Notes on a Napkin
from the Editor
Praise God for health improvements for my nephew Will Carter. As I mentioned last issue, he suffered a heart attack (at 16), had open-heart surgery, is healing, but suffered brain damage as a result of the attack. He is now at Emanuel Hospital receiving extensive therapy. Will responds to commands & even laughs & giggles at times, but still has a long recovery ahead & is in much pain. Please continue to pray for him.
St Joseph the Worker Church's 50+Anniversary Party last month was a moving and wonderful experience. The outdoor Mass w/Archbishop Vlazny was incredible. His homily was both funny & inspirational. Even though it poured during the URLVD Choir opening act (St. Joe's excellent band), people anxiously awaited the main event, Matt Maher. Everyone either just got soaked, took cover under tarps or in the church. Father John treated us to his unique Christian rap; when Matt & his band ascended the stage, the clouds miraculously parted & the sun shined on everyone enthusiastically crowded around the stage. Kudos to parishioner Patty LaRue for leading the charge on this monstrous task; the Knights of Columbus (who really were knights in shining armor!) for their exhaustive physical work; and all the numerous volunteers for their tremendous effort! It was truly a blessed event.
One of the highlights this past month was my friend (& PE&D writer) Lauree Carlson's daughter Bronwynne's wedding & rehearsal dinner. The dinner was at Ron Buckles' Always Warm Stove Shop showroom, a beautiful space w/a gorgeous bar, tables, couches and lots of fireplaces & woodstoves! Lauree, KT (my roomie, friend & right-hand gal) & friend Alice formed a trio to perform a show w/harmonizing vocals & backing tracks. Their version of Chapel of Love was a big hit! So was Alice's lovely Hawaiian dancing. Next day's wedding was at the beautiful Queen Ann's Victorian Mansion in north Portland. With one million lights and breathtaking gardens; the ceremony in the large gazebo was both delightful & reverent. The minister narrated a history of the couple's courtship before they exchanged vows. The reception was fun w/DJ & dancing, the food was exceptional. It was the best wedding I can remember attending as a guest. Thanks for inviting me Lauree!
KT, Lauree & I ventured out to the west side of town recently to see & hear the fabulous Lisa Mann Trio at the quaint Manila Express, downtown Tigard. It was Lauree’s birthday & owner Pete Louw welcomed us to his charming bistro. Lisa treated us to tunes from her new CD & other amazing tunes. That same night, we visited Out of the Blues for their ‘Goodbye Party.’ We were treated to a delicious buffet & excellent music by Melody Butchers. Owners Francine & Tom Marcotte deserve appreciation for providing a wonderful live music venue & restaurant. We are all sorry to see you go...
Til next time, pray for world peace.......................Bonnie Carter, ed.