Saturday, October 10, 2009

43-ish Gifts and Counting...

Cool weather, planting flowers, fall colors, open windows and doors, a break from school, time with family and friends, cloudy days, happy dogs and fresh produce....these are among the things I am treasuring today. But for the whole week I have been treasuring in my heart the lessons and lives of Abraham and Sarah. I've been reading Genesis and savoring it, trying to fathom the MANY years before Abraham saw some proof of God's promise, being strengthened by their faith, encouraged by God's direct communication with them and validated by their humanity in it all. "Wow" is all I can say. Wow.

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Trains, Generosity and Memories

I'm so thankful for the generosity of my parents who treated us all to the Grand Canyon Railway as an early Christmas gift! We took the two hour train up and back to the Canyon, complete with entertainment and a train "robbery!" The kids loved it and I think it will be one of those very special memories with Grandma and Grandpa.


My Dad and the Grand Canyon

I am so thankful for my Dad. We visited the Grand Canyon this weekend...my Dad, Step-Mom, Chris, the kids and I. And tonight, the day after our return, he opened up the great chasm of his memory and shared his history with me and the kids. I've never heard him share so much of himself. Did the Canyon inspire him? It was beautiful to watch my children listen and amusing to hear Lily's incessant questions that caused delay after delay in the story. Just as beautiful as the Grand Canyon. Every bit, piece and memory showing the handiwork of the Lord...even the dark and broken remembrances reflect the hope of a Redeemer.






I can hardly believe I'm posting a picture of the Grand Canyon. It's so "touristy," not to mention that I've never liked the Canyon in art. An exceptionally few can capture any measure of its grandeur. I do not attempt to do so.... There is nothing like actually being there. In fact, a few hours didn't cut it for me. I felt like I wanted to pick up and move and reside there for a time...to let its bigness and my smallness settle in. It's vaster to me than the littleness I feel when by the sea.



Can you believe this was posted outside the gift shop? Credit appropriately given!