Productive Week Despite Sleep

Sometimes, it seems like everything happens at once. This was one of the weeks.

First off, Tuesday morning was the dentist. After a month of being careful with my temporary crown, I finally received my permanent cap. The new hardware is much smoother than my regular teeth, so I keep rubbing it with my tongue to feel the change. Switching crowns went quite easy and I'm thankful to have the process complete.

Thursday was a checkup with my ENT. My button is doing well, but he still prescribed treatment to be cautious. I hoped he could offer help with my nose getting plugged at night and making sleep difficult. Unfortunately, I'm already doing everything I should and he didn't have any further advice.

Friday morning concluded the week with speaking at a school chapel. It was my earliest talk in the school year for several years, but it was my last for the calendar year. I enjoyed helping students learn more in God's Word. Speaking to K-8 is a challenge to keep everyone interested and understanding, but I think it worked. My microphone decided to drop at one point though, so I concluded it was time to wrap up if the mic was getting drowsy.

All week, I was also dealing with sleep problems. Back on September 18, I had my annual physical with everything looking good. I can't remember when I started, but I have been taking sleep meds for several years. However, I have had trouble waking up in the mornings and asked about decreasing my sleep medication. My doctor agreed and I started the new routine that night. Instead of waking up more easily, it got worse.

Last week Sunday, I was so sound asleep that dad couldn't get me up in time for church. Tuesday morning, I slept through my caregiver washing my hair. When I sleep through someone pouring water on my head, the part I can fully feel, that is sound asleep. Of course the decrease hasn't helped sleeping at night either.

Finally, the week ended with two nights without help. This coming week, I also have two day shifts without a caregiver. Late nights and early mornings also don't help with being well rested.

Thankfully, I'm able to stay active in various ways. Living the quad life has different areas to guess and adjust. I'll likely keep the new med routine for another week before deciding to switch back again. I prefer taking fewer medications, but I also want them to serve their purpose. I will wait to see what happens and dream of restful nights, if I can sleep.

Olmstead Taskforce Retirement

In 1999, the US Supreme Court decided on a case called Olmstead vs. L.C. It was determined that persons with intellectual and physical disabilities need to be housed in the least restrictive setting possible. Shortly after this decision, Iowa governor Tom Vilsack followed other states and established the Olmstead Consumer Taskforce (OCTF) to monitor Iowa's compliance.

As a high school student at the time, I was unaware of any of this and had other priorities in mind. It wasn't until 2018, when a friend said the OCTF was looking for members, that I learned of its existence. The group sounded somewhat interesting, so I submitted my résumé and application. A few weeks later, I was told thank you, but I wasn't chosen and my application would be kept on file. The following summer, OCTF contacted me if I was still interested. I debated, but went ahead and applied again and I was then taken on.

My first meeting was in September 2019 at a library near Des Moines. Another member had only served two of their three-year term and I was finishing that person's time. I arrived a little late due to a doctor's appointment, but had told the secretary the situation. My caregiver and I quietly found a spot to sit and listened to the proceedings. For the entire 3+ hours, including lunch, I was never welcomed, acknowledged, or thanked for coming. As I suspected, I was just there to fill a quota and nothing more. I looked forward to completing my one year and leaving.

Not long after 2020 started, meetings changed from primarily in person to completely virtual. This worked much better for me, and several others, and the format was continued. I also joined a subcommittee as required and finally started to feel like a valued part of the group. Therefore, I decided to try one full term just to maybe help more.

Friday was my final official day with the OCTF. After serving two full terms, plus an extra year, I was required by the group's bylaws to take a year off before applying again. For the past two years, I served as the vice-chair as well as chairman for the community access committee and on the executive committee. Due to various factors, I was slated to stay on an additional year as the OCTF chairman, but that changed due to another volunteer taking the roll.

During my tenure, I was pleased to see the group go from just dry meetings covering data to actively campaigning for change and meeting with people that could make change. In 2023, a few other subcommittee members and I met with the CEO of the Iowa State Fair to campaign for better accessibility. It resulted in increased accessible parking and further possible changes.

I am also thankful to report that my caregiver funding was approved for more hours for September-December. It was not a direct result from OCTF, but it is something we highly encouraged through various avenues.

Through all the meetings, at least two per month, I became friends with some other members. I can still attend as a member of the public, but without voting rights or similar privileges. I'm uncertain if I'll apply again next year, but I'm thankful for the time I was able to help and encourage more active roles.

Fair Days in 2026

My last summer activity most years is attending the Iowa State Fair and volunteering at the gospel outreach booth. I was at the booth on the mornings of Friday, August 14, and the following Tuesday. This year, I actually got into a few conversations with people.

The Saturday before the fair started, the booth organizer asked for help getting everything setup. Dad and I joined other volunteers of various ages and helped erect the steel structure, electric lines, banners, and everything else. I talked with a friend I hadn't seen in person for a few years and another one of the regular outreach volunteers. I knew her face well as we've served together in different functions, but it took a while to remember Mary's name. It was a great time of fellowship with like-minded Christians. Shortly after lunch, everything was complete, gospel tracts and booklets were on display, and the booth was ready for guests.

Friday morning took over 40 minutes to get in the parking lot, which meant Sara and I arrived a little late to our locations. Soon after, three older teen boys caught a glimpse of a million dollar bill gospel tract and picked one up. As they did, I directed to read the million dollar question on the back. Most people walk away as they read, but this group stayed. I waited a few seconds for the young man to read and then asked him, "Would you say you're a good person?" He responded, "I would say so, but they might not."

Using this, I bounced the question to his friends before taking them through a few of the Ten Commandments. They had all broken at least some of the commands, so I continued with all deserving of hell and Jesus paying our fine. It has been a while since I actually got to take someone through the "good person" test one-on-one, but they seemed to understand and take it seriously.

Later in the day, a lady from a neighboring booth stopped over and I noted her cross necklace. She quickly got to the question she had in mind; do I believe the world is flat or a globe? I answered globe and cited the Bible speaks about the circle of the earth. Before I could get to other scientific proofs, she cut me off and responded with her stance on flat earth and we'll just have to find out when we die. I attempted a reply, but she ran off before I received a breath. I have studied the beliefs of flat earthers and how they deny evidence we can test and accounts from Christian astronauts, but this was my first time speaking with one. Tuesday's notable conversation was with an older woman who believed dinosaurs were primarily made up. I gave her passages from Job and volunteer Mary gave her a booklet on the subject.

Regular conversations about the Ark Encounter were had both days with some people wanting to go and others already had. It was a great time though and I'm thankful I was able to volunteer again. Sara and I both commented on Thursday that it's a lot of work, and we don't really see much of the fair, but we already miss not having more outreach opportunities.

This week will be another busy time of doctor's appointments and annual tests. On Tuesday, I'm scheduled to get a temporary crown on one of my upper back teeth. I'm a little concerned how it will affect my stick use, but I will wait and see. It will be another fun time of adjusting in the quad life. 

Tax Season

In the US, April 15 is when annual income taxes are due. For the last several weeks, I have been seeing advertising for tax prep and filing services from various providers. Of course, most people do anything they can to avoid paying taxes, or at least as little as possible.

Taxes are not anything new and have been in place for over 2,000 years. Jesus was asked if it was appropriate to pay tax to Caesar and responded in Mark 12 and Luke 20. Paul also wrote in Romans 13:6-7 "For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing. Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor."

Christians, following Jesus' teaching, should pay what is due. Taxes are what pay for the majority of government services we receive. Roads, police, Medicaid, Medicare, armed forces, and many more. However, there can be a limit for what people are willing to pay and provide.

Last fall, New York City elected a new mayor who openly campaigned to run the city in a communist fashion. Citizens would receive free housing, child care, bus transportation, and other services through taxing the wealthy. Despite many warnings from around the country, he was elected.

As taxes quickly increased, many of the higher income brackets left the city. The income threshold for "wealthy" was lowered dramatically making it very difficult for law abiding residents to meet basic needs. The promised free services are also very behind on budget and unable to operate. Just as predicted, over taxation does not work and only makes living conditions worse.

I'm not sure what all was covered by taxes in Jesus time on earth, but I believe Roman soldiers were part of it. Since they often oppressed Jews and many others, I'm guessing paying taxes was similar to paying to help persecution. Unlike New Yorkers though, those living in Israel could not as easily pack up and move somewhere with better political leaders.

For the first time in over 20 years, I also paid taxes from 2025. I had conflicting information from different accountants, but it was decided I owed some to the government. On April 14, the final day before everything was due, I signed multiple documents and got everything in the mail.

As another week, and tax season, begins, let us remember what was said in Romans. Give custom, fear, honor, and even tax, to whom it is due. This is God's command and how we should live each day. 

Two Great Days

With spring a week old, my schedule started this week with two day's of outings in a row. Thankfully, both went very well.

Thursday was my first doctor's appointment for 2026 and the first with my new chair. I have seen the same dermatologist for over 25 years and highly recommend him to anyone who asks. However, he was having shoulder trouble the last two times I saw him and we utilized his gaggle of nurses to help transfer me from my chair to the exam table in order to see my skin problems.

As two nurses and my caregiver strategized my transfer, the doctor joined the growing crowd and said he could help. After noting my new chair, he got under my arms to help with a coordinated transfer with the team. This is when my chair's back support was noted. Unlike the soft, pliable, support of my previous chair, this one is solid and requires me to be lifted over it instead of the support giving way.

With some extra muscle power, I was soon laying flat, and in one piece, as the team dispersed and my lower half became exposed. The doctor said this was the best he had seen my pressure area look in a very long time and was very pleased with it. My new chair may have it's annoyances, but it does keep me a little straighter and has less pressure on my seat cushion. All this has resulted in the doctor saying I have a good looking rump. The same team reassembled and soon had me back in my chair.

While in the Des Moines area, I again went to the chair company and had the electronics adjusted. My top speed was set to 60% of maximum, but was soon changed to 100%. While he was at it, I also had the technician add 5% speed to the other three modes so I can hopefully be better matched to people I "walk" with.

Friday morning was my first grade school visit of the year. Teachers say the kids look forward to my visit, but I almost think I enjoy it as much as them. The first talk of the year always feels like I'm dusting off the cobwebs and trying to recall the same basic presentation I've done for 21 years.

I reviewed in my head as we drove 30 minutes east and I was soon in an empty room as students were at recess. As soon as they came to the classroom door, just seeing my caregiver and I, two boys formed a barrier and wouldn't let classmates enter. I tried to assure them we were friendly folk, but they waited until the teacher arrived. Soon enough, they came in, tore off footwear as instructed, and were ready to listen.

My reviewed lines went well and came back to my memory. Thankfully, the class wasn't too boisterous, but also had some energy and did ask regular questions. Mouth, and foot, writing were a hit, but not something they wanted to repeat. To finish the morning, we got a group photo with kids surrounding the guy they originally weren't sure about.

This week ahead has another school visit with more to come later. Living the quad life can have challenges in multiple ways, but I'm thankful for the fun times and good reports as well.

Cold Start to Speaking

As we progress through a year, certain days mark anniversaries of various kinds. Everyone has a birthday, and then you may have a wedding anniversary, graduations, and work milestones. Friday was another year of entering the quad life.

For the past few years, I have been counting to 40 years post injury. Just like turning 40 years old, it is a special year indicating God's blessings. After a new decade, the following few years just seem like more numbers added on, at least to me. With 2026 marking 41 years post injury, it somewhat feels like just another year. Throughout these four decades, my family and I have had help from many people in various ways.

I can never repay all that I've been given, but I like to help wherever I can. Volunteering at CHAMP Camp for 16 years was great fun and a way to help and I also mentor others with spinal cord injuries through a few different organizations. A few weeks ago, I was asked if I could help preach this month.

My response was that I don't normally schedule anything before mid-March due to weather concerns. At the time, it was in the low 60's and very nice. However, Iowa weather changes quickly from one day to the next. Ten days ago, I was asked if I would preach today and that few others were available. The long-term forecast looked good, so my family and I thought it would be okay to bend my annual start date.

Now that the day has arrived, the weather changed to very cold with wind chills around 0 for the time to be at church. Instead of staying warm in bed as I normally would, I got out to brave the cold and preach the Word of God.

Paul wrote to the Philippians that he could do all things through Christ who strengthened him. This doesn't mean we can flap our arms and fly, but that we will be given what we need to serve God. As I stretch my comfort zone, I have been remembering and praying this verse.

It has been shown me through the decades of quad life that God will give what is needed, but in His timing. Different scenarios of getting stuck outside have gone through my head, but I know it's extremely unlikely on a day with just cold and no snow accumulation.

If nothing else, today serves as a reminder of why I have my schedule rules. Thankfully, I should be home all week and can warm up for the next few days. I look forward to warmer days of going to preach and have a new record start day that will not be repeated, at least in Iowa.

Heading Toward Calm

The last few months have felt like I'm always on the go. This is typical for my summers, but for this year has felt extra busy for some reason. Thankfully, my calendar is clearing out and it looks like slower times ahead for a few weeks. However, this last week was still full of activity.

Tuesday was my second and final day at the gospel outreach group. The booth is sandwiched by two other booths that do not have Christian values, the Democrat party and Bud & Mary's cannabis booth. I usually end up facing the cannabis booth and get a nose full of the free smells they include of their products. It's supposed to just be the scent, but the idea can give thoughts of added influence. For the first part of Tuesday, I started the shift facing the opposite direction.

One lady spent time talking with the political party, showing support for their ideas, and then meandered over toward me. As she looked over the literature we have on display, I asked her about her knowledge of Noah's Ark and the Bible. She had some, but looked more disdained, and said she was part of a liberal Lutheran church. Just as I began asking about sin and salvation, she quickly left. Throughout the rest of the morning, I had a few short conversations with parents as their kids got dinosaur tattoos, but my fellow volunteers looked busier. No matter what, God's creation and the gospel were shared to many people through various forms.

Thursday and Friday night were this week's open shifts. I was thankful not to have any outings as the day starts out pretty groggy. I made sure to review the message I preached this morning, but not much else was done for being productive.

With this schedule of open nights likely continuing for several months, we all need to get used to the routine. Unfortunately, I already see the toll it's taking on my parents' health. God has brought us through another week of the quad life and I will look to Him for strength and energy.

New Speaking Experience

In 2004, I spoke to my first class of 2nd graders about disability awareness. I'm not sure if that qualifies as public speaking, but it was where my side venture of talks began. Since then, I have spoken in several grade schools, colleges, and churches. However, this week was a new experience that I wasn't sure what to expect.

Sometime in May, I received a legitimate message through my website asking me to speak. The venue would be a ladies' group that gathered once a month at a church in a nearby town. I wasn't told a topic other than myself and to bring copies of my book to sell. We arranged to meet at the end of June, the week after vacation. However, that was when I wasn't feeling well and needed frequent suctioning. I felt bad doing it, but officially cancelled the day before I was scheduled.

The new time to meet with this group was Thursday, July 31. I do not like talking about myself, at least as a main topic for speaking. I know this blog is all about me, but this is a different setting. Proverbs 27:2 says to let someone else praise you and not your own lips. Instead of just telling my story, I tied in Jeremiah 29:11 and that God uses all of our lives in various ways.

In all, it was about 20 ladies who were well beyond retirement age. Apparently the time in June had been promoted more and had nearly 30 attendees. Without really knowing what to say, or for how long, it went pretty well. I likely should have spoke a little longer, but I'm not sure my voice would have been able to continue.

Public speaking is a top fear for most people, but it's something I find fun. Living the quad life is full of unique opportunities and I enjoy helping others learn and see more of God's care in our life. A similar venue may be interesting, but I will see what God brings.

Preaching Marathan has Begun

In early May, I sat in a meeting with local pastors and church speakers. It was the group's final meeting of the year and I told a friend that I had a very open preaching schedule if he wanted a break sometime. He has yet to contact me, but the open schedule has disappeared. Starting tonight, I'm scheduled to preach somewhere five out of the next seven weeks.

When I was young, nearly every church had a morning and evening service every Sunday. Now, only a small number of churches still hold evening services and they are mainly attended by people past retirement age. A congregation very close to my home recently lost their main pastor due to him moving to another church. Therefore, I am scheduled to fill one evening a month through September, so far.

Tonight I will be starting a series looking at the book of James. Since I normally only lead a certain church every few months, or less, I rarely get to do a sermon series and look in depth at a passage. I'm excited for the opportunity, but it also creates a problem. I will not be able to recycle these messages to use in other churches. I am scheduled to preach at my own congregation next week, which means I need a totally different message. The final quad life wrinkle is that I didn't have a nurse last night, which means I'm preaching this evening while I am tired and my parents are as well.

This last week has been interesting in finalizing and reviewing one message while preparing another that is totally unrelated. I am then scheduled to preach in the evening again on August 10, and that sermon only exists as an idea for the next message in my series. I also have to keep in mind web development with two new sites I've been working on this week.

My passage tonight is James 1:1-12 and looks at persevering under trial. I am in a busy time of my own doing, but I'm thankful to primarily be back to regular health and to know God gives wisdom to all who ask. I pray for wisdom and energy these next several weeks as I work to do the tasks God has given me and serve Him faithfully through it all.

Final School

It has been a busy week of finishing and preparation. Tuesday was my last class for the year. It was a group of nine Occupational Therapy Assistant students who seemed to listen well. One in particular was very quiet and attentive (see picture).

OT students are very interested in all the different items I use to function. I discuss my wheelchair and different options as well as how I use mouth sticks and what type works for different needs. In class, they don't get a lot of real-life experience, especially with all the equipment I use. My schedule one-hour presentation frequently turns into 90 minutes or more. I wonder how much they actually remember after I leave, but hopefully my presentation helps.

Thursday morning, I visited with my ENT about my trach button and nose. It looks like I may have infection again, so I'll see what results come from testing. For my nose, I hoped to get help for breathing at night. Unfortunately, nose cartilage keeps growing throughout your life and mine is growing crooked. Therefore, when it gets annoying enough, I'll need to have it surgically corrected. It wasn't the answer I wanted, but it was an answer.

Today, Father's Day, is the last day to relax. After six years of staying home, I'm finally planning to take an over night trip. I've been thankful for all dad's help in packing, checking the van, and making sure everything is ready for a road trip.

Dad continues to do so much for me in many ways and rarely gets to take a day off. He should be at least somewhat retired, but continues to work at least full-time to keep insurance. I look forward to when he can slow down and not have work responsibilities.

I will continue to see what the quad life brings and be thankful for who God has put around me.

Knowing Your Area

In every hobby or field of work, you gain experience as time passes. Different scenarios help to gain knowledge so that when it happens again, you can quickly solve the issue. The same is true when studying Scripture and using it as your basis for thinking.

If I am talking to someone on the street, I have verses I can reference for different objections. In Matthew 5:22, Jesus expounded on the sixth commandment that hatred is the same as murder. A few verses later, in 5:27, He said that looking with lust is the same as adultery. Further references are Ephesians 2:8-9, Romans 6:23, and a handful of other verses. When preaching, I tend to study one text and use other passages to support the message. However, I have been noticing lately I may be getting narrow sighted and need to pay further attention.

For the last few weeks, I have been reading a book on general advice for Biblical counseling. I took an online course early in the year and this has been a very loose follow-up. As the authors look at different counseling scenarios, they point to various passages that help relate to a situation and may assist the counselee to a better frame of mind. While some of the advised texts are familiar, the majority are ones that I would need to look up and further learn their context.

I have written on this blog several times about my routine of reading the Bible. For several years, I read through from Genesis-Revelation twice a year. Now, I'm down to about once a year of cover to cover, but replaced one of my reading times with more in-depth study. This is slower, but I still progress through Scripture and invest in God's Word.

At this point in the quad life, I do not see starting a new career as a Biblical counselor. However, as a part-time preacher and occasional mentor, I do see it as useful knowledge to be familiar with. If nothing else, this latest book has taught me not to get blinded to one train of thought while studying. Continuing to broaden my knowledge and quick reference tools will always be helpful, no matter how often or little they get used.

Finished and Beginning

It seems to be a usual condition, but it was another busy week in the quad life. It started one activity, finished another, and started a big project.

Tuesday morning was my first of two scheduled college classes. Unfortunately, I don't have very many college courses left. I have helped teach four different subjects in three different schools. Now, I'm down to two subjects at one school. I'm thankful for what I have been given, but wish I could do more. Nursing students could especially benefit from knowing more about spinal cord injuries and home care, but they are the hardest classes to get into. I continue to pray that I can visit current classes and expand again.

Thursday was my busiest day, starting with my final grade school visit of the year. A total of 11 students were in the combined 3rd/4th grade classroom. These are the oldest kids I visit, but they are generally the calmest as well. The instructor was quick to post pictures on the school's Facebook page and was thankful for my visit. I really enjoy working with kids and would love to find some type of summer program I could help with. I have no idea how I could fit it in, but it would still be fun.

I quickly transitioned from teaching kids Thursday morning to a big project. In August, my wheelchair will be ten years old. Power chairs are made to last five years and then be replaced. My current system has done pretty well, but it has definitely not supported my back very well. Due to various factors, my insurance may also be changing in a year. Therefore, I've started working toward a new chair.

The initial meeting went very well. I had a list of items to adjust, keep similar, or have on a wish list. Everyone listened to me and liked that I knew what I was talking about. I have another appointment in two weeks to see a potential chair option and get molded for a new back. Considering it took eight years to get a new chair last time, I'm excited to see this process moving faster. Time will tell if the momentum continues, but I'm pleased so far. 

This week looks slower, but it will not last long. Hopefully the rest will help get caught up on other areas.

Three Cold Days

For the past several years, I have volunteered with the gospel outreach group at Tulip Time in Pella. The last three days saw this year's event, and I'm thankful they're finished.

As I posted last week, my dad has been on vacation and I had an extra caregiver to help while he was away. Thankfully, this allowed me to continue volunteering all three days of the festival instead of just two. Since I am one of team leaders, I think it is best to be available the entire time to allow consistency for outreach teams. Unfortunately, that didn't quite work this year.

Spring has been reluctant to come this year and temperatures have been quite cool compared to previous years. Initial predictions for May 1-3 were for low 70's, but that continued to decrease as the days came closer. As it turned out, actual temps were at least ten degrees cooler with scant amount of sun and plenty of rain.

Each morning started with two one-hour training sessions at a church near downtown. They were all well done and great for learning how to share your faith and navigate current events. One session dealt with Marxism and covered several topics, such as climate change. My thoughts went to previous alarmist propaganda of the earth getting hotter. More warmth would have been welcome these days, but it seems to go more the opposite.

After training sessions, we then broke into teams and went out to designated areas to talk with people and give out gospel tracts. On Thursday, I was stationed at the prayer booth. We didn't receive any prayer requests, but did hand out gospel tracts and information on the town's Christian foundation. Friday saw an abundance of rain, which meant I reluctantly headed home after training and left my group with another leader. I felt bad for ducking out, but everyone seemed to understand that electric medical equipment and rain don't mix well. Finally, yesterday, my one team member and I parked ourselves on a very busy sidewalk corner and handed out gospel tracts as throngs of people walked passed. This final day did result in some short conversations, but nothing substantial or argumentative.

Despite wearing insulated jeans, sweatshirt, and coat, I returned home very cold each day. Saturday evening, I also felt quite tired after three days of activity and getting up early. I don't like to admit it, but leading an active quad life is getting harder, especially in non-ideal weather conditions. I'm looking forward to this week of staying home, and hopefully warmer temps as well.

Two Visits for Three Schools

This week concluded most of my school visits for the year. On Thursday, I went to two campuses of one school and Friday was a virtual classroom.

I have been going to the main campus of first school for several years. The teacher, Mrs. K, is very familiar with me and my routine. The inner-city school typically has very active students with a diverse background. I came in as the class was in the library and got settled in among the desks. As I read names, Mrs. K noted the school is now attracting more families from a Spanish background than African. I was thankful to see I could read most of the student's names this year, which hasn't always been the case.

After the kids returned, I did my regular presentation and noted the class was MUCH calmer than previous years. Mrs. K always does a good job in keeping order in the room, but this group was exceptional. Less than two hours later, and after lunch, I was at the school's west campus to speak with 15 kids from 2nd through 5th grade.

My caregiver and I found the stately, older style, church building and was let in by a maintenance person. The interior was completely opposite the outside with fully modern carpet, walls, and signage. However, the first floor was completely devoid of people with no sign of a school anywhere. We found a brochure to the school and called the number listed for the campus we were apparently in, but couldn't find. Shortly after calling, two women appeared from an elevator and guided us to a room with several chairs, a small inaccessible stage, and faux windows with blue lights. Not long after, children appeared from somewhere in the building that we never saw.

Even with the diverse age group, questions went well and the students seemed to catch on. I apparently didn't specify clearly that markers or pens would be needed for the writing section and a teacher brought a large bag of pencils. They worked for the demonstration, but pencils were much harder to use and not comfortable on mouths. Thankfully, Friday's virtual visit with 3rd graders in Minnesota went well with no unexpected twists.

For almost every class though, I forgot or skipped at least one point I always cover. After 21 years of doing nearly the same presentation multiple times a year, you would think I could do it easily. I guess the quad life is getting older, and I had more affects from last fall's medical trouble than I thought.

One more school remains, but not until mid-May. I don't like that my visits went so quickly this year, but I didn't miss any regular schools and actually added one. Quick or slow, I'm thankful for the opportunity and getting to teach about God's world and love for all abilities.

Schools, Church, and Nearly Forgetting

Since 2014, I have written a blog entry almost every week. I generally write them on one of my Saturday sit times with a scheduled release of 2:00 Sunday afternoon. This morning, as dad was flopping me around to get dressed for church, it occurred to me that I completely forgot to write. Therefore, I'm actually writing on Sunday afternoon, mainly while flat even.

Last Tuesday was my first regular school visit. I had three sections of 2nd graders with about 20-25 minutes per section. The time went very quick and I skipped some of the items I normally cover. However, it was great getting to work with kids again. Short visits once a year are too few, I wish I could be around kids more regularly all year.

My final section concluded with afternoon recess. In wondering around the room as I spoke, I suddenly realized I was beside the coat rack where all 20 or so kids were headed. As children climbed around me, one boy stood about a foot away telling me some apparently serious revelation, but I couldn't hear a thing he said. My caregiver, stuck on the opposite side of me, later said she had the same problem. I didn't like giving generic nods, but it seemed to satisfy him.

Friday was another class of 2nd graders, whose teacher didn't tell I was coming. As students filtered in from recess, they had looks of surprise and curiosity on their faces. I finished more than 45 minutes after starting, but it went well and the active group seemed to learn.

This morning was my first, and currently only, church service scheduled for this year. It was a familiar congregation, but I'm responsible for the full service. I preached on James 2, demonstrating faith by deeds/works, and not earning salvation. I remembered most my points, but had a sore throat after talking for an hour. I considered dictating this entry, but my voice wasn't having it.

I'm thankful the van worked and dad is able to get me going, even with needing to use my hoyer lift. This will be another active week in the quad life with more school visits, but a break is coming!

Spring has Arrived, Maybe

In just a few days, spring will officially arrive in the northern hemisphere. This past week has felt like it, but only briefly. On Thursday, it was sunny with a high in the low 70's. I got out to run my own errands for the first time this year.

I also joined a local pastor's meeting on the same day. They meet monthly during the school year, but it's rare that weather and schedules work for me to join. It feels somewhat odd being the only person who isn't directly employed as a pastor or chaplain. However, I can still learn about pastoral needs in the community and where I can possibly help.

Friday was also nice enough that I got out on the deck to start work on my annual sun tan/burn. It felt nice sitting outside again, even though the wind was a bit blustery. This weekend though, we have highs in the 40's and my Amazon Echo mentioned snow for Wednesday. Iowa weather is indeed a mixed bag as it seems seasons fight for control.

Lately, it seems like I spend more time in meetings than anything else. In addition to Thursday's, I had virtual meetings Tuesday afternoon and Friday morning. I'm vice chair of the Olmstead Community Task Force, a group appointed by the governor to monitor and improve independent living for Iowan's with disabilities. The chair person has been out with other commitments the last two meetings, leaving me in charge. Since the Iowa legislature is also in session until April, it is a busy time of year for our group.

The executive board (which results in more meetings) has said they would encourage me to consider being chairman. I have declined, but I think I'm being put in the role whether I want to be our not! Official title or not, I'm thankful I can help lead a group that works toward positive change and where my quad life experiences are an asset.

This new week looks to be free of meetings, but more work. Hopefully I can also get more time in the sun!

Learning New Career or Just Learning?

Last summer, I took a 12-week course on expository preaching. It was a challenge to complete, but still fun and beneficial. A couple weeks after my final assignment, a pastor friend let me know about several free courses through a seminary in Texas. Looking through the options, I found a few that sounded intriguing. About the same time, I learned the instructor from the preaching course I just finished was disqualified from ministry for not practicing what he preached. This soured my appetite for pursuing more education, at least for a while.

A few weeks ago, I returned to the information I received last fall and decided to try a course. The first one that sounded interesting, and could be useful, was Introduction to Biblical Counseling. It hasn't happened in a while, but I have had friends that looked to me for help in hard times. I offer what I can, but I can always learn more.

The free course is only five lessons and doesn't offer any credits or certificates, it's just strictly for learning. So far, I have completed three lessons and hope to do the fourth this weekend. They consist of three to four videos that are around 15 minutes each. After watching each one, you answer a short multi-point quiz from what was just covered. The final parts include a short reading and a final quiz consisting of the same questions from the previous quizzes.

So far, I have received 100% for every evaluation. Some of the ideas are interesting and not necessarily how I would have thought. I'm not sure I'll ever use any of the material, but it's good to expand my knowledge. I saw last week how to become a certified biblical counselor through a two-year online course. At this point in life though, I don't foresee making a major career change.

I'm thankful that while living the hibernation quad life, I can keep my mind active. I will be starting a busy time for work soon and picked a great time to take this course. I will see what a new week brings!

Challenges of Online Witnessing

I am always learning and figuring out how to do new things. In 2016, I finished the online School of Biblical Evangelism. It helped increase my faith and understanding of Scripture as well as how to reach out and share the gospel. Since then, I have opportunity to serve with outreach groups during the Iowa State Fair and locally. These times of service are great, but they're only a few days a year. What do I do for outreach the rest of the time?

One of the groups I've volunteered with has had more outreach opportunities in Iowa. Unfortunately, they are usually on a Saturday when I don't have help and several hours away from home. While I may want to join them, it doesn't work due to logistics. Some friends also have just gone out locally and will do things like read Scripture in the park, but that again is challenging with everything else. Therefore, I turn to other methods.

When I preach, the majority of my messages have some sort of gospel message where I present the law and need for repentance. Studies, and pastors, have shown that even those who regularly attend church have not necessarily come to saving faith in Christ. They are what some call "Sunday Christians," in that they act godly on Sunday morning, but the opposite the rest of the week.

The place I have the most opportunity to witness to Christ is online, but this is also the hardest. Most days, I will post a Bible verse, or two, on Facebook. I also give gospel references on my YouTube channel, but I haven't been as diligent about it as I should recently. Finally, I have a few atheist friends online that I correspond with and tell the truth about God. One particular is very hateful toward anything Christian and posts memes of all types attacking the Bible, Christians, or anything else. I do not respond to every one, but do some with a Bible verse or correction of some sort.

Unlike in person though, you can't discuss back and forth as easily and conversation can easily get off track. Other times, it can be a seemingly endless trade of links supporting both sides of a topic and "proving" the other one false. After 2-3 rounds, the conversation usually stops and another can start. Wherever it stops, or starts, I pray for wisdom and that the person I'm talking with will come to Christ while time allows.

I'm thankful God has allowed me to use this quad life to spread His Word. I continue to look for opportunities and learn what helps, and what doesn't.

Sermon Writing Block

The year is winding down and cooler temps have started to replace the wonderful warmth of summer. That means it will not be long until my winter hibernation begins. Before it does though, I am scheduled to preach with two more groups.

Next Sunday afternoon, I agreed to speak at a local retirement home's church service. Once again, this will be a new experience and I'm not quite sure what I will be getting into. I have been told it is just like any other church service with singing and a time of studying Scripture. Therefore, I am preparing a message just as I normally do, at least I'm trying.

The last time I preached was September 1, and that was the conclusion of the twelve-week class I took. Trying to include everything that was required and then incorporating what was expected while preaching, it was a difficult message to give. I very frequently recycle messages and preach the same thing for different congregations. However, I don't plan to give that message again, at least not in the near future. Remembering class also makes me recall the falling away of the instructor and why I won't receive any tangible recognition of the effort.

I was scheduled to preach on October 6, and was asked to for October 13 as well, but I canceled and declined them. Being in the hospital at the time, I knew I wouldn't be ready to lead a church. Looking back at recovery the last few weeks, I'm thankful I did not agree to these invitations. Now, I'm a week away from preaching and have all these distractions in mind. I decided to make a new message for this group, but it hasn't been progressing as I had hoped.

One advantage I have is that I know the audience is all retirees, mostly in their 70's, 80's, and above. Therefore, my message doesn't need to fit multiple generations that are in various stages of life. I do have my passage determined and have written a message, but it still doesn't seem right. Hopefully with this week to go, it will get finalized to something I feel is good to present.

Such is the busy quad life, health concerns one week and sermon prep the next. Whatever I'm doing, I'm thankful to be used by God and trust Him wherever He leads.

Visit Conclusion

I can't remember the last time this happened, but I'm actually writing this week's entry on the day, and even  time, it normally goes out. The last few days have been busy and have not allowed me to write early, but they were good days.

Friday, my friend John came to visit for a few days and brought his oldest son, TJ. It has been a couple years since John came long enough to stay overnight, let alone bring his son. He stopped for a quick day visit last year,but that was it.

TJ is now 11 and old enough to have conversations with, but still plays games. He had an older version of farming simulator on his iPad, so I had fun teaching him farming basics. However, one reason John came this weekend was to hear me preach.

Today was the end of my three week preaching stint and the final assignment for the preaching class I've been taking. I gave the same message last week for practice, but today was recorded and what I will be handing in, if I can figure out how. I think I covered the majority of the requirements, except changing my tone of voice and having a suspenseful pause. I attempted to do more "body movement" than I normally do, but I don't know if it will count. I hope I will get a passing grade at least, but I'm preparing myself to get a bad rating as well.

After nearly 12 weeks of reading books and watching lectures, I'm somewhat glad to be finished. I can't say I learned a lot of new information, but did get a better appreciation of preaching and am more able to look at a passage and prepare a message. If I have more opportunities for similar, I will likely take advantage of them. However, I will give it a few months in order to get further caught up on my reading and personal study.

Living the quad life, I'm thankful for what I've been enabled to do and close friends to share life with. None of us know what a day may bring, but the past few have been fun. Now, I start a new week with hardly any nights covered and a day empty as well.