It was Julie Andrews in the musical, The Sound of Music, who reminded us of things to be thankful for. Of course, the gift of life itself is at the top of the list. Among many people’s lists might be a certain brand of chocolate or wine, family members, seasonal weather or certain vehicles. Others might list certain books, movies, music, sports, or shared philosophies and values.

Seldom would one see on the list of favourite things such items as a meal of liver and onions, or the study required to successfully complete a school year. Yet these things too (many a parent may contend), have positive end results.

Over the past few weeks, we at Serena Manitoba have been privileged to meet many people at our booth at several national and provincial events. Some had never heard of natural family planning, others came by to tell us how happy they were to see us at the event. The most encouraging message came from those who shared stories of thankfulness for the teaching of natural family planning as taught by the sympto-thermal method by Serena Manitoba teacher-couples.

I was thankful that generous donors had made possible our being there, our being able to train teacher-couples, our being able to offer classes to financially- challenged-couples, the availability of  resources, the scientific evidence to reinforce NFP, the sacrificial spirit of volunteers in the capacity of board members, teachers and office help, our medical advisors – you see, my list of ‘favourite things’ goes on and on.

If you are on our list of donors to give thanks for, we are truly  grateful. If you would like to join this favoured list, please use the Make a Donation button on the side bar. The benefits are out of this world! In the meantime, our charitable organization issues tax receipts for temporal benefit!

You will also join the ‘thank you’ list of those who have us on their list of ‘favourite things’ for being there for them in their family planning years.

The next Natural Family Planning class will be meeting on December 14th from 7 – 9 pm.  Call us at 783-0091, 1-866-317-5362 or email us.

In a world with change being the most constant companion, we sometimes flounder for something to hang on to. Then we may be surprised where we find it, or marvel at the simplicity or find humour in its source.

I am reminded of a four-year-old boy who enjoyed the company and attention of an out of town visiting family friend who was taking a course. When it came time for the friend to leave after the course, the family commented that it was such a pleasant experience, perhaps they should consider having someone else come and stay. The father in the family had been very busy pursuing his own course of study, and frequently was away or came home late. Upon the mother’s inquiry as to who they should invite to come and stay with them for awhile, the little guy said, ‘Why don’t we ask Daddy?’

If you are researching family planning for yourselves, please be assured that Serena Manitoba will be your companion to teach, counsel and nurture your decision. We will be your companion to give you confidence. Eventually, you may even have the opportunity to join us to mentor others. The only place we are going is to help others just like you.

Life is about changes and flexibility.

We may decide to change our diet to better power the vital high voltage mechanism that is our body. My 2-year-old granddaughter may change into her ‘piggy’ socks as she giggles -  just because.  Light bulbs sometimes need changing. A teenager’s interests  may change to the extent that he decides to sell some of his ‘tech toys’ because of the demand on his time for his re-focused goals that involve intense study. A couple may discern that their life situation has changed to the extent that they now pay more attention to the wife’s fertile times in her cycle. A baby’s diaper needs changing, and someone will be very flexible with their schedule to make sure that happens.

At Serena we were given breaking news this morning that will change details for over a hundred people. For months we have been organizing a fun Cruise & Brunch event on the “M. S.” Paddlewheel Queen riverboat. Ordinarily, the boat docks at the Alexander Avenue Docks. However, due to the high water levels on the Red River, the Paddlewheel Queen will be ’sailing’ from the Dufferin Avenue Dock in Selkirk, Manitoba on Saturday morning, June 13th. (More details, including menu, are available on our Events page.) This change is rather an exciting one, as we will get to see the river-side of Lower Fort Garry as we cruise south of Selkirk. Then as we head north, we may just get to see some curious wildlife at the river’s edge. Another exciting change is that they have extended our ticket deadline date to the morning of June 11th. Join us – for a change.

For some other interesting changes of a different dimension, check out the information on our next NFP class on June 24th.

A current exciting event in several countries, including the United States and four Canadian cities, is the 40 Days for Life campaign. Supporters of life in the womb are praying and fasting for the protection of life in its most vulnerable state in its most safe environment.

Some meanings for the ‘womb’ from mini aboverubies.org include the following: house of life, nesting place, palace of a child, sanctuary, the secret place, cradle of the unborn, and God’s creative workshop.

It is God Who opens and closes the womb, Scripture says. For those called to the awesome role to be ‘co-creators’, Serena is here to teach and counsel you in your particular situation. Whether you are looking to space the birth of your children or are wanting help and hope for that little one in the house of life, we have accredited teacher-couples to walk you through your circumstance and need.

Contact us through the Events page for the next class instruction in natural family planning. It’s the reason we are here.

Several days ago a family member was part of an ancient marriage service where the bride and groom are crowned to be King and Queen of their newly established family. The service is actually referred to as the Mystery of Crowning.

The ‘crowns’ were wreaths made from the myrtle plant. These fragrant crowns of fresh green myrtle leaves are a symbol of the continuity of life, and in some traditions also of prosperity and success in life. Traditionally, the wreaths are of the same size, symbolizing oneness and respect for each other.

It was a picture perfect wedding day. The rain clouds had spent several days doing what rain clouds do best – watering the thirsty earth while raining on any parade out there. On this day the sun shone forth gloriously, accompanied by a gentle breeze.

The church was fragrant with flowers. An aunt lovingly shared beautiful tulips, peonies, columbine, irises, anenome, red and white bleeding heart, primroses of every kind, grape hyacinth, daisies, blue bells, lily of the valley and the lovely blue forget-me-not. Large vases of roses added to the picturesque setting of joy and love.

Lovely strains from the violin and viola wafted through the air as the church was filled with loving family and friends, young and old, who had gathered to support and witness the public declaration of commitment and blessing. The singing offered by dear friends throughout the service added to the beauty and solemnity of the moment.

At a certain point in the service the couple shared a common cup of wine, symbolic of the mutual sharing of every aspect of their future life.

The beautifully attired bridesmaids and handsome groomsmen, the adorable ring bearer and flower girls – all complemented the picture of the proud groom and the radiant bride.

If you are looking for something to add to the love and mutual respect a husband and wife have for each other, contact us for information on natural family planning. Share the good memories again and again, and look for new ways to build up your ‘couple-ness.’ NFP has enhanced many a relationship with confidence, deeper commitment, and shared responsibilities.

Serena offers a dynamic approach presented by qualified volunteer teacher-couples. We hope to help you build a relationship that can be even more than ‘picture perfect.’

Contact us for our next class on July 14, 2008.