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New Year's Memories, December 31, 1959: "ROCKET MAN"

12/31/2019

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Picture
A modern day version of a similar type of rocket
New Year's Eve was always a great time for inquisitive young boys as we did our best to make an even bigger bang out of the midnight hour.  On no occasion can I remember a more illustrious example than December 31, 1959.  A group of us had been experimenting with rockets.  It was in the heart of the NASA rocket era and we wanted to emulate it.  One of our group members was a true budding scientist and he was the idea man, but we all worked together to set up test launches as we tried bottle rockets and water rockets but they just didn't provide the kick we wanted.  Our scientist decided that we should order a rocket and then customize it on our own.  We pitched in the funds, ordered the rocket which was strong and largely unbreakable, assembled it while our technical wizard decided how to replace the current blast off source with one of his own design.  What could possibly go wrong when a young boy figures out how to increase the blast on his own?  We would soon find out.

The rocket came in early December and the weather was rather warm.  It was perfect for testing and we had the perfect spot for the launch pad, the large vacant lot next to my house. One afternoon after school it was decided to try a launch using the liquid fuel designed for it which was similar to the oil fueling display candles in church.  When the fuse was lit, the rocket lifted off skyward probably two hundred feet, then fell back to earth perhaps fifty yards away and intact. Perfect, we thought, and now our wizard friend would go to work.  He told us to give him three days and he'd come up with a bigger boost so we just waited.  In the meantime, I was the record keeper and started a journal concerning conditions of weather, performance of the launch and condition on return with date and time.

About a week later, our technical wizard scheduled another test. When we assembled at the launch pad, a careful examination of the rocket noted a big difference.  The exterior of the fuel section now had a light metal interior chamber with a cardboard base with a pinhole in the bottom allowing a long fuse to extend out the bottom that was about five inches long.  When we asked what the new fuel was, our wizard just laughed, saying he'd tell us after the test. I assisted the brave one, the "Moose," who would light the fuse. I placed the rocket on the firing pad and backed off to my observer's position. The "Moose" lit the fuse and the rocket blasted off with a whirring roar resembling a jet being  launched by catapult off the deck of an aircraft carrier. The burn wasn't long, but it was nearly out of sight in seconds in the bright afternoon sky, far above the earlier shot. Moments later, however, it was spotted and it landed no more than one hundred yards away. There was a slight dent in the exterior metal housing for the fuel pod, but otherwise just as it was at take-off. It was only after success was affirmed that the "Wizard" told us he had ground up two cherry bombs for fuel and hence, the explosive lift off. The cardboard base allowed the force to be delivered downward through the weakest link and into the ground, causing the very forceful lift off.

We were now ready for New Year's Eve, the big show, and on that night,  at about one minute to midnight,  I placed the rocket on the launchpad, having a little trouble getting it stabilized due to the soft earth from the rain earlier in the day, and then walked to safety as the "Moose" lit the fuse and ran to get out of the way.  As the explosion of force from the blast hit, the launch pad listed and instead of going up, up, up, the rocket made a sharp ninety degree turn and skimmed the ground in the direction of the "Moose" who took a glancing blow to the arm, otherwise unharmed, and the rocket sizzled into the huge hedge separating the field from my house. It was lodged within the bush and was hot, so we waited for it to cool before removing it. The force was noted by the fact that the "Moose" had a burn mark on the sleeve of his coat from the hot rocket. Luckily, a near miss was as good as a mile.  Not to be deterred, the "Moose" then performed what he called his "snow dance," as he did every New Year's Eve in hope of the snow that never came.  This year, however, the rain turned to snow and by sunup we had about five inches, before the later rain turned it to slush.

When we asked the "Wizard" why the power had seemed so much greater, he sheepishly said he had doubled the fuel, using four instead of two cherry  bombs.  Later, we would fire one more shot, this time with five ground cherry bombs for fuel.  It was a perfect late afternoon launch, more powerful than ever, and we never saw the height she reached or the rocket ever again. We combed the entire area, but to no avail and no one ever said they had seen it.  Who knows? Perhaps it's just another piece of space junk floating around up there.  Wishful thinking and Happy New Year! And here's to those crazy memories of yesteryear.



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The Ever Changing Christmases of North Florida

12/30/2019

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There is one thing that is certain about Florida at Christmastime.  Wait a little while and it will change and despite the aggravation it might make on your holiday plans, it definitely makes things interesting.  Now after living here in North Florida for nearly twenty-five years, I can truthfully say that when I first got here, I was shocked.  I remember spending Christmas afternoon that very first year in our swimming pool, wearing shorts and sandals once I got home from church.  The next year on Christmas day I walked the beach in a parka with gloves in snow flurries.  Oh, they didn't amount to any accumulation, but seeing snow actually falling in Florida made me just a little homesick for my boyhood days.

That first Christmas and its summer-like weather was quite the novelty. Walking to the nearby shopping center in swim trunks, T-shirt and sandals, I fit in with the locals who just saw it as a way of life. Later, when the temperatures finally dropped below fifty I was amazed at how quickly the smell of smoke became noticeable as the natives and/or longer term residents from colder climes began to fire up the fireplaces as if it was in the twenties.  But by my full second year, I understood the concept of the thinning of the blood and I would go jogging in sweats on days when I used to go in just running shorts and a top and that was back in Virginia on a day when it wasn't much above freezing.  And my first real freeze, a night when it dipped all the way to the low twenties, made me glad that a Florida cold front usually just lasts for a night or two.  It made me quickly realize that Florida is truly a land of extremes, either we get too much rain or we are begging for it and that is something that is difficult to get used to.  And since the Sunshine State is often referred to as the lightning capitol of the world, my view of electrical storms has morphed into recognizing both the power and the glory it displays. If you think a fireworks display on New Year's is beautiful, take the time from a safe vantage point to watch the beauty of a thunderstorm and it will put you in awe.

Finally, as the little slide show above shows, Florida also makes use of her very unique yet beautiful environs to celebrate Christmas in lights and amazing supporting display.  Some of the light displays I've seen using palm trees are awesome and the only thing that can match them is the same process applied to Saguaro cactus in the desert of Southern Arizona.  In both cases, the trees depict a vibrancy that their unique creation allows when lights are added.  And if in the resort areas, consider a high rise tourist hotel where the entrance to each room is from the outside and the entry door lights on the outside are changed from standard white to an alternating green and red.  That gives quite the impact with the trees and other decorations and it also tells me something else.  Why wouldn't plants that thrive in dry climates be perfect for Christmas since the Baby Jesus was born in such a place.  Perhaps the environment of America's semi-tropical paradise and her desert Southwest are the most appropriate places to represent the Spirit of Christmas.  Then again, maybe it's just my mind working after too many years in Florida and those days that I spent in Arizona, but I really don't think so. In any event, if you ever get the chance to spend a Christmas down here or out there, I think you'll find it special.  A look at the moon rising with the Christmas star bright over either Arizona's Catalina Mountains or the tranquil Florida Atlantic provides a peace at Christmastime that we all can understand. That's a memory and a feeling worth keeping for a lifetime.

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SUNDAY MORNING COMING DOWN: A New Year Can Offer A New Start

12/29/2019

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The start of a new year offers a great time to evaluate and make changes in your direction in life.
Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."
                                      - John 14:6


Today is the last Sunday in 2019 and in just two days at midnight, we will welcome in 2020 and look forward to a new year.  Some of us hope it will be a better year, some of us are perfectly happy with the way the last year went and just want things to keep going as they've been, but whatever the case life moves on.  For me, the reminder of a turning of the page on the calendar offers also a good reminder to take a look back at ourselves and evaluate what we think of it.  And while many of us go out and celebrate the occasion, why not think about our lifestyles and ourselves and make a commitment to correct those things that we know could make us better. Nowhere is there a better time to ask ourselves the question: What does God think of our performance and our approach to living? Would he be happy or disappointed? Likely, it's somewhere in between since he wants us to live for Him and none of us ins capable of fully doing that on our own. No, we need his help and if we read carefully the words from scripture above, it becomes obvious that to attain Salvation and life hereafter in His Kingdom, all of us have things we need to do to show our desire to attain the  unattainable goal of perfection by God's standard.

We have, of course, many traditions that we follow to usher in the new year and by no means should we alter any of them.  For some it's parties and/or fireworks; for others it's a quiet night with loved ones at home, perhaps celebrating with a glass of bubbly and a good old movie as we tick off the minutes until the new decade arrives.  Some believe in a meal including cabbage and black-eyed peas for good luck and money, others treat it as a special part of the Twelve Days of the Old English Christmas with the singing of carols up until Twelfth Night and, of course, many watch the "Ball" drop in Times Square accompanied by the timeless Guy Lombardo rendition of Robert Burns' Auld Lang Syne. Then, of course, there are the many parades and the football games that  take center stage for so many.  But all of these things, while offering fun and great memories quickly end, and our need to have someone greater than us to guide is comes back to the fore, whether we believe it or not.

But how about on this Sunday before the new year we put an emphasis on recommitting our lives to God and there is no better way to do it than make it the center ingredient of your resolutions. In fact, since God is the one who provides us all things, it can be a resolution all by itself.  Write it down in easy words and put it up somewhere where you can't miss it.  That way, every day you will see it and remember it and reinforce your efforts to life as He wants us to.  In a nustshell, God wants us to love others as we love ourselves and that is a tall order.  But with the gifts God has given us, foremost of which are His Son who died for us and the Holy Spirit who lives within us, we have the tools we need to meet the task. We just have to use them and that requires discipline. And if we stay true to the cause, come next year this time, we will see that we have become better, that we have become kinder and more loving and someone that others wonder about what makes us as we are.  The love that our Lord and Savior offers us if we accept His offer will do amazing things for all of us, lowly mortal sinners that we are by nature.

If you are a believer in Christ, a New Year's resolution to recommit to Christ is a perfect way to reinforce those things that you want to accomplish.  If you aren't a believer, might we suggest that you take a look at what Christianity is all about with an open heart and see what happens.  The Prince of Peace is here for all of us and He wants us all to inherit the Kingdom if we learn to know Him and what He has done for us.  After all, we have nothing to lose but lots to gain, for nothing is more important than gaining Eternal Life with all the joys and beauty it brings.  At least think about it.

Happy New Year, everyone.  Get those resolutions done and commit to following them every day of the year ahead.  God bless you all.

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WHY CHRISTMAS? TO PUT GOD IN THE FLESH TO CHANGE WHO WE BECOME

12/27/2019

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Picture
An adaptation of Rembrandt's Adoration of the Shepherds
During these twelve days of Christmas,  I try to devote some time to reviewing my thoughts about the holiday and how important it is to those of us of faith.  One of the ways I do this is going through some of my many pictures and commentaries I have written on the subject and each time I do it I recall something that I might have forgotten.  One is the above painting by the Dutch painter, Rembrandt. It is titled "The Adoration of the Shepherds" and, I must warn you, there has arisen some question about whether or not Rembrandt was the actual artist.  Some say it could have been done by one of his students and then again, there are many other paintings of the same title created by other artists. Each is unique, creating its own flair as individual artists do.  In fact, note the attire of those present in the picture and you will see that it is more reflective of Rembrandt's time in Europe some fifteen hundred years after Christ's birth, but that is not what is important.

What IS important is what the picture says to each of us, for every individual who views the work likely has a slightly different view of what it says to them.  Since I can only say what it says to me, what I see follows and it is this:

I'll agree with Christian writer David McCasland who echoed the words of art historian Seymour Silvo in described Rembrandt as the master of light and shadow.  Notice the prominence of both in the painting itself.  The principal light comes from the Baby Jesus who came to earth to be the Light of the World.  Even the lanterns shown offer very little bright light by comparison to the aura of the Christ Child, as it should be, for no one or no other thing can bring light to us as the strength of our faith in Christ. It makes us capable of dealing with the darkest days of our lives as it further strengthens us the more we see its impact.  That God above was willing to sacrifice part of Himself, His Son, our Lord and Savior so that we might receive forgiveness for our sins is the most wonderful thing that any of us could ever receive.  But for that forgiveness to really take hold and lead our life thereafter, we must accept that forgiveness by believing in Him by faith alone. Will we accept his magnanimous offer and receive the gift of Eternity?  How we answer that question will determine our future forever. If you want The Light in your life, choose Jesus. Otherwise, the shadows will become total darkness forever.  It's all up to us individually.  And thanks to gifted artists like Rembrandt for being able to provide a visual presentation of just how glorious His Light Shines.  May it shine on us forever.

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WILLIAMSBURG AT CHRISTMAS, 1960'S: THE GROANING BOARD

12/26/2019

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Picture
Christiana Campbell's Tavern on a cold winter day.
During a Christmas period while I was home from college, I had the wonderful experience of attending a "groaning board" experience at Christiana Campbell's Tavern in Colonial Williamsburg. Campbell's was George Washington's favorite of the Williamsburg taverns and they aid to keep it up to his standard. It was on an evening which would make this picture proud.  It was just before the New Year would roll in and it was snowy and cold, a very rare experience in the Tidewater.  But the family that invited me told me to bring a big appetite, that the seven (possibly more) course dinner, while at first looking like small servings, would have me groaning before the night was done. After all, it was an age when my metabolism left me hungry soon after eating, so I just figured it would be simply handled.

Now I don't believe that today the Groaning Board experience is quite like it was back then, for it was not buffet style, but served by course and as it went along the noticeable lack of ease with the gastric capacity soon became evident.  It started with peanut soup, then a light fruity salad concoction, a course of beef, then seafood, with a vegetable medley plus a potato concoction and a cooling sherbet or sorbet to settle things down.  There was also, of course, wonderful hot and fresh specially made loaves of bread and butter and it was topped off with a rich dessert, a stuffed pastry with fruit and plenty of creme filling.  And it was all served in the authentic Colonial style by a waitstaff in appropriate costume with all electric lighting, both on the ceiling and the tables, looking as if it was coming from candlelight. By the time we were done, we were all truly done and decided to take a walk through the restored area which looked like it was fueled only by candlepower for lighting.   We looked in windows and listened to carolers and truly were captured by the charm of the evening, but finally cold to the bone, we departed for home.

It was only after I tried to turn in later at home that I truly understood the meaning of the term groaning board.  Despite my ability to eat a complete loaf of warm home made bread and a quart of milk before dinner on most occasions, I suffered the night away having no one to blame but myself.  What they make up for in those wonderful servings that didn't seem to terribly large was the richness of content and today I wouldn't even want to know the caloric content of the foods served. But it was a night to remember and put in my memory bank for the ages. 

I'm sure Campbell's, and also Josiah Chowning's taverns among others, are both still great places to go for an authentic Colonial experience at Christmastime.  But as far as the old groaning board, it was a place for the young of stomach and not those who are beyond the prime for too much rich food.  We only have to get older to realize that.  I guess they call them the good old days because at the time we were in condition to deal with them and live to brag about it.  Have a blessed day.

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IT WAS A TOUGH AMERICAN CHRISTMAS BACK IN 1776

12/25/2019

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Picture
The surprise assault on Trenton begins
It's that time of the year again when we all finally reach Christmas day, a special occasion with family and friends, good food and seasonal cheer and, at the center, the birth of Jesus Christ who, of course, is the “Real Reason for the Season.”   It is important, however, that we remember those who carry and carried out difficult tasks on our behalf, both present and past.  None are more seriously impacted than our military men and women in harm's way around the world, missing their loved ones and counting on God's grace to keep them safe.   And General George Washington and his troops in late December of 1776 were no exception.

Things weren't going well for the Continental Army. Annual enlistments were about to run out, the Congress was threatening to cut funding and Washington's troops were in Eastern Pennsylvania in the cold, many with no winter clothes or shoes.  Washington knew that the Army would not survive much longer without a big victory.  They needed something to boost morale and garner the financial support required for supplies and equipment and to gain reenlistment by the troops. Nothing improves morale like victory, decent food and appropriate clothing, plus weaponry.

The Army had been run out of New York decisively and came to Pennsylvania since Philadelphia was the seat of power and thus far remained secure.  But even Philadelphia and its surroundings couldn't last forever and all who had joined the Revolution would be dealt with violently by the British should Washington fail.  He decided to take a big risk as his last stroke, for if it succeeded it would breathe new life into the cause.  Failure would be the same fate he and his men would face if they did nothing, likely death and perhaps by torture.

On Christmas Eve, the troops were gathered and put on display, preparatory to movement.  Then they spent most of Christmas Day moving out toward the Delaware River where, when other supporting forces joined them at a pre-determined time, they would cross the Delaware by boat to New Jersey.  Their target would be the contingent of Hessian troops quartered in Trenton. Supported by one large group of British soldiers as well, the Trenton troops were well trained, well fed, well equipped and battle ready.

Contrast the two sides on the eve of the battle. The Hessians, under Colonel Rahl, were warm, well clothed and enjoying a Christmas night party, unaware of the fate awaiting them in the morning.  Washington's men, exhausted from their march and with chattering teeth and many with bloody feet, were now getting ready on the banks of the river to cross.  Washington himself was amazed at how well his men were standing up and he knew he needed to make sure their courage was rewarded with a victory.

There were two very bad signs for Washington in these final hours on Christmas night. First, a significant number of his forces never made the rendezvous, meaning they would cross without them. And then, during the early stages of crossing, between eleven and midnight, a heavy storm with snow and sleet came down on them as they rowed through the water which was running fast and was loaded with large chunks of ice.  The normally docile river was swollen to a width of nearly three football fields and over seven feet deep, meaning that any man overboard would die before he could be retrieved.

But Colonel Rahl's men had a disadvantage as well. Their haughty leader thought so lightly of Washington's forces that he disobeyed orders to fortify his lines and disregarded a message delivered by a spy telling him the Continental Army was on the move.  Had he taken the Americans more seriously, his men could have been ready and Washington's Army of twenty-four hundred could have been decimated by Rahl's smaller but highly trained and disciplined force of only fourteen hundred. Another factor, his lack of sufficient cannon power (he only had six of the lightest caliber cannon) would be no match for Washington's eighteen heavier cannon if only they could be properly deployed.  If they had been challenged early on, they would have never been properly placed to accomplish the outcome.

Safely making it to the Jersey shore, the Colonials maintained strict noise and light discipline and made the trek to the edge of Trenton in utter darkness.  Washington put his men in position, one group on the north end of town and another on the south and waited for dawn on this day after Christmas to attack. A third force would seal off the town from escape.  The heavy cannons were now in position to cover the entire center of town where he knew the Hessians would accumulate.  And, at precisely the right moment, the assault commenced through the outer edges of town.

As the Hessians came awake, hurriedly put on their boots and grabbed their muskets, they did just as Washington expected and were met with a hail of cannon right on the mark. The British dragoons attached to the foreign mercenaries just vacated the area, unwilling to fight and die with the Hessians.  Colonel Rahl was mortally wounded and in less than an hour, the battle was done.

Casualties were surprisingly light with the Americans losing four to injury with two men frozen to death.  For the Hessians, twenty were killed, one hundred wounded and one thousand captured. 

A striking feature of the Continental Army action is found in the names of men who participated.  They include the future President Washington, of course, as well as Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr, future presidents James Monroe and James Madison, as well as future Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court, John Marshall.  Even though they would squabble over the specifics of the future new nation's organization, they were patriots all.

Washington got his much-needed victory, the battle would go on for nearly five more years and Americans would eventually gain their freedom.  And I know way down deep in my heart that the prayer, depicted in the picture of Washington shown below, played a major role in the outcome. For God works in mysterious ways, but he does answer prayers if they are said in earnestness and there is no doubt that Washington was serious.  Things don't always turn out the way we want exactly when we want them to, but with patience they were answered for the Colonials.

So, while you're enjoying Christmas and all that it represents, remember the hardships and bravery shown by these men who played an important role in the creation of America. We would likely not have the freedom and opportunity that we have today had they not acted resolutely way back then in 1776.  MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Picture
Washington prays in the deep Pennsylvania snow before getting underway.
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A "GOLIATH" COMES TO SANTA'S RESCUE IN SWAMPY NORTH FLORIDA

12/24/2019

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Picture
Santa improvises in the Florida swamps and this story shows one special night of it.
AUTHOR’S NOTE:  Six years ago, we lost our beloved Great Dane, Goliath, to a tragic accident.  He was, of course, a very big dog, sometimes made a mess and would take over the house if he could, but inside he was a big marshmallow and he loved us dearly. He was a rescue who was mistreated by a previous owner and we quickly came to understand him and love him back and enjoy his antics, including learning to be gentle with our other pets.  I decided to use him as a principal character in a fun, fictional fantasy about Santa meeting his obligation to the children of the swamps and bayous of Florida and other Southern states. Here once again is the story I've been posting since the year after his death. If you've read it, you might enjoy it again, especially with the children.  If you haven't read it, see if it doesn't bring a special touch to the many facets of Santa who we all love and especially appreciate on this day as he will begin his amazing flight around the world to bring something special to all little boys and girls who have been good.  This is my special gift to you, my readers and followers, and just one little way I can say how much I appreciate you. And, Goliath, wherever you are on the other side of the rainbow bridge, we will never forget you.  Merry Christmas, everyone. 

_______________________________________________________________________


Christmas Eve finally arrived and Santa was in a tizzy.  Weather was good over most of the nation with the exception of the Sunshine State.  It was a real mess down there in Florida.  Santa’s regional weather elf informed him that Florida was under heavy fog with almost no visibility. It was thick enough to cut with a knife and it would be impossible for the reindeer to navigate parts of the state not having street lights.  Therein was a huge problem because Rudolph's nose would be worthless. 

Now many think that Florida is all beaches and big cities but, in reality, much of her inland area, the spine of a long peninsula, is open country with farms and woodlands, swamps and bogs, and the rolling hills of horse country. The swamp and bog areas teem with gators, black bear, poisonous snakes, a few of the dwindling Florida panther and other wild animals.  Most of the swamp country is dark, very dark, and without a full moon or man made lighting to guide Santa how could he safely navigate the remote areas?  For you see, a hearty group of people live in these seemingly inhospitable areas and they have large families, including many boys and girls anxious for the arrival of Santa.


Venturing into an area like this without an expert guide is very dangerous.  And since Santa knew that he couldn’t fly with his reindeer into the swamp, he needed someone with appropriate transportation and knowledge of the area to expertly lead the way.  Being a smart and special fellow with fast recall of names and talents, he instantly came up with the answer to his dilemma.  He would call his old friend, Farmer McNab, who had lived on the edge of the swamp for many years.  If anyone knew what to do, it was Farmer McNab.

Santa placed a call that was quickly answered.  The connection was weak, however, because Farmer McNab only had a cell phone and the fog caused phone problems in these hard-to-reach areas with limited communication towers.  He must talk quickly before the signal was lost.

“Farmer McNab”, said Santa.  “I’m in a real jam.  As you know it’s Christmas Eve and I’m preparing for my all night journey.  The weather elf says I can’t fly into rural Florida because of the fog; it’s too dangerous.”

Continuing, he asked for help, “I know you don’t want to disappoint your grandchildren, so I thought you might have a solution.  What do you think?”

Farmer McNab scratched his chin thoughtfully and replied, “Well, Santa, I certainly don’t want any children to miss out on Santa this year so if you can make it as far as Gainesville, I can help you from there.  You remember Little Jimmy? Well, he’s now a grownup with children of his own and he can help.  He’ll meet you in Gainesville with his Jeep and a special friend and they’ll make sure you complete your rounds.”


Santa was curious and replied, “What kind of special friend?”

Farmer McNab laughed saying, “Well, Santa, that’s your surprise.  Just trust me. Call me by cell when you’re nearing town and I’ll direct you to a safe landing place.  Okay, Santa?”

“Of course, Farmer McNab,’ he replied.  “I know I can count on you.”

That settled it.  Santa would fly by reindeer to Gainesville, land as directed, and meet the farmer’s son and special friend who would guide him delivering the presents to the little boys and girls in the wilder, more natural parts of Florida.  He looked forward to a different kind of adventure.

About twenty minutes from landing, Farmer McNab gave directions to a nice barn on the north side of the city, owned by his good friend Robert.  The reindeer would be tended well and bedded down to rest until Santa finished his rounds. Then he could be off for the rest of his deliveries around the rest of the world.

Jimmy was waiting for Santa with his four wheel drive Jeep and his special friend.  As Santa hopped off the sleigh, said goodbye to Rudolph and the others and grabbed his large sack of presents, he was nearly knocked down by a large animal who just wanted a hug and a slurp.

Briefly stunned, Santa looked shocked and asked, “What in the world is it?  Is it a wolf?  Is it a bear?  Is it a pony?”

Jimmy just looked at Santa and laughed and said, “Say hello to my special friend, Santa.  His name is Goliath and he is a one hundred and sixty pound Great Dane. By the way, Santa, you need to wipe off the drool.”


Once Santa wiped the slobber away and was over his surprise, he laughed so hard that his tummy shook and shook.  And Goliath licked him and wagged his big tail.  He took to Santa in an instant.

“He loves red, Santa,” said Jimmy, “and he really likes you.  And that means that he will do whatever necessary to make you happy.”

Out of curiosity, Jimmy had his own question to ask of Santa.  This whole thing just seemed impossible.

“Santa, how in the world do you get all of your stops made in one night?  I mean, really, it will take us all night just to cover the swamp country.”

Santa winked and said, “Well, Jimmy, I’ve got one little trick that I have been given, but it’s only available one night a year and tonight is the night.  Since it’s Christmas Eve, I can make time stand still.”

Seeing Jimmy’s questioning look he said, “Just wait, you’ll see when our rounds are done.”

Then Santa threw his sack of toys in the back of the Jeep, hopped in the front passenger seat, and off they went.


“Where’s Goliath?” he asked.

Jimmy chuckled as he responded, “Look behind you, Santa.”

There sat Goliath right beside the sack of presents, looking through his big, sad and bloodshot eyes as if he would guard them with his life.  And he would, if necessary.

As they quickly left the city lights, they turned onto a bumpy dirt road that meandered into heavy woods and swamps.  In the thick fog it was eerie, with Spanish moss dangling from the large oaks and cypress like spider webs.  Santa was glad to be with someone who knew where to go.  It never looked like this from the sky on a clear night.

“Okay, Santa,” said Jimmy.  “As I find a house deep in these woods, you need to get out the right presents.  I’ll give you a name, and then you give Goliath the present.  He’ll do the rest. First stop is the Callahan family.”

They pulled up to a pathway leading through the woods.  Killing the engine, they could hear frogs, owls and insects chirping.  The fog drifted by in a cool mist and no other sounds were made.  Santa handed the present to Goliath, and he gently held it in his mouth as he headed off into the dark.

Santa worried, “Are you sure he’s okay?”

“Not a problem for Goliath”, chortled Jimmy.  “One time a big black bear approached him and getting closer, took one look and headed the other way. Even alligators don’t mess with him.  Did you know he can take down a three hundred pound wild boar all by himself?  He’ll be back in a moment.”

Sure enough, Goliath returned a short time later, panting heavily with his tail wagging as he jumped into the back seat, dirty paws and all.  When he shook both Santa and Jimmy got a soaking from swamp water mixed with mud.


The trio covered the first part of their trek easily but then Jimmy stopped suddenly.  Santa couldn’t figure out why.  He would quickly find out.

“Okay, Santa,” explained Jimmy.  “It’s time to change our set of wheels.  The Jeep won’t go any farther.  The paths aren’t wide enough.  Follow me.”

They walked through thick brush and brambles which suddenly opened into a small meadow.  In the middle was a storage shed.  It looked like a tiny haunted house in the dense fog.

When Jimmy opened the door, Santa was surprised to see an almost new, bright and shiny red four-wheeler.  It was perfect.

“I thought you’d like the red one for this occasion,” Jimmy laughed.  “And you even have a new version of Rudolph.  Goliath can find anything with his nose.”

Santa looked puzzled and asked, “What do you mean?”

“Well, Goliath won’t be riding,” Jimmy explained.  “He’ll be running in front of us leading the way, checking the path as we go.  If we get stuck in a bog or thick swamp, he will pull us out.  I told you he is my special friend.  There’s no better friend anywhere.”

Santa just couldn’t believe how much darker, wetter and spookier the deep swamp was compared to where they had been before.  They could barely see their hands in front of their face in the blackness and eerie bird calls and even the occasional alligator “bark” warned of possible danger at every turn.  The fog covered and gnarled trees resembled monsters waiting to grab anyone coming too close.

He asked Jimmy, “Are you sure people live out here?”

“Oh, yes” was Jimmy’s reply.  “People have lived out here for over one hundred and fifty years.  These folks are tough, deeply religious, know how to live off the land, and they love Christmas.  They just don’t like living around big crowds and they live off the land. They hunt, fish, make lures and rigs and guide tourists and sportsmen for their living.”


As they rounded a bend on the trail, suddenly the vehicle was stuck.  They were mired in deep mud and the four-wheeler was going nowhere.

Jimmy yelled, “Goliath”, and out of nowhere the trusted Great Dane appeared.  He was muddy and wet but happy.  This was the kind of place he loved.

Jimmy hitched him to the four-wheeler and Goliath pulled with the strength of an ox.  He easily towed the muddy vehicle to dry land again.  Jimmy quickly unhitched him and they were once again on their way.  And as before, Goliath could be heard panting but couldn’t be seen.

Suddenly off to the left they heard a horrible cry of a frightened animal.  Then just as suddenly, the roar of a bear bellowed.  Goliath instantaneously was off through the brush. 

While Jimmy and Santa saw nothing, they heard the brush and palmettos moving violently and the sound of animals fighting.  Jimmy recognized the sounds of Goliath.  He knew he was facing off with the bear as they circled one another like two prize fighters itching to find an opening.  The roaring reached a maddening pitch as each animal made an attempt to gain the upper hand.  There were howls of pain and then complete silence returned.

Santa was concerned. He asked Jimmy, “Do you think Goliath is okay?  Is there anything we can do?”

Jimmy just smirked and said, “I’m sure Goliath is fine.  Just wait a few moments and he’ll return.”

True to Jimmy’s word, Goliath returned in a few minutes, no worse for the wear except for some matted blood on his neck.  But there was something else.  Goliath was softly carrying in his mouth a small but terrified dog.  She was a cute little terrier and Goliath saved her life.


Checking him over with a night light, Jimmy found that the blood was not Goliath’s.  It was from his opponent.  Goliath’s imposing carriage and strength had won the night and Jimmy was proud of him.

Jimmy lovingly hugged and petted Goliath and his new friend and divided a large milk bone biscuit saying, “Good boy, Goliath, you are the best.  I don’t know where this little dog came from but you saved her. We’ll take her home to Little Jimmy as a special Christmas surprise.”

Goliath just looked at him with big sad eyes, gave him a sloppy slurp across the face, and continued to wag his tail as if he was saying he was King of the Swamp.  By golly, on this night he was.

They made over one hundred and twenty stops that night in the deep swamp.  Santa never saw a house, a light or a person but Goliath faithfully delivered the correct package to each one in record time.  And as he came back from the last house, Jimmy gave him a special treat.  It was a large piece of steak, which Goliath wolfed down in seconds.

Returning the trusted four-wheeler to the storage shed, they jumped in the Jeep for the trip home.  It had been a wild but interesting night.

As they reached Gainesville, Jimmy was worried about how much time they had taken.  He was expecting to see signs of the early morning sky at any time but they never came.  It was still just as dark as when they started.


Arriving back at the farm where the reindeer were resting, Santa couldn’t believe how things looked in the light.  They were covered with mud and were quite a sight.  Goliath was head to toe slime and muck and the Jeep looked like it was returning from a mug bog.

Jimmy’s friend Robert approached with hot coffee and fresh, homemade sweet rolls.  And for Goliath, he brought a bowl of what he called “swamp stew”.  Santa was afraid to ask what was in it, but Goliath gobbled it down in seconds.

Santa sat on a picnic bench for a moment to enjoy his coffee and sweet rolls.  Jimmy looked astonished.  How could Santa sit and relax when he still had the entire world to cover?

Santa read Jimmy’s mind and said, “Remember when I told you about my special gift of stopping time?  Take a look at your watch.”

As Jimmy peered at his watch dial he was shocked.  They left on their journey at 8:30 that night and it was now 8:35.  Time had indeed stood still.

Now Santa jumped up and asked if there was a place to freshen up a little.  He didn’t want to continue on his way covered with mud. Robert directed him to a bathroom and offered towels and anything else he needed. 

And then another surprise happened. Within fifteen seconds, Santa reemerged.  He was clean and spotless.  He had entered the rest room empty handed but returned clean and bright with no evidence of his filthy clothes or appearance.

“Oh, don’t worry,” Santa said with a grin.  “That’s another special secret that I have for Christmas.  It means I don’t have to worry about getting dirty.  I do this every time I go down a sooty chimney.  Fascinating isn’t it?”

The two men looked at Santa with amazement.  Even Goliath looked puzzled.  What a night it had been for all.

As Santa hitched his reindeer team and readied them for travel, he winked at Jimmy and Robert and said “So now you know I am the real deal.  No one will believe your story except for your dad, Jimmy, and Robert here.  So it’s best if you keep it to yourselves.  But now you know the truth about old Santa and the Christmas spirit.  Keep it in your heart always.”

And he remembered Goliath as well saying, “I will always remember your wonderful job, Big One. I might call on you again if I need you.”

Goliath barked a hearty response in delight.

With a big “ho, ho, ho” and a “giddy up, go”, Santa and his reindeer, led by Rudolph’s guiding red nose, were off and quickly disappeared into the dark sky.  The last thing Jimmy and Robert heard was a loud “Merry Christmas” and then he was gone.

Suddenly to the east the sky started to lighten.  Jimmy looked at his watch and it read 6:30 a.m.  Time had caught up.

Jimmy and his dad’s friend Robert were absolutely astounded.  Had this really happened or was it a dream?  And while they didn’t really know, they suddenly felt tired, as if they had been up all night. 

Getting ready to head for home with Goliath, Jimmy went to the rest room to wash up.  And there he found it.  A note written in longhand on special Santa Claus stationery was sitting by the sink.  Beside it was a large bone with a tag for Goliath.  What’s more, there was no sign of dirty clothing or a mess from the quick clean up.  All doubts vanished.  Santa was real and he had been here.

Getting home at sunrise, Jimmy felt more alive than ever.  His dad was waiting for him and said, “Jimmy, I know what you’ve been through.  Just keep it to yourself.  I had the same thing happen to me when you were little. Believe me, no one will believe you.  But the important thing is that you know and you believe. Never forget.”

As father and son sat down to breakfast with the rest of the McNab family, the Christmas spirit was truly alive and had never been stronger.  Both men were lucky to have experienced it in a very special way, and they would keep it in their hearts forever.

And for all of you children of all ages reading this, remember that the reason for this wonderful season, the celebration of the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, also requires us to have faith.  Take the birth of this baby boy who grew to be our King for Eternity on faith and believe it with all your heart.  You will then find it is indeed the key to all that is real.

I wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas and wishes for the Star of Christmas to shine over you always. Ho, ho, ho. And here's GOLIATH!

 
©James Dick, 2019, All rights reserved

Picture
Goliath in his prime with Charm the Pony.
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SLOW DOWN AT CHRISTMAS IF YOU WANT TO GET HOME

12/23/2019

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Picture
And it all began with one speeding tailgater.
This morning I had planned to start the final push to Christmas with a post about a most wonderful evening around Christmas years ago in Williamsburg.  I will, instead, publish it shortly after Christmas since I just had to comment on what took place in the picture above.  Suddenly, I learned in a flash late yesterday of the horrific accident on Interstate 64 early Sunday morning in York County above Newport News and near Williamsburg and thought, as a gentle reminder about highway etiquette and common sense, a commentary about the picture above might be a better use of my time.  When we do stupid things and are  in too much of a hurry in holiday traffic, terrible things can happen but, even so, an accident involving sixty-three cars and fifty-one injuries just kind of makes the human spirit go numb.

On that cold and icy Sunday morning shortly after seven, with visibility limited by fog in a construction area, a driver rear-ended another vehicle who had slowed according to the conditions and the ensuing collision began a chain reaction that looks like the bumper cars on steroids.  Imagine yourself on the road to visit family and friends for Christmas and instead finding yourself in the hospital with serious injuries and a totaled car.  Luckily, thus far there have been no deaths but a number of people are in serious condition.  Not something any of us would wish for Christmas for ourselves or anyone else, is it?  You can't drive at excessive speed and tailgate or zigzag your way to grandmother's house without causing huge problems on the roadway, yet whether you are down here in Florida on I-95 or I-75 or back in my boyhood home of the Virginia Peninsula, atrocious driving is so common now that we just shrug it off, saying it's just the way things are these days.  But I can assure you that the folks who had trouble even getting off the scene of the carnage in this wreck will hopefully learn from this lesson,  for while I am sure they are glad to be alive, they likely won't remember this Christmas as being their merriest one. And certainly many of them arrived in the fog still driving too fast for the lack of visibility which, of course, compounded the action.

It doesn't matter how great a driver you think you are, when you don't adjust things for weather and road conditions and the limitations of human reflexive action, anyone behind the wheel of a two or three ton machine is a potential killer the moment we start the engine if ... we don't apply common sense and good driving skills, including defensive driving, to the task at hand.  So, for those of you traveling this Christmas, slow down and enjoy the trip for the misery from being killed or killing someone else, not to mention the property destroyed and the anguish caused, should be enough to change action behind the wheel.  If not, and something like this results, the one who caused it likely will live with the horror of what he or she created for the rest of their lives.  Enjoy Christmas.  Be kind, cautious and smart behind the wheel this Christmas.  And I hope you will, like me, pray for the quick recovery for those who are injured and yes, even pray for the one who caused the event to get started.  He needs to deal with the consequences but we also need to pray for him to change his ways and also forgive him for what he initiated.  And I'll be back tomorrow with my blog about the Williamsburg "Groaning Board" experience. That one was a delicious and very happy time, unlike this one,  even if it was a "groaner." Pepto Bismol, anyone?



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SUNDAY MORNING COMING DOWN: The End of Advent Leads to Christmas

12/22/2019

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Picture
Naturally decorated for Christmas
Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”   - John 8:12 (NLT)

This Sunday is the last Sunday of Advent, the last day of worship of four where we anticipate the coming of Jesus as a baby boy which we will celebrate next Wednesday.  And the beautiful picture of the traditional rural church above was sent to me by one of my best readers and I found it quite special for Christmas and the celebration.  I don't know who the photographer was, but it is beautiful and he or she should be congratulated for such fine work. The combination of red, green and white makes a striking natural  decoration for the day and it requires no additions, save the natural wreath which I believe is displayed on the door.

Many of us who are Christians will on Christmas Eve at church services light the fifth and final candle on the Advent wreath signifying that the baby is arriving.  The anticipation that we have had is replaced by knowing that the Christ Child, God's gift for the Salvation of mankind is made real by his birth as a mortal child while also retaining His place as a part of the Holy Trinity of God.  Though He lived with the same hardships and difficulties as the common man, He was able to live His life as the only perfect man there ever was or will be.  He did it by sticking to the tasks that the Father set for Him, no matter how difficult or painful and by living totally clean and pure.  Why?  Because He knew that was His task to succeed in as a mortal man and He would not fail His father.  In the process, he preached and taught Goodness and Light, had the spiritual intellect to deal with haughty priestly scholars who looked down their noses at Him and He established in living form the Living Word of what was expected of us by the Father.

The reality of Jesus as a man in those times over two thousand years ago is clearly made evident by his works and deeds and the fact that they have been recorded and remained constant through the ages. While it is true that there are some who claim the faith yet doubt the truth of His complete story and, of course, they are free to do as they wish, many more retain the traditional view.  But at least from my perspective, if God is the All Powerful Being that we claim Him to be, why wouldn't the story of Jesus be correct just as it was written? After all, the initial writing was done by those who witnessed Him and, in so many cases, spent most of those last three years with Him before His execution.  They themselves were ridiculed and dealt with harshly, even to death in the end, yet they labored on with their story which by divine inspiration has since been written in many different languages for all to see. Had it been just a tale or a cultish thing, it would have never lasted and grown so large a following as the world sees today and its believers would have likely given up their beliefs if they weren't so strongly held.  No, Christ lived just as the Bible says and died horribly but all so that each of us, past, present and future, could have the opportunity to accept his offer of Salvation through faith.  What a marvelous story of His birth that opened the doors to Eternity for all of us, if only we believe.

So, while you enjoy the food and fellowship, the presents and the colorful decorations and the opportunity for redemption that this event opened a thirty-three year human life to give us, fall on your knees and thank God for the gift of love, grace and redeeming hope that begins with the birth of Jesus in a lowly manger because there was no room for Him at the Inn.  It truly starts the Greatest Story Ever Told and it's a story we should never grow tired of.  I know I don't.  How about you?

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Those Dramatic Last Few Days Before the First Christmas

12/19/2019

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Picture
After a long journey, they finally near Bethlehem.
Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.            - Isaiah 7:14 (ESV)

Imagine what it must have been like in those days long ago leading up to the birth of the Christ Child.  The Jews were indeed highly stressed, they had been ordered to go to their place of birth to be recorded in an updated census on the order of Caesar Augustus and there were no exceptions.

Travel in those days was indeed difficult and tiring. One either walked or rode on a donkey along rocky roads, up and down hills and then bedded down overnight in areas where robbers were continually a threat to both their belongings and their very lives. And they were at the mercy of the elements, dampness and cold and biting wind, yet they weathered on, knowing only that it was their duty to Caesar and failure to do so would bring painful consequences.  What most of the travelers didn't know at the time was that in their company was a couple who was doing as they were but also carrying a most important duty assigned by God.

For the head of household for that special couple, Joseph, walking ahead of a donkey with his young wife, Mary riding the animal, faced a very difficult challenge.  Mary was near her due date and Joseph had to insure that they made it to Bethlehem, his place of birth, safely and on time.  He was pushing them forward as hard and fast as he could in order to arrive in time to find a safe and special place for her to deliver this special gift to the world.

Imagine sitting by the campfire while on the way, keeping a wary eye out for danger yet appreciating the wonders of the universe so clear above.  Except for the light of the fire on the desolate road, it was pitch black on a moonless night but the stars were ever so bright.  The heavens showed themselves in all their glory and Joseph knew he could not fail.

So think about this as you go about your shopping, grumbling about the crowds or the difficulty in finding a good parking space. Or if you're still enmeshed in what is being called "fake news" or even if you are reasonably satisfied with things in your life, realize the thoughts and dreams that young couple held as they faced a dangerous and uncertain world.  Remember that the earthly custodians of Jesus in His early years were struggling to fulfill the requirement which God had placed upon them, for they knew it was special and was meant to be.  Think of their plight, compared to our comfort and ease of life, and appreciate what it means to all of mankind.  The Son of God, the King of Kings would soon be born and with His birth the world would change forever.  We don't realize it always, but open your heart and let His love shine in and it will infect your Spirit in the most positive way there is forever.

The road to Bethlehem was the first step on the road to the Salvation and Redemption of mankind.  We should all be especially thankful for that during this beautiful time of the year.

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    ABOUT ME

    Hi, I'm James, a writer who studies nature,  animals and all things created by God. I also write from time to time about what I think God expects of us.  I would love to hear your thoughts on these subjects. I hope you enjoy my comments.

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