Springtime at Koski’s Kamp

Laestadian Lutheran
Apr 15
3 min read

Andy Koski | The Shepherd’s Voice Apr/May 2026 - Home and Family Article –

“Look! A mother goose is at the door, wings spread out standing under the eave in the pouring rain!” The children rush to see, but the noise and excitement scare her away. A little way off, the father goose stands guard, watching for danger. As she hurries to safety, they can see eight little goslings scurrying under her wings!

Mummie says, “look how the geese teach their little goslings! They watch over them and protect them from danger.”

She continues, “Did you know that geese choose their mates for life? God blesses them with goslings. God’s kingdom is the same. Believers marry for life. God blesses some families with many children, some with no children.”

The rain stops and the sun comes out. Everyone goes outside. The younger girls go to the sauna which pappa had heated. The older boys hike off to go swimming and fishing. Everywhere the fresh, after-the-rain smell is in the air.

In spring we see the miracle of birth around us. New life comes into the world perfect, pure and innocent. This is how a new baby comes into a family. The baby is also perfect, pure and innocent, and is the image of our Creator.

Spring joy bursts through new leaves in the trees. It sings in the baby birds begging for food. It blooms in the small seedlings poking up into the light for the first time. God’s children experience this refreshing joy when we believe sins forgiven in Jesus’ name and blood.

Things to visit about:

What activities can we do to recognize God’s creation work around us and to notice how He cares for His creation?
Why does God give a place of honor to parents, as well as special instructions for raising children?
What can families do to support each other, whether they have children or not?

HOME AND FAMILY ACTIVITY

Arbor Day

Created by Ruth DeLacey

What is Arbor Day?

Arbor Day (Arbour Day in Canada) is a national holiday that is secular, or non-religious. It is a day to remember the importance of trees in nature and in our society. Arbor Day was first observed in Nebraska in 1872.

When is Arbor Day this year?

In the United States, Arbor Day is the last Friday in April.

Canada has different dates for Arbour Day. In some provinces it lasts for several days, from the last Friday in April to the first Sunday in May. In other provinces it is the last Friday in May.

Why are trees important?

Trees bring beauty, health and peace to the areas we live in, and to the space around us. They freshen the air, give us shade and provide places to play. They produce nuts and fruit for us to enjoy. They are habitats for animals to live, grow and thrive.

From trees we make lumber to build our homes and for our businesses. We burn wood for heat to warm our homes, and sometimes to cook our food. We use trees to make furniture, musical instruments and art. Trees are a valuable and versatile gift from God!

Arbor Day Activities

Plant a tree.
Go through your home and notice all the things made from trees. Fill a sheet of paper (paper is from trees, too!) with drawings or a list of all the things made from trees.
Go for a hike and enjoy nature, especially the trees. Observe how different animals use trees, from insects and frogs to birds and bears.
Collect leaves, seeds, twigs and bits of bark from the trees in your yard. Learn about the trees they are from. Make a collage, sculpture or other piece of artwork with your collection.