Sixteen squares each occupied by a single word. At first glance, they are simply words, seemingly unrelated to each other. The challenge--in this popular New York Times e-game--is to group these sixteen words into four connected clusters. The clusters are grouped supposedly by difficulty. Much depends however on how aware I am of pop culture,... Continue Reading →
In a previous blog I offered a review of Kim Stanley Robinson’s The Ministry for the Future: A Novel. Peppered throughout Robinson’s story are hundreds of aphorisms which have me pause for cause (or cause me to pause), to take notice, and reflect. I find these words to be variously powerful, insightful, pithy, analytical, emotional,... Continue Reading →
“This is the best book I have ever read.” These are not my words but those of a Berkley liturgical scholar who reads and publishes on Christian worship. Her unexpected outburst concerned Kim Stanley Robinson’s The Ministry for the Future: A Novel (Orbit, 2020). Described on the cover by American novelist Jonathan Lathem as “the... Continue Reading →
If it’s good enough for The Guardian and for The New York Times, each running selected stories and opinion pieces between Christmas and New Years presently, it’s good enough for me, Juno. Welcome to Juno REDUX, a look back at my canine journalistic parlance par excellence during 2023. I must start with Therapy Dog Team,... Continue Reading →
Quilt made by Kathie Gray for daughter, Hannah, Christmas 2023 Excellent words for today, and every day Elizabeth Johnson, published on the daily blog of the Centre for Action and Contemplation Theologian Elizabeth Johnson summarizes the prophetic path as following a merciful God who abounds in kindness: Abounding in kindness, the holy mystery of God... Continue Reading →
True confession. I am no teetotaler. I enjoy the occasional glass of beer, sometimes a nice gentle Cab Sav, and in quiet moments, a single-malt scotch, and more recently Irish whisky. I enjoy both the taste and the subsequent relaxed feeling that all produce. I will never drink, however, when I am stressed or despairing.... Continue Reading →
Prior to returning to Summerland where Kathie and I lived and worked from 1994-2005 we needed to make a decision. Would we have our mail re-directed to our new address? I thought it was a waste of money; Kathie, however, wanted the service. So we now receive correspondence from gutter cleaners and weed removal services;... Continue Reading →
Another creative generosity story in our little town of Summerland Sometimes it’s good to know that “Santa” is right next door, ready to deliver gifts to gladden the hearts of everyone, regardless of age or circumstance. Enter the Santa Gift Bag project. Neighbourlink Summerland started the Project three years ago during COVID to reach out... Continue Reading →
. Onepicnowords - Pixabay A 2015 special feature from Leslie & Kay, founders of grandparentslink.com Coming of age in the early 1970s I remember listening to Art Linkletter who through his internationally syndicated show Links Little One’s shared (some say exploited) the impetuous comments from younger children for radio and television audiences. The comments... Continue Reading →
A guest blog by James Fofonoff I just returned home from the dress rehearsal of Summerland Singers and Players latest live theatre production: We are performing six shows of "It's A Wonderful Life"—a radio play. As the cast debriefed with Director, Linda Guebert. I shared some thoughts on the value of community theatre from my... Continue Reading →
Take Note - Reflections on life, music, politics, retirement and more by Ken Gray 