A Gentle Tuesday Morning on the Porch: Nourishment for Body and Soul

After a much-needed day of rest on Monday, Tuesday morning dawned with a sense of quiet recovery here in Shreveport. Feeling a bit more like myself, I decided to ease into the day with a simple yet satisfying breakfast on the porch.

The air was gently warm with a light breeze rustling the leaves overhead. Settling into a comfortable chair, I enjoyed the classic combination of sausage, eggs, and a toasted bagel slathered with creamy Philadelphia cream cheese. And of course, no morning is complete without a steaming mug of coffee to gently wake up the senses.

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There's a certain peacefulness to a porch breakfast, especially after a day spent recovering. The sounds of birds chirping and the distant hum of the neighborhood provided a soothing backdrop as I savored each bite and sip. It was a moment to appreciate the simple things – the taste of a familiar breakfast, the fresh air, and the quiet start to the day.

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As I sat there, enjoying the stillness, a particular verse from the Bible came to mind: "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your ¹ faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:22-23) ² 

This morning, as I felt the gentle return of strength after yesterday's tumble, this verse resonated deeply. It's a reminder that even after a difficult time, each new day brings fresh grace and renewed mercies. Just as this simple breakfast nourished my body, this truth nourishes my soul, offering hope and encouragement for the day ahead. The faithfulness mentioned is a comforting anchor, reminding me of a constant presence even in the midst of physical healing.

Tuesday's breakfast on the porch was more than just a meal; it was a gentle reminder of the need for holistic care – for the body that needs rest and nourishment, and for the spirit that finds solace and strength in God's Word. Here's to a peaceful Tuesday, filled with both physical and spiritual well-being, grounded in the steadfast love that greets us each morning.

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Celebrating a Titan: 50 Years of Ken St. Andre

 

Celebrating a Titan: 50 Years of Ken St. Andre

Here in Shreveport, as we dive into another season of gaming, it feels like the perfect time to reflect on the giants whose shoulders we stand on. This year marks a monumental occasion for the entire role-playing community, and we want to wish a very Happy Birthday to the one and only Ken St. Andre! His birthday on April 28th helps us kick off a year-long celebration for his 50th Anniversary of game design (1975-2025), a dual tribute to the man and his incredible legacy.

I have found memories of me and Ken at the gaming table how he taught me to always stay on the road in his games...........

From the Library to the Dungeon (1975-2025)
A Universe of Creation: The Ken St. Andre Bibliography
A New Era: The End of Troll World and the Escape to Zimrala
A Quest Fit for a God, A Tribute Fit for a Legend
Join the Celebration

• Send Him Your Thanks: Let him know what his work has meant to you.

• Explore His Worlds: Visit monstersmonsters.org or check out his massive catalog of work, including the new "Troll God's Skull Quest," at DriveThruRPG under Troll Godfather Press.

For those who may not know the origin story, it’s one of the most important in RPG history. Back in the mid-70s, Ken, then a librarian, encountered the original rules for Dungeons & Dragons. Finding them complex and geared towards established wargamers, he decided to create something different: a system that was more accessible, quicker to learn, and injected with a healthy dose of fun and freewheeling adventure. In 1975, he unleashed Tunnels & Trolls, the second role-playing game ever created, and the world of gaming was never the same.

To truly grasp Ken's fifty-year impact, you have to look at the sheer volume and variety of his work. What began with one game evolved into a universe of interconnected worlds, rulesets, and stories.

The Foundational RPGs: The pillars of his legacy are the games that broke new ground. Tunnels & Trolls has seen numerous editions since 1975, evolving with the times while keeping its soul, including the modern Deluxe Tunnels & Trolls. He followed it almost immediately with Monsters! Monsters! in 1976, the revolutionary game that let you play from the other side of the screen. Not content with just fantasy, he created the first interstellar RPG, Starfaring (1976), and the superhero variant Power Trip.

Expanding the Genres: Ken's creative reach extended into licensed worlds and new genres. He was a co-creator of the definitive RPG for Michael Moorcock's dark fantasy saga, Stormbringer (1981), and a contributor to the classic Thieves' World (1981) boxed set. More recently, he even created a minimalist RPG called Fours (2019).

A World of Adventure: Beyond the core rulebooks, Ken is arguably the most prolific author of solo and gamemaster adventures in the history of the hobby. For decades, he has penned classics like Deathtrap Equalizer Dungeon, Naked Doom, Arena of Khazan, and City of Terrors. His work continues to this day with a constant stream of new material for both T&T and M!M!, including the recent Humans! Humans! supplement, adventures like The Citadel of Serpents and Grimhold, and of course, the indispensable Ken St. Andre's Monsterary of Zimrala.

Beyond the Tabletop: His influence is felt profoundly in the digital realm as well. Ken was a key designer on the seminal computer RPG Wasteland (1988), creating the world map and encounters that would directly inspire the Fallout series. He has also authored dozens of novels and short stories, comic books, and even board and card games, proving that his storytelling talent knows no bounds.

For me, this celebration is deeply personal. I've had the distinct honor of working with Ken as a publisher and collaborator on his new world, the Monsterary of Zimrala. Our community is currently living through a pivotal moment in the history of his creations—an apocalyptic event we've titled "Escape to Zimrala."

We are saying farewell to the beloved Troll World, which is being consumed by the invading Star Spider Empire. This isn't just a storyline; it's a massive campaign event providing a framework for gamers everywhere to conclude their adventures on Troll World and begin anew in the vibrant, monster-filled lands of Zimrala.

Speaking of keeping the spirit alive, the accompanying image captures a recent moment at a convention in Arizona. Here I am, sharing a laugh and the traditional "Troll Greeting" with Ken himself. It's moments like these, connecting with fellow enthusiasts and the creators who inspire us, that truly make this community special.

As a perfect tribute to his 50th anniversary, Ken has penned a brand-new solo adventure that ties directly into this new era: "Troll God's Skull Quest."

This adventure allows players to experience the direct aftermath of the escape through the eyes of the Troll God Arreth Kennith as he arrives on Zimrala and begins to establish a foothold in this strange new world. The release of this quest isn't just another module; it's a living piece of the celebration, a testament to the fact that even after 50 years, Ken is still actively building the worlds that inspire us.

Ken St. Andre didn't just create games; he created entire universes and a more inclusive way to adventure in them. So, as we celebrate his 50-year milestone and his birthday, I encourage everyone to join in.

Here's to Ken, a true titan of the industry. Thank you for fifty years of trolls, monsters, and unforgettable adventures. And once more, a very Happy Birthday!

See you in Zimrala, Captain Hedges

A Sunday Feast with Friends

 A Sunday Feast with Friends

Today, Sunday, April 27th, turned into a fantastic gathering of friends right here on the porch! The aroma of BBQ has been wafting through the air since the early hours, thanks to the dedication of my friend Robert, who was up and manning the grill bright and early at 6:00 am.

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The day unfolded beautifully, with friends trickling in to share in the delicious feast. We had quite the spread – burgers, steaks, pork chops, sausage, and plenty of perfectly grilled chicken, along with lots of different kinds of chips and dip! It was a true labor of love, and judging by the happy chatter and full plates, everyone thoroughly enjoyed the results. In total, we were able to feed a wonderful group of thirteen people!

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It's always a joy to spend a relaxed Sunday surrounded by good company and even better food. We had Uncle Bill and Uncle Jerry holding down the porch earlier in the day. 

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Later on, it was great to have Wayne Hudman, the talented artist, join the fun. 

And our friend Rick Hillegass also stopped by to share in the afternoon's good times.

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While some of our other friends preferred to remain off-camera for the weblog, the spirit of camaraderie and good cheer was definitely palpable. These are the moments that make for lasting memories – sharing laughter, stories, and a delicious meal together.

A big thank you to Robert for his early morning efforts on the grill! It truly made for a special Sunday, bringing everyone together for a tasty and enjoyable afternoon. Days like these remind you of the simple pleasures of friendship and good food.

However, the afternoon took an unexpected turn when I had a fall on the porch, resulting in a concussion and injuries to my elbow and knee. What started as a relaxing day ended with a trip and a bit of a tumble. After trying to help with the cleanup, I'm now resting in bed, feeling quite banged up.

Despite the unexpected ending, the day was filled with good food and great company. Here's hoping for a speedy recovery!

Paster Matt Tyson New Series you are the church devoted Part 1

 You are the Church: Devoted

Today, Pastor Matt Tyson led us through the powerful passage of Acts 2:42-47, focusing on what it truly means to be the church – a community devoted to God and to one another. His message, titled "You are the Church: Devoted," challenged us to reflect on whether our modern understanding of church aligns with the vibrant picture painted in these early verses.

Point 1: Be a Church Devoted to Jesus the King

Pastor Tyson began by reminding us that the church is God's plan, but it has often been shaped into something far from its original intent. It's not meant to be primarily a social club, a business, a financial institution, or a corporation. The early church in Acts 2:42-43 was fundamentally devoted to what Christ taught, centering their lives and community around King Jesus and his ministry. This devotion to the apostles, those who walked directly with Jesus, meant a deep commitment to the teachings He entrusted to them. Being a devoted church starts with an unwavering dedication to Jesus Christ and His Word. This naturally leads to the church coming together because the Lord's Word is good and essential for our growth and unity. The early saints were steadfast in the apostles' teaching, in fellowship, and in prayer – the very foundations of a healthy church. Verse 43 tells us that "everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles," highlighting the power of God at work in a community devoted to Him.

Point 2: Being Dedicated to One Another (Acts 2:44-46)

The devotion of the early church wasn't just vertical (towards God); it was also horizontal (towards each other). Pastor Tyson emphasized that they were dedicated to one another, not just looking inward with selfishness. Instead, they served within the church, fostering deep relationships rooted in Christ. A tangible expression of this devotion was their generosity to those in need. Referencing Luke 6:38, Pastor Tyson reminded us that generosity leads to fulfillment and a return. He also pointed out that in a self-centered world, people are often "dumbfounded" by genuine help, which can be a powerful witness to God's love. We are called to love others as Christ first loved us, without expecting anything in return, motivated by His grace. This devotion fostered encouraging fellowship, with believers being together and praying together (as echoed in Hebrews 10:20-22, urging us to draw near to God with sincere hearts). This active devotion to one another resulted in them eating together "with gladness and simplicity of heart," a joyful and sincere love that flowed from their commitment to each other.

Point 3: Dedicated to the Great Commission (Acts 2:47)

Pastor Tyson then turned to verse 47: "...praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved." This illustrates the natural outflow of a church devoted to Jesus and to one another – a dedication to the Great Commission. Their lives of praise and genuine community created an "attractive faith" that garnered favor with outsiders. However, ultimately, it was the Lord who added to their number. This highlights our role: it's those people who we "get to" reach. We are called to actively chase after them, tell them about Jesus, and proclaim Jesus in everything we do.  

The Takeaway: You Are the Church

Pastor Tyson concluded with a powerful and personal challenge: You are the Church. Being devoted to Christ and to one another should lead to an attractive faith for those outside. If we, as individuals, chase after Him daily, consistently come together, help one another, and seek God's presence, the church will be a place where people can genuinely find love. Why would anyone want to join a church perceived as mean or argumentative? Instead, we are called to be like the early church in Acts 2 – devoted to one another, creating a community that reflects the love of Christ and draws others in. The church is supposed to come together for the Lord's Word because it is good.

A Concluding Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the powerful example of the early church in Acts 2, a community devoted to your Son, Jesus Christ, and to one another. Lord, we confess that we often fall short of this ideal. We pray for a renewed spirit of devotion within our hearts and within our church. Help us to center our lives on Jesus, to be steadfast in your Word, to cultivate genuine fellowship, and to be fervent in prayer. Empower us to love one another with the same selfless love that Christ showed us, that our unity and generosity may be a compelling witness to those around us. Give us a heart to actively reach out to those who don't know you, to proclaim your name boldly, and to create a church that is truly a place where love abounds and lives are transformed. May we be the church you intend us to be, for your glory. Amen.

Self-Directed Learning Questions:

1. Personal Devotion: Reflect on your own life. In what one specific area – your prayer life, study of Scripture, fellowship with other believers, or acts of service – do you feel God is calling you to greater devotion this week, based on the example of the early church in Acts 2? What practical step can you take in that area?

2. Love in Action: Consider your interactions within your church community. How can you more intentionally demonstrate the "gladness and simplicity of heart" in your relationships with fellow believers, mirroring the spirit of unity described in Acts 2:46?

3. Reaching Out: The early church had "favor with all the people," and the Lord added to their number. Who is one person in your sphere of influence who doesn't yet know Jesus? How can you, through your devoted life and perhaps your words, be a light to them this week?

4. Being the Church: Pastor Tyson emphasized, "You are the Church." What is one practical way you can actively contribute to the health, love, and devotion of your local church body in the coming days?

5. The Word and Prayer: How can you deepen your commitment to studying God's Word and to prayer, both individually and corporately, to fuel a greater devotion to Jesus and to your church community, following the example of the early believers in Acts 2:42?

Breaking Down the Walls of Denial

 

A Prayer for Healing and the Courage to Seek Help

The journey of healing often begins with a stark moment of honesty – a recognition of the wounds we've long tried to ignore. For me, that moment arrived with a gentle but firm prompting: Take time now to ask the Lord to help me press past your places of denial.

It’s a challenging invitation, isn’t it? To confront the carefully constructed walls we’ve built around our pain, the defenses we’ve erected to keep the hurt at bay. There's a fear that acknowledging the depth of our need will somehow overwhelm or disappoint God. But the truth, as I’m slowly learning, is the opposite. Our Lord isn't surprised by our brokenness; in fact, He meets us right there, in the midst of it, with a love that surpasses our understanding.

In that quiet space, I turned to Psalm 86:1-7, a passage that resonated deeply with the raw vulnerability I was feeling. It became a personal confession, a pouring out of need:

“Incline your ear to me, O Lord, and answer me, for I am poor and needy. Preserve my life, for I am godly; save your servant, who trusts in you—you ¹ are my God. Be gracious to me, O Lord, for to you do I cry all the day. Gladden the soul of your servant, for to you do I lift up my soul. For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you. Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer; ² listen to my cry of supplication. In the day of my trouble I call upon you, for you will answer me.”   

As I journaled through these verses, each line felt like a step further into the light of truth. The "poverty and neediness" I felt in my heart found voice. The fragile trust I held onto was declared. The cry for grace echoed my deep longing. The lifting of my soul was an act of surrender. And the unwavering goodness and forgiveness of God became my anchor.

The fear that my pain might be too much for God began to recede, replaced by the quiet assurance that He is, indeed, good and abounding in steadfast love. He isn't overwhelmed by our brokenness; He is drawn to it, offering solace and healing.

But the journey doesn't end with a personal prayer. The prompting also included a gentle nudge to consider reaching out – to a trusted friend, someone who walks with the Lord and offers a safe space, or perhaps even seeking the guidance of a Christian counselor.

For so long, those wounds I’ve carried felt invisible, denied even by myself. The thought of acknowledging them to another person feels vulnerable, even scary. Yet, there's a growing sense that true healing requires us to step out of isolation and allow others to walk alongside us, offering support and wisdom rooted in Christ.

Breaking down the walls of denial isn't easy. It requires courage and a willingness to be honest with ourselves and with God. But the promise held within Psalm 86 – that in the day of our trouble, He will answer – offers a powerful hope.

Perhaps today, wherever you are in your journey, you might also take a moment to ask the Lord to help you press past any places of denial within your own heart. He is waiting, with open arms and boundless love, ready to meet you in your need and guide you towards healing. And perhaps, just perhaps, it's time to consider taking that brave step of reaching out, allowing others to share the journey towards wholeness with you. The first step, as always, is simply being willing.

Saturday Morning Porch Reflections

Saturday Morning Porch Reflections

Scripting Strength for the Unforgivable

The coffee is still warm, the Louisiana air is starting to hum with the promise of a Saturday, and here on my front porch, 

my "Forgiving What You Can't Forget" homework is spread out beside me. This week's reflection has led me to a powerful truth: when living out God's commands, especially the weighty ones like forgiveness, feels utterly beyond my own strength, I need a new script to play in my head – one written in the very words of God.

Lysa TerKeurst's insights have been challenging and encouraging, but it's the direct declarations of Scripture that truly anchor my soul. Today, one phrase stands out, a lifeline in the face of what feels impossible:

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13)

As I sit here, the weight of past hurts and the struggle to truly forgive feel immense. My natural inclination often leans towards resentment, towards holding onto the pain. But Philippians 4:13 whispers a different possibility. It reminds me that the ability to extend forgiveness, to obey God's call to release bitterness, doesn't reside within my own limited capacity. It flows through Christ, the very source of all strength.

I'm taking time this morning to truly meditate on this verse. What does "all things" mean in this context? It's not about conjuring up superhuman power, but about trusting that Christ will equip me for the specific acts of obedience He asks of me, even when they feel like scaling a vertical cliff. It's through my connection with Him, through His Spirit working within me, that the seemingly impossible becomes possible.

And as I delve deeper into Scripture, other verses rise up, offering further layers of encouragement:

2 Peter 1:3-4 reminds me that God's divine power has already given me everything I need for a godly life. His precious promises are the very tools I can use to participate in His nature and overcome the pull of bitterness. This isn't about striving in my own lack, but drawing upon His abundant provision.

When I feel weak and unsure how to even pray for the strength to forgive, Romans 8:26-27 offers immense comfort. The Holy Spirit Himself intercedes for me, understanding my deepest groans and aligning my prayers with God's perfect will. I am not alone in this struggle; the Spirit is my advocate.

The paradoxical truth of 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 also resonates: God's grace is sufficient, and His power is made perfect in my weakness. It's in acknowledging my inability to forgive on my own that I create space for Christ's strength to shine through. My vulnerabilities become opportunities for His power to be displayed.

And finally, Philippians 2:13 offers a profound understanding of the source of my desire and ability to obey: "for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose." The very longing to forgive, the small stirrings of a desire for release – these are not solely my own efforts, but God's active work within my heart. He empowers both the will and the action.

So, here on my porch this Saturday morning, with the birds chirping and the coffee slowly cooling, my homework isn't just about reading words on a page. It's about scripting truth into my soul. It's about declaring, "I can do this – not in my own power, but through Christ who strengthens me." And it's about meditating on the rich promises of Scripture that assure me I am not alone, I am equipped, and God Himself is working within me to bring about healing and the ability to forgive, even what feels unforgivable. This isn't just homework; it's the work of the heart, empowered by the Word of God.

Finding Our Hiding Place: Learning to Truly Trust God (Inspired by Psalm 32)

Life throws curveballs. Unexpected storms rage, and we can feel tossed about, desperately clinging to any semblance of control. In those moments, the question often arises: Do I truly trust God? It's a question that resonates deeply with the raw honesty found in Psalm 32.

David, the author of this powerful psalm, doesn't shy away from his struggles. He begins by painting a picture of the profound blessedness that comes with forgiveness (Psalm 32:1-2). It's a liberation, a weight lifted, a sense of being truly seen and yet completely covered by grace. This initial blessing hints at the foundation of trust – knowing we are reconciled with a God who forgives.

But David also reveals the agonizing consequences of unconfessed sin, a state where trust is likely fractured. He describes his physical and emotional turmoil, his strength sapped under the weight of God's hand (Psalm 32:3-4). This resonates with the burden we carry when we try to navigate life relying solely on our own understanding, without surrendering to God's guidance. When we hold onto our own way, our own solutions, we often find ourselves groaning under the pressure.

The turning point in Psalm 32 is David's confession (Psalm 32:5). "Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, 'I will confess my transgressions to the Lord'—and you forgave the guilt of my sin." In that moment of vulnerability and honesty, trust begins to bloom. David stops relying on his own ability to hide or fix things and instead turns to the One who can truly heal. And God's response? Immediate forgiveness. This is the bedrock of trust – experiencing God's faithful and merciful nature firsthand.   

Because of this experience, David declares, "You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance" (Psalm 32:7). This is the heart of true trust – recognizing God as our refuge, our safe harbor in the midst of life's storms. When we truly trust, we run to Him, not away from Him, knowing He is our protector and deliverer.

Psalm 32 also offers practical guidance on how to cultivate this trust. God promises, "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you" (Psalm 32:8). Trusting God involves being open to His instruction, willing to learn His ways, and accepting His loving guidance. It's about yielding our own plans and submitting to His wisdom.   

The psalm contrasts this with the stubbornness of a mule that needs to be controlled by force (Psalm 32:9). True trust isn't grudging obedience; it's a willing surrender born out of a relationship with a loving God.

Ultimately, Psalm 32 reminds us that while the "woes of the wicked" are many, "the Lord’s unfailing love surrounds the one who trusts in him" (Psalm 32:10). Trusting God isn't a guarantee of a trouble-free life, but it is a promise of His unwavering love and presence surrounding us, providing strength and peace even in the midst of difficulty.

So, how do we truly trust God? Like David, we start by acknowledging our need for Him, confessing our reliance on our own limited understanding, and running to Him as our hiding place. We learn to listen for His instruction, surrender our control, and rest in the assurance of His unfailing love. As we do, we too can join in the final call of the psalm: "Rejoice in the Lord and be glad, you righteous; sing, all you who are upright in heart!" (Psalm 32:11). For in Him, we find the ultimate foundation for unwavering trust.

Saturday Morning Blessings: From Shared Tables to Quiet Hearts (Captain Hedges Reporting Live!)

Good morning, everyone! Captain Hedges checking in with you on this serene Saturday morning in Shreveport. Our breakfast gathering with my wonderful neighbors – my chosen family, including my brother in spirit, Robert, and our dear Uncle Bill and Uncle Jerry – was truly a heartwarming start to our time together. Sharing coffee (brewed with love, naturally!), sausage, and those incredible French toast and bacon courtesy of Robert, filled our little corner of the world with joy and connection.

It strikes me, as it always does, how profoundly our shared history on the streets shaped us. Those tough times forged a bond stronger than friendship; we truly became brothers. And now, being able to extend that same care and support to Uncle Bill and Uncle Jerry, who have become part of our extended family, feels like a full-circle blessing. It's a beautiful way to live out the principles we find in scripture, like Deuteronomy 10:17-19: "For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God, who is not partial and takes no bribe. He executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the sojourner, giving him food and clothing. Love the sojourner, therefore, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt." This passage beautifully reminds us to care for those who are vulnerable, for we ourselves were once strangers in a strange land.   

As I prepare for church tomorrow, another passage comes to mind, one that speaks to the breadth of God's love and our call to prayer: 1 Timothy 2:1-4: "First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth." This reminds me that our community extends beyond those we share breakfast with; our prayers and care should encompass all people, reflecting God's desire for everyone to know His love.   

That vibrant gathering, filled with laughter and shared food, was a powerful reminder of the importance of community and the simple act of showing love through generosity. Now, as Saturday unfolds with a quieter pace, I'm reflecting on how that outward expression of love, coupled with our prayers for all, nourishes our inner selves. It's in these moments of stillness that I feel the deeper resonance of those connections and our responsibility to the wider world.

My journey through "Forgiving What You Can't Forget" continues to teach me that extending grace to others, both near and far in our prayers, is also a crucial part of extending grace to ourselves. The community we're building, brick by breakfast and lifted in prayer, feels like a tangible manifestation of that forgiveness and a step towards a brighter future, together with all of God's children.

So, as this peaceful Saturday morning unfolds, I carry the warmth of our fellowship and the call to universal prayer in my heart, guided by the timeless wisdom of Deuteronomy 10:17-19 and 1 Timothy 2:1-4. It's a reminder that whether we are gathered around a table sharing a meal or finding solace in quiet reflection and prayer, God's love is present, weaving through our connections and reaching out to all.

What blessings are you reflecting on this Saturday morning, friends? How does the love you share with those around you and your prayers for all people enrich your quiet moments? Share your thoughts below! This is Captain Hedges, wishing you a day filled with peace, reflection, and prayer.

A Friday Morning Feast of Friendship

 

Good morning, friends! It's your humble narrator, bringing you a heartwarming good morning, to all virtual friends! Captain Hedges is reporting in live from my front porch in Shreveport Lousanna on this bright Friday morning, April 25th, 2025. The air is alive with the wonderful smells of coffee, pancakes, and fired turkey bacon – a true feast for the senses! What started as a simple breakfast has blossomed into a beautiful testament to resilience, friendship, and the unexpected joys of building community. Pull up a virtual chair, grab a cup of coffee (brewed with love, of course!), and let me share a story of neighbors, shared journeys, and the sweet taste of a new beginning.

This morning is extra special because I'm sharing it with my neighbors, who are more like family forged in the crucible of shared experience. 

Not long ago, we were all navigating the harsh realities of homelessness, side-by-side on the streets. 

Now, thanks to a twist of fate and a lot of perseverance, and help from the nonprofit organizations here in Shreveport Louisiana, we each have our own apartments. And we've created our own little community, taking turns cooking and looking out for one another.

This morning, it's my turn to brew the coffee. 

They always say Earl (that's me, Captain Hedges!) makes the best pot, so I made sure to brew a big one! As we sit here, sharing pancakes and stories, this simple breakfast feels like a grand medieval banquet. We may not have lords or servants, but the bond of friendship and the gratitude for where we are now is a treasure beyond measure.

This growing community is a powerful testament to the fact that even after facing hardship, beautiful things can take root and flourish. It's a blessing, a gift from above, and a reminder that even though my impatient nature sometimes gets the better of me, the unfolding of this community has been a beautiful process. It reminds me of Acts 2:42: "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." We may not be the early church, but we are devoted to each other, to sharing, and to finding strength in our shared journey.  

It's a powerful reminder of the blessings we receive, big and small. We've been lifted from hardship, and for that, I am eternally grateful to our heavenly father. Yet, even in this moment of joy, my impatience peeks through. There's a part of me that always wants to rush forward, to seize the next opportunity. But seeing the contentment on my friends' faces, the simple pleasure of this shared meal, reminds me that some of the best things in life are worth savoring.

So, here's to good company, to the warmth of friendship, and to the journey that brought us here. And yes, maybe just for this morning, I can embrace a little patience and truly appreciate this moment, to the strength we find in each other, and to the simple joy of a shared breakfast on a Friday morning. May our little community continue to grow and thrive!

What about you, folks? Have you experienced the joy of building community in unexpected places? Share your stories below! 

This is Captain Hedges, signing off with a full heart and a full stomach!

Virtual Coffee Aboard the USS Urland

Virtual Coffee Aboard the USS Urland (Captain Hedges' Log, Stardate...)

Greetings, fellow Starfleet officers and Urland Universe enthusiasts! Captain Hedges reporting live from the bridge of the USS Urland, where the coffee is hot, and the view is out of this world!

As you can see, we're currently cruising through a rather spectacular nebula. But that's not the most interesting thing on the viewscreen. Sensors have detected a temporal anomaly, a shimmering portal unlike anything Starfleet has encountered before. And what's emerging from it? You guessed it – ether dragons!

These magnificent creatures, known throughout the Urland Universe for their control over multiverse portals, seem to be as fascinated by our universe as we are by theirs. It's a reminder that the Tiger Force Shadow Saga, and my own experiences, have only scratched the surface of the wonders and strangeness that lie beyond our known reality.

It makes you wonder, what other connections exist between the Urland Universe and the vastness of space? Could the Tiger Force, in their missions during the Vietnam War, Desert Shield, and Desert Storm, have unknowingly stumbled upon evidence of these multiverse portals? Did my father, serving in Vietnam, ever witness something that defied explanation, something that hinted at the existence of these ether dragons and their ability to traverse dimensions?

The possibilities are endless! As Captain of the USS Urland, it's my duty to explore these mysteries, to seek out new life and new civilizations, and to boldly go where no one has gone before. And of course, to keep you all updated on my adventures.

So, grab a virtual cup of coffee, join me on the bridge, and let's see what the Urland Universe has in store for us! This is Captain Hedges, signing off!