IN MEMORY OF DAVID BOWERS - #1 DAD-IN-LAW

I originally was planning to give you the elk trip update on this blog but as some of you know my father-in-law passed away the morning I returned home from Colorado. So it's a no-brainer to offer a tribute to a man who was such a steady force, a rock in the community, his church, and especially his family.


I was privileged to be a son-in-law to David Bowers for over 31 years and during those many years I was always amazed how even keeled, humble, and patient he was. He was a big man but a gentle man and as Eric said, he was "quiet, yet firm". I would often watch him at the farm when all the family was present (9 kids) and wonder how in the world he took care of that crew. Yet, he provided, protected, and cared for all of them, even when times were quite lean. It was evident that he taught the family that joy and prosperity were not to be found in "things", but in relationships - God and family.


His faith was his driving force in life and that faith impacted his church and his family. I always enjoyed hearing him pray for he liked to use the old King James language - the thees and thous. But his prayers were sincere and his prayers were heard and answered by God above. And even though we grieve his passing, it is his prayer of salvation that brings us joy knowing that he responded to God's grace by placing his faith in Jesus as his Lord and Savior (in western Kansas, by the way).

So on this day, I thank the Lord above for allowing me to have a great dad-in-law, David Bowers, a man whose character and integrity reflected the faith that he so vividly lived out on a day to day basis. He will be dearly missed, but as a Christian and fellow believer I am not saying "goodbye", just "see ya later".

A picture from the funeral home - David and Shirley, the family, the rocking horse that he made for each grandchild, his tools and gloves, some Army momentos and a little John Deere tractor (see next picture). All great memories.

This was David's 730 John Deere he used in the field for years and years. After it was sold on the farm sale, Greg (oldest son) found out that it was being restored and bought it back after the restoration. How awesome is that??

GREAT WHITE HUNTERS (Part 2)

Okay, here we go again. Some of you may remember that Craig, my brothers, and I went elk hunting 2 years ago. We had a blast in spite of the mule who got away a time or two (with half the camp on his back). This Friday we are following up with the sequel, heading up into the Rockies once again with horses and our gear. Rod and I have black powder muzzle loader tags for cows (elk, not angus) with Craig and Randy going the bow and arrow route.

Yes, I realize that God created the elk on the 6th day and that they are beautiful animals. But a guy has to do what a guy has to do lest the elk overpopulate the earth. So as good stewards we feel obligated to go to the mountains and do our part to see that nature remains in balance.

I'll give you a full report when I get back on the 20th. Until then...................................................

PER KYLE'S REQUEST!

I'm still looking for comments on the previous blog but am getting pressure to put a video of the grandkids out for all to see. So, here goes. This was at Brayden's 1st birthday party where he thought Owen's pacifier really belonged to him. Funny since Brayden never took to a "binky".

HOLIDAY BLOGGIN

Okay, today is Labor Day - so what are you up to? Laboring or taking it easy?

It's kind of a mixed bag today because of the hurricane down in the gulf. As I write, it looks like they may have avoided catastrophe. Time will tell. And as far as the RNC goes, they have to play it safe at the convention or they will come across as uncaring and insensitive to those going through the storm. We'll see how the politics play out. But, just a few thoughts for the day:

• What do you think of the VP pick Sarah Palin? The verdict is still out for me. For what I know thus far, she seems like a good person but does that qualify her to be one heart beat away from being a possible President of the USA?

• Is it just me, but don't the news organizations seem to make 25 mph winds look like 100? Alway looking for a story, even if there isn't a story (or much of one).

• If you are barbequing today, what's on the menu? (Don't overcook the burgers).

• Kyle is figuring out that mom is no longer around to do laundry. Guys, do you know how to run the washer and dryer?

• Bets on the KSU/KU football game?

• Less than 2 weeks before I go elk hunting in the high country. The good thing about that is I won't have to shave for a week. (Or take a shower?)

• Does JoAnne S. have stock in facebook??

• Other thoughts or comments??????