Norman finished up eleven years as pastor of Central Christian Church in Dallas, Texas the end of May and began as Interim Pastor for First Christian Church of Duncanville, Texas on September 1. In between they marked this transition with a trip to the Midwest to visit extended family.
First destination was Candy’s Dad in Minneapolis, where they had not visited for a few years. He is still in his own home but considering what his next steps need to be. Though not settling on plans, the face-to-face connection was important as this transition approaches.
Then to Milwaukee to Rachel and David, Sam and Elizabeth. On the last day of school Norm and Candy visited Sam’s and Elizabeth’s classes and closing staff lunch with Frank Lloyd Wright Intermediate School in West Allis, where David is the Dean of Students. This visit also included a homemade ice cream supper with Milwaukee Mennonite Church. David made “Hemingway’s Flaming Coronary.” Helping Rachel get the garden in included rescuing potatoes from the compost and planting them for good harvest.
Next was a couple of days with Norman’s Mom at Holmstadt Retirement Community in Batavia, Illinois. At 91, every chance to see her is a privilege. They were able to stay with Norman’s sister Elaine and her husband Max.
The last stop before heading home was in Grand Island , NE to see Candy’s Aunt Vonnie and Uncle Roger. Candy and Vonnie went through a lot of Ronngren family memories and connections.
Several years had passed since they took such a car trip. It formed a buffer between stages in Norman’s career and gave extended time to talk, reflect and pray over the transitions of 2011.
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