2025-04-21T12:52:00-04:00

Embracing Lent: A Retrospective on Spiritual Growth and Renewal

April 21, 2025April 21, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Reflecting on the 6-Week Lenten Journey

As I look back on the past six weeks, I’m filled with a sense of gratitude and spiritual growth. Lent is often seen as a season of sacrifice. In reality, it has been a time of deep reflection. It has also been a time of surrender and renewal. Throughout this journey, I’ve had the opportunity to embrace the disciplines of prayer. I’ve also embraced fasting and service. Throughout this time, I’ve been trusting more fully in God’s plan for my life.

Each week brought a new focus. There was a fresh theme to ponder. It offered a chance to dive deeper into the heart of what this season is all about. From the start, I understood it wasn’t just about giving something up. It was about creating space for God to move and transform my heart. The weeks unfolded with lessons on patience, trust, forgiveness, creativity, and ultimately, the powerful hope of resurrection.

In this post, I want to share a reflection on my Lenten journey. I will recount the themes that guided me each week. I will also share the ways in which they shaped my faith. Whether you joined me during this season or are discovering these insights now, I hope this retrospective offers a glimpse. It delves into the deep spiritual work. I want to convey the significant impact of this journey. It shows what God can do. This happens when we commit to a season of intentional devotion.

Week 1: Preparation and Reflection

Focus: Setting the tone for Lent with intention, sacrifice, and spiritual renewal.
Key Topics:
- Introduction to Lent and its purpose.
- Understanding fasting and prayer as tools for spiritual growth.
- Cultivating gratitude and trust in God.
- Reflection on setting a personal spiritual goal for the season.

Week 2: Trust and Sacrifice

Focus: Strengthening faith through trust in God’s provision and sacrifices.
Key Topics:
- Learning to trust God’s timing and plan.
- Exploring the deeper meaning of sacrifice in daily life.
- Overcoming distractions and deepening prayer practices.
- Serving others as an act of worship and showing humility.

Week 3: Patience and Endurance

Focus: Developing perseverance, patience, and endurance in faith.
Key Topics:
- Embracing the daily disciplines of prayer, scripture, and quiet reflection.
- Reflecting on repentance and turning back to God.
- Practicing patience in life’s challenges and finding peace in waiting.
- Generosity and releasing fear in relationships.

Week 4: Forgiveness and Renewal

Focus: Fostering forgiveness and embracing the renewal of spirit.
Key Topics:
- Understanding the power of forgiveness and grace.
- Renewing faith in times of struggle and difficulty.
- Surrendering control and learning to trust fully in God’s will.
- Letting go of burdens and embracing peace.

Week 5: Creativity and Surrender

Focus: Connecting faith with creativity and deepening trust through surrender.
Key Topics:
- The connection between faith and creativity, finding God in your work.
- Silence, solitude, and rest as spiritual practices.
- Honoring commitments to God and others.
- Surrendering control and trusting in God’s direction.

Week 6: Holy Week and Resurrection

Focus: Reflecting on the journey to the cross and the hope of resurrection.
Key Topics:
- Preparing for Holy Week and reflecting on the humility of Christ.
- The significance of Good Friday and the suffering of Christ.
- The quietness of Holy Saturday and waiting in hope.
- Celebrating the resurrection and new life that comes through Christ.

Closing Thoughts

As I think about these six weeks, I’m reminded of the power of intentional time with God. Lent has been a season of renewal, surrender, and transformation. Each week brought new insights that deepened my faith, and though the journey wasn’t always easy, it was always meaningful.

I encourage you to carry the lessons of this season onward—whether through prayer, service, or quiet reflection. The peace of Christ and the hope of the resurrection continue to guide you.

Thank you for walking this journey with me.

Pastor Barb

The Risen Jesus Calls You by Name and Feasts on the Bread of Life

April 20, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

There’s a beautiful, intimate moment in the Gospel of John (20:11-18). As we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, this moment invites us to think about the personal call of Jesus. It highlights the nourishment He offers us through His resurrection. This passage tells the story of Mary Magdalene’s meeting with the risen Christ. Through this powerful meeting, we see themes of grief, recognition, transformation, and spiritual nourishment. Let’s take a closer look at how this meeting can speak to our hearts today.

1. Grief and the Empty Tomb (John 20:11-13)

Mary Magdalene stands outside the empty tomb, weeping. She has just lost Jesus, and all she can think about is her grief. Her sorrow is so deep that she doesn’t instantly recognize that Jesus is standing right before her. She is blinded by her pain and incapable of seeing the hope that is right in front of her.

We can all relate to Mary’s sorrow. We’ve all experienced loss. It is the death of a loved one. It is the end of a season in life. Or it be the loss of hope. Grief can sometimes feel overwhelming, and it can be hard to see past our pain. Yet, the empty tomb reminds us that even in our darkest moments, God is at work. The resurrection is a powerful reminder that hope can emerge from despair.

2. Jesus Calls Mary by Name (John 20:14-16)

In the midst of her sorrow, Jesus calls Mary by name: “Mary.” The moment she hears her name spoken by Jesus, her grief turns to joy. She recognizes the risen Lord. Jesus’ call is personal. It’s not just a call to the masses; it’s a call to Mary—and it’s a call to each of us.

In our own lives, there are times when we feel lost, lonely, or distant from God. But just like Mary, Jesus calls us by name. He knows us intimately. In those moments when we’re struggling, He is right there, calling us into His presence. He invites us to leave our sorrow behind and find new life in Him.

3. The Bread of Life—Jesus Offers True Nourishment (John 20:17-18)

After Mary recognizes Jesus, her grief is transformed into joy, and she becomes the first messenger of the resurrection. Her meeting with the risen Christ completely changes her. Jesus, in this moment, offers her more than just a comforting word; He offers her the Bread of Life—Himself.

In John 6:35, Jesus says, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” Jesus is the true nourishment for our souls. He doesn’t just feed us physically; He satisfies our deepest spiritual hunger. In Him, we find what our hearts have always longed for—peace, hope, love, and life eternal.

Mary’s meeting with Jesus reminds us of something important. When we come to Jesus, we are invited to feast on the Bread of Life. As we do, our grief is turned into joy, and our lives are transformed. Just as we eat to nourish our bodies, we must also come to Jesus to nourish our souls.

4. The Transformation of Mary (John 20:17-18)

Once Mary encounters the risen Christ, she is no longer the same person. Her sorrow has turned into a message of hope. Jesus tells her to go and share the good news with His disciples. She becomes the first to proclaim the resurrection.

Mary’s transformation shows us that when we meet the risen Jesus, we are not meant to keep it to ourselves. We are called to share the hope we have in Christ with others. We are invited to take the nourishment we’ve received from Him and offer it to a hungry world.

Conclusion

The resurrection of Jesus is not just a historical event—it is a living reality that continues to transform us today. Jesus calls each of us by name and invites us to feast on the Bread of Life. This meeting with Jesus brings us from sorrow to joy, from grief to hope. It transforms us, and like Mary, it sends us out to share the good news with others.

So, take a moment today to think about how Jesus is calling you by name. Are you ready to come to Him for nourishment? Are you ready to share the hope of the resurrection with those around you?

Closing Prayer:

Lord, thank You for calling us by name and offering Yourself as the Bread of Life. Help us to recognize Your presence in our lives, especially in our moments of sorrow. We feast on the nourishment You offer and be transformed by Your love. Empower us to share the good news of Your resurrection with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Bread for Uncertain Times

April 18, 2025April 18, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Good Friday Reflections

Quiet Moments of Profound Impact
Life often presents us with moments. These moments, though silent, speak volumes. They occur in times of brokenness, darkness, and seeming hopelessness.
Sustenance in Uncertainty
In these challenging times, we find spiritual nourishment in the Bread of Life, symbolizing Christ’s enduring presence.
The Significance of Good Friday
Today, we remember and mourn the crucifixion of Jesus. Yet, we hold onto hope, knowing that Sunday is coming.
A Day of Preparation
Good Friday serves as a time to prepare our hearts and minds. It leads us into the solemn waiting of Saturday.
Seeking Christ in the In-Between
As we navigate the space between sorrow and resurrection, we ask:
- Where do we find our spiritual sustenance now?
- How do we experience Christ’s presence in our current struggles?

Embracing the Bread of Life
Jesus remains with us—in our grief, our doubts, and our waiting—offering love, holiness, and hope.
Reflective Practices
During this period, consider:
- Engaging in prayer and scripture reading
- Spending time in nature to feel connected to creation
- Observing fasting or other spiritual disciplines
- Contemplating the symbolic meanings of bread and light
Anticipation of Renewal
Today feels dark. We look ahead to the light of resurrection. This brings the promise of new beginnings.

This Good Friday, we find comfort in the enduring presence of Christ. He is the Bread of Life. Let us hold onto the hope that Sunday brings.

Finding Calm During Holy Week 🌿

April 16, 2025April 16, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Holy Week is beautiful—but it can feel busy and heavy, too. I’ve caught myself rushing from one commitment to the next and forgetting to pause. This year I’m choosing something gentler: carving out a small pocket of quiet by the water.

My Simple Calm Plan

Pick the place.
A quick drive to the harbor or down to Lake Erie—Port Dover or Port Maitland—anywhere the waves can steady my breathing.
Pack light.
Finger‑food that fuels instead of fusses: a slice of cheese, a few crackers, fruit, and a thermos of hot tea.
Bring slow work.
I’m on Day 19 of my 100‑Days Spindle Spinning challenge, so my spindle and two little nests of fibre are coming along for the ride.
Protect the time.
I’ve blocked the outing in my calendar. No “I’ll go if I feel like it” wiggle room—just a gentle promise to myself.

Want to Pause with Me?

I’ve put together a one‑page reflection with breathing prompts, a short prayer, and journaling space. Print it, tuck it in your bag, and let it guide a few quiet minutes of rest.

A Gentle Pause: A Reflection for Holy Week: https://dollcancreate.com/2025/04/14/%f0%9f%8c%bf-a-gentle-pause-a-reflection-for-holy-week/

Whether you spend five minutes on a park bench or an afternoon beside the lake, may you sense deep peace flowing back into your soul.

How are you finding calm this week? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your ideas.

— Doll 🧶✨

🌿 A Gentle Pause: A Reflection for Holy Week

April 14, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/1 Comment

🌿 A Gentle Pause: A Reflection for Holy Week 🌿
Take a moment to breathe, reflect, and rest in God’s presence.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
— Matthew 11:28

Breathe

Find a quiet spot. Let your shoulders drop.
Take three slow, deep breaths.
Let each exhale release a little tension.

Reflect

Where do you feel tension or heaviness this week?
What helps you feel grounded and calm?
Where might God be inviting you to pause?

Create Space for Peace

If you can, plan a small outing:

A walk by water
A simple snack outdoors
Time with yarn, thread, pen, or prayer

Let it be quiet. Let it be slow. Let it be enough.

A Gentle Prayer

God of peace,
In the middle of this sacred and full week,
Help me find moments of calm.
Remind me that I don’t need to rush through it all.
Just be present. Just be with You.
Amen.

Journal Prompts 🖊️

Today, I noticed…

I am grateful for…

God is meeting me in…

May you find blessings this Holy Week.

Pastor Barb

🕊️ Bread for the Journey

April 13, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Palm Sunday Reflection on Luke 19:28–40

As Palm Sunday arrives, we find ourselves at a turning point in the story of Jesus—a moment of celebration that leads directly to the cross. In Luke 19:28–40, Jesus enters Jerusalem on a colt, welcomed by crowds shouting praise, laying down cloaks, and waving branches. It looks like a victory parade, but beneath it lies something much deeper.

Jesus is not entering the city to claim a throne. He’s entering to give Himself away. He is becoming bread for the journey—for the disciples, for the people, and for us.

🎉 The Joy of the People: Nourishment Through Worship

As Jesus approaches, the people rejoice with loud voices. They’ve seen His miracles, heard His teachings, and sensed something holy in His presence. Their praise is passionate and heartfelt.

Yet we know how quickly the mood will shift. From “Hosanna” to “Crucify Him” in just a few days. Their joy is real—but fragile.

Still, this moment teaches us something essential: joy is food for the soul.
Even if we’re walking through hard times, worship sustains us. Singing, praying, laying our hearts before the Lord—these are ways we take in spiritual nourishment.

Worship is bread for the journey.

🕊️ The Humility of Jesus: Gentle Strength

Jesus chooses a colt, not a warhorse. He doesn’t enter Jerusalem as a conqueror, but as a servant King. This is not how the world expects royalty to behave—but it is the way of Christ.

In our own journeys, we often hunger for peace, not power. Gentleness can be more nourishing than strength. In the quiet humility of Jesus, we find a model for how to live, how to love, and how to keep going.

Humility is bread for the journey.

🪨 Even the Stones Will Cry Out

When the Pharisees try to quiet the crowd, Jesus responds:
“If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.”

What a powerful truth. The praise of Jesus is so real, so essential, that even creation would rise up if people stayed silent. We were made to worship. And even when life feels heavy or quiet, praise keeps us connected to something bigger than ourselves.

Whether sung in full voice or whispered in prayer, our praise matters. It keeps our spirits fed.

Praise is bread for the journey.

🍞 Jesus Is the Bread

This triumphal entry leads to an upper room, where bread will be broken. Then to a cross, where His body becomes the broken bread for the world. Then to a tomb—and finally, to resurrection.

Jesus doesn’t just walk the journey—He becomes the nourishment for ours.

🌿 As Holy Week Begins…

What do you need for your own journey right now?

Maybe you’re weary. Maybe you’re grateful. Maybe you’ve been quietly carrying burdens no one else sees. Wherever you are, Jesus meets you—on a colt, in humility, with joy, with peace. He offers Himself again, not as a concept, but as living bread.

So come. Lay down your cloak. Lift up your voice. And let Him feed you.

Jesus is your bread for the journey.

Wishing you a blessed Holy Week. May your heart be fed and your spirit strengthened for the road ahead.

Link to full worship experience:

Linden Park United Church weekly announcements and information:

Linden Park Contact Information:
484 East 16th Street, Hamilton, ON L9A 4K8
For Pastoral Care please call (905) 252-1894
Rev. Barbara Creelman/OM
Sunday at 10:30 A.M.
Mailing/Cheque donation address:484 East 16th Street
Hamilton, ON L9A 4K8
Office – 905-385-7891
Dial-A-Sermon number: 905-296-1014

LINDEN PARK FUNDSCRIP GIFT CARD FUNDRAISER – Please fill out an order form (on top of mail slots in the Narthex) along with a cheque made out to Linden Park United Church
Due Sun. April 27th

PAPERLESS OPTION FOR ENVELOPES – If you wish to
go paperless, Linden Park offers:
1)PAR (Pre-authorized Remittance). Please email or call Sheri for more information.
2) E-TRANFERS are also available and can be sent to
Lpuc@rogers.com

THIS WEEK AT A GLANCE:

Today: Refreshments following worship

7:00pm Gemini AA

Monday 6:30 pm Beavers & Cubs

Tues. 4:00 pm T.O.P.S L/H
7:00 pm Police Choir Practice

Wed. 8:00 am TOPS – L/H
9:00 am Quilters
9:30 am Bible Study – Library
10:30 am Coffee Time

Thurs. 12:00 pm Gemini AA – Rm. 1
7:00 pm Scouts, Ventures & MedVents

Friday 10:30 am Good Friday Worship
Sat. 10:00 am The United Church of God – L/H

Our Lenten Project this year will be for SOCKS Canada. Your donations can be directed in two ways: i) the general fund – which supports the children, gardens and education; ii) Women 4 Women : W4W: This gift of $30.00 will provide one girl at Joyland Special Needs School with feminine hygiene products and underwear for a full year. Please pick up a sock for your donation. Feel free to make a cash donation. If writing a cheque, please make it out to: SOCKS Canada Relief Organization.
You can also e-transfer your donation to kenyanhugs@gmail.com
security question- name of charity / answer – socks.

May God’s blessings be returned to you as you bless others.

A Basket, A Journey, and a Bit of Decluttering

April 12, 2025April 12, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Hi friends,

Today, I’m bringing you along on a little journey that’s been a long time coming. You see, beside my favorite chair — where I do most of my knitting, spindle spinning, reading, and general life-living — there’s a humble little basket. And that basket has been… let’s just say, “collecting life” for quite some time. (scroll down for the full video)

So I sat down (iced coffee in hand) and decided it was time to dig in. Literally. If you’ve ever had a crafting corner or a cozy nook that gradually grows into a black hole of projects, odds and ends, and mystery items — you’ll understand. Today’s mission: declutter the basket.

Treasures, Tools & Thrift Box Tales

The first thing I pulled out was a lovely little bag I picked up at a church sale. Inside? All my short needles — the perfect sizes for socks and mittens. I’ve decided that anything belonging in that bag is going right back in, including a couple of needle sets. (Side note: nitpick shorties — not my thing!)

Then out came a purple pouch filled with crochet hooks, loom hooks, and some needles that honestly baffle me. There’s even a handy little guidebook, which I’ve left open to the first page… just in case.

A skein of yarn dyed with acorns was next. It already has a home, so off it goes. One lonely wooden needle that snags yarn? Off to the thrift box. (Goodbye and thank you.)

I even found a book I’m reading — How to Be a Craftivist — still in the basket. It’s going back in, along with some fiber that’s destined for spinning. Little tufts of leftover fiber went into my bits-and-pieces jar. Those tiny leftovers are great for my modular knitting projects, and they always make me smile.

Nick made me a beautiful homemade niddy noddy, and that’s a keeper. Into the basket it goes. I found pieces of another one too, so those are staying as well. Oh! And a sweet little note from a fiber gift — that’s being tucked in with its corresponding wool.

Yarn, Cords, and Questions

Bits and bobs of sock yarn turned up — those went into their designated bags (yes, I have a few). A random blue chunky yarn? Not my vibe anymore. Thrift store pile. A cracked old Zing needle? Tossed. And I found an ornament I thought might be a spindle in disguise… we’ll see.

Circular needles, cords for electronic gadgets of mysterious origin, a sock gauge ruler, and a pile of “maybe someday” things… all sorted, tested, and either re-homed or released.

I even rediscovered a one-row scarf knit in hand-dyed Lincoln wool. That’s officially a project again — spring seems like the perfect time to pick it back up.

The Deep End

As I neared the bottom of the basket, the real forgotten bits started appearing — tiny scraps of yarn, a lone slipper (I don’t enjoy making them — thank goodness for friends who do!), a defunct mini music player accessory, and a fabric basket that was literally falling apart. Into the garbage it all went.

And then I found it — an old pillowcase. I’ve had it for years. It never quite felt right for sleeping, but it’s perfect for fiber storage. So I tucked it inside my newly cleared basket, turned it into a soft liner, and started filling it back up: needles, niddy noddies, books, current projects, and a few well-loved tools.

The Reward

By the end, my basket was organized, intentional, and calm. I can see what I have, access what I need, and enjoy this cozy corner again. It’s amazing how something as simple as decluttering a basket can clear your mind and make space for inspiration to flow.

It’s funny — this basket has been beside me since we moved here in 2021, and yet I hadn’t reached the bottom until now. Sometimes it takes a moment (or three years!) to make space, but once you do… oh, what a difference it makes.

Life Lately

As I sipped the last of my (unsweetened!) iced coffee, I started mixing up a homemade electrolyte drink — pineapple juice, coconut water, a pinch of salt, and a bit of cream of tartar. Hydration, here I come.

I’m also realizing my clothes are all hanging off me now, so a wardrobe declutter may be next on the list. When nothing fits quite right, it’s hard to feel grounded — even in your own home.

And yes, for those who are kindly concerned — I am looking into dental work, probably this summer when I can properly heal. It’s a big thing for me, and your prayers and support mean the world.

Looking Ahead

Lent may officially end on Palm Sunday, but I’ll be continuing my Lenten knitting project through Good Friday. I’ll be writing a blog post on that project (and the reflections that came with it) soon after Easter.

In the meantime, I’ll be:

Carding wool
Spindle spinning
Plying yarn
Knitting socks, mittens, and a Lenten blanket

I like having a few projects on the go — the variation keeps me grounded and engaged.

Thank you for keeping me company during this decluttering journey. If you’re staring at your own version of “the basket,” maybe this is your sign to dig in, sort it out, and breathe a little easier.

With love, yarn, and the promise of a tidy corner,

Doll

Walking with Jesus: A Holy Week Devotional Guide

April 12, 2025March 19, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Introduction
Holy Week is the most sacred time in the Christian calendar, marking the final days of Jesus’ earthly ministry, His suffering, death, and glorious resurrection. This devotional guide is designed to help you walk with Christ each day, reflecting on the events leading up to Easter. Through Scripture, meditation, prayer, and personal action, may you deepen your faith and grow closer to the Savior who gave His life for us. Take time each day to pause, read, pray, and respond to God’s love and sacrifice.

Palm Sunday: The Triumphal Entry
Scripture: Matthew 21:1-11
Meditation: Jesus enters Jerusalem as a king, yet He rides on a humble donkey. The crowds cheer, but their hearts will soon change. Do we welcome Jesus into our lives with true faith or just passing excitement?
Prayer: Lord, help me to recognize You as my true King and to follow You with a heart that remains faithful in every season. Amen.
Call to Action: Reflect on areas of your life where you need to welcome Jesus more fully. How can you honor Him as King today?

Monday: Cleansing the Temple
Scripture: Matthew 21:12-17
Meditation: Jesus cleanses the temple, showing His desire for purity in worship. What distractions or sins need to be removed from our hearts so that we may worship Him fully?
Prayer: Lord, cleanse my heart and remove anything that keeps me from worshiping You in spirit and truth. Amen.
Call to Action: Take time today to examine your heart. What needs to be surrendered to God so you can worship Him wholeheartedly?

Tuesday: Teaching in the Temple
Scripture: Matthew 22:34-40
Meditation: Jesus teaches that the greatest commandments are to love God and love others. In what ways can we embody this love in our daily lives?
Prayer: Lord, help me to love You with all my heart, soul, and mind, and to love others as You have loved me. Amen.
Call to Action: Find one practical way to express love to God and one way to show love to others today.

Wednesday: The Betrayal Begins
Scripture: Matthew 26:14-16
Meditation: Judas agrees to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. Are there areas in our lives where we betray Christ by choosing sin or selfishness over Him?
Prayer: Lord, keep my heart from turning away from You. Help me to be faithful in my love and devotion to You. Amen.
Call to Action: Examine your heart for any compromises you may have made. Ask God for strength to remain faithful.

Maundy Thursday: The Last Supper
Scripture: John 13:1-17, Luke 22:19-20
Meditation: Jesus washes the disciples’ feet and institutes the Lord’s Supper, calling us to serve and remember Him. How can we follow His example of humility and love?
Prayer: Lord, teach me to serve others with humility and to always remember Your sacrifice with gratitude. Amen.
Call to Action: Perform an act of humble service today, such as helping someone in need or offering encouragement.

Good Friday: The Crucifixion
Scripture: Luke 23:33-46
Meditation: Jesus endures suffering and death for our salvation. His sacrifice shows the depth of His love. How do we respond to such great love?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for the cross. Help me to live in gratitude and obedience to You. Amen.
Call to Action: Take time today to reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice. Consider fasting or setting aside a quiet moment of gratitude and prayer.

Holy Saturday: Waiting in Hope
Scripture: Matthew 27:57-66
Meditation: Jesus lies in the tomb, and His followers grieve. Yet, hope is not lost. In our own times of waiting and uncertainty, do we trust that God is at work?
Prayer: Lord, help me to trust in Your timing and to find hope even in the silence. Amen.
Call to Action: Spend time in stillness today, reflecting on God’s promises and trusting Him in times of waiting.

Easter Sunday: He is Risen!
Scripture: Matthew 28:1-10
Meditation: The tomb is empty! Jesus has conquered sin and death. How does the reality of the resurrection transform the way we live?
Prayer: Lord, You are alive! Fill my heart with resurrection joy and help me to walk in the power of Your victory. Amen.
Call to Action: Celebrate Christ’s resurrection by sharing His love and hope with someone today.

Catching Up on My 100 Mile Life — Check-In

April 9, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Hi friends, it’s Doll. Just popping in with a little life update — where I’m at in this 100 Mile Life journey.

We took a quick run to Costco after Bible study. Some hits, some misses!

The Misses (and lessons learned):

Grapes from South Africa — delicious, but not local.
Mandarins from Morocco — sweet, but definitely outside the 100-mile goal.
Blueberry bagels — I thought they were fresh, but it turns out the blueberries were simulated. Big disappointment! I should have read the label more closely.

The Wins:

Oak Run Farm Bakery English muffins — made in Brantford, which is local.
Plain bagels (also from Costco) — possibly made in-house, but unclear.
Local apples still in my fridge.
Summit Dairy cream and chocolate milk — both local.
Allen’s Apple Juice — made in Ontario.
Local maple syrup (label gone, but I promise it’s local!).
Liverwurst — also a local purchase.

Freezer Peek (yes, I showed it!):

Bacon — 100 Mile approved and Canadian.
Shaw’s, My favourite ice cream — Canadian-made
Pierogies from Toronto — a great local find!
Leftover chili and other good things waiting for me.

Other food notes:

All our meat is Canadian, much of it local.
One exception: canned ham from Denmark — and yes, I love it.
Coffee is tricky. I’m finishing up my stash but plan to switch to Canadian-roasted or locally roasted beans soon. The price jump is real though , my favourite coffee— $18.99 now vs. $9.99 back in the day!

Reflections:

The journey is real — and full of trial and error. I do my best and pray over the rest, as the saying goes.
I started this for 100 days, which brings me to Easter Monday. After that, I might refine it even more and lean harder into local. As we move into spring/summer and planting season I believe that the journey will be a bit easier.
Local fiber is especially important to me — I’m really passionate about Canadian wool.
I’m still spinning every day (100 Days of Spindling!), and yes, I’m still knitting too. A mitten for the fall mitten tree, and slowly working on a sock.

What’s Next:

A new video coming soon on my fiber declutter and de-stash project.
Planning for Palm Sunday and the big parade — so exciting.
After Easter? I’m taking a reading week — some rest, some reflection, and gentle learning. A little soul-care.

To You, My Reader:

If you’re trying a 100 Mile Life or a 160 km journey, I’d love to hear from you.
What’s worked? What’s been hard? What have you joyfully given up on?
We all have those “I’m still buying bananas” moments — and that’s okay.

Final Thoughts:

I feel so blessed. I’m doing what I love, surrounded by people who care. That’s a gift not everyone has, and I don’t take it for granted.
Let’s keep encouraging each other. One little thing at a time is how it starts.
Until next time, friends — God bless and take care.
And remember: you can create too.

Climbing Trees & Changing Lives: A Letter from Zacchaeus

April 6, 2025April 6, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

A short work of fiction –

“I got a letter in the mail today—from my son, Zacchaeus. Yes, that Zacchaeus. He wrote:

“I heard Jesus was coming through Jericho. As chief tax collector, I knew people hated me—maybe for good reason. I’d built a life on their losses. But something stirred. I ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree like a child, just to see Him.”

Then Jesus stopped. Right under that tree.

“Zacchaeus, come down. I must stay at your house today.”

He knew my name. He didn’t rebuke me. He invited Himself in.

“It changed everything, Mom. I gave half of what I owned to the poor. I paid back four times what I stole. Jesus came to find the lost—and He found me.”

And then, his letter turned tender:

“Mom, maybe He’s calling your name too.””

Let’s take a few moments to reflect on this story.

Zacchaeus reminds us what Lent is really about: repentance, change, and grace. He felt unworthy, but Jesus called him by name. The crowds grumbled, but it didn’t matter—Jesus saw him.

We’ve all been Zacchaeus at some point—feeling small, hidden, maybe ashamed. But Jesus sees. Jesus calls. Jesus loves—more than He hates sin.

So as we near the end of Lent, maybe we ask ourselves:

What trees are we willing to climb to see Jesus?
Who needs our apology, our kindness, our open heart?
What can we give—not just in money, but in prayer, time, and love?

May we be generous. May we be kind. And may we remember: we are called by name.

Because the community—the bread we offer each other—isn’t just within the church walls. It’s out there, waiting to be fed.

Who are you feeding today?

Please share your thoughts. Has this story spoken to your heart or life today?

00:00 Opening Worship and Call to Worship

05:45 Sharing Good News and Community Updates

12:37 Interactive Scripture Reading with Children

21:37 A Life Transformed by Jesus

24:05 Reflections on Sin and Redemption

29:01 Living a Life of Repentance and Community

*picture found on Pinterest

Doll Can Create

100 Mile Life/Grandma Core