Weekend update

Hi again -- Thanks for visiting my blog. The weekend was busy, but interesting, and even fun at times. Began by helping to mow some of the 24 acres of monastery property. I had grumbled a bit to T, and said, "Well, at least there are two doctors on site (the missionaries) when I have the inevitable heat stroke." He said that he was proud of me and would pray for me. Well, we know prayers are answered, and his was. About thirty minutes into the mowing, Sr. Kathleen decided we needed to clean out the kitchen cabinets in one building, and I helped her. Have I mentioned the central A/C? So grateful for it b/c it's in the 90's here. The revival was edifying. Very low key. No podium pounding or loud shouts of acclamation. The young preacher gave a very reasoned, well-modulated sermon on focusing on Christ, emphasizing his ideas w/ PowerPoint slides. The pastor and his wife, who I'd met earlier in the day, were welcoming, and other than the time my cell phone sang out during the service, it was comfortable. Very low key -- they didn't even pass an offering basket. One refrain that stays with me goes, "If today you hear God calling, harden not your heart." Went back to Mt. Tabor and hung out with sister friends. Some were playing cards, but I was tired, so I settled in with Sr. Judy in the living room. We shared some wine and read mystery books. Sunday was service with one of the Methodist congregations (ideas!), where I was warmly welcomed; an afternoon of laundry, toilet-scrubbing, and studying (Ecotourism in Appalachia); Mexican dinner at El Azul in town here w/ Sr. Kathleen and Sr. Mary. Delicious Mexican food, can you believe it. I was a little bummed when I ordered sangria and was gently reminded of blue laws. At least it's not a dry county. Many are. I'm so grateful for the many kindnesses extended to me here in Eastern Kentucky. God knows what we can handle and has provided a warm welcome and smooth transition.