Full of Joy

Last night we visited our local county fair. It's a pretty big deal around here. Our first summer in the area, we were invited to the fair by a local "Big Wig". Chuck had been working at Lowes, and met this generous man who treated our whole family to the fair. We were spoiled forever by that experience because the kids got to ride on as many rides as they wanted, as many times as they wanted! It was really special. As much as we enjoyed that experience, we didn't know if we'd ever go back because we knew it would be pretty expensive, and really- what was all the hype about?  We're about to hit our 5 year anniversary of living in The Valley. As we were walking around the fairgrounds as a family of 5 now, plus our niece last night, I spent a good deal of time reflecting. For me, it wasn't about the (cheesy) rides, or infamous fair food (cotton candy, snowcones, deep fried oreos, and funnel cake were our treats of choice!), or even the shows (the wolves ...

"The mountains and hills will burst into song before you!" (Yes, Isaiah 55:12 again!) This morning I sat in my usual spot at our dining room table. You know the spot- it looks out at my favorite tree. Well, today I was compelled to move just one seat over. The perspective was completely different. This view still includes my tree, but also has the added benefit of the glorious mountains in the distance. There is a perfect break in our backyard between two other houses where the mountains absolutely burst into song. They reflect God's glory, and His creative power every single day. Anytime we travel, there is something deep inside me that longs to get back to The Valley where we live. I miss those mountains when we're gone. We're coming up on our 5 year anniversary of living in this area, and the views all around us never, ever get old. I never get used to it or take it for granted. The mountains around us are a tangible reminder to me of God's presence her...

This morning God brought one of my favorite backyard trees to my spirit's attention. He shared with me how before my big, beautiful tree was even a little seedling, He had me in mind. As this big tree has developed over the last forty years, He always knew it was for me. He created it just to delight me. As I delight in the tree He delights in me, and I delight in Him. As I was thinking about all the ways this tree brings my spirit such joy, I knew I had to write about it.  The tree is just beautiful. I sit at the table **almost** every morning talking to my Father (God, not my Dad. Although I do love talking to him, too.), journaling, praying, and spending time together. The tree reflects His glory, beauty, and creative power. The green leaves brighten up my view. They bring refreshing shade to our deck and yard. This summer Chuck strung pretty bulb lights on them, so even at night my tree twinkles and delights me. It offers security to me, somehow. It's strong branches h...

In February of 2021 I read a book by Annie F. Downs called, "That Sounds Fun". It was a huge motivation for me to start a summer book club- just for June, July, and August of '21. God led me to a bunch of ladies who were just as interested in reading books together as I was. We've had some ladies come and go, but there's been four of us who have stuck with it for over a solid year now! Something that was going to be summer fun turned into a year of fun and keeps going! Our friend hosted us on her screened in back porch the other night. There is nothing like sitting outside on a hot night, taking in all the sweetness of summer. We got to witness the pink hues of the sun setting over the mountains, and the bugs serenading us. Sipping tea and munching on chocolate cake, our discussion flowed easily from "Miss Buncles Book" to "The Swiss Family Robinson". As the evening got darker, the little lights strung on the porch got brighter. There is ne...

Since March, God has been leading me to "Look at what is before my eyes" as Jesus did (I have this reference underlined in one of my Bibles, but it's upstairs so I can't remember the exact verse. I believe it's somewhere in the Corinthians. =). This means I look to face each day with my spirit aligned with His spirit, with my eyes  off  my circumstances. There is much to be thankful for each day, no matter how bleak things may appear.  Even when life takes drastic, unexpected turns, there is always a constant flow of joy built in with the sorrow. I really love the little things in life, those "Sweet Things" from God that remind me of His deep affection. Last night I called a friend to ask her a quick question. During our conversation, she shared a need her family had. They needed someone to stop by and help move a couple couches from their basement to their living room. I easily volunteered Chuck for the job ;) so we loaded up our family and h...