by MarianBeaman | Dec 30, 2015 | blog, Christmas, Cliff Beaman artist, Family / Nostalgia, Mennonite History, Mennonite Lore, Nostalgia, Travel, Uncategorized
On Christmas Day 2015 in Jacksonville, Florida, the temperature stood at 85, at least twenty degrees above the normal daytime thermometer reading for this time of year. Over most of the USA, Christmas day was warmer than usual, the forecasters predicting a near...
by MarianBeaman | Aug 1, 2015 | blog, Family / Nostalgia, Mennonite Lore, Nostalgia, Reflection, Uncategorized
When we cleared out Mother’s house last year, we set aside some of her treasures to be passed down to the next generation. This month we are labeling these items with specific names to avoid mix-ups. One of Mom’s prized and most used wedding presents was...
by MarianBeaman | Jul 1, 2015 | blog, Education, Family / Nostalgia, Mennonite Lore, Nostalgia, Travel, Uncategorized
Gladys asks me, “Would you like to drive up to Cataloochee National Park to see the elk sometime this week? We have to go at dusk because that’s when they come out to feed.” I’m quick to respond: “Sounds good to me.” I’ve...
by MarianBeaman | Jun 27, 2015 | blog, Cliff Beaman artist, Family / Nostalgia, meditation, Neighborhood / Environment, Travel, Uncategorized
We are spending the week in the cool Smoky Mountains, savoring the beauties of nature in Waynesville, North Carolina. Nothing breaks the silence except birdsong. Rhododendron buds unfold into blossom, a walking stick is a great companion, just like Laurelville Camp in...
by MarianBeaman | Apr 4, 2015 | Easter, Education, Literature, Reflection, Travel, Uncategorized
Khristos voskres! Christ is risen indeed! These words spoken in Russian are the very first expression of Easter joy we hear on Sunday, April 24, 2011 as folks gather at Birth of Christ Church in Kiev, Ukraine, preparing for the worship hour. Here is the choir after...