It's our last day at Stoney Brook, so I thought I would channel my inner farmer and predict the future. First, it's not much of a stretch to claim that this year's sale will stand among the best ever, especially if the two day total of $28,000 is added to in a measurable way. Patty Losser (Loey's sister), who takes charge of the pantry reported that she already had a little more that $2,000 with today's take yet to come. It's quite amazing. The pies fly out of the church like frizbees on the quad of any university in America. One story observed a man who bought two, ate one in his car, and came back to buy more! The breads, cookies, and sweet treats enjoy much the same fate. I also predict that the clean up after the sale will go well, maybe even set a time record for restoring the church to its Sunday morning splendor. I can offer this because once again the "Many hands make light work" adage will be in force, but with the added joy of a job well done. Next, I predict that those involved at the highest level in the sale will allow themselves a little rest time, a little reflection time, and a little time to recharge. They may even take a nap. In addition, I think (Thought often becomes prayer.) things will go well on the farm. The weather will cooperate so the final measures of hay and beans can be gathered, processed, stored, and sold. Finally, I think the Hooleys, the Mennonite Church in Filer, and the whole set of able volunteers will carry on regardless because that is what people of faith do, and besides, they're much like Archie, the Hooleys' pup, who continues to grow, learn, live, laugh, and play at life in a way that rejoices in what happens, whatever it may be.. And if all follow his example, they will accept nothing less than first place. They'll leap up to the back of the first truck in the parade, and stick their noses into the breeze, welcoming every aroma, and accepting it for what it is. For Judy and myself, we've been blessed to experience this week of manic activity. We've pitched in where we could, we've been accepted in the way a faithful dog loves its master, and we'll leave tomorrow filled with firm faith in the notion that life is good, especially today.
Frac has been happy here at the Stoney Brook RV park.
I love the idea that Loey expressed, "We marry our machines for a lifetime and beyond."
Despite the many extra hours of "Sale" work, the farm work never ceases. Here's Loey responding to the morning lowing of the hungry herd.
Around the farm, memories are enshrined on the premise that nothing should be discarded, that everything has value, and that what you come from is what you become.
Even natures as opposite as cats and dogs find a way to balance their differences.
Gary said the sand dunes near his boyhood home have moved more than a mile. It helps us remember that our time is short, our mark is small, but like votes in a democracy, every life matters.
Archie often rides with Gary to do chores. Inexplicably, he licks the truck, or he smells for Loey at the back door. It's as if his main role is shepherd for the family.
Keep smiling and keep running, Archie, you're the DOG now.
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