Vacations

An Opportunity too Good to Pass Up

My last post I mentioned I’d hoped our next road trip would be to Florida and the ocean.

Well, we made it. We drove the eight hours to the Gulf Coast of Florida to Destin, FL. We have never seen such incredibly, gorgeous, mind-blowing miles of white, fluffy sand. And the color of water, aqua and blue. Absolutely mesmerizing. Took our breath away. Even Tanner, the pup bounced around on the sand avoiding the waves.

 

 

 

It so happened we’d met our next-door neighbors at the hotel. The four of us took a Tiki Cruise on the Destin Harbor.

What fun.  Captain Ryan was a hoot and informative. The coves we went in and out were filled with massive yachts and homes beyond our comprehension. Apparently, one of the homes, per the Captain, used to be Vanna White’s and another is currently Tim McGraw and Faith Hill’s. You know, “one of their homes.” Again, not relatable. While we had our music blaring in the wind, water splashing up our legs and mist on our faces, Captain Ryan had us turn down the volume as we entered each cove to not disturb the residents.  What residents, I thought? Only a couple with their dogs sat in the lounge chairs in their yard. Hard to believe right? We sat in awe of the beauty and chuckled at the names of a few of their yachts and even homes. “Decked Out,” “Abigail,” (I had to take a picture of that one as her name is my protagonist in my novel.” Another was, “Miss Becky.”

We had a wonderful time. It was a mini vacation we were desperately needed. As you may have read my previous post about our Adventure of a Lifetime, you can imagine the stress we have been under. An ocean fix was what was what the doctor (not really) ordered.

The trip took us through a bit of Georgia and miles upon miles of Alabama. The back highways – and there were plenty of them, to our destination was beautiful. Many large open spaces, hardly any traffic and slow paced. I was a bit surprised I didn’t see any barns or silos as we have here in Tennessee, with all the land. I love old barns. However, there were old markets, rickety old shacks (if only walls could talk), and a couple of huge, what looked like plantations, and we stopped at this wonderful off the road Sweet Home Alabama fruit/plant stand where I bought one of the best tasting watermelons – ever!

Along with a few other choice products. I’d have purchased more, but Lordy, our little SUV was filled to the roof. I did manage to buy 3-potted strawberry plants. So far so good.

As my husband and I normally do, we took a few drives to check out more of Destin and Panama City. We had meals outside on terraces and did just a little shopping. He was amazed I was not in the mood to shop. Only went into one souvenir shop to get a couple of t-shirts and hats. I just wanted to be next to the gorgeous water. The beaches were lined with Adirondack chairs and umbrellas for miles as apparently, they rent them out.

Sadly, our four-night, three-day vacation flew by, and it was time to check out.

We’ll be back, Destin, we’ll be back.

We are so happy we said yes to the opportunity.

If you ever get the chance to vacation on the Florida Gulf Coast – do it! It will not disappoint.

Be Blessed,

Chrissy Drew<><

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Bald River Falls
God is great

Time Flies …

Well, we have now lived through all four seasons in our new home state of Tennessee. I asked for all of them, and boy they did not disappoint. At times they went over-board. Why?

Our move-in date happened to be mid-Autumn and trees had already lost their colorful leaves. We don’t count that.

The first winter brought snow, only not for Christmas as I’d hoped, but was beautiful just the same and it doesn’t stay long, but long enough that we made our first ever snowman together.

Spring of 2022 was a beautiful experience. The newness surrounded us, and we began researching and learning what types of trees and plants to add to our landscape. (Most didn’t take well to this cold winter.) Still have a lot to learn. But that’s the fun of it. Cities were blooming with white and pink blossoms.

Spring also brought our son, Ryan to visit for his first Easter with us since – well a long time.Bald River Falls We took him to Bald River Falls. It was gushing and flowing wildly down the rocks, hitting the pool of water below, taking its path to the river beneath the bridge we stood on. It’s our favorite place to drive to. And we have within each season. 

Then summer hit. One of the hottest on record. Near 100° and humidity near 100% as well. Whew! Coming from a dry state, 100° was a lot different. Oh, the hair! Some days were unbearable, so we stayed indoors. Thankful for air-conditioning. We were astonished at how green everything stayed, even in the heat of summer. No sprinklers are used. Most use a hose to water landscapes. A wonderful change.

Autumn came around, and so did my Darlin’s birthday. A milestone one at that. Son, sister and brother-in-law came to celebrate with him. Our son was the only one who’d seen our new home. Of course, we had to take them to the falls. Stopping along the way to take pictures of the amazing change of colors. We also took them up to the Smokey’s with the mountains bursting with vibrant oranges, reds and yellows.

Bald River Falls - Autumn 2022
Bald River Falls – Autumn 2022

However, this winter? Old man winter done out-did himself! It has been so cold. We never expected below zero with wind chill here in mid-southern east Tennessee. Thankfully it didn’t last long. We had some more snow, and another snowman is in the books. But the rain, rolling and I mean rolling thunder, and lightning has been some of the craziest storms we have both endured. And let’s not forget tornado warnings/watches and most recently the siren blaring! Quite unnerving wouldn’t you say?

We absolutely love our new home state. No regrets. We have much to see and explore. There are 500 falls in the state, state parks are free and there are plenty of them, plus Tennessee borders eight other states. Are we blessed or what? I think our next trip may need to be to Florida to the ocean. Lord willing, our health and the weather will cooperate.

Can’t wait to see what this year will bring.

Happy trails y’all.

Blessings,

Chrissy Drew

4
What's Up?

The Adventure of a Lifetime

December 31, 2020 the day Darlin retired. Come January, we hit the ground running.

A huge decision … a few life-changing decisions. His retirement was big, especially for him. He worked his whole life with no gaps in-between. “What will I do, he’d ask?” That was the question.

A few weeks later, no longer the question. Now, he was busier than ever. Why?

Well, we decided to move out of a house he’d call home for 40 plus years, me nearly 30 years, and a state he called home since birth. I did say huge decisions, right?

Were we ready?

There were repairs around the house needed and a storage unit was a must. Not a want, but a need. And boxes, A LOT of boxes. Local moving company was our best friend.

I began cleaning out closets, getting rid of unused items to Salvation Army, tossed a ton out and kept what I felt I’d use again. Still so much stuff. Darlin made several trips to the donation center and to the local dump. It was the two of us with a significant task ahead of us.

When we made the decision to leave the state, I started seeing posts on social media about how Texas or Tennessee were the places to land. Folks would welcome us to “America.”

A couple posts intrigued me, and I followed the live videos of one who moved to TN. I soon contacted her and had a great, encouraging conversation. She’d given me the name of a realtor friend who I’d met unofficially once. I reached out. She, too was encouraging, prayed with me, and vowed to help once we got to TN. To meet up for coffee, at least. Her husband is the realtor, but she is the contact. So, we thought we’d be traveling to middle TN and find our forever in-our-twilight-years home. If you are following my gibberish, we did not have a home to go to once we sold ours. Simply because we needed the funds from the sale to buy a new one.

It took us a good two and a half months to get the house in order. A friend recommended a real estate agent, Jen Kline Km-realty.com and/or https://www.zillow.com/profile/Jennkline. She worked so hard for us. Next thing we knew, it was mid-March, the house was going on the market soon. We moved a lot of stuff into the garage to stage the inside. The weekend it went on the market, there were 24 showings, ten offers, and five counteroffers. We accepted one of the five. But that wasn’t the last of it. The buyers wanted to meet us. So, we agreed. They were a sweet, engaged couple who we would soon find out were exposed to Covid, and she tested positive. Ugh. Our departure was delayed until our tests came back. Negative! Thank you, Jesus.

The bittersweet moment had arrived. Our next-door neighbor took a picture of us standing in front of a home we thought we’d never leave.

Onward.  With no home.

 

Our first stop on our adventure across country while sorta homeless, was a visit to my son’s family in the San Diego area. It was a great four day visit with my ugly crying when we left.

Next stop Winslow, AZ for the night. Not a great hotel, but one must stop on that famous corner.

It took us three nights of hotels and four long days. A couple of choice detours along the way was a must. Who knew if we’d be back that way in the future?

We finally landed in Middle Tennessee outside of Nashville. Spoke with our realtor, (sadly we never hooked up for coffee) they were sending us links to homes for sale and then referred us to another realtor for the areas we were looking at. Nothing, absolutely nothing we saw was anything near what we wanted to become our forever home. We departed Tennessee and moved on to South Carolina. Simply because of a friend who loved it there and said it was a great place to live and we’d be able to see them. Sadly, SC wasn’t what it was hyped to be, for us, although we really loved downtown Greenville. Never connected with said friend there either.

Disappointments abounded. We decided to give the search a rest and be tourists for the day. We drove down to the Charleston area and ended up in Isle of Palms. It’s a quaint town and we sat and watched boats go by while having a picnic lunch, trying to control our hyperactive Tanner.

Off we went again, next stop East Tennessee. This made seven different beds to lay our heads on. (Will never stay at a Quality Inn again.) Seriously don’t know how travelers do it. We missed our bed like crazy.

At this point we were quite discouraged and exhausted. It was then we gave it up to God.

Within a few hours we found an agent recommended, April Blankinship of  www.TheBlankinshipGroup.com and we loved her energy and knowledge. She sent us a few links of homes to go look at. One we were ready to make an offer on. In a new subdivision, with a bit of land in-between other homes and a nice porch. They had already accepted another offer. Insert sad face here.

The next day we met with our realtor’s husband in a subdivision down the road from the house we wanted. There were a few new builds going up. Just seemed too small. We drove down that street. A house nearly completed on a corner was pending an offer, but we were able to walk through. Hard for me to tell, with only 2×4’s and no walls yet.

Just so happened there was a lot next door with a for sale sign, a call was made … available. We had only seen a floor plan of the house, but we put an offer in … two days later we signed. It would take five months to build. Ugh. Off to see family in Michigan. Our stay there was longer than anticipated. We felt we overstayed our welcome, but our family was … is so gracious and accommodating. Can never repay them.

Darlin was missing his truck since we could only drive one vehicle across country, it made sense to use our SUV. A dear friend offered to let him store his truck in her 3-car driveway. It was a little over two months and he needed to get the truck out of her space, so he flew back to CA. Plus, he was able to tie up some loose ends, say goodbye to long-time friends and visit his mom and dad’s gravesite. It took him three days to get back to MI. Thankfully, safe and sound.

During our time in MI, I had a full left knee replacement due to bone-on-bone from arthritis. The worst pain … EVER. My sissy was the best caretaker and my oldest … um wisest sissy gave up her bed for the first week home from surgery. A week I barely remember. Then off to my sissy’s home for a while. Back and forth for five months. It was hard on everyone. That still makes me sad. But ever so grateful for a loving family.

Our U-Pack trailer would soon be dropped off near our storage unit back in CA. Time for Darlin to take another flight home from MI. He needed to be there to sign for delivery. My son wanted to be a part of the move in any way possible, so he and my grandson drove up from SoCal to help unload said storage unit into trailer. We also had the much needed help from long-time friends, Brad and Pete along with their pick-ups. Our stuff was finally eastbound.

The time came for closing. It had been pushed out three times. The signing was done digitally. Crazy right? Our amazing realtor walked us through every step of the way. She was even driving several miles to take videos of the progress to send to us.

My Darlin drove to our home leaving me in Michigan to await my amazing son’s flight. He would be driving my vehicle with me to our new home since I was unable to drive such a distance with my knee still painful, and he knew we would not be able to unload the trailer our old-selves. Well, man did my son help. We would not have done it without him. Plus, we had some great bonding time in the car on the way to TN.

We took a break and tried a local restaurant and drove around the area so he could see where we would spend our twilight years.

Curtains are up, furniture mostly in, Tanner seems to love it. Looking forward to a Christmas tree lighting in the “square.”

I’m still recouping and pray the pain and stiffness will subside soon. I have decorating to do for Christmas and a whole lot of boxes to unpack, and gorgeous trails by the lake to walk, and places to explore, and …

Our journey has only just begun in our small town in our beautiful new home, close to the Smokey Mountains, with views of the peaks just around the corner. We are blessed beyond measure and we have no doubt it’s where God wants us to be.

Yep, I think I’m going to love small town livin, y’all.

Jeremiah 29:11 NIV (New International Version)

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

 

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Miscellaneous Thoughts

Your Plan, His Plan … Oh What a Difference

Sometimes plans don’t work out as you planned. 

It has taken me much longer than I care to admit to figure out why that is.

I go along my merry way each day saying, “I’m going to do this or that. Mark off the checklist one by one, until …”

Something doesn’t feel right. Why are my tasks not getting done? Why is this plan not working out to meet so and so? Why am I just sitting here, procrastinating? Why am I not making that appointment? Why? Why? Why?

Then it hits me like a brick wall. 

Because I have not brought God into my calendar. The most important person, and I have not collaborated with Him. I have not sought out His guidance or direction. I have not asked what HIS plan is for my day. Today. Not tomorrow or the next day. But today. Sure, I can calendar in lunch with friends, or medical appointments, etc. That’s a given. With the many things going on, it’s a must or I’ll forget. 

If I do not go to the Lord first thing in the morning, I’m truly a scatter-brain. Not only that, but there is a void I can’t explain. I’m pretty sure it’s lack of His presence. Trying to do things on my own, in my own way … my plans. Not His, is a new 100% guaranty it’s not going to work out as I had planned. Especially, if it’s something He does not want me to do. Am I listening? Do I hear Him tell me yes, do that, or no absolutely not? 

You guessed it, probably not. I’m a slow learner, I suppose.

So, I’m here to tell you, don’t make the same mistakes I have by not taking all your concerns, your plans, your desires, to the Lord first thing. It will make a difference. We need to calendar in an appointment with God each morning, then thank Him each night for getting you through the day. I’m not saying things will always work out, but no matter what, whatever you have done, if you have done it with God, it was meant to be … or not to be. 

Are you listening? Are you hearing what He is telling you? Are you being still in the morning and having that intimate conversation with Him about your day? 

Oh, what a difference it will make. I promise you. He is the only guide for your life. He will never steer you in the wrong direction. Trust Him to take you on the right path. No matter what you are about to do, do it connected to Him. He’s already gone before you, making the way for you. 

That, my friends, is great peace and comfort. To me. It can be for you too. 

He makes many promises in His Word … the Bible. He doesn’t lie. Try it. Just. Try. It.  Oh, what a difference it will make. Don’t take my word for it, take His Word.

Jeremiah 29:11; Psalm 119:105; Proverbs 3:5-6

Be Blessed,

Chrissy Drew

2
Miscellaneous Thoughts

Grief

I recently had a conversation with a friend, who had yet another significant loss in her life. It saddened me.

Grief isn’t something we can wish away. It’s like tidal waves, one moment memories come crashing in, bringing you to your knees, the next, a calm sea of joy.

Tears flow at any given time, when thoughts of our loved one rushes in. The despair and thinking how unfair.

What we must tell ourselves … it’s okay. It’s okay to cry. It’s okay to miss them. It’s okay to feel lost. Not being able to talk with them, to hear their voice, to hug them. To laugh or cry with. To share milestones or experiences with.

The what ifs begin infiltrating your mind. If only I stayed in touch more. If only I took the time. If only I said I was sorry. Now it’s too late. On and on.

But those what ifs are a direct line from the enemy. Nip those thoughts as soon as they form. Life happens, time gets away. Your loved one knew. Their life went on, until…

One day, and only God knows when, you will be able to recall memories with joy, and your smile will hug your heart.

Then you will begin to heal from your broken heart. Then you will know, those memories will “live” on forever. Then you will realize, they would want you to continue among the land of the living. To live your life abundantly, even through the void, the empty void in your heart.

There will be some who won’t have the right words to say to comfort you, as they’ve not experienced the same loss. They only need to be there. No words will take away the pain anyway. Support helps. But for those of us, who have been through a devastating loss, do understand the pain. We can pray them through the journey of their dearly departed.

The year, 2000, was a difficult one for me. In May, 2000, we lost our Daddy. In October, 2000, we lost our only brother. He was just about to turn 61. That was a hard loss. Two years later, our Mom. Then, in 2011, my Mother-in-law, and in 2012, my very best friend. She knew me so well. We laughed so hard, her usually AT me. We celebrated our birthdays together. I still celebrate with her in spirit, and miss her every day. When I say I understand the grief, I do.

We will all grieve differently. There is no right or wrong way. There is no time limit.

What there is – is God. He is always there. Always. He knows the grief as His only Son died for ALL of us. I trust He will hold each and every believer up in times of sorrow. We also know His joy when we are comforted by His Word. Believe in that!

May God bless this difficult journey with peace, comfort, and loving memories as they come rushing in.

Ecclesiastes 3: 1-2 (NIV)

1 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:

2 A time to be born and a time to die.

With much love and blessings,

Chrissy Drew

 

 

4
Miscellaneous Thoughts

Ever Feel Invisible in a Crowded Room?

Have you ever felt “invisible” in a crowded room? Or, have you been left out of a celebratory milestone of a loved one, you thought you were close with? Maybe you have felt your voice was being drowned out over those louder.

Yes. Me too. Many, many times.

Not long ago, I attended a weekend conference with over 200 people.

Three of us gals traveled together, roomed together, sat together.

It was our first time—together.

The road trip consisted of get-to-know each other on a personal level. One would ask a question, and it applied to all of us, each given a chance to answer. It wasn’t long before we realized we all had the same issue—we are invisible around many.

We decided there were two introverts (me being one) and one ambivert.

Comments like, “I’ve met people three or four times and they still don’t know my name.” Or, “I’ll sit in an empty row and not a soul will sit next to me.”

That started what would be a hilarious weekend.

It isn’t always—rarely ever is, a funny topic. Nope, it’s real.

When in a group setting or a meeting, there may be those strong—extremely strong personalities. They seem to love hearing themselves talk. Timid, shy or introverts, don’t stand a chance with these types. The inner voice is screaming, “LET ME SPEAK!” Yet, the shyness, says, “Whatever, I wouldn’t be able to anyway.”

Even at the conference, when an audience participation question was asked, I stood there, with my hand in the air, and those all around me were picked. Yep. Like that.

I started considering myself a, “wall-weed.” Kind of like the wall-flower…only I would travel around the edge of a room observing, for fear if I tried to speak, I’d once again either get drowned out, or get looks like I have two heads. Seriously.

It’s taken me, well, my whole life to realize God has gifted me with hearing—to be a listener, not a speaker. Unless, by chance you know me, actually, maybe not even then. There’s always someone who has to have a better story / experience. You know, a bigger fish-type person. It just has to be okay. Evidently, they need to, so let them. Otherwise…oh wait, there is no otherwise.

Even in close relationships, where you think you should feel safe, wanted and respected. It’s not always the case. There may be times when you are left out of a gathering, a milestone or exciting news. Whether it was intentional or not, it’s not a great feeling. More like feeling as though you are chopped liver. No consoling. No excuses. It’s just…why? And then, it’s on them, not me. Right? It’s their loss. The self-pep-talks. And, you know what, it’s all good. Because you know what is important in your life. We can’t let petty matters get us down.

We can’t change others. We can only change our own reactions. I know, it’s cliché. But it’s true. We can choose to feel ignored or insignificant. Or, we can choose to be the bigger, more mature person and just let it go. Be the beautiful you God made you. After all, He made you, He listens to you, and He sure does love you.

Wall-weed and all!

Above all, put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts. Colossians 3:14-15 (NKJV)

Have a beautiful day. This yellow rose is for you.

Chrissy Drew

2
Christmas/Holidays

Joyful Holidays? Or No?

mangerHolidays…for most, they are a happy, joyful time. For some, not so much.

When I think back on my childhood, each Christmas Eve in our neighborhood, there were about five or so families who would gather at each other’s homes. Everyone walked…usually. Same with New Year’s Eve.

As a child, I sort of recall it being a blast, hanging with the other kids, doing whatever we did. (Memory fails me as to what that was). I just remember those days as being quite festive. But, I also remember there was a whole lot of drinking…adults, people, adults. And, for me it got pretty loud and obnoxious. I do recall one Christmas Eve where our house nearly burned down as someone was too inebriated and left a cigarette butt in the couch and it caught fire. Maybe that is why I blocked it out.

Today–many things have changed.

For instance: Families seemed to be in one geographical area, or at least less than an hour away. Yes, maybe those married had to share with in-laws the time spent each holiday. But all still came around. Now, I don’t see that as much. I’m certain I would, within social media postings.

Then there are us baby-boomers. Most of our parents are celebrating in the heavenly realms. Some of us have lost siblings, best friends, neighbors, or co-workers. Someone we loved and miss dearly.

As a baby-boomer, my youngest son lives miles away and we usually see him and his family after Christmas, some years, not at all. It is something I have accepted and look forward to whatever scheduled time we get to be together.

Changed? I’d say so.

For me, I get melancholy. Even depressed during this season…and sometimes forget the reason for the season. I miss those I love who are no longer here. I miss Christmas morning when the hustle and bustle of charging to the Christmas tree with excitement to see what was under in all the colorful wrappings. To see the enjoyment in children’s eyes filled with surprise. I miss that. I miss my sissy’s too who are miles away in another state.

It’s a sad time, for many. What can we do to ease the pain in our hearts and the sadness?

This year, I’ve been listening to old and new Christmas songs. I still love artists such as Johnny Mathis, Brenda Lee and Elvis’ Christmas music. And I dance around to songs by Mariah Carey or Michael Bublé and others. It cheers me up. Mostly, I watch a ton of Hallmark Christmas movies. Uplifting and even cheesy. But I love them!

Christmas Eve service brings me back to the reason for the season. It’s Happy Birthday, Jesus time. It’s calming and real. Attending River City Christian is a special time.

I encourage anyone who is feeling down this holiday, to find joy in the little things life has to offer. Whether it be music…of any kind, lunching with friends (I’m a professional luncher), watching sappy movies or action-packed movies…whatever you need to do, to take your mind off your sorrow. Will you choose joy with me?

I wish you all a blessed, joyful Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year and that you will draw near to Jesus in your time of need. He’s waiting for you.

Psalm 21:6  Surely you have granted him unending blessings and made him glad with the joy of your presence.

The reason for the season: Luke 8:12

Miscellaneous Thoughts | Uncategorized

Seasons in Life

What do you think of when you hear the word seasons? Winter, spring, summer or fall? Well, of course.

Have you ever pondered seasons of your life? Specifically, people in and throughout?

I thought of how people come into and depart from our lives. The reasons for the seasons. Some stay longer than others, even family members come and go.

Friends, for instance, those first ones, maybe from pre-school through Kindergarten. Those awkward moments meeting them, some shy (like me), some not-so-much. Learning to share your precious toys, to become thoughtful, considerate, and respectful of others, as well as their property. Moments hard to understand as a child. I call that the “first growth season.”

They are in your life to learn how to get along with others. What it means to be in a group of different-not-quite-like-me, children. Some of these same children will remain in your life forever—whether close geographically, or not.

Other people you may meet in junior-high. I called this the “Influential season.” Peer pressure is an issue. Wanting to be like the popular, so called, in-crowd, even if they are not the right people to hang with. It’s a time to prove what your character is all about, who you are. This time can be difficult. Choices aren’t exactly easy. It’s when you choose or lose friends. Judging others—others judging you. At times, you observe, if you are wise enough, from the outside and realize the in-crowd isn’t all that. They are more into themselves. They are cliques, sometimes bullies, at that age and they can be cruel, just to save face with their “friends.” Many teens today appear to be worse in those areas. Especially now with the internet. Cyber-bullying and teen suicide is widespread. Picking the right friends is crucial during these years. Knowing who they truly are—those who know you and continue to be there for each other, during awkward seasons of influence—the tween years. We all know how teens know everything and will argue with adults—because you know—adults haven’t lived through teenage years. All of sudden they are thirty!

Then it’s high school. Teachers, evidently know nothing. They are in the classroom to make the student’s life, miserable. Not like they don’t have a degree. Teenagers! While there are some teachers and counselors who go the extra mile, and have the desire to guide and help—it appears rare. They are the ones, for me, I remember. Sports, cheer, some in band, some in gangs, some know where or what they want to be when they graduate, some not-so-much. It’s a tough time now-a-days. This season, I call the “Barely mature season.”

After high school, if you attend college and “if” you know the path you want to take, you are blessed. You have a head on your shoulder and willing to do the work, success will be the reward. In my humble opinion, many of college students aren’t mature enough to be there. They think and act like they are still in high school. They haven’t been taught respect, consideration of others, ethics, or responsibility. I call this, the “Season of confusion, entitlement and ignorance.” One, I hope turns around quick-like. Our future depends on them.

Adulthood. When the people in your life—mentors, advisors, good friends, really good friends, may possibly be there always. When they steer you in the right direction—influence you, are wise, loyal, trustworthy, and they care. You care about them. They are prayer warriors, you can depend on them. We comfort each other. Are comfortable with each other. But, even during these years, people will come and go. Each in your life for a reason. Spouses, children, family and friends. Some are in our lives momentarily, some forever. No selfish reasons for this season. People are like seasons, here for a while and then gone. And if you are fortunate enough—some loved ones stay throughout all. I call this season, “Final seasons of life.”

I’ve been blessed with a handful of people who have stayed around forever—some chose me, I them. For all, I’m grateful. They fill me with joy, happiness, sadness, comfort and love.

I wrote this article as it occurred to me, I really hadn’t thought much about my past in such a way as there really are “seasons” in portions of our lives. We seem to just go through them without a second thought as to who may be in our lives at any given moment. Maybe it will help you to become more aware of these special people God puts in our paths for those times. Or maybe, you can think back and wonder about certain experiences with certain people. Are they still in your life, or were they placed in it momentarily, possibly to get you through a trial? Or a milestone? Food for thought, right?

I pray your journey through seasons of life are filled with miracles and blessings.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 (King James Version)
3:1 To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.

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Commentary

NFL–To Boycott or Not to Boycott

I have been quite vocal on my thoughts and passion regarding the NFL, the 49ers organization, and CK…kneeling for the American Anthem! I didn’t watch one of their games last year. I was a 9er fan for decades. I was furious. I was sad. I was disgusted.

As a young woman back in the 70’s, then living in MI, I was a Raider fan…when the Snake was QB. When the love of the game was evident, even with the players. I don’t recall why I switched in 79/80…but I did.

Fast forward. Most players want fame now…good or bad. Assaults. Drug use. More money, etc. As long as their faces are in the news and across social media. It appears they have forgotten their job.

The reason I’m writing this today is two-fold. Yesterday I had an amazing conversation with my son. We both have the same beliefs. That being, we believe in Jesus and His second coming. We believe He wants us to be in the world to show the love of Christ. He also knows my decision to boycott the NFL due to the disrespect they have shown for America. For our Flag. For those who died protecting our Flag. Who come home from war-torn countries with OUR FLAG draped over their coffins. I don’t think they get it. I want them to just play football. I don’t care about their political beliefs…they don’t care about mine. JUST.PLAY.BALL!

This is what he said to me. (My Darlin husband has tried to tell me the same thing). My son stated how much I loved watching football. He stated how I can’t  live my life boycotting and being upset over the things happening in the world, or one day, I’ll have no stores to go in, nothing too watch and will lose my passions. He said we are to live in the world among these same people who are filled with hate, but more importantly I must realize and remind myself, we are not of this world, for our world here on earth is temporary, as we are of the world of Jesus Christ eternal.

He’s right. I loved football. My Darlin and sons are Raider fans. I was outnumbered. But, I stood my ground. Until last year and all the ignorance.

It’s just a game, I tell myself. And, it is. But, it’s also a pasttime during the winter months.

Last week I watched a YouTube video (Below) of the Raiders QB, Derek Carr. He’s a Christian. Always thanking Jesus during interviews. Talks the talk and walks the walk. The video is an amazing testimony about being obedient to Jesus. It gave me chills and tears flowed.

Then, today at church, Pastor Jesse spoke about how he is a die-hard Raider fan, and especially a fan of Carr. I see Darlin glance my way. Seriously, Lord? Are you giving  me permission to let go of my will to boycott, and uphold Your Will? Apparently, yes. I do believe these conversations are a God-incidence.

I think it’s a definite maybe…I’m a renewed Raider fan. I can’t change the way some people disrespect our Flag, I can only choose how I react or not, to them. And when the day comes and Carr is no longer their QB, well I’ll cross the field when that time comes.

Life is too short. It’s time to enjoy it abundantly. I can no longer live my life because of the actions or non-actions of others. Amen?

And…that’s my commentary.

Watch Derek Carr’s amazing testimony of obedience.

 

 

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Weekly Inspiration

Always Be Prepared

It’s that time of year as you are driving down the freeways, you will see folks in their campers, hauling 5th wheels or packed in SUV’s or even small vehicles, loaded with camping equipment. It’s pretty obvious where they are headed.

If you are like me, your imagination will run wild. “I wonder where they are headed?” “Will they be safe with their campfires?” Being in California or any western state during the summer, there is always a concern.

I used to tent camp quite a bit. There are so many places to do so in this beautiful state, as I’m certain there are no matter where you live.

There were many times I landed in my reserved camp spot and realized I wasn’t as prepared as I thought. Important items I’d forgotten to bring. Stuck. No store for miles. Never good.

We are creatures of, “I’m sure I have everything I need. I mean, I know what I’m doing, been there done that.” Right? Ha!

It’s kind of the same thing in life. You think you are prepared for whatever comes your way. You may say, “I’ve got this.” Or, “I don’t need help, I can go it alone.”

But do you really have it, and can you really go it alone?

The Bible tells us, we are never alone. God is always right there. As a matter of fact, He goes before us, making our path. He’s preparing our day, even before we wake to a new sunrise.

Starting your day in prayer and intimate conversation with God, will make a huge difference in how you go about the activities set before you. If you haven’t tried it, I encourage you to do so. You will never be disappointed in how you feel afterwards. Your plans may not work out the way you’d hope, but they will work out per His plans…and they are most certain the best for you, if He is involved.

So, for those who camp, I am enclosing this checklist (below) I created years ago, (updated with today’s items). Maybe you won’t be caught as unprepared as I once was.

 

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you…

 

campers-checklist

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