Our chariot awaits us here at Ontario Airport. At security I got lucky and got right behind some guy with a coffee grinder that looks like a hand grenade. But we are plenty early so it was just another interesting airport interlude.

On our way home after a wonderful trip. The Marauders were great as usual as were all the people of the churches and schools where we had showings and talks. Thank you Terri and James for our sleeping arrangements and strong coffee. Thank you Loretta and Bruce for the party and cabin stay at Big Bear. Thank you Jim and Tanya for tapas and archery at Lake Arrowhead. Archery at Lake Arrowhead, that’s good Felipe.

All and all I had three Q and A sessions, talked to a fourth and eighth grade class and a half of gym full of high school boys. My Rebecca helped me out at times. They were all challenging in their own way but they all came off well and I had a good time with it.

There are some things that I have learned now that have been so helpful with dealing with these speaking situations. Here are some of them: I don’t take any text or notes up with me. It is better to just know your material and be present and nimble. The audience will tend to lead the talk after a while. I find mentally trying to place myself in the lives of the members of the audience is more productive than rehearsing. Try to be where they are and give them what they need. And asking questions can be so good. It lets them do some of the work and makes them feel a part of the situation. Plus that gives me time to relax and not feel like I have to carry the whole weight of the process.

Then there is a certain Holy Spirit component. I feel like I am channeling sometimes. Not always but sometimes. It is a little scary to me I will have to admit. Maybe it will feel more natural as time goes on.

Well, we are starting our decent. That snow better be gone by the time we get into SeaTac. See you here tomorrow and we will walk at 1530 tomorrow also. Those afternoon Phil’s Camino walks are going to be half an hour earlier now that day light savings time is over. Happy dark half of the year!

Love you, Felipe.