Food, Family, Friends and Fellowship

My brother called last Thursday morning to wish me a happy Thanksgiving and inquire if I had plans. More on the plans in a few paragraphs, but we somehow got on the subject of foods eaten during our childhood. The not-good-for-us foods. My brother didn’t remember the Velveeta macaroni and cheese mom and dad made from scratch during lent and his better half bellowed a big “Ewww” when I recounted how dad made fried-in-butter bologna sandwiches on Wonder cardboard whiteRead more

#SoCS: He’s Still Hungry

“Whatever…” “Gibbs. I told you when you are fed. I cannot feed you any time you desire.” “Whatever…” “Seriously, dude?” “Aren’t you my servant and don’t you obey me at all times?” “That’s funny. Actually, it’s a joke that humans tell themselves. It’s only true in that we serve you meals, give you pets and skritches, and make sure you are healthy and loved. It’s not obeying, it’s taking care of a furry little being that doesn’t have opposable thumbsRead more

Nurturing in the Dirt

“The glory of gardening: hands in the dirt, head in the sun, heart with nature. To nurture a garden is to feed not just the body, but the soul.” – Alfred Austin I started volunteering again at Loaves and Fishes of Appleton – the place where, pre-pandemic, I helped serve meals to community members in need. They continued to provide bagged meals as a drive-up service beginning in March, 2020, but I have stayed away from serving in that capacity. ItchingRead more

#WATWB – Friendly Fridges and Freedges

No matter what you call them – fridges or freedges – they are a much needed blessing and service to the communities in which they reside. You can read about the fridges/freedges of New York and Los Angeles HERE and HERE. For many, regular meals are not regular and possibly non-existent on many days. The fridges/freedges help to feed the hungry without cost. The donated food contained therein is free. “At community refrigerators, anyone is welcome to take whatever theyRead more

When a Door Closes…

Trinity Lutheran Church of Appleton was founded in 1915 with 15 charter members and three children. Construction of the Allen Street church (shown below) began in 1923 after Trinity’s congregation outgrew its small chapel at Oneida and Harris streets. The building was dedicated in 1925. Sadly, this church and its history will soon end. I came to know the lower level of the church several years ago when I began volunteering for Loaves and Fishes of the Fox Valley. This non-profit, well-runRead more