BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR CONNER POSTON

 

Conner was five years old on June 1st, but the party had to wait until all in the Sue/Tim Mueller family could be together to celebrate.  It hardly seems possible that he is five years old!  The party was at Conner’s home at 405 Dewey Avenue, Watertown, Wisconsin.  Again, all of us consumed very delicious food, and visited together.  Jenny had baked a very unusual “rocket” cake with five candles on it which Conner blew out after everyone sang “Happy Birthday and God’s Blessings” to him.  His little face beamed!  Then he opened some wonderful gifts. All of us have much to be thankful for.

 

JUNE 17, 2012 – FATHERS’ DAY – ANOTHER BABY ANNOUNCEMENT!!!!!

 

We were blessed to go to St. Mark’s Church with Sue, Tim, and family, and also attend the Lord’s Supper with them.  After church we went to Sue and Tim’s home to celebrate Father’s Day with them and their family.  The dinner was fabulous!  The fathers had gifts to open, and then everyone relaxed.  The mothers-to-be, Julie, Bekah, AND MEGAN took naps.

 

Yes, Megan and Timmy gave all of us the news that she is expecting a baby!  God is “raining babies from heaven”.  HOW BLESSED WE ARE!!!!  WITH GOD NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE!!!!

 

JUNE 18. 2012 – AMELIA ANNETTE PASCH MAKES HER ENTRANCE INTO THE WORLD!

 

Tom, the expectant father, called to let us know that our 29th great-grandchild has been delivered via Caesarean at the Watertown Regional Medical Center at 9:18 A.M.  Amelia weighs 9 lbs. 3 oz, is 22 inches long, and everything went well – thanks be to God!  He will call us later to let us know when we can go to the Center to see Julie and Amelia.  This morning I just couldn’t bring myself to do much of anything but pace the floor, waiting for the blessed and happy news.  We called Sue and Tim to congratulate them, and Sue told us that Amelia is very cute “with the Mueller nose”, and she has dark hair (so far) like her father, Tom.  Sue told us that she will be baptized in the Medical Center around 2:00 P.M., so then we will go there – can’t wait to see Amelia and Julie!

 

We were at the Medical Center promptly at 2:00 P.M.  All in the family were there.  Yes, Amelia is a wondrous, gracious, special, and good gift from God.  How can anyone not believe in God when seeing such a miracle?  Tim performed the Baptism, and Holly and Matt are Amelia’s sponsors.  He handed out sheets, and all of us sang “I Am Jesus’ Little Lamb” and “Baptized in Water”.  When we were about to leave, the staff told us that they were going to serve cake and coffee to celebrate the blessed event.  They told us that they had never heard such wonderful singing like our family did.  There were no other babies born at the time Amelia was born, so the whole maternity ward was empty.  We had it all to ourselves.

 

JUNE 24, 2012 – MATT MUELLER PREACHES HIS FIRST SEMON & ROC GOLF OUTING

 

What a wonderful blessing it was to go with Sue and Tim to Calvary Lutheran Church in Thiensville, Wisconsin, to hear our grandson, Matthew Mueller (Sue and Tim’s youngest son) preach his first sermon.  It was based on the Gospel Lesson:  Mark 5:21-24 & 35-43.  The theme was:  DON’T BE AFRAID – JUST BELIEVE.  The parts were:  In the Face of Hopelessness Go To Jesus  and  Who Changes Hopelessness to Joy.  It is about how Jairus came to Jesus and begged him to come and heal his daughter.  She had already died, but our precious Jesus healed her and brought her back to life.  Matt conducted the whole worship service admirably, including the Liturgy.  No pastors of Calvary were there.  We were so proud of Matt.  He is so sincere in his preaching, just like his father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.  Dick, who is hard of hearing, could understand every word.  Many of Matt and Holly’s relatives came, and many pictures were taken after the service.

 

On the way back to Watertown we stopped at McDonald’s and ate a quick lunch in the car.  Tim had to be back so that he could get ready for the ROC GOLF OUTING at the Watertown Country Club.  We had the afternoon to ourselves, and then got ready to go there for the delicious dinner (I love their barbecued ribs) they have after all the golfers have come in.  Tim told all the people about what the ROC is doing for the teens, and gave examples of how many have been helped with their spiritual growth.  He said that one of the teens, Logan Erdman, who is now older and married, was present.  Logan is the grandson of Gladys Guetzlaff, my cousin (her mother and my father were sister and brother), so after the dinner we went to talk to Logan (who we knew as a teen), his wife, Shannon, parents, and his father’s brother and his wife.  During the discussion, we found out that Logan’s father is restoring two vintage Cameros, just like our son, Dick, is doing with two Cameros.  Besides Tim telling about the ROC teens, there was an absolutely fantastic video presentation by the name of “That’s Love, Baby”, by Janine Petrie, full of wonderful pictures, ideas, and an auction, which funds are used to support the ROC.

 

JULY – 2012 – PEBBLES FROM THE ROC

 

LATEST PEBBLES FROM THE ROC ARTICLE

 

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(JULY-2012) PEBBLES FROM THE ROC           “We love because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19).   This Bible Passage is printed on the newly teen designed volunteer ROC t-shirts.  We invite you to come in and see the shirts which remind us that all of our volunteers love because God first loved them and showed it by giving Himself on the cross for us.  It’s amazing how most of the teens have never heard this Good and Wonderful News.  What a joy to tell them!

THE ROC (Recreation Outreach Center) Rummage/Bake Sale is also fast approaching.  Receiving for the sale will begin on Sunday 7/15 from 12:30 – 5 and 7/16 through 7/18 from 8 – 5.  The sale will be Thursday July 19 from 8 – 7:00 (note new later time), Friday 8 – 5 and Sat. 8 – 12.  The sale will again be at the Trinity St. Luke’s School campus on Western Avenue.  Entrance for receiving and the sale is off the playground. Muscle will be needed to pick up tables starting on Friday & Sat. 7/13 & 14 and then again to return the tables on 7/21 & 23.  Put aside your clean, undamaged, workable items for this sale.  Help is needed to receive donations, sort, display items and then work the sale assisting customers, receiving money, and to carry out purchases.  Bakers, please price your items and drop them off either on Wed. during receiving or during the sale hours. Please contact Ruth Uttech (920-261-6772, rmurru@charter.net), Pam Erdman (920-261-9674, perdman@gmail.com), or Joyce Zwieg (920-253-6788) with any questions or to volunteer.  Please indicate your phone number and e-mail address in case we need to contact you.  Many hands make the work easier and any amount of time you can donate helps!  Thank you for your support of the ROC.

FUTURE 2012 ROC EVENTS TO KEEP IN MIND:

July 19, 20, 21, 2012 – ROC Rummage Sale (See above)

August 17+18, 2012 – Glenn’s Market Brat Stand – “Brat of the Week – Packer Brat”

Aug. 4 – Brat Fry at Piggly Wiggly and New Teen Welcome at THE ROC (Free Hot Dog Day)

JULY 1, 2012 – DEBBIE AND GLEN WILSON’S 40TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

 

     Our daughter, Debbie, and her husband, Glen, invited us to a brunch celebration of their 40th wedding anniversary at the Golden Mast restaurant in Okauchee, Wisconsin, at 11:00 A.M.  They asked us to take pictures, and so to come earlier at 10:15-10:30 A.M.  What an impressive place!  It is located on the banks of Okauchee Lake, and the scenery is spectacular!  Beautiful boats were being launched from there.  A boat out on the Lake had a slide on it which when you slid down it put you straight into the water.  We had never seen a boat like that. 

     Debbie, Glen, Nicki, Dave, Cassie, Caleb, David, Ann, Emma, Elaina, Mark, Jamie, Aubrey, and Brayden arrived.  They were all dressed up beautifully because they had been to the worship service at the church in Sussex before they came.  Dick and I had been to the St. Mark’s church service in Watertown the night before.  We took pictures of all of them outside.  While we were doing that a golden retriever came, went to them and wanted to be petted.  No-one minded and then I (thinking he was probably a maintenance man) asked the dog’s owner if he would take pictures of the family with us.  He was happy to do that, and we were very thankful.  Later by looking at some hall pictures, Debbie found out that the man is the OWNER OF THE GOLDEN MAST!!!  All of us went into the restaurant, and it was awe-inspiring with all of its impressive expensive decorations. 

     Debbie and Glen asked Dick to have the table prayers.  He was very honored to do so.  Then Nicki asked all the guests to lift their glasses OF CHAMPAGNE to toast Debbie and Glen on their 40th wedding anniversary.  Then we ate mouth-watering food – omelets made in front of a person with condiments the person wanted, rolls, fruit, fried potatoes, bacon, sausages, shrimp, ham, turkey breast, cheese blintzes,  etc, and all kinds of desserts – Flaming  Cherries Jubilee, cheesecake, carrot cake, chocolate-covered strawberries, Petit Four, etc. 

     We thank God for all the plentiful food, and especially for our God-loving children and their families.  We were sad to leave all of them.  When we got near Oconomowoc, we saw much black smoke billowing up into the sky, and knew there was a big fire!  As we drove down Main Street, we were re-routed around the fire.  We later found out from TV that an apartment was on fire, two people died, and eight firemen were injured.

     When we got home Tim came and asked to use our truck to take furniture to Pioneer Park.  Then he asked us to come and eat delicious pizza at their home before they left for Lake Delton.  We took a strawberry pie which I had made.  Jenny, Kevin, their four boys and little daughter, Matt, Holly, and little daughter were there.  We had delicious pizza, and the pie was pretty good too – if I do say so myself.  Then we left because they were getting ready to go to Pioneer Park.  Whew!  What a happy and blessed day!

 

JULY 2, 2012 – DICK AND ME ON AN OUTING

 

Dick and I decided to take a ride to Jefferson, WI.  One of the things we wanted to do is go to Christberg

Cemetery where his Mom and Dad’s graves are.  It was really hot, so we didn’t stay long, but we did do some trimming.  It was lunchtime, so decided to eat at McDonalds in Jefferson.  On the way out we noticed a security guard who was driving an armored truck.  He was standing at the counter, and the reason we noticed him especially was BECAUSE HIS GUN WAS HANGING OUT OF THE HOLSTER!!!!  I said to him, “Don’t you think that someone could grab your gun?”  He didn’t seem the least bit concerned.  Then we went to the Jefferson Walmart and walked around.  We think it is much better stocked than the one in Watertown.  We also went to Twice Is Nice, the Lutheran Thrift Shop in Jefferson, and then headed home.   

 

JULY 4, 2012 – CELEBRATION AT JENNY AND KEVIN POSTON’S HOME

 

We were invited to celebrate the 4th of July at Jen and Kev’s home on Dewey Avenue to watch the Watertown parade from their front lawn.  Soon their address will change because Kevin has accepted the Call to the WELS Lutheran Church in Lannon, Wisconsin, where he will be the Choir Director and Teacher of 3rd and 4th grades.  It will seem strange without them living here.  It was HOT – 101 DEGREES!!!!  A tarp had been put up to shield us all from the hot sun.  All of us sat outside for awhile, but some soon trickled into the air conditioned home and watched the parade from the big bay window.  The parade had 138 entries.  There were lots of tractors (especially John Deere), bands, floats, horses, etc.  My mother and sister, Janet, used to be in the Watertown parade when my mother was a leader of the 4H girls.  We never saw them in the parades riding their beautiful Palomino horses because we were living too far away in Africa, but people have told us they saw them.  I know that my mother sewed beautiful costumes for all the girls and draped the horses in satin.  Thank you, Jenny and Kevin, for your kind hospitality.  The watermelon, rolls, and drinks were so refreshing.

     After the parade all of us gathered together at Sue and Tim’s home for a marvelous lunch.  Tim was out in the heat grilling brats which were great.  It was Joanne Brandt’s 72nd birthday, so it was celebrated with a wonderful tasting cake which Tom had made from Sue’s recipe.  Some cooled off in the swimming pool, but most of us stayed in the cool house.  Dick and I went home for a rest, and then came back to eat a delicious supper.  Then we sat down in the house and there were kids running all over the place.  Tom remarked, “this is the start of a day-care center.”  Two more babies in Sue and Tim’s family are expecting babies!  God keeps “raining babies from heaven!”  Thank you, Sue and Tim, too, for your kind hospitality.

     When we got home Debbie called to tell us that she had crushed a big toe while lifting blankets off the weight machine.  One of the weights fell down and crushed her toe!  Oh, that had to be painful.  What hurts our kids hurts me.

 

JULY 7 & 8, 2012 – ST. MARK’S CHURCH BULLETIN – NEW ROC YOUTH VIDEO

 

This is a great video showing the love of God in Christ and how teens respond to it with their love.  There are little things in the video to notice such as a girl named Hope holding the “hope” balloon, a line art picture drawn by a past ROC teen or pictures from the ROC original building.  The teens from THE ROC Youth Center in Watertown, WI had a great time making the video under the direction of Janine Petrie.  To watch the video, please go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mLWjvOFIPKw.

 

JULY 8 – 2012 – ST. MARK’S CHURCH BULLETIN – ICE CREAM SOCIAL

 

You are invited to the annual Alpha Center Ice Cream Social, planned for Sunday, July 8, from 10:00 AM-1 PM at St. Mark’s School Commons, 706 Jones St., in Watertown.  A variety of hot sandwiches and entrees will be served, along with ice cream, pies, and tortes.  Something for every taste!  Proceeds will benefit our area’s chapter of Christian Life Resources, which operates the Alpha Life Resource Center in Watertown.  Volunteers welcome.  Any donated desserts are appreciated and can be dropped off as early as 7:30 AM on the 8th.  Thanks so much for your support of our Gospel ministry.

 

After the St. Mark’s church service, we did go over to the School Commons and had some delectable pork sandwiches, chips, pickles, and chocolate milk.  We sat with Sue, Tim, Jenny, Kevin, Joshua, Elliana, Julie, Tom, Addie, and Amelia.  Three of Jenny and Kevin’s sons were with Kevin’s parents in Madison because tomorrow the moving truck is coming to move Jenny, Kevin, and family to Lannon, WI where Kevin will be the Congregation’s Music Director and teach 3rd and 4th grades.

 

JULY 9, 2012 – THE MOVING VAN COMES TO MOVE THE POSTONS

 

Today is the day that Kevin, Jenny, Joshua, Jonah, Conner, Tyler, and baby Elliana moved to Lannon, WI.  We were told that five men came with the van to pack up their belongings, so it did not take long. We went by their former home in the afternoon, thinking the van would still be there, but it and everyone was gone.  Then we went to Sue and Tim’s home and found most of them there.  Kevin’s parents had taken Jonah, Conner, and Tyler to their home in Madison, but Joshua and Elliana were at Sue and Tim’s with their parents.  Julie, Tom, Addie, and Amelia were also there.  Dick had stayed in the car because we knew all of them must be tired, but Sue and Tim insisted that we come into their house and eat supper with them.  And what a delectable supper it was – pork chops baked in golden mushroom soup, potatoes, vegetable, and chocolate mint pie.  What marvels those two are!  We are so thankful that they are with us in Watertown.

 

JULY 10, 2012 – AMELIA PASCH IN WATERTOWN REGIONAL HEALTH CARE CENTER

 

Sue, Tim, Jenny, Kevin, and two children slept overnight at Sue and Tim’s home, and then went to Lannon to unpack some of their belongings and put them in place in Jenny and Kevin’s new home.  On the way back to Watertown from there, they found out through a cell phone call that little baby Amelia, born June 18th, was sick with a fever and had to be taken to the Regional Health Care Center.  They headed back to Watertown and found out that the doctor thought she had a virus after tests were given.  They even tested for Meningitis.  We know what that is.  They did that to our grandson, Travis Heitsch (Steph and Jeff’s son), when he was a baby.  The poor baby was screaming his head off.  Can you imagine doing that to little Amelia?  It gave us the chills when we heard about it.  Many relatives and friends prayed for Amelia.  God heard all of our prayers because on July 12th she was allowed to go home.  How happy and thankful all of us are.

 

JULY 11, 2012 – STEVE TAKES US OUT FOR DINNER AT PERKINS

 

Steve asked us to meet him and his golfing friend, Tim Zuberbier (a judge) at Perkins Restaurant.  When we got there we looked for Augie and Kim Magestro, owners of Perkins, but were told they had already left.  Steve treated us to a mouth-watering sirloin steak and shrimp (for me).  We had a wonderful visit with both of them.  When we got up to leave, Dick saw that in the very next booth Brian Schultz was sitting with a friend.  Brian also comes to Augie’s TV cooking show at 1:00 PM on Tuesdays.  What a surprise!  The next day Steve came after golfing and we had a great visit with him.  We caught up on a lot of news.  We found out that Steve is a “higher-up” in the Veolia office in which he works.  He was on the phone a lot trying to settle an issue they had at the office.  We are very proud of all of our six “children”.

 

JULY 14, 2012 – CORONATION OF SAMI JO HEITSCH AS 2012 MISS FRONTIER

 

Sami Jo is in our thoughts and prayers today.  Oh, how we wish we could be there with her, our daughter, Steph, her husband, Jeff, two brothers, Travis (and his wife, Jenna), and Mitchell, and all of our loved ones who are able to be there for such an eventful day.  Cheyenne Frontier Days will actually be on Friday, July 20th, when there will be the Coronation of Sami Jo as 2012 Miss Frontier and the Queen’s Lunch.  On Saturday, July 21st, there will be the big Parade and Rodeo in which Sami Jo will take part, riding her horse.  We will anxiously await news of everything which went on.  God bless all of you!

 

JULY 15-16, 2012 – A LOVELY TIME WITH SUE AND TIM

 

On Sunday, July 15th, Dick and I decided to go with Tim and his wife, Sue, to Pioneer Park until Tuesday.  We would again stay overnight in trailer #254 at Pioneer Park, Lake Delton, where we spent so many happy and blessed hours with them, their family, and all in our wonderful God-given family.  When we got there, of course we all headed for the park swimming pool.  The temperature was in the 90s, so the water was warm and comfortable.  It was a blessing for us to be back in the pool because everyone knows that I LOVE to swim!  Sunday night we went to the Brat House (it had been a church years ago, then an antique shop, where our Susie bought me a copy of a Norman Rockwell painting, and then an Internet Cafe) for supper (Sue and Tim had coupons in an Entertainment Book they bought).  We had a very good barbecue pork sandwich, and then we went to Marley’s where their children had worked during summers.  We sat outside on the verandah, listening to a band play which was very entertaining.  We went back to the trailer and went to bed.

 

Monday morning, the 16th, we went to Walmart to get our fishing licenses, ate leftovers for lunch, and went swimming.  For supper Tim drove onto the freeway, I94, and said he was going to surprise us by taking us to a place he knew.  We looked forward to it with great anticipation.  We were delayed in a long line of semis and cars, and had to travel snail’s pace along the highway for quite awhile.  We saw what delayed us – two stalled school buses!  Tim then turned in at the Iron Skillet restaurant.  We had never eaten at one before, and were pleasantly surprised.  We ordered liver and onions which both of us like, but hadn’t had for quite some time.  I ate my meal all up and it was delicious!  We shared a meal and one of us was allowed to go to the salad bar, so Dick had a big bowl of pea and ham soup.  After the meal Tim and I were waiting for Dick and Sue who had gone to the rest rooms.  There was a huge colored carved Indian standing in the hall, and I asked Tim to stand by it so that I could take his picture.  A man in a cowboy hat offered to take a picture of both of us.  We found out that he was from Salt Lake City, Utah.  When we went back to Pioneer Park Tim took us down to the dam to fish.  Sue caught a small fish and threw it back.  It was the end of another blessed day.

 

JULY 17, 2012 – WHAT WOULD WE DO WITHOUT OUR SON, TIM?

 

Tuesday morning all of us got ready to go back home to Watertown at 12:00 noon.  After Dick got up, he didn’t feel well and had to lie down.  When we left Pioneer Park, we stopped in Sun Prairie and dropped Sue off at a store so that she could shop for needlework materials.  Dick, Tim, and I went to McDonalds for a rest room stop and drinks while we waited.  As Dick was at the door to the rest room, his knees buckled and he started to fall down!  Tim noticed it and came immediately, even though he was going to the counter, grabbed him, held him up under his arms, and slowly eased him down to the floor.  I was at the door of the ladies’ rest room when it happened.  He told the Manager to call the Sun Prairie EMS.  Dick came out of his “fainting spell” and wanted to sit down.  Tim and the Manager helped him sit at a table.  My wonderful, loving, husband was as white as a sheet!  Two EMS men came into McDonalds and checked Dick.  His blood pressure was 80/0 and his blood sugar 188.  They wanted to take him to the hospital, but we asked them if it would be possible for us to take him to Watertown – if we could get him into the car.  They said “yes, but as soon as we got to Watertown, we should take him to the doctor so that he could get an IV.”

 

Our doctor was on vacation, so we took him directly to the hospital.  They found out that he was dehydrated and he had to have two IVs.  He was hooked up for blood pressure and oxygen content which was always good – 98, 99, 100.  His blood pressure was very low, but went up to an acceptable number.  Doctor Raymond Wallace also ordered that an X-ray be given for pneumonia, and an EKG of the chest.  He does not have pneumonia, and his heart is okay.  He also had a urinary infection and was given a prescription of Ciprofloxacn. The doctor called him “a genuine man” after Dick and Tim told him that he only wanted to be treated for what was treatable there.  Dick was taken to the car in a wheelchair pushed by Tim. When we left the hospital, we went to Walmart to fill the prescription, but found out that the cheaper drug wouldn’t be available until the next day.  Tim then brought us home.  What would we have done without our son, Tim?   He was like a guardian angel sent from God to help us.  We thank God for Tim and Sue, who also live here in Watertown.  As Dick has said for years, and is written on a plaque in our home, “THE LORD WILL PROVIDE”.

 

July 19-21, 2012 – THE ANNUAL ROC RUMMAGE AND BAKE SALE

 

Besides everything which Tim did for us on July 17th, he had to go over to the Trinity/St. Luke’s gym on Western Avenue and oversee what was happening there as donations for the huge ROC Rummage and Bake sale were being brought in.  Dick and I had accumulated donations during the year for the sale, so Tim came and took them to the sale.  He also went during the day and picked up the Ciprofloxacn for Dick.  Dick woke up this morning with a stomachache, so we pray that the medication will help —– Yes, thank God, it is working!  It is 9:30 pm and he feels so much better.  In fact, on Friday, the 20th, he suggested we go over to the Sale and see Tim and some of the volunteers and customers – which we did.  He still is very weak, but we thank God for His loving kindness.  What would we do without Him?  We know that He guides our ways to know and do His will.

 

JULY 20. 21 – CHEYENNE QUEEN’S LUNCH, PARADE AND RODEO

 

We were not able to be in Cheyenne for all of the wonderful celebrations, but we did see fantastic pictures of 2012 Miss Frontier, our granddaughter, Sami Jo Heitsch, of Cheyenne, Wyoming Frontier Days, the “Daddy of  ‘em All” on Facebook.  How we wish we could have been with her, her parents, our daughter, Stephanie, her husband, Pastor Jeffrey Heitsch, and many relatives, including three of our six children who were able to be there.  On one picture of our loved ones, there were two empty chairs next to Jeff and I wrote, “Were those two chairs for us?” 

 

JULY 27, 2012 – AN UNEXPECTED SURPRISE VISITOR

 

Dave Chmielewski dropped in; driving a truck for the company he works for, BUSCH PRECISION.  He had some work to do for a Company whose machine had broken down in our area, and thought he’d surprise us – and he did!  Thanks for dropping in, Dave!

 

JULY 29, 30 – BIRTHDAY PARTIES FOR JONAH & TYLER POSTON,  & ADDIE PASCH

 

Parties were held on the 29th for Jonah Poston whose birthday was July 22nd, and his brother, Tyler, whose birthday is August 20th.  On the 30th there was a party for Addie Pasch whose birthday is August 1st.  A good time was had by all who enjoyed delicious food, including a delicious birthday cake, and just being together.  We are thankful for family members who were able to be there, and miss those who were not able to be there.

 

JULY 31, 2012 –  AT AUGIE’S CHEF’S TABLE FOR AN ABSOLUTELY GREAT MEAL

 

Dick surprised me by volunteering to be at Augie’s Elite Cuisine Chef’s Table today.  He loved the menu of the food Augie was going to cook.  He had gotten the menu off the Internet, and there were no green veggies like green beans, cauliflower, spinach, broccoli, etc. which he doesn’t like.  The menu consisted of Southwest Grilled Chicken, Fried “Tater Toddlers”, and Sweet Corn off the Cob with Cilantro Lime Butter.  Everything was so scrumptious that Augie cooked, and we got to eat everything – some of it the next day because there was so much on our plates!  Thank you, Augie, and your wife, Kim!

 

LATEST PEBBLES FROM THE ROC ARTICLE

 

PHOTO ALBUM – MONTHLY

 

(AUGUST-2012) PEBBLES FROM THE ROC           What a wonderful day we all had at the Golf Outing for THE ROC on Sunday, June 24th.  The weather was beautiful and the fellowship was greatly enjoyed by all.  Highlights of the presentation given were a new video (produced by Janine Petri, a ROC adult volunteer, and teens from THE ROC) and positive and successful stories from THE ROC.   Please find the video at our ROC YouTube account, TheWttnROC.  The Gospel of our Savior, taught and proclaimed at THE ROC, has touched hundreds of teen hearts.  Stories were shared showing the love of God in Christ moving the teens to respond with unselfish love.  Thank you to everyone who worked so hard on the event and all those who donated to make it successful.  After matching funds have been received, the amount for THE ROC from the golf outing should be over $11,000.   Future events for THE ROC include a Brat Fry at Piggly Wiggly on Saturday, August 4th and another Brat Fry on Friday and Saturday, August 17th and 18th, at Glenn’s Brat Haus (722 W. Main Street), 10:00-3:00 both days.  Any adults who would like to help with either or both Brat Frys are asked to call (206-9581 or 261-4444) or e-mail (wttnroc@sbcglobal.net) Pastor/Director Mueller.  We truly need the help.  Everyone is invited to stop by for lunch at the Brat Stands.  Thank you.

 

AUGUST 6, 2012 – A SURPRISE VISIT FROM MISSIONARY STEVE LAWRENZ AND LORI

 

Dick and I were very surprised when Missionary Steve Lawrenz called on the phone and asked if he and his wife, Lori, could come and visit us.  Of course, we said “yes”.  When Dick and I were invited in 2003 to visit the LUTHERAN CHURCH OF CENTRAL AFRICA to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the LCCA in Zambia and the 40th Anniversary of the LCCA in Malawi, Lori and Steve were very kind to us after we arrived there.  Steve said to us, “Just tell me wherever you want to go, and we will go there”.  He took us (and our daughter, Susan (Mueller) Weiland, who wanted to go back to where she was born) to congregations in the bush which Dick had started, and we met many people who remembered us.  We had come back to the States in 1972, so it was very heart-warming to talk to them and visit with them.  We thank God for giving us the opportunity to go back to Africa.  Steve updated us on what the LCCA is doing now in both Zambia and Malawi.  Pictures were taken before they left.  Thank you, Lori and Steve, for including us in your visits to people in the States while you were on furlough.

 

AUGUST 15, 2012 – ANOTHER PRECIOUS GIFT FROM GOD

 

Miley Christine Golomb was born at 1:21 a.m. at Aspirus Hospital in Wausau, Wisconsin.  Her parents are Christina (Weiland) and Michael Golomb.  Christina is the daughter of our daughter, Susan, and her husband, Pastor James Weiland.  She weighed 7 lbs. 11 oz. and was 19” long.  Miley is our 30th great-grandchild.  She is a little miracle, and already there is a beautiful picture of her on Facebook.  Becky, Christina’s sister, was present at the blessed birth of Miley.  We look forward to meeting her and are thankful to our great and gracious God for His loving kindness to us and all in our family.

 

AUGUST 16, 2012 – MY DARLING HUBBIE’S VISIT TO DR. MICHAEL GRAJEWSKI

 

Dick had a good visit with our doctor who was quite pleased with his physical welfare.  The doctor said that his blood pressure and heart rate was fine.  After thumping on his chest, he said that it was all right too.  His liver had grown a little bit, but not much.  The doctor was very happy that Dick has no pain.  And we were happy about what the doctor told us – and thankful.  Thank you, God, for blessing us so richly!

 

AUGUST 17, 2012 – A VISIT TO THE ROC BRAT FRY AT GLENN’S BRAT HAUS

 

Dick and I went to Glenn’s Brat Haus at 722 West Main Street here in Watertown and had a delicious hamburger.  We did not have a brat because Sam, one of the ROC teens, was frying them and said we should have one of the hamburgers she fried.  Our son, Pastor/Director of the ROC was there, some adult volunteers, and many of the ROC teens.  We sat down at a picnic table in the shade, and had a very enjoyable time talking to everyone.

 

AUGUST 19, 2012 – AN EXTRAORDINARY BLESSED DAY

 

Debbie, Glen, Nicki, David, Cassie, Caleb, and Ken Chmielewski met us for the 10:45 Mission Festival worship service at St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, and all of them went to church with us.  We were so happy to be with them.  We were sad though because we were unable to attend Kevin Poston’s (Jenny’s husband) Installation Service at St. John’s Evangelical Church in Lannon, Wisconsin.  Kevin, Jenny, and their five children had moved there because he was called as Music Director and 4th grade teacher.  We cannot be at more than one place at one time.  Pastor Karl Walther conducted the Liturgy and Pastor Nathanael Scharf, who is a professor at Luther Prep, preached a very edifying sermon.  Its theme was “Set Your Hearts on a Noble Task”.  He encouraged many young people, among them our oldest GREAT-granddaughter, Cassandra Chmielewski, to become “fishers of men” (preachers and teachers) as the disciples who followed Jesus were.  There were many young people there (with their parents, grandparents, and other relatives) who were going to start Luther Preparatory School (Northwestern Prep) that very day.  Dick and I had attended there when it was Northwestern Prep and College.  What a thrill it was for us to live to be 82 years of age and have the great privilege of knowing that our oldest GREAT-granddaughter was going to attend there too.!  Nicki, Cassie’s Mom, her uncle, David Wilson, and many of our children, spouses, aunts, and uncles also had attended NWP and NWC and are now serving their Lord as teachers and preachers.

 

After the service all of us ate lunch and then went to Luther Prep for the Opening Service of Worship And Praise.  There were hundreds of people there.  That service too was so invigorating.  The sermon was preached by Rev. Kenneth Brokmeier of Our Savior Lutheran Church, Brookings, South Dakota.  It was based on James 1:17-18, and the theme was “Look at All the Gifts Here Today!”  It meant all the dedicated people (the Gifts), who were attending the service.  After the sermon there were Installations of a Professor, Instructors, Ordination and Installation into the Pastoral Ministry of a Tutor, and Installation of Tutors.  After the service we visited with many people.  Roger Wilson (Glen’s brother), his wife Kathy, and their son, Brian (who also attends Luther Prep) came for the service.  Many pictures were taken of Cassie and all of us.  Afterwards all of us went over to the girls’ dormitory and saw Cassie’s room on the second floor.  It brought many memories back for us of when we climbed those same steps with our girls’ “katundu” all the way up to the third floor years ago.  It was a very happy blessed day!!!!!

 

AUGUST 21, 2012 – DICK’S COUSIN, BILL LAESCH, VISITS US FROM PHOENIX, ARIZONA

 

Dick’s cousin, Bill Laesch, flew to Wisconsin from Phoenix, Arizona.  He is a church organist and was asked by members of the New Holstein Lutheran Church, Wisconsin, to play for a wedding.  He arrived here on Tuesday just before noon.  We usually go to Augie’s Elite Cooking Show at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesdays, but skipped it this time.  In the afternoon, Dick and I took him for a Watertown sightseeing tour.  We showed him Luther Prep, St. Mark’s Lutheran Church and School, Riverside Park, and Sue and Tim’s home.  We saw that Julie, Tom, Addie, and baby Amelia were home, so we stopped at their home, pressed the door bell, and were heartily welcomed into their home.  We had a wonderful visit with Julie, Tom, and Amelia.  Addie was sleeping.  Then we took Bill to the Lutheran Cemetery and showed him my Kuckkan relations’ graves, showed him my parents’ home, sister and brother-in-law’s home, and the ROC building (Sue and Tim had gone to Eagle River, Wisconsin, to visit Chris, their son, and Bekah (who is expecting a baby September 24th, so we couldn’t visit with them, in their home, or in the ROC).  We then went home, went out for supper, and sat and talked awhile.  He stayed overnight, and the next day left for the airport and his flight back to Arizona after lunch.  Bill is a bachelor, but has his and Dick’s cousin, Norman, and his wife, Joyce, living in Phoenix too.  He also is an organist in a Missouri Synod church there.

 

AUGUST 26, 2012 – BAPTISM OF OUR 30TH GREAT-GRANDCHILD

 

We were sad not to be able to go to be with Sue, Jim, and their family – especially to attend the Baptism of our 30th great-grandchild, “Miley Christine Golomb” (daughter of Christina (Weiland) and Mike Golomb) at Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Merrill, Wisconsin.  She was baptized by her grandfather, Pastor James Weiland.  Christina’s brother, Jimmy, and his wife, Karen, are her godparents.  Our daughter, Sue, placed some beautiful pictures on Facebook of Jim baptizing little Miley with her godparents and others present.  There is a wonderful family picture of all of them.  If God wills, we plan to go there soon to see Miley. We had hoped to go to Wildwood, Sue and Jim’s lakefront home, but will have to take a rain check on that.  We can’t always do what we want to do.

 

AUGUST 26, 2012 – TIM MUELLER II’S INSTALLATION AT STAR OF BETHLEHEM

 

Sue and Tim I’s son, Tim II, was installed as Principal of Star of Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran School, New Berlin, Wisconsin.  It was another exciting family event.  Again, it is impossible to be in more places at one time.  That is what happens when our blessed family numbers 80 plus – and more coming.  Sue and Tim were kind enough to give us a ride to Star of Bethlehem, and what a beautiful edifice our good Lord has blessed the congregation with.  And what a thrill it was to hear our Tim II acknowledge that he would, with God’s help, do the best of his ability!  After the service everyone was invited to partake of refreshments, and many pictures were taken.  All were invited to Tim, Megan, Tim III’s, and coming baby’s home for a light meal.  We were happy that God has blessed them with a very comfortable home in Muskego, Wisconsin, not far from New Berlin.  It gave everyone an opportunity for a blessed visit and to see how much all the children have grown.  Afterwards we stopped at Brookfield Square and picked up food at the Food Court to take to our homes and relax while eating it.  It was the end of another good day.  Thank you, Lord.

 

LATEST PEBBLES FROM THE ROC ARTICLE

 

(SEPTEMBER-2012) PEBBLES FROM THE ROC          Pastor Mueller, considering where the $1000 from the Krahn award should go, would like to see a permanent well-done ROC float made for parades and also an excellent wall hanging for the entrance wall of THE ROC.  Both the float and wall hanging will depict the ROC’s theme Bible passage, Matthew 7:24 where Jesus says, "Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.”  “I would like to see something that proclaims the Savior and His enduring Word”, Pastor Mueller said.

Many hours of hard work were put in by so many at the ROC Rummage Sale which raised over $10,000 for THE ROC.  We were overwhelmed by the many items donated and the many hours given.  Some literally gave hundreds of volunteer hours.  Thank you so much!   

Volunteers are greatly needed at THE ROC.  Helping at THE ROC is a great volunteer opportunity for Christ as you can help as little as a few hours a month or every week.  Stop by to talk to Pastor Mueller to see if serving at THE ROC is meant for you.  Thank you.

 

SEPTEMBER 7, 2012 – JESUS CARES – A SURPRISE 83RD BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR DICK

 

Dear All:

 

Even though some of you were not there, you were all thinking of me — and Mom.  Consequently, this is for all of you — kids, spouses, grandkids, spouses, and great-grandkids.

 

Jesus Cares.  That was the ruse that was used to get us to St. Mark’s Parish Hall.  However, for me that was the theme for the day.  Jesus Cares — and because you all know that well, His care for you moves you to Care for Me — and Mom.

 

You gave us joy unbounded.  Some of the pictures you have seen on Facebook show that joy graphically.  The looks on our faces when we came through that door to the Parish Hall shows that joy much better than words can tell.

 

What can I say to make you understand the joy you gave us?  Not much — except, perhaps, this.

 

It is the prayer of Mom and me that each and everyone of you will one day have that care shown to you by your children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Then, and only then, will you really know the joy you have given us.

 

Thank you so much — and God bless you now — and forever.

 

Dad and Mom

 

Dear All,

 

Above is a very meaningful letter from your Dad.  Here are some “details” of his great party:

 

Awhile ago Dave Chmielewski, Nicki’s husband, called and said that he, Nicki, Cassie, and Caleb wanted to take us out to eat on their Grandpa’s (Great Grandpa’s) 83rd birthday.  So on that day they came, picked us up, and asked if we had ever been by Lindberg’s By The River.  We said we had been there many years ago when it was the Green Bowl.  They said that first they had to pick Cassie up at Luther Prep.  We went up to her dorm room, and saw that it really looks lived in now.  Cassie said she had to go to St. Mark’s Parish Hall to a Jesus Cares meeting.  All of us went to the door, opened it, and SURPRISE – there were many of our happy loved ones!  There we were, me with my mouth gaping open because it was so overwhelming!  All of them had led us on, on the phone, and even those we had seen and talked to that very day.  Tables were laden with so much delicious food they had made (even a delectable chocolate-custard birthday cake).  There were wonderful speeches by our children about memories of their Dad during their childhood.  The great grandchildren sang “Jesus Loves Me’ so sweetly (Kevin, Jennie’s husband at the piano) that it brought tears to our eyes.   Babies great grandchildren Lily ( Matthew and Holly Mueller’s),  Elliana (Jenny and Kevin Poston’s), and Amelia (Julie and Tom Pasch’s) were all there and looking adorable.  During one of the speeches Lily sat like a pretty living doll all by herself on the floor “listening” to everything.  Very meaningful cards and generous gift cards were presented to Dick (and me – I eat with him).  A BIG THANK YOU TO EVERYONE1   The family get-together was a great blessing outpoured on us by our loving God.  It was sad when we parted ways.  God be with all of us ‘til we meet again.

 

Love always,

 

Mom

 

NOTE:  There were many phone calls, e-mails, facebook messages, cards, and gifts from many other relatives and friends expressing their love for my God-given husband.  Thank you everyone, and especially to our almighty God for His loving-kindness from the very bottom of our hearts.

 

SEPTEMBER 10, 2012 – INVITATION TO A GRANDPARENT’S DAY

 

Conner Poston, son of Jenny (our granddaughter) and her husband, Kevin (who is 3rd and 4th grade teacher and Music Director at St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church and School, Lannon, Wisconsin, invited us to Grandparent’s Day from 10:30 A.M.-1:00 P.M..  Sue and Tim gave us a ride there.  First we all gathered in the gym and the children did their P.E.  Conner had the most grandparents and great-grandparents.  After that all of us went to Conner’s Kindergarten Room.  The teacher welcomed us and she showed us the smart board.  The children moved stuff around and revealed questions to ask the grandparents and great-grandparents.  They asked questions about things which happened long ago.  More fun.  We met a man by the name of Kurth Hackbarth who had gone to St. John’s school with our son-in-law, Jim Weiland.  Then we all went and ate a delicious meal.  Back to the Kindergarten room to play on iPads.  More fun!  Jenny invited us to come over to their home which is on the church/school complex.  They had moved into the house after Kevin received the Call not too long ago, but already it looked like a real home for their family.  Thank you, Jenny, for showing us around, and all of the Postons, especially Conner, for inviting us to St. John’s.  Since Sue and Tim were staying for awhile, we hitched a ride back to Watertown with Joanne and Jerry Brandt.  Thank you so much!

 

SEPTEMBER 13, 2012 – STEPH AND JEFF ARRIVE FROM CHEYENNE, WYOMING

 

We were so happy to see Steph and Jeff – with a big pumpkin they said was in the middle of the road.  Our sweet daughter (born in Nyasaland (now Malawi), Africa, jumped out of the car, and picked up a big beautiful pumpkin to bring to her Mom and Dad – how precious!   Thank you!  They came later in the morning, so we invited Sue and Tim over to have lunch with them and us.  Jeff was limping because he had hurt his foot when he was riding his mountain bike and he flew off the bike.  We are thankful it was not worse.  There was so much to talk about – their work and their “children” – Travis and his wife, Jenna, Mitch, and Sammy Jo.  They went to visit Debbie Rothe who had been a classmate of theirs at Northwestern Prep (now Luther Prep).  Jeff came back to our home to collect us so that we could meet Steph and Debbie at a Volleyball game at Luther Prep in which Cassie Chmielewski, our oldest great-granddaughter was playing.  Her Dad, Dave, and Grandfather, Ken, also came.  It was very exciting, and her team won three games.  Afterwards we came back to our home and ate.  They then went to visit Debbie Rothe and some other friends.  We left the door open and the light on so they could “sneak” back into the house and go to bed.  In the morning Steph ran outside for five miles in preparation for the Marathon she and her brother, and maybe their sister, Susie, will be running 12 or 13 miles on December 1st.  We had a nice visit with them before they left for Lake Mills to visit some friends.  Pictures of Steph, Dick, and me with the pumpkin were taken by Jeff.  We gave one another hugs and kisses.  More pictures of Steph and Jeff were taken by Nicki’s car which they used.  Then they got into the car, waved, and our loved ones drove away.  Thank you so much for coming to visit us!!!!

 

SEPTEMBER 13, 2012 – WAITING FOR THE ARRIVAL OF BEKAH AND CHRIS’S BABY

 

Hello everyone!  

 

   First of all, sorry for not communicating lately, we don’t have internet at our house yet. (I have to be at school to check e-mail.)

Hope you are all doing well! 

 

   We just wanted to update you on the baby.  The doctor has been watching her pretty closely since the fluid levels around the baby have been really low.  Bekah had an appointment yesterday and though the baby appears healthy the doctor believes it would be better/safer for her to be out.  The fluid levels are still low, and she flunked part of a test they did during an ultrasound.  (Hopefully the flunking is not a sign of future academic habits..:))  So, Bekah is being induced this week!!  We will go in tomorrow night (Wed.) at midnight and they will start the process.  I guess it can take a while so you might not get a call until Thursday night or sometime Friday, but we will be having our baby girl one of those days! 🙂  The plan right now is for the baptism to be the following Sunday (September 23) and you are all invited. You’ll hear more about the baptism after the baby is born.  We can’t wait to see you and for you to meet our little girl! 

 

Please call or e-mail us if you have any questions about anything.  Also, please keep Bekah and baby in your prayers.  Love you all very much!

 

Love,

 

Chris, Rebekah, and Baby Girl

 

GOD’S PRECIOUS GIFT, EMMALINE KAYE MUELLER, IS HERE!!!!!!!

 

Chris called us at 10:10 PM Thursday and said that “Emmaline Kaye Mueller” had been born at a hospital in Rhinelander at 7:13 PM.  She weighed 6 lbs. 8 oz.  She is our 31st great-grandchild.  Thank you, God!!!  She will be baptized, God willing, on September 23rd, my brother, Henry’s birthday.  He would be 78 years old.  God took him to heaven to live with Him when he was six and a half years old.

 

SEPTEMBER 21, 2012 – ON THE WAY TO EAGLE RIVER, WISCONSIN, FOR BAPTISM

 

Dick and I arrived in Merrill, Wisconsin, where our daughter, Sue, and her husband Jim (pastor of Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church) live.  Jim made delicious Spatzle (a German dish which my mother and her mother, who came from Germany, made) for supper.  Besides Sue and Jim, we visited with Laura, their daughter, Christine, another daughter, her husband, Mike, and Miley, the baby we hadn’t yet seen.  Their other child, Grace, was sleeping downstairs.  After supper we went to Northland Lutheran High School in Schofield for their Homecoming Pep Rally.  Chanel (Hao yu Huang) came over to us and gave us a hug.  She is the Chinese girl who stayed with Sue and Jim during the last school year.  At the entrance of Northland there was a 1950s theme display of a juke box, old records, soda counter, pictures of cars then, etc.  Jim conducted a very moving opening devotion which ended with all of us singing, “Jerusalem The Golden”. Each class had a skit, including Laura’s Junior class.  Laura wrote the script for it.  There were games, one of which Sue took part, carrying marshmallows, cotton balls, or whatever from one chair to another – with her nose!  It was hilarious.  As usual I took a lot of pictures.  On the way out of the gym I picked up a copy of ‘THE PAW PRINT’, Northland’s September 2012 newsletter.  Laura, reporter, wrote a very good article entitled “Mr. Wiechmann Eager to Lead Northland Lutheran Forward!”  One of her God-pleasing statements is:  “The school will make great use of the spiritual gifts that God has blessed Mr. Wiechmann with.  God has placed every single teacher in our lives to help us grow in our faith and share the wonders of Christ’s awesome love with the world.”

 

SEPTEMBER 22, 2012 – AGAIN ON OUR WAY TO EAGLE RIVER FOR THE BAPTISM

 

We visited with Sue and Jim in the morning, and then left for Rhinelander, Wisconsin.  When we got there we ate at Arby’s, went to Walmart for some perishable foods, especially Swiss cheese which Dick knows I love.  What a thoughtful husband I have!  Then we drove to Wildwood, Sue and Jim’s absolutely beautiful home next to Wildwood Lake.  The Poston family pulled in just after we did.  Jim was kind enough to write out the directions on how to use their Jacuzzi.  It was tempting, but we went to bed early because we knew the next day would be very eventful.

 

SEPTEMBER 23, 2012 – THE BAPTISM OF OUR 31ST GREAT-GRANDCHILD

 

This was a very special day – the day of “Emmaline Kaye Mueller’s” Baptism – the day she would always remember that when she was baptized, her sins were washed away and eternal salvation would be hers (this day was special for me too, for it would have been my brother, Henry’s 78th birthday).  We drove straight to Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, Eagle River, Wisconsin, where the Baptism would be held.  We were early, but soon members of the Mueller family, including Chris, Bekah, and Emmaline arrived.  We were told that Emmaline’s exquisite Baptismal dress was made from her mother’s wedding dress.  The Baptism was performed by her grandfather (our son), Tim.  His sermon was about Emmaline’s name which means “whole, complete”.  Her middle name, Kaye, means “purity”.  Jesse Faugstad (Bekah’s brother serving in Afghanistan), his wife, Andrea, and Chris’s brother, Tim II, and his wife, Megan, are sponsors.  Pastor Philip Gieschen’s sermon was “Made Rich To Be Generous”.  After the service pictures were taken of Emmaline and her families.  All of us went across the street to the school where Chris is Principal/Teacher and had a fantastic lunch.  Mr. Dwayne Polack, who was the Principal/Teacher of the school before Chris, and his wife, Bridgette, were there.  Mr. Polack and I are related because of our Kuckkan ancestry, so there was quite a lot to talk about.  Chris and Bekah invited us to see their very beautiful home in Eagle River, and gave us a tour of it.  They are very blessed by God.  A funny thing happened there before we arrived.  Chris’s sister, Jenny, was looking out of an upstairs window and admiring a deer which had come to eat at Chris’s feeding station.  All of a sudden it fell to the ground, writhing in pain.  It had been shot with bow and arrows by Chris’s brothers, Tim II, and Matt!  Jenny was shocked, but knows that her brothers are hunters and want to eat all the venison they can get, thereby also saving money on the grocery bill.  We visited awhile with everyone and then headed back to Wildwood, Sue and Jim’s great lake home to stay overnight. 

 

NOTE:  My brother, Henry’s (Kuckkan), 77th birthday would have been on September 23rd. 2012.  He died from leakage of his heart brought on by rheumatic fever when he was 6-1/2 years old.

 

SEPTEMBER 24, 2012 – AN ENJOYABLE DAY AT WILDWOOD

 

After breakfast Dick and I walked down to the lake, even though it was a very windy cool day.  Each of us sat on their raft which was now partly on the beach and took pictures.  We looked for eagles and sounds of the loons, but did not see or hear them.  We took more pictures of all of the rooms inside their home.  They have an interesting African room which Sue has decorated beautifully with pictures, carpet, African drum, bedspread, etc.  In their master bedroom they have a very huge original rustic bed designed and made by a Mr. Dunsmoor who lives in Eagle River.  It’s beautiful!

 

SEPTEMBER 25, 2012 – ON THE WAY TO MERRILL AND CAR TROUBLE

 

We stayed overnight at Sue and Jim’s Wildwood home, and then left at 9:00 a.m. As Dick drove, he noticed that the temperature of the water in the radiator was going up, so he stopped the car to let it cool down.  We drove a couple more miles, and again it went up.  We made it until we were about three miles from Gleason, and then Dick called Jim to let him know about our car trouble.  Jim had told us about the scenic route to Merrill. Many trucks carrying huge loads of lumber to paper mills passed us.  We did make it to Prairie Pines, a Mennonite store, which Jim told us had great shopping – homemade bread, jam, green peppers, and especially delicious cheese curds.  Jim came to “rescue” us and took us the rest of the way to their home in Merrill, leaving our car.  After about an hour he and Dick went to get the car.  Sue and Jim’s daughter, Christine’s, husband, Mike, and his step-father, Skip, got busy on the car.  We bought a new thermostat and some anti-freeze, and Skip, Mike, and Jim installed it.  Dick drove it around after that and the car didn’t heat up at all.  How thankful we were!  Many times when we lived in Africa, we had car trouble – miles away from a town way out in the bush, even stuck in mud at night with all our children, and God always sent Africans to our rescue.  This time he sent our son-in-law, Jim, his son-in-law, Mike, and Skip, Mike’s step-father to rescue us.  Thank you!  We stayed overnight because Dick did not want to drive at night.

 

SEPTEMBER 26, 2012 – BACK HOME TO WATERTOWN

 

We arrived safely back in Watertown, stopped at a thrift shop, and who should we meet there but our daughter-in-law’s mother, Norma, and brother, Dennis.  They were very happy to see us, and we had a nice visit with them.  We were thankful to see Norma because she has had heart trouble.  Wanda’s father also has heart trouble, but he was not along with them.  On the way home we picked up the held mail at the post office, and a package for me.  What a surprise!   It was from Wanda – a cute kind of a “Raggedy Ann” doll which she had made for me.  It was good to get home, but as always, it was a lot of work unpacking, doing the laundry, sorting through the mail, etc.

 

SEPTEMBER 28, 2012 – WANDA’S CALL

 

As I was writing a thank you note to Wanda for the doll, the phone rang and it was Wanda!  What a coincidence!  She wanted to know if I had received the doll and how I liked it.  Of course, I told her that I loved it.  She and our son, Dick’s, daughter, Kelly, and she are making the dolls together.  What a great hobby, and what a lot of enjoyment they give to the people they give them to.  Thank you, Wanda, and Kelly.

 

SEPTEMBER 29, 2012 – PRESENTATION BY REV. RAY COX ABOUT MALAWI MISSION

 

Dick and I left Watertown around 9:00 A.M. to go to the Landmark Church in Milwaukee for Raymond Cox’s presentation about the LCCA mission in Malawi, Africa.  He and Dick were the first missionaries to Malawi which was then Nyasaland.  The Cox family and our family arrived in Blantyre on June 16, 1963.  Both Lois and I were pregnant.  Ray told the people how he and Dick spread the Word of God to Malawians who joyfully received it.  There wasn’t a ‘no litter” law, so we threw tracts out of our car windows which we printed in both English and Chinyanja, and people ran to pick them up. He also told them how Dick had taught him Chinyanja.  Both missionaries had gone to the stadium, the only white people there, to celebrate the Nyasaland Independence from England on July 5, 1964.  The British flag was flying, the stadium lights were turned off, and then when the lights went on again, the Malawian flag was flying!.  Ray and Dick said the stadium rocked with all the cheers and shouts!  Lois and I were home with the children, but how I would have loved to have been there too!  We were thankful that we were at the presentation, especially that we could again see and visit with Ray, his wife, Lois, and their daughter, Lynnea.  It brought back a lot of memories of our lives in Africa.  Of course, a lot of pictures were taken.  Joanne and James Lillo were there from St. Mark’s Ev. Lutheran Church in Watertown, where they and we are members.  Pastor David Plocher, his wife, Naomi, and Kathryn (nee Mueller) were also there.  After the presentation we went to our daughter, Debbie, and her husband, Glen’s home.  Glen, his friend, Richard (from Santa Lucia), and their son, Mark were painting the outside of their home with a beautiful color.  What a beautiful day to paint a house!  Thankfully, Debbie was off work that day, and Jamie, Mark’s wife, and children, Aubrey, and Brayden, were also there.  Debbie had prepared a sumptuous lunch which we all partook of, and then it was time again to be on the road.  God had again granted us a glorious day!  Thank you, God!

 

LATEST PEBBLES FROM THE ROC ARTICLE

 

(OCTOBER-2012) PEBBLES FROM THE ROC          “We love because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)   This is the Bible passage the Junior Volunteers at our Watertown Recreation & Outreach Center (THE ROC) for Youth decided to put on their volunteer t-shirts.  The teens were challenged with coming up with their own design for the shirts.  How happy we were to see how their faith wanted a Bible passage on the shirt that expressed why they volunteer.  They volunteer or love because God first loved them as He gave Himself for them on the cross and gave them faith to believe in their Savior.  Our volunteer program at THE ROC has three tiers; Junior Volunteer (High School age), Older Junior Volunteer (18-20) and Adult Volunteer (21 and up).  Stop in sometime to ask about our volunteer program.  It just might be a way for you to show that love of Christ in your life.  While at THE ROC take a look for yourself at our newly designed Junior Volunteer shirts

 

REMEMBER ME?  (AUTHOR UNKNOWN)   MY NAME IS GOSSIP

 

I have no respect for justice.  I maim without killing.  I break hearts and ruin lives.  I am so cunning, malicious, and gather strength with age.  The more I am quoted, the more I am believed.  I flourish at every level of society.  My victims are helpless.  They cannot protect themselves against me because I have no name and no face.  To track me down is impossible.  The harder you try, the more elusive I become.  I am nobody’s friend.  Once I tarnish a reputation, it is never the same.  I topple governments and wreck marriages.  I ruin careers and cause sleepless nights, heartache, and indigestion.  I make innocent people cry in their pillows.  Even my name hisses.  I am called Gossip, Office gossip, Party gossip, Telephone gossip.  I make headlines and headaches.  Before you repeat a story, ask yourself, is it true?  Is it fair?  Is it necessary?  If not – DON’T REPEAT IT!

 

The above are some very wise words for all of us to remember.

 

OCTOBER 4, 2012 –  A VISIT TO WHAT WAS ONCE THE HERMAN KOPLIN FARM

 

My cousin, Ervin Kuckkan, called one day and said that he had met a man whose name is “Jeff”.  He and his wife, Jean, live on what was once Opa Koplin’s farm at N913 North Second Street.  They wanted to know what the place was like the way I remember it.  Ervie gave me their number, I called them, and we made an appointment to visit them.  When we got there, it was twilight.  We talked awhile and then we went around the house, and I told them what I remember – the windmill with a pump, the woodshed, the outhouse, the smokehouse, where my Grandma hung the wash, etc. – all gone.  They have dogs, pigeons, beautiful pheasants, a garden from which they picked tomatoes and peppers for us, a cherry tree, the only one left from Opa’s farm, and an apple tree from which they picked apples for us.  I told them about the barn (milk cows which they milked by hand, a corral, a drinking tank, a pig barn next to it with big fat pigs), which is gone, (but a house has been built on its foundation), the horse barn which is now a garage, the huge rock pile (the rocks of which were hauled from Opa’s fields with a “stone boat”, and later used next to the embankment next to the Rock River at Riverside Park), etc.  Jean and Jeff took us into the entry of the house which is different from what I remember – has a modern kitchen because there is an addition to the house, two bathrooms (one downstairs and one upstairs), and other changes.  There aren’t any pictures of the inside of the house from many years ago.  We did appreciate the kindness of Jean and Jeff Young.  Their phone number is 920-224-3867.

 

OCTOBER 8, 2012 – PARK MODELS CLOSING AT PIONEER PARK, LAKE DELTON

 

This morning at 9:00 Dick and I were at Sue and Tim’s to go with them to Pioneer Park.  It’s getting cold, so soon the water will be turned off there, and there are many things to do before then.  Dick and I did it for twenty-five years, so we know the work involved.  Tim and Dick took the tarp down over the screen porch, and turned off the water, gas, and electricity.  Sue and I worked inside the trailer, defrosting the fridge, and putting Bounce sheets around to ward off little pests which might think they want to make their home inside the trailer.  Dick came in and took the batteries out of the clocks.  Tim and Sue found out that all the food inside of the fridge in the other trailer had gone bad and had to be thrown out.  It seems that a new fridge will have to be bought.  More Bounce sheets were spread around, and other things had to be brought into the shed or the trailer for the winter.  We left Pioneer Park around 2:30 P.M., Tim driving his Eldorado, and pulling the Checkmate speedboat back to Watertown.  Sue drove the other car.  We stopped at Kwik Trips in Portage and Columbus (for gas), and got back home around 4:00 P.M.  The weather was cool but sunny.  It was a very enjoyable day!

 

OCTOBER 9, 2012 – VOLLEYBALL GAMES AT LUTHER PREP

 

Dick and I went to Luther Prep to watch our oldest great-granddaughter, Cassandra (Cassie) participate in playing three volleyball games.  Cassie’s mother, Nicki, brother, Caleb, grandfather, Ken, grandmother, Debbie, and grandfather, Glen, were also there.  Dave, Cassie’s father, had to work so was not able to be there.  The games were very exciting, and I took a lot of digital pictures.  Luther Prep won two games and lost one.  What a blessing it is for us to see our oldest great-granddaughter now attending school at the same place we attended, which was then Northwestern Prep.

 

OCTOBER 13, 2012 – INNICHEMENT OF ROSEMARIE (ROSIE STORBECK) WAGNER

 

One of my best friends while attending St. Mark’s Parochial School was Rosie Storbeck Wagner.  She and I got into trouble one noon hour when we left the school premises and went to a “filling station” on Main Street.  We went into the girls’ rest room, and I wanted to look in the mirror, was too short, and climbed onto the sink and CRASH!  The sink fell to the floor and broke into myriads of pieces!  We ran out of the rest room with the attendant calling, “What are your names?”  We ran back to the school and survived the day!  The next day Rosie was not at school!  I was called to the Principal’s office to talk to a man from the filling station.  He was not angry, but only came to find out if we had been hurt.  He wondered especially about Rosie because she did not come to school.  I told him that she was not hurt.  WHEW!  We never again left the school grounds during the noon hour – learned our lesson.  Rosie was called to her heavenly home on October 8th, one day before her 82nd birthday.  We went to her Memorial Service on October 13th at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church.  Her ashes were in an urn, and her daughter, Rebecca, carried the urn out of the church after the service.  Her innichement was at Glenview Memorial Gardens in Ixonia.   She was a greeter at the Watertown Walmart, so we saw and talked to her quite often.  We will miss seeing her.  Her husband, Mel, used to volunteer at the ROC (Recreation & Outreach Center For Teens), but he not in the best of health now. 

 

OCTOBER 14, 2012 – ST. PETER’S, FOND DU LAC, CELEBRATES ITS 150TH ANNIVERSARY

 

Because I taught 4th grade at St. Peter’s Ev. Lutheran School as an emergency teacher from 1949-50, we were invited to its 150th anniversary.  When we arrived there around 10:00 A.M. for the 10:30 service, I was met by one of my students, Judine (Lanser) Schicker.  What a blessing it was to see her again!  The congregation is blessed by a magnificent church and school building ($8.3 million).  I was given a name tag, and then we were seated with other former teachers at the front of the church.  The school children sang “We Honor You, O Lord” beautifully, written and composed by Mrs. Heidi Zabel.  Pastor Paul Prange delivered the very inspirational sermon based on Romans 10:14-15.  One of the pastors of the church is Rev. Michael Zuberbier (the other is Pastor Matthew Guse, a relative of Donald Guse, who was a student at Northwestern Prep in Watertown when Dick and I were students there.)   Pastor Zuberbier is the son of one of my fourth graders, Teddy Zuberbier, who we had also met in the narthex before the service.  What a joy it was to see him now as a man!  We were overjoyed to see and talk to each other again after so many years.  He is a retired school teacher.  After the service we were asked to go to the front of the long line to partake of a very bountiful meal.  After the meal the school children sang many wonderful songs which were sung through the years, and the former teachers (me included) were introduced and asked to stand up.  Many pictures were taken to remind us of the very happy and blessed day we had when we helped celebrate St. Peter’s Lutheran Church’s Mission Festival and School’s 150th anniversary.  “Teddy”, Judine, and I sat with a picture album I had brought along, including pictures of all of the 4th graders  I had taught during my time at St. Peter’s until nearly everyone else had gone.  Thank you, God, for a very happy and blessed day!

 

OCTOBER 21, 2012 – A VERY BLESSED DAY – MATT PREACHED AT CALVARY

 

How can we ever thank our loving God for all the blessings he bestows upon us?  We can’t because nothing we say or do can be enough!  This time we especially thank Him for granting us long lives so that we could hear and see our grandson, Matthew Mueller, in the pulpit at Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church in Thiensville, Wisconsin, preach a very sincere heartfelt sermon based on 2 Kings 5:14-27 – “Greet God’s Goodness with Gratitude, not with Greed.”  It is about how Naaman was healed of his leprosy by God through the prophet Elisha.  Elisha refused gifts from Naaman, but Elisha’s servant, Gehazi, went after Naaman, and asked for some of the gifts, for others, he said.  But Gehazi kept them for himself, and Elisha was not pleased.  Because of what he had done, the leprosy which Naaman had now clung to Gehazi, because of his greed.  Dick, our children, and I have seen leprosy when Dick was instructing lepers at the leper colony outside of Lusaka, Zambia, Africa.  It is not a very pretty sight, as can be seen on some of Dick’s African slide pictures. 

 

After the service, Matt and Holly took all of those who came to their home.  It is a very homey apartment.  We were pleased to see many of the things we had given to them on walls and shelves.  Dick’s father’s books were on shelves which Matt had made with bricks and planks, like Dick, his grandfather had done way back when.  All of us enjoyed being together, and also the delicious meal which Matt and Holly served.  And then it was time to say, “God be with you ‘til we meet again”.

 

OCTOBER 27, 2012 – OUR DEBBIE’S 58TH BIRTHDAY

 

Dick and I were not with Debbie on her birthday, but we did call her and sing our usual “Happy birthday to you ——–, God’s blessings to you ——“via cell phone.  She said she had a very full day – had to work and then family and friends came over to help her celebrate.  It’s hard to believe that our first baby, Debbie, is now 58 years old.  Time flies!

 

OCTOBER 28, 2012 – AFFIRMATION OF AMELIA PASCH’S BAPTISM

 

Sue and Tim’s whole family came together for Amelia’s Baptism for the 9:00 AM service and Communion at St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church (my home church) here in Watertown.  Amelia’s parents, Tom and Julie, Addie, and Amelia are members of St. Mark’s.  After the Opening Hymn the Affirmation was held.  Matt and Holly are Amelia’s sponsors.  The sermon text was based on Exodus 14:21-28, 31.  It was a very strengthening sermon preached by Pastor Werner.  Pictures were taken after the service.  We were invited to Julie and Tom’s beautiful home for a very delicious brunch.  There were five babies there, including Megan and Tim’s to be born in January. Wow, how richly blessed we are by our loving God!  Everyone had a great time.

 

OCTOBER 30, 2012 – VOTING ARTICLE WRITTEN FOR WATERTOWN THE DAILY TIMES

 

Dear loved ones,

 

The following article was written by my dear husband, your father, grandfather, and great grandfather.  It appeared in Voice of the People in the Watertown Daily Times on October 3, 2012:

 

VOICE OF THE PEOPLE

 

 

 Dear Mr. Editor

 

There have been many Letters to the Editor encouraging us to vote for this candidate and that candidate.  I wish to join the fray, but I will not mention any names.  Rather I would like to mention the principles which will determine for whom I vote whether it be a Democrat, a Republican or an Independent.

 

I will vote for a candidate who promotes life – a candidate who believes that life begins at conception – a candidate who believes that the life of a child within the womb is to be protected from those who would take its life away.

 

I will vote for a candidate who believes that marriage is the union of one man and one woman – and that that union is to continue until it is broken by the death of either the man or the woman.

 

I will vote for a candidate who bases his or her morals on the Bible – and the Ten Commandments that are written in it.

 

I will vote for such a candidate because I know that I can trust that candidate to do everything and anything that will be good for my life here on earth.

 

However, for my temporal life, I put my entire trust in Christ Jesus, my Savior from sin, death, and the power of the devil.

 

Richard Mueller

 

 

As we sang at Dad’s lectures about God’s work in the LCCA (Lutheran Church of Central Africa) missions in Zambia (formerly Northern Rhodesia) and Malawi (formerly Nyasaland), when we were on furlough:

 

"ONWARD CHRISTIAN SOLDIERS,

MARCHING AS TO WAR,

WITH THE CROSS OF JESUS

GOING ON BEFORE."

 

As Martin Luther said, "Here I stand.  I cannot do otherwise.  God help me".  Please pray for all of the poor souls who are lost and will go to everlasting hell fire if all of us do not "Stand Up For Jesus" (Hymn 474)

 

With love and God’s richest blessings always, Mom, Grandma, Great Grandma

 

LATEST PEBBLES FROM THE ROC

 

(NOVEMBER-2012) PEBBLES FROM THE ROC         So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God   (1 Corinthians 10:31).  At our Recreation & Outreach Center (ROC) for youth, we strive, through the special structured events we have, to teach the principle of giving glory to God in everything.  Every Wednesday our tutors, Dani Raiser and Peter Lehmann, offer homework guidance to the teens so that they give glory to God with doing their best at growing their skills and knowledge.  Also on Wednesday we have an in depth Bible Study, along with our daily Bible/Talk Time, so that the teens grow in God’s Word, their love for their Savior and their desire to give Him glory.

 

Every Friday, our activity coordinators, Ruth Uttech and Brenda Scheunemann (Dunham), have an after-school fun free activity project through which the teens learn more about their Savior and how to shine in the world.  THE ROC is constantly busy with activity to God’s glory.  Stop on by and check it out.

 

THE ROC budget is about $80,000/year and we have approximately $15,000 left to pay on our over $200,000 building.  Thank you so much for any support you are able to give.  Your gifts may be sent to THE ROC, 213 N. 3rd St., Watertown, WI 53094.  Also THE ROC is also an eligible organization for Thrivent Choice dollars.  Thrivent members are encouraged to keep THE ROC in mind when they are informed of their Thrivent Choice dollars which they are able to designate to THE ROC either online or through an 800 number.

 

NOVEMBER – 2012   FROM ST. MARK’S “THE MESSENGER)

 

Rock River OWLS – Tuesday, November 20th – 1PM

                                   Parish Center Multi-Purpose Room

                                   Program:  Retired Pastor Mueller –

                                   His missionary work in Africa

                                  

                                   St. Mark’s OWLS are to bring dessert

 

NOVEMBER 8, 2012 – I COOKED BEAR STEAK – YES, BEAR, AND WE ATE IT!

 

Joanne and Jerry Brandt’s son-in-law, Dave Borth, shot a 257 pound bear.  We found out by reading the Watertown Daily Times.  We mentioned it to Joanne and Jerry, and they asked if we wanted some of the meat.  We said, “Yes”!  When we saw them again, they gave some to us.  One day I decided to make the bear steak, and found a Braised Bear Steak recipe on the internet.  I surrounded the meat with boiled potatoes and carrots, and served it with sautéed mushrooms.  We loved it!  Could it be because there was a cup of red wine in the recipe?  Anyway, thanks for the bear meat!  Whenever we travel to foreign countries, we love to try the foods served there.

 

NOVEMBER 11, 2012 – TIM PREACHES AT LOVING SHEPHERD, MILWAUKEE. WI.

 

We decided to attend the 10:15 A.M. church service at Loving Shepherd Evangelical Lutheran Church in Milwaukee to which one of our granddaughters (Debbie’s daughter, Nicki) and her husband (Dave), and their children (Cassie and Caleb) Chmielewski belong.  Our Tim was the guest preacher for its Mission Festival.  Also there were Ken Chmielewski (Dave’s father), Matthew (Sue and Tim’s son), his wife, Holly, Lilie (their baby), Debbie (our daughter) and Glen Wilson.  What a joy it was again to be with some of our loved ones.  Tim preached on the work he is doing at the Recreational and Outreach Center (ROC) among the teens in and around Watertown – most of them unchurched. 

 

Tim based his sermon on 2 Corinthians 4:5-9.  His theme was “We are Jars of Clay for Christ”.  A summary of his message was that we (jars of clay) have been given a Treasure (Christ Jesus) which we are to share – that we are always to point to Christ – and not to ourselves.

 

He told of teens who have come to the ROC as atheists – and are now proclaimers of Christ Jesus – not because of us (a jar of clay), but because Christ Jesus (the Treasure) has worked in their hearts.

 

He told of teens with anger management problems who have found the peace which Christ Jesus (the Treasure) alone can give.  They found that peace through Tim who is merely a “jar of clay” a servant of the one and only true God.

 

After the service there was a wonderful potluck, tables laden with delicious food which the congregation members and all of us enjoyed, and also the fellowship with everyone.  Nicki, our granddaughter, is the President of Loving Shepherd Ladies Aid.  How blessed we are!

 

NOVEMBER 14. 2012 – MY BELOVED HUSBAND FALLS ILL

 

When Dick and I got up in the morning, Dick felt so good.  All of a sudden he felt very ill and wanted to go to bed.  He was sick in bed all day Wednesday, and part of Thursday.  He had a doctor’s appointment at 4:30 pm, was very weak, but God gave me the strength to drive him to the doctor’s office and home.  The doctor said that the tumor in my husband’s liver is growing, so gave us two prescriptions – one for anxiety, and one for nausea.  Since then he has been in bed in our bedroom and trying to get to the bathroom.  Next he had a commode next to his bed, but because of his weakness nearly fell when I was helping him get on to the commode.  Our daughter, Susie Weiland and daughter, Becky, slept overnight, so Susie helped me get him back into bed.  Since then our family has rallied around us, everyone wanting to help. Tim, our son, and our doctor are working with Rainbow Hospice in Johnson’s Creek, so we have had nurses, social workers, CNAs, etc. coming to our home every day to help us.  Our son, Dick, came all the way from Orlando, Florida, and is now staying overnight, helping his father and me.  A hospital bed has been set up in our living room.  Right now, Tim, our son who lives in Watertown, Dick from Orlando, our son, Steve from West Bend, Wisconsin, our daughter, Debbie, from Colgate, Wisconsin, are all sitting in the kitchen.  They visit with Dad and me, and are on hand to do anything they can do to help.   All of our children, spouses, many of our grandchildren, spouses, great grandchildren, neighbors, and others have come to visit and bring food..  God has blessed us with a very precious gift, our every-growing family.  We thank God from the bottom of our hearts for all His bountiful blessings during our whole lives, and for the privilege of being missionaries bringing the Word of God  as God has commanded us all to do in the United States and in Africa.

 

NOVEMBER 24, 2012 – A BLESSED FAMILY REUNION

 

It was on this day, November 24, 1955, when our son, Richard John Mueller, was born in Marinette, Wisconsin (while my dear husband was Pastor of Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church in Crivitz, Wisconsin.  As our whole family was together, our youngest son, Steven, and his wonderful wife, Melody, brought an ice cream cake with candles.  Dick was all part of it because he was near everyone.  He was still lucid at this time to talk with our six children (Deborah (Glen) Wilson – Richard (Wanda) Mueller – Timothy (Susan) Mueller – Susan (James) Weiland – Stephanie (Jeff) Heitsch – Steven (Melody) Mueller, grandchildren, spouses, great grandchildren, and other relatives and friends.  I thank God for all of them.  They are all such a comfort to me. When we told one of the CNAs that we are married over 59 years, she asked Dick what the secret to a happy marriage is.  He said – 1.  Love God.  2.  Love each other.  What sound and wise advice that is!

 

PEBBLES FROM THE ROC – DECEMBER         "You are the light of the world. Let your light shine. (Matthew 5:14,16).   Recently, at our ROC Youth Center, Mr. Dan Hughs gave a presentation on Facebook Safety.  He spoke of making sure you check the Facebook privacy and security settings regularly so that personal material does not go out to the world.  He reminded us that everything you type and put on to the Internet can conceivably be seen by everyone.  We were reminded that before we type and upload we need to think about our Savior Jesus and His sacrificial love for us.  As we remember the love of Christ in His life, death and resurrection, we will want to let the light of our faith shine into the world.   You can shine through your Facebook status, posts, messages and pictures.  Out of love for Christ, steer clear of vulgar and profane language, rumor spreading, gossiping, and indecent photos.  Rather use Facebook to encourage and strengthen each other with Bible passages, sharing God’s eternal promises.

            Another way the teens are letting their light shine is by making "cut and tie" blankets under the direction of our Activity Coordinators, Ruth Uttech and Brenda Scheunemann (Dunham).  We will soon plan a field trip to deliver the blankets free to nursing home residents.   We were also pleased to see so many teens show up and work so hard at our ROC Fall Clean-Up.  Teens were all around the ROC dusting, cleaning, vacuuming and mopping.  Such help by the teens also keeps our costs down as we have no paid custodian at THE ROC.  As always, anyone is invited to stop and visit us at THE ROC.

 

DECEMBER 1. 2012 – MY BELOVED HUSBAND’S SOUL IS TAKEN TO HEAVEN

 

Our daughter, Susan Rachel Weiland was staying with me, helping take care of her father.  One of the CNAs who visited him during his illness had just left our home.  Susie and I noticed that his breathing was more labored and then we called Tim at the ROC to come.  We were with my sweet husband and their wonderful father when God called him to his heavenly home after Tim ministered to him and we talked to him.  All of our wonderful pastors (James Werner, Karl Walther, Michael Jensen) at St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church had visited him and Pastor Werner had given him communion   We are sad, but joyful, because he said he wanted to see Jesus, so we know he is happy in heaven seeing, talking to, and walking with Jesus! 

 

DECEMBER 6, 2012 – DICK’S CELEBRATION OF LIFE AT ST. MARK’S

 

The visitation was from 9:00.-11:00 A.M. when relatives and friends could come and pay their respects to my dear husband.  Dick looked so peaceful.  Tim, our son, preached the very comforting sermon for his father’s celebration of life in heaven.  The text was Isaiah 1:18 – “Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord.  Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be white as snow, though they are read as crimson, they shall be as wool”.  How often our dear families and I heard my husband and father preach and lecture about our beloved mission work in Zambia and Malawi, Africa.  He preached and lectured on that same text.  We have precious memories.  After the service the procession went out to the Lutheran Cemetery where we have our gravestone with both our names on it.  We had picked it out together many years ago.  The heart had one beautiful red rose in the middle with a ribbon saying “Loving Husband” streaming from it, surrounded by white mums.  I kept the rose and the ribbon, but the heart with the white mums is there with Dick.

 

There is a story about the one red rose; why I wanted an arrangement like that.  We have rose bushes next to our condo, and every year we have beautiful red roses.  Dick would surprise me by cutting off one rose and proudly bring it into our home and proudly give it to me.  What a lovely memory!  One of our children or grandchildren mentioned to me that when the roses are in bloom next year, I cut one off and take it to him.  Thank God for our dear families who love God and one another.

 

DECEMBER 6-24, 2012 – GOD AND OUR LOVING FAMILY HELPS ME

 

Since my sweet husband has gone to heaven, I have been kept busy getting ready for our dear Savior’s birth.  Sue and Tim have gone to St. Mark’s church services with me.  There have been many memorials, letters, e-mails, facebook, telephone calls, to answer, gifts to wraps, etc.  Also, many CHRISTmas cards and letters from wonderful relatives and friends have come to our home.  I have written out many cards and letters too, sent to them with love in my heart.  A huge box came to our condo one day from all of our children.  I was told not to open it until CHRISTmas.  I am anxious to know what is in it.  A smaller box was delivered yesterday.  I opened it when our son, Tim, (who is such a great help to me) persuaded me to, so I opened it.  What a surprise!  It was a box of Black Magic Chocolates (English) from our grandson, David Wilson, his wife, Ann, and their two lovely daughters, Emma, and Elaina.  Last year when I was at David’s Mom and Dad’s (Debbie and Glen) home, I mentioned that Grandpa had brought me a box of Black Magic chocolates in Africa whenever I had a baby.  David heard me while he was sitting on the loveseat, and calmly ordered a box of Black Magic on the thing-a-ma-jig he was holding.  What a surprise!  And I had another great surprise yesterday.  Our grandson, Chris Mueller (Dick and Wanda’s son) from Orlando, Florida, called!  We hadn’t heard or seen him since we were in Florida when he was in his teens.  He is now 28 years old.  We had such a nice talk, and then he played the song, “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like CHRISTmas” on the piano.  It was another blessing.  God keeps blessing our family and me, and I thank Him, especially for sending Jesus, our Savior, to save us from all of our sins.  Dick is having the best CHRISTmas in heaven with Jesus!  Tonight I will be celebrating Jesus’ birth in Loving Shepherd (WELS) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where Caleb (Nicki and Dave’s son) is taking part in the Children’s CHRISTmas Service.  May all of you have a very happy and blessed CHRISTmas!!!!

 

DECEMBER 24. 2012 – THE HUGE BOX OPENED! – CHRISTMAS EVE

 

Tim came over around noon and again persuaded me to open the big box which arrived at our door.  What’s in it is a gift from all six of our children and their spouses.  Wow!  What a surprise!  It’s a stereo with speakers which Tim took out of the box and put together for me.  It takes the place of an old yellow radio which I listened to in the kitchen, and fits perfectly where the radio was.  My heart is full of love and gratitude – thank you so much, everyone!  I love it, and the first CHRISTmas carol I heard was “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing.”  The sound is so clear.  It brings tears to my eyes to be given such a wonderful gift.  As their Dad said when he was so sick and all of our children were doing so much to take care of him, “How can I repay you?”  God gave each one of our children to us, and you are all precious blessings to us. Thank you, God, from the bottom of my heart.  God bless you at CHRISTmas and always!

 

This evening I was at Loving Shepherd in Milwaukee at the Children’s CHRISTmas Service.  Caleb had a very special part at the very end.  It was: “This is how God showed his love among us.  He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.”  God’s promise of a Savior to Adam and Eve and all of us was fulfilled when Jesus was born.  His sister, Cassie, a student at Luther Prep in Watertown, played the piano for one of the songs the children sang.  I know Dick would be very proud of them, even as I am.  After the service Debbie took me over to Jenny and Kevin’s home where Kevin and their three older children had taken part in the St. John’s Children’s CHRISTmas Service in Lannon, Wisconsin.  If only it were possible to be in two or more places at once.  All of us partook of delicious goodies at Jenny and Kevin’s home, gifts were opened, and then Sue, Tim, and I headed back to Watertown. Tim drove me home, leaving our car at their home for the night.  How blessed I am!

 

DECEMBER 25, 2012 – CHRISTMAS DAY AT ST. MARK’S AND LOVED ONES’ HOMES

 

This morning Sue and Tim picked me up and we attended the CHRISTmas day service at St. Mark’s.  It was a beautiful service.  The sermon was preached by Pastor Michael Jensen.  After the service we partook of communion, the first time without my darling husband.  I have to admit that it is hard without him sitting beside me, but I thank God, that He is continuing to give me strength to go on.  After the service there was a delicious brunch at Julie, Tom, Addie, and Amelia Pasch’s, and gifts were opened.

After relaxing at home for awhile, I went to Sue and Tim’s for another great meal and family get-together.

 

PEBBLES FROM THE ROC – JANUARY          John 12:3 – Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.  Nothing but the best for the Son of God.  That is what the wise men brought for the baby Jesus and that is what Mary also brought to her Lord and Savior.  The lesson of Christ and Mary’s gift was visually taught one evening at THE ROC when Janine Petri, a ROC volunteer, dressed up as Mary and, holding a pint of nard, went around THE ROC taking the teens back in time.   Our prayer is always that the teens, like Mary, trust and believe in their Savior Jesus and give Him nothing but the best.           

On Monday, January 28th at 7:00 p.m., EVERYONE is invited to THE ROC for our ANNUAL Watertown Recreation & Outreach Center for Youth (THE ROC) MEETING.   At the meeting, we will give thanks to God for the many teens who have heard the Gospel of Christ at THE ROC over the NINE YEARS it has been open.  The doors of THE ROC were opened on December 3rd, 2003. 

We transported twenty-six teens from THE ROC to our Live Nativity at St. Luke’s.  What a blessing to have so many unchurched teens hear about their Savior in such a unique way.  The teens were deeply touched by the birth of their Savior.

We invite EVERYONE to stop in at the ROC anytime to visit and/or check out our volunteer program.  We are always in need of more volunteers. 

 

NEW YEAR’S DAY, 2013 – ATTENDING CHURCH AT ST. MARK’S

 

Today I set the alarm clock so that I could go to church at 9:00 A.M.  Usually my cousin, Louis Kuckkan, his wife, Ora, and her sister, Marie Dobbratz, attend the church service at 7:30 A.M., but since there wasn’t a service then, they came to the 9:00 service.  When I got to church, there was Marie sitting, so I sat down next to her.  Soon Ora came and sat down next to me (Louis had a severe heart operation, so was still recuperating).  When we were all children, we played together because we were neighbors.  Pastor James Werner had a sermon based on Psalm 39:4-8 – “Life Seems Pointless” – 1.  The apparent uselessness of life.  2.  What gives us meaning and purpose.   It would have been good if more people had been in attendance to hear the sermon.  Like Dick always said, “You never see a hearse pull a U-Haul”.  There was a big family get-together at Sue and Tim’s with another great meal, and gifts were exchanged.

 

JANUARY 5,6, 2013 – A VISIT FROM SUE AND LAURA WEILAND

 

Since Sue, Jim, and Laura were not able to come New Year’s Day as usual, Sue and Laura came on Saturday, the 5th, to stay overnight, go to church with me, and visit.  Jim preached this morning, so could not come.  Tim, Julie, Tom, Addie, Amelia, Sue, Laura, and I sat together in the pew where Dick and I usually sat.  It was a blessing to be with all of them.  Tim (Sue had to work) invited us to their home for a fantastic spaghetti dinner.  Everyone in our families love spaghetti!  We had a wonderful visit.  Then Sue and Laura left for Merrill, Julie, Tom, Addie, Amelia left so that they could take their Christmas tree down, and I left because Tim was going hunting, hoping to shoot a deer – today is the last day for hunting.  So I am home – reading a book about a missionary and his wife who were in a prisoner of war camp during World War II, feeding Dick’s flock of sparrows, and thinking of other things which I can do.  It is very lonely here in our cozy condo without my loving husband, but I know he would want me to go on with my life.  I am thankful to God for all the blessed years (we knew each other for over 69 years and were married over 59 years) God gave us together.   Dick is happy in heaven living with Jesus and our loved ones.

 

JANUARY 11, 2013 – AT THE MINESHAFT, HARTFORD, WI. FOR A FISH FRY

 

Our whole family was together at the Mineshaft for part of the wonderful surprise celebration of Dick and my 80th birthdays in September, 2009.  We hadn’t been there since then, so it was a great treat for me to go there again with Sue and Tim for a delectable cod fish fry.  We went for lunch because Tim had the ROC in the afternoon and evening.  Thank you for a great lunch – and the leftovers the next day!

 

JANUARY 12, 2013 – DEBBIE AND FAMILY TAKE ME TO PREP AND LUNCH

 

Debbie, Nicki, Dave, Ken (Dave’s father), and Caleb picked me up and took me to Luther Prep to watch Cassie play basketball.  What a treat to see our oldest great-granddaughter take part in an activity at the very school (then Northwestern Prep/College) where Dick and I met and fell in love.  After the game they took me to the truck stop (The Pine Cone) restaurant in Johnson’s Creek.  Dick’s parents had often gone there when his Dad was a pastor in Jefferson, and were taken out for a dinner by church members.  Dick and I had gone there too.  I remember our Steve had taken us there.  We had a delicious lunch, and then they picked out some absolutely delicious desserts, crème puffs and chocolate eclairs.  Debbie and I shared a crème puff.  Thank you for the memorable day!

 

JANUARY 13, 2013 – ST. MARK’S – VISITATION – LUTHERAN CEMETERY

 

This morning I went to the St. Mark’s church service alone.  I sat at the place where Dick and I usually sat.  It was as if he was sitting next to me.  Sue and Tim had gone to visit their son, Tim, his wife, Megan, and little Timmy.  They are expecting an addition to their family at any time.  After church I went home, had lunch, and then went to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church here in Watertown for the visitation of Mr. Oscar Hackbarth who went to his heavenly home January 9th.   He, his wife, Margaret, Dick, and I had been at Augie’s Elite Cooking Show’s chef’s table awhile ago.  Yesterday as I was channeling TV, I came across that exact show.  What a surprise that was!  I called Ora Kuckkan (my cousin, Louie’s wife), who videotapes the show and asked her if she could obtain a copy of that tape for me.  She said she could, which made me very happy.  It was the last time Dick and I had been at the chef’s table.  After expressing my condolences to Margaret and her family, I drove out to the cemetery.  It had snowed overnight, but I was able to drive on the roads and visit Dick’s grave.  It was very sad for me although I have so many happy memories of him and miss him terribly, but I know that his soul is alive in heaven with Jesus!  I saw that Archie Monuments had already been there and put the date of his celebration of life, December 1, 2012, on the gravestone.  The Eldreds of Cheyenne, Wyoming, had given us a beautiful breakable white cross with their flower arrangement in memory of Dick.  I had asked Tim to put it on the gravesite, but because it looked so forlorn, and I thought it might be broken when they started mowing the grass at the cemetery, I brought it home.

 

JANUARY 3, 2013 – INVITATION TO A JOINT BIRTHDAY PARTY

 

The Postons and Muellers invited the family to come to a “joint birthday party for Ella Poston (birthday  February 28 – 1 year old), Lilie Mueller (birthday January 15 – 1 year old), and Joshua Poston (birthday  February 5 – 10 years old) to be held Saturday, January 19 from 11 am-2 pm at St. John’s Lutheran School in Lannon, Wisconsin,” where Kevin is Minister of Music and Teacher.  Thank you for your kind invitation.

 

JANUARY 19, 2013 – PARTY TIME

 

Sue and Tim gave me a ride to St. John’s Lutheran Church where the party was to be held.  Again, it was a great party with loads of delectable food and camaraderie with everyone there.  Joshua, 10, is getting so grown up for his age, and babies Ella and Lilie are beautiful!  So are all the other babies born in 2012 –  Amelia Pasch, born June 18th, Miley Golomb, born August 15th, and Emmaline Mueller, born September 13th.   I marvel at the miracles “What God has done” (NIV) – “What God hath wrought.”  (KJV) – Numbers 23:23.   We have 34 great grandchildren (four in heaven with my beloved husband) for whom we thank our loving God from the bottom of our hearts.  Another gift from God, Megan and Tim Mueller’s baby, is expected soon.

 

JANUARY 31, 2013 – “WILLIAM ARDEN MUELLER” IS BORN

 

Thanks be to God, Megan and Tim’s baby was born around 10:30 AM or so today!  They now have another little boy – not so little – because he weighed 9 lbs. 1 oz.  “William Arden” is named after Dad’s middle name (also his father’s middle name), and Tim’s mother, Sue’s, father’s middle name.  Arden is the name of Megan’s grandfather.  We are overjoyed that our loving God has blessed Dick and me with our 32nd great grandchild (two more to come in July).  God is almighty.  As Martin Luther and his wife, Katharine told their children, “God will take care of you.  He is everywhere with you.”  That is so true!