Life in a small town.

I just returned from a whirlwind trip to the small Southeastern Indiana town where my sister and brother in law live. My folks have set up house in a small bungalow near by and will plan to winter there. After my mothers bout with the big C this year, I knew I needed to make an effort to see her more often. Although it was a long flight and short visit, it was great to see them. My brother and sister in law even drove over from Chi-town to join us. I had not seen them for several years, we each have aged very gracefully.

Sue and I are actually part of the "missional" vision of the Methodist church there. They support us annually and call us the "little finger" of the hand of Christ extended from their church. It was good to meet the new pastor, reconnect with the folks and feel the warmth of a small community.

I saw a local parade, complete with sappy floats, plenty of waves and candy (thrown from the floats). The high light of the parade for me was the group of motorcyle riders known as the "Patriot Guards" This group of volunteers travel to the funerals of fallen military and support the families. Made famous by their stance agaisnt the (very small "b") baptist church that mocks and disrupts these funerals, the riders just position themselves between the family and any undue attention. It is done not because they support the war, but because they care about the sacrifices that are being made. Oh if I only had a Harley!