Ski

Ms. Charlene

Ms. Charlene. A woman of God. A generous and gracious giver. It has been such privilege  to spend  time with her and learn more about one of the ways she serves others. Ms. Charlene is such a pillar of faith – you should see her praise in the gospel choir – when she leads “More than Enough” – you really believe He’s more than enough!  This just a short snippet of who she is. Every week she checks out books at the local library and delivers them to people who are unable to leave their homes to check out books. I was able to go visiting with her and get to know a few of the people who's lives she impacts by bringing them stories each week. Henrietta.. She spends her days in her chair reading with the television on for background noise and her kitty roaming around the apartment.  She told stories of how she arrived at this place, of her family, her children, her books. She gets 10 new books each week and manages to read them all… mysteries. “No mushy love stories for me.” she said.  Naomi. Naomi is full of energy. Her apartment was recently flooded, so she is in a temporary place anxious to return home. Naomi told me that she feels like it is her birthday every time Ms. Charlene comes bringing books. What a gift! She wanted to make sure I got a picture of her cat.  Hattie. She's from Chicago and has only been in Minnesota a short time. She loves a variety of books. Charlene's evolving book list for Hattie is full of mysteries, biographies, autobiographies and other non-fiction. She sometimes doesn't read as much because she is off playing lots of "Bridge". Hattie is a hugger and I left with hug and a smile on my face having heard just a little bit of her story.

Each of these women were so thankful for the books that Ms. Charlene brings them every week, but each of them also told the story of how much Charlene's sweet spirit brightens their life. Her weekly visits are treasured. Thank you, Ms. Charlene! I look forward to spending more time together and hearing more of your stories!

Moving

A beloved home. Deeply filled with love and memories. Books read. Letters learned. Riding bikes and planting gardens.  Moving forward to a new place, but carrying many treasures.  Capturing times like these -  helping to hold onto just a little bit of what made this place special and how people made it come alive - it's what I love!  So special to spend a piece of an evening with my dear friends as they prepare to move - not far - but different. Can't wait to see what new memories unfold just down the road! Thank you Hokanson family for allowing me to be a part of your journey!