My favorite February memory, now that we're rolling into March, was having tea with George Washington on his birthday at the replica of Mt. Vernon here in the Pacific Northwest. The George Washington Inn sits on a bluff overlooking the ocean. This beautiful place makes me feel at rest whenever I go there. Surrounding the inn are lavender fields and there's a snowy mountain view from the front porch.
Here's my dear mom and George, friend and reenactor, Vern Frykholm. I met Vern and his wife, Sandy, on the Philadelphia tour we took last summer. They're history lovers like myself and he did a stellar job as George! The suit he is wearing is a reproduction of the one worn by Washington at his inauguration. Love that cravat!
The tea was delightful in every way! Love the blue decorations and the little flags - and the menu!
On the veranda overlooking the ocean. The sun was shining and there was a double rainbow in the sky that day. Truly a sight to behold!
I was chuckling as I looked back at February and thought of some not-so-memorable things that happened that the cynic in me would love to post about, lest it seem a writer's life is all tea parties and rainbows;) But since the new year rolled around I keep bumping into Scripture that challenges me to dwell on what is good and praiseworthy. Two verses come to mind often...
Be of good cheer. ~Acts 27:22 (KJV)
In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
~1 Thessalonians 5:18 (God's Word Translation)
Do you have a favorite February memory if you overlook the bumps? Looking forward to something in March?
Be of good cheer. ~Acts 27:22 (KJV)
In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
~1 Thessalonians 5:18 (God's Word Translation)
Do you have a favorite February memory if you overlook the bumps? Looking forward to something in March?
I agree- "dwell on what is good and praiseworthy." Oh- if we could only take that to heart, all the time. We'd be obeying the Lord, that's for sure, if we did! I am so glad you shared this. I'd like to share with my children your photos, especially of your friend, Vern aka George. :)
ReplyDeleteThe scenery sounds so, so beautiful. Lavender fields! GOODNESS! And a snowy mountain! What more can you want?!
I love the photo of you and your mother. It is very sweet. How thankful and proud she must be of you! Makes me pray that my own parents will be alive "whenever" and "if ever" my writing dreams come true in more tangible forms. My dad has been my companion in so many things of my life- I really hope that the Lord blesses his life and mine on this earth this way. I know I ask a great deal, ha, but I will hope. Blessings to you, Laura! ~AMY
p.s. sent a little something your way- was looking through my childhood antique book collection!
Love this, Amy. Your parents sound wonderful and I almost feel like I know them as I remember little bits you've shared! Love that you're a daddy's girl, especially, in the best sense of the word:) I know they must be very proud of you and the grands! Thanks for the kind comments about the pic of me with Mom. She's so much fun to be with - we tend to love the same things so this was a happy afternoon for us. And those lavender fields are amazing! The inn even has an outstanding line of products made from all that lavender - winsome things like lavender sugar and soaps and whatnot. They also carry copies of TCL in their gift shop which makes me feel very blessed:) I think Colonel McLinn would like that...
DeleteSo glad you're here - it's a great way to end the evening!
Amy, You're too kind to send something my way - I treasure the last heartfelt things nad have them in my little office/library. You are such a gem!
DeleteI forgot to answer your question! My favorite memory (after overlooking the "many" bumps) would be the continuing friendships I've attained over the last year and the small, quiet, humble moments with my family at home. Looking forward to March, well....I'm not sure what that thing would be at this point. LOL. Better weather? For spring walks???? ~AMY
ReplyDeleteI think the winter has many bumps for us thoughtful types, Amy. I know I sure crave the sun year round and can really relate to the anticipation of spring walks!!! You've listed some things that don't hinge on the seasons and are so good to remember - family and friendship. Thanks for the reminder. Love the "small, quiet, humble." Well said, my friend!
DeleteOh how beautiful, Laura! Seeing you makes me want to give you a big hug. :-)) You and your mom looked to have a wonderful time--she looks like you. Or rather, you look like here. ;-) Thanks so much for sharing!
ReplyDeleteYou're such a sweetheart, Casey:) I feel the same thing when I see a pic of you!! BTW, are you anywhere near Portland or Beaverton? I'm doing a multi-author signing there in May and have a hug with your name on it if you're close. But I have a feeling you're quite a ways away! No matter, cyber hugs count, too - lol;)
DeleteWow, Laura! That inn looks amazing. So beautiful, and a view by the sea. Love that. Have you ever been to the real Mount Vernon? I was there years ago when I was a little girl. It was just as beautiful. And I love the pic of you and your Mom. So sweet. You both look like you're having a wonderful time. February, Hmmmm...I think of looking forward to warmer days and spring rains, beautiful flowers and the sounds of birds and frogs singing. And new books coming out by my favorite authors! Of course, I get to look forward to that ALL year long. :)
ReplyDeleteOh, I hear you about the birds and frogs, Angi:) I always know when spring is coming when I hear the frogs in the woods around our house. Sometimes I hear them as early as February but winter has a tight grip this year and it's still snowy and windy here. Like you, I can't wait for upcoming books, especially Liz Curtis Higg's novella in October (I think) called A Wreath of Snow. I also just endorsed a wonderful book by Serena Miller called A Promise to Love set in 19th-century Michigan. I think you'd like it very much! I sure did:) Relz Reviewz posted the cover on her blog under Revell releases last week if you want to take a peek.
DeleteWould you believe I've never been to Mt. Vernon!?! But I do plan to go, Lord willing. Somehow I ended up on the wrong coast and away from all that good history I love. Argggh. Thank heavens hubs likes to travel:) Bless you today!
What a sweet picture of you and your Mom! I enjoyed your post Laura....and don't you look pretty in blue. =)
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Maggie Ann. We did have such a good time - and that is a frameable moment, I think! Oh, that blue coat is my favorite. It speaks spring to me for some reason. I wish every day was a tea and rainbow day! Bless you so much!
DeleteWhat a wonderful post, Laura! I just love the photos! It looks like a lovely time! That picture of you and your mom looks like a great one to put in a frame. : )
ReplyDeleteAnd your jacket matches perfectly! Was that a coincidence? ;-)
I hope you're having a blessed week, my friend!
Love & Prayers,
Michelle
Thanks so much for coming by, Michelle:) I don't know how you do all you do! Thanks to you, I think I'll frame that picture for Mom. I hadn't thought of that till you mentioned it, oh creative one!! And I was surprised that coat matched everything - I felt like part of the decor;) We've had a wonderful week here - writing and painting Paul's room and things like that. I've tried out some new recipes and keep thinking of you. Maybe I should start sharing a recipe or two a month here. Now there's a happy thought! Love and prayers to you, too!
DeleteLove this post Laura. Love the pics - what a beautiful place to have tea with your mom! And I just love that your gorgeous blue coat matches the decor :) What a blessing to have a rainbow on display as you were there!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the reminder and verses for dwelling on the good things in life :) This verse is one that comes to my mind:
"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things." Philippians 4:8 (NKJV)
I think I have two favourite memories from February. Ironically (blessedly!) they both happened during the most stressful week. The first was seeing my eldest daughter get over her recently formed fear of water at the beach. She ended up having an absolute ball! The second was going to my first concert in years and rediscovering how much I love music. It reignited things deep within me, and I had so much fun.
I've decided to stop letting external factors affect my goal of writing. So in March, I've signed up for Speedbo! I'm not entirely crazy, I'm well aware of my mothering demands so I'm not actually attempting a book in a month :P I am aiming to add 20K to my current WIP. This works out at about 1000 words a day, 5 days a week. I think that is manageable! And I've already done 1100 for today :)
Day is done on this side of the world! I think yours is just beginning ... or just about to! Have a wonderful day :)
Helen, I think it's so interesting how the Lord gets us through sticky, tough times with blessings like your concert and the beach. Things like that keep us going. His mercies really are new every morning. LOVE the verse you shared. It is so wise and true and helps keep our thoughts from shipwreck and worry. Thanks so much for sharing what you have here. It benefits me and others, too, I know.
DeleteSpeedbo! I'd never heard of that till today and then someone else mentioned it on Facebook, too:) Sounds great!! I think 1000 is manageable and congrats on being overlimit today!! You'll probably find some days are gushers and others a trickle but that's fine - they kind of even out in the end. Love those gusher days though! I'm so excited for you. I think writing is a wonderful escape, good therapy, and more. Glad you told me as I'll pray specifically for you and Speedbo goals. And that those sweet girls of yours take some naps;)
Hope your birthday was extra special!!
What glorious pictures of your tea! Such a gorgeous setting! How wonderful to be friends with dear "George"! Isn't it special to share opportunities like that with your Mom. I have some special moments of my own. And for that I am thankful, despite my end of Dec., Jan. & Feb. bumps where I spent two months with my Mom. Although it was to take care of her during her recovery from her fall, the times spent were precious.
ReplyDeleteP. S. I love that blue jacket of yours!
Carla, If there's anyone I could have added to our tea table that day it would have been you, given your love of colonial history and the like. In fact, this post should be dedicated to you because I remember your gracious comments about it last week!
DeleteYou have a wonderful attitude about taking care of your precious Mom. I'm so thankful she's better. It's been a long haul for both of you. But your perspective is so key. We will have our moms for such a short time, kind of like our kids when they're small. Every moment counts, even if they're not so sunny. You're such a blessing. And I'm beyond thrilled to see you here again!!
Wow, that looks like such a fun, enjoyable, way to spend an afternoon for sure! I just love history and have an especially soft spot for the Revolutionary era...Our family took vacations to colonial Williamsburg several times, and those are favorite memories of mine. For some reason, I get a huge sense of peace and wonder revisiting places from the past and imagining myself a part of them. :)
ReplyDeleteProbably my favorite part of February was celebrating my daughter's first birthday. Although her actual birthday is in January, we had a lady bug themed party for her a few weeks later, and it was so much fun to plan! Just having friends and family together from near and far was a big treat.
So glad you were able to spend a few hours with your mom at this lovely afternoon tea-and also that you shared your delightful pictures with us! The photo of you and your mom together is especially beautiful. :)
Christina, Happy birthday to Miss Ava!! Turning one is a HUGE deal:) I'm always amazed at how much babies grow that first year - all those changes - and she's just beautiful! Being partial to ladybugs myself, I would have been a happy guest:) I know it was a memorable day and she'll love looking back on your pictures. My boys do that and it's so fun to remember together. I love birthdays, especially. My happiest times were when my babies were born...
DeleteLove your thoughts about colonial history and that era. Like you, I get a sense of wonder and peace when visiting historic places, especially those involving the founding fathers, etc. God really had a hand in that and has blessed our nation so much. Thanks so much for your thoughtful words - about the tea, too. Now off to order a print of that pic with Mom. Bless you and others for being so gracious!!
I was at Mt. Vernon sometime in the last century, but I want to say that looks an awful lot like the real one. Am I right? I didn't realize it had been reproduced in Washington St.
ReplyDeleteFebruary has been a lovely month in Kansas--crazy warm weather, one small snowfall big enough for my kids to play in, and my oldest turned 12! Twelve! Next year we'll have a teenager. And while he's not a perfect kid, I'm not at all worried about hitting those teen years. They were a great time for me with my parents, and I'm loving watching this guy grow up. I'm very proud of him.
Lastly, I started a new WIP and entered it in Genesis! I'm so excited about it. I love the story and the setting, and I've really been amazed at how much being in love with the setting makes the story stronger. So yay for February!
It looks like you and your mom had a great time and the perfect day for it. I'm guessing that's a bit unusual for February too.
Sally, We both have 12 year olds:) Something I didn't realize till now! Aren't 12 yr olds the best! Boys, anyway, as I don't have a girl! I sense you have a lot of fun with him like I do mine. I almost wish I could stop time and keep him this way for a little longer... It's just the best age and it IS a pleasure to see them grow in the teen years coming up.
DeleteYou're right - this inn is pretty much an exact replica of Mt. Vernon on the outside though it's very different inside. You wouldn't know to look at it though. Since it's usually pouring here, yes, it's quite unusual weather here, too. We've had snow and hail lately but that day sure deserved a rainbow:)
And I'm THRILLED about your current WIP!! You've hit upon one of the secrets of writing - falling in love with your setting. It can even become like another character. That's certainly the way it is for me. A sense of place is such a gift to both writer and reader. YAY for February, indeed! Love that enthusiasm! Prayers with you for the Genesis. I think there's a lot of activity that way as I keep getting emails from the Genesis coordinator in my inbox. I'd so love to see your name up there as a finalist - and winner:)
Laura, I didn't realize we had boys the same age either. :) It is a fun age. He's our oldest, and we have a three-year-old boy too. I think one of the most fun things is watching those two together. They adore each other.
DeleteYou sure planned that right, Sally! They're the perfect span apart. Mine are only 2 years and are too competitive! Love that your boys are close! Mine are off and on but more off than on right now - lol!
DeleteBeautiful pics, Laura. The George Washington Inn looks like a wonderful retreat to the 1700s. George Washington was such an amazing man. I can't wait to meet him in heaven. :-)Your pics reminded me of my own visit to Mt Vernon when I was just a little kid. I wish had been less preoccupied with talking with my friends and more interested in the history.
ReplyDeleteLooking back, I have to say my favorite memory of last month was at Sonic. LOL! My 19-month-old is getting old enough to enjoy playgrounds, and the weather has been quite warm. I'm remembering when me and my husband were helping our son play on a slide -- I was crammed into the top of the playhouse, and David was at the bottom to catch him. My son had a blast, and so did we. :-)
Gwen, My thoughts, exactly - can't wait to meet George in heaven! I'm such a Washington fan and rank him right up there with my other hero, George Whitefield. Would love to see them both standing at the gate to greet me, in fact;) Like you, when I think of the historical places I visited when I was younger, I so wish I had listened better and remembered more!
DeleteLOL - it's so fun to hear about your family fun at Sonic - I can so relate! I was just telling Randy that some of our best memories when the boys were little was going out to eat at places with playgrounds and just being silly and living for the moment:) Being a fan of playhouses and slides, I love that:) You sound like such fun parents. Wonderful to hear the joy in the retelling - I can just see it! He's at one of my favorite ages - 19 mos. Talking and trying things out and never a dull moment!!
Laura,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your pictures! The day you mentioned going I felt left out;) I'm not sure how it would have matched up to the real Mt. Vernon since I have been there. Oh, but tea parties are so much fun! I'm so glad you got to enjoy some eastern history out there. The day looked beautiful. God is an artist!!!
I loved touring Mt. Vernon! I guess I kinda know what people feel like when they can brag that they walked where some celebrity walked. For me, the thrill is walking where history happened!
The museum was amazing! This is separate from the house. There are three life size wax figures of George. And of course various historical objects there for preservation and display.
Oh, I could keep writing! Love, Love, History!
Jennie
Oh, yes,Jennie, so well said - God really is an artist:) He sure painted the sky that day in an amazing way. Makes me want to sneak a rainbow into one of my books! Love how you worded that - "walking where history happened." I feel the same awe and fascination! And let me tell you, I was completely smitten by some life size wax figures of George at a Mt Vernon exhibit in Philly last summer. OH MY! If the reproduction was authentic, he was quite handsome! No wonder Martha tipped her fan to him...
DeleteI wish you would keep writing - love sharing history here. It's such a joy. I can't imagine NOT loving it. Reminds me of the funny saying on the back of some Ann Rinaldi novels:
This is a historical novel. Read at your own risk. The writer feels necesary to alert you to the fact you might enjoy it.
LOL:) Bless you for your thoughts!!
Oh, I so agree! My favorite painting of George is the one of him wearing his uniform from the French and Indian War. Young, inexperienced, and a redhead. Need I say more:) I'm sure he gained experience after charging into that. After all he was moved up to lieutenant colonel! (yes I just looked that up:)
DeleteAnyway. Yes the wax figures were incredible. I am such a fan, I checked out a book about the George Washington wax figures from the library. My family was extremely impressed - learning that they made a real man wear the clothes and boots and ride a horse so they looked worn for the Vally Forge model. I am being sarcastic - I was impressed! So interesting.
Well I've got to go.
Jennie
Oh, you're dangerous, dear Jennie! I'm going to have to hunt for that wax figure book! They are so tremendously lifelike. I remember standing by young George in uniform during exhibit and he was so lifelike I said, "Talk to me." I wouldn't have been surprised if he'd talked back;) And I won't even begin on that red hair... OH MY!
DeleteYou must think I am crazy - I'm back again! I just had to stop by and give you the name of the book! "The many faces of George Washington : remaking a presidential icon"
DeleteI'll go to bed now.
Thanks for taking time for this history girl. It has been a joyful evening 'talking' to you!
Jennie - again:)
Oh Jennie, You're the best!! I feel an Amazon order coming on:) This is one book I'm going to love, I can tell. And I can't thank you enough! It's a JOY to have these historical chats with you, too. You're wonderful to talk to! Have a happy weekend!
DeleteJennie, Just had to f/u and tell you that is one beautiful book! And it's coming to my mailbox next week:) LOVE the trio of Georges on the cover - and the text sounds wonderful, too. Many thanks for such a great recc!!
DeleteWow, some beautiful pics Laura!! Love the rainbow pic! Looks like you and your mom had a fantastic day and I have to agree with the others, you look stunning in that blue jacket:)
ReplyDeleteMy highlights of February were all the times that God showed Himself faithful. He never ceases to amaze me in how he cares for His children. Even when we are faithless He remains faithful and that's such a comforting thought.
Bless you today dear Laura!
Oh, Eva, thanks so much for such kind thoughts! I think that blue jacket would make anyone look good! It's just the loveliest color. And it hides a multitude of sins;)
DeleteI keep dreaming of your spring over there!! I hope you're having a beautiful Feb. I can only imagine the bluebells and all else when they appear. I think your springs might be like ours here - damp and chill but sometimes sunny and mild on a rare day. Our summers don't start till late July and then last through September. Temps are rarely over 70 degrees. Nights are always cool. I miss that KY sun. But am having to bloom where I'm planted...
Love what you said about God's faithfulness even when we're so...not. I think that is one of His best attributes. Or one I love Him most for. So good to think about that with you. Bless you and your littles today!
Love the photos, Laura! Very nice to see a photo of your mom, now I'll be able to picture her in mind when you mention her. :) Please count me as another one who loves the blue jacket.
ReplyDeleteFebruary was a rough month for me. A lot of work related stuff, and February is just my least favorite month personally. (Well except for a Winter Olympic year, then it becomes my favorite, lol.)
I noticed you mentioned the Kentucky sun. You would have LOVED today. It was so sunny, and warm. Of course tomorrow is supposed to be stormy. But today was just beautiful!
Michelle, I think Feb. - and Jan. - are not favorites of many. Except skiers and snowboarders, etc. I do remember that Feb I watched all that ice skating and thought of you:) Was that 2 yrs ago? Seems like forever for some reason...lately I lose all track of time. I'm so sorry last month was hard for you. Glad you were rewarded with some sunshine today. We had a bit here, too, and I'm so grateful. March will be better, I hope. Prayers with you. And bless you for liking that blue coat!! And for saying such thoughtful things about my mom:) You're a gem.
DeleteIt probably was two years ago, the Vancouver Olympics. :)
DeleteYou're right! All I remember is wanting to watch the ice skating but it was on very late here in the woods. And my Mom was visiting and then the book pages came which required lots of work. OH MY! Memories...
DeleteHi Laura, Loved the pictures of you and your mom. I agree with the above posts, the blue coat is beautiful. We had a beautiful 70 degree day here in Ohio...what a blessing for me because I'm not the biggest fan of the cold : )
ReplyDeleteColleen, Somehow I always think of you and your mom when I do these things as I know you all have a close relationship, too:) Thanks for the blue coat comment - lol! It's a bonafide keeper, I guess! SO glad you're seeing sun. Stay safe from those tornados. Ohio has really been in the news of late. March is officially here and we'll just see more and more of the golden shiny stuff:) And I won't even BEGIN to mention Texas, my friend...!
DeleteGreat pics, Laura! What sweet memories to look back on with your dear mom :) Sounds like you girls had fun - would that everyday could be tea parties and rainbows ;) I think those special times are little gifts from God, earthly glimpses of eternity that encourage our hearts and refresh our spirits. I'm happy you could have such moments in the midst of the hard times. I know I've had my share of them, lol! God is so good and He always lets you know He's there, even in those moments He seems so far away, He never leaves our side.
ReplyDeleteFebruary had it's moments but the greatest blessing of all is how my little brother has grown in the Lord, recommitting his life to Christ! What a prayer answered! I can see God moving in and through him shaping him into the mighty man of God He has called him to be, a man after God's own heart. He's 20, and thats never an easy age, but from his own lips he's said that the closer he gets to Christ the more Christ in enough and the worlds temporary happiness holds no joy that could compare to eternities promise. He's always been a good kid but now he has a fire for the Lord that is spreading out and touching those around him. He has a passion to do more and is even rolling around ideas about missionary work someday if it's the Lord's will. I know God can use him anywhere and he is willing to go. His testimony has convicted and challenged me to grow in the Lord and to catch that fire again. It is an honor to sit beside him on a Sunday morning and see him completely immersed in the sermon and adding solid and wonderful insights if our pastor opens the floor for discussion - whereas before he kept silent. It's like he's overflowing with God he can't keep it in! I'll stop there because I could go on and on, but I just stand in awe of how good God is and how blessed we are.
Praying for everyone in the path of those tornadoes. May God keep you and your loved ones safe.
Blessings,
Amanda
LOL - in my zeal to answer you I once again missed the reply button. See below for my novella - er, lengthy comment!
DeleteOh Amanda, What a blessing you are this Friday! SO thrilled with your brother's revival, so to speak! That's so touching and inspiring and more. It will be so exciting to see what the Lord has in store with him and his renewed heart:) You've always been on fire for Him and often it's through the hard times that our faith is tested and refined and we have a witness. Being in church and fellowship is so vital and I'm thrilled he's right there with you and your family. 20 is an age where so much is tugging at your mind and heart, pulling you in different directions. So that he's come to this place early on is just great - and that he has a heart for being used, perhaps even as a missionary, is awesome!! Can you see me smiling:)
ReplyDeleteI didn't post here though I did on Facebook and would appreciate your prayers and those of others. My brother is getting ready to go into Cypress (and other parts for an extended visit). I don't mention it much as things are so unstable over there and I have to be careful of what I say. So prayers for His safety and those he is trying to reach are very appreciated. Another thing - you came to mind this week as Paul picked out a poster for his newly painted room. I was so touched by the poster as it displays Romans 1:16 and a cross and underneath are the words, "This poster is illegal in 51 countries." Anyway, it brought you to mind for some reason and I was touched that my son wanted to hang it in his room. Not sure you've seen the poster but it's circulating on the web and is pretty powerful. And it made me think, "Amanda would like this!"
Anyway, dear friend, so happy to have a Friday visit with you:) Prayers with you, too.
Laura, I just Googled that poster and WOW, SO POWERFUL! You're right, Amanda DOES like it! LOL ;) Tell Paul I think it's a mad cool choice and thanks to you both because I didn't even know it was out there! I know my brother will like it too when I show him and chances are he'll want it for his own room! :)
DeleteAnd prayers are heading your brothers way, my friend. I know my brother will want to keep Chris in prayer also. May God be a Mighty Shield roundabout him, anointing his words with Fire and bringing a hunger and thirst into the hearts of the people, softening them to receive the Good News. Your brother brings the Greatest Gift to so many. The Lord sees every sacrifice he and his family make for the glory of God and the spreading of His Word. The heart of a missionary is the most beautiful of all, Amen? I actually thought of your brother just the other day when I randomly came across a quote on a sticky note in my room. It was the one I shared with you some time ago by C.T. Studd - "Some want to live within the sound of church or chapel bell; I want to run a rescue shop within a yard of hell." I instantly thought of you and your brother and have been praying for him as the Lord brings him to mind. Maybe this trip was the reason why.
So wonderful to end my week with you, dear friend :) May God give you and your family peace over your brothers trip. A sweet lady at my church once said, "Your prayers go where you can't go." I might have shared that before with you but it bears repeating and it truly is a balm of peace for our worry.
Blessings,
Amanda
Your beautiful words read like a prayer, Amanda. Thanks so very much. My brother often checks this blog and I know he'll see your comments. Love the Studd quote - AMEN! And that is a wonderful truth from the lady at your church - I will remember that and no, I don't think you've shared that before. But am so glad you did! You're such a blessing. Blessed Friday, indeed!!
DeleteLaura, just wanted to let you know my brother got home a little while ago and I showed him that poster - he loved it! He said he's been wanting to get a Christian poster for his room. He loved it so much he bought it on the spot. He said to tell Paul thanks :)
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Amanda
WOW! From the east coast to the west - that's powerful!! So glad your brother liked! Paul will smile:) And kudos to you for taking the time to look it up! Speaking of brothers, I just got off the phone with mine about an hour ago and was telling him about the poster and he looked it up - and gave it a big thumbs up. I'm still smiling...
DeleteOh, I love this post and the picture of you and your mom. So much family resemblance there.
ReplyDeleteI will pray for your brother. That's so exciting, I'm sure you and your mom miss him a great deal even though you're so proud for his allowing God to use him in this way to share the Gospel in Cypress.
I have to say I think finishing my RD of my novel just about tops the list for me.
Julia, So glad you're here - praying about that novel of yours. You've sure been faithful to the task He's called you to - and more. You've accomplished the main hurdle - now for the icing on the cake:)
DeleteYes, we're so humbled and proud that Chris is in active ministry/missions. Cypress is such an interesting country, being occupied by both Greeks and Turks. In some ways it hasn't changed much since Biblical times. The wonderful thing is that he'll be able to see where Paul preached while there. I think that would be so moving and inspiring. Makes me want to go. Considering that so few missionaries continue on the field even after 3 years, it's wonderful to see he'll soon mark his 22nd year. It's not been easy but God is so faithful.
Thanks so much for the prayers. They make such a difference and impact!!
LOL! I need to brush up on my geography! The correct, current spelling is Cyprus. I always prefer the antiquated one, though!
DeleteWhat a fun place to visit! You must have loved it, and it's so great you could bring your mom. :-)
ReplyDeleteIt's an amazing place, Naomi, right down to the Revolutionary War chess set in the library:) I wanted to wear my colonial garb that day as it seemed so fitting. Thanks for the kind words. Moms are the best company!! I have a feeling you could say the same:) Bless you today!
DeleteJust wanted to say I glanced over a few of your entries and I can already tell that, though you and I are very different people at different stages in life, I will enjoy reading your blog in the future. I know some friends of mine that have read or been wanting to read the books you highlight on your blog. Until next time...
ReplyDeletePeace that surpasses all understanding,
James
James, Welcome to my blog! I appreciate your comments so much even though we're at different stages and places, etc. So glad your friends are interested in the books hightlighted here - I am a confessed bibliophile, for sure. This looks to be a great year for reading. Grace and peace to you on this Monday and all through the week.
ReplyDeleteI love old maps, too. We're thinking about decorating our living room with an old map theme. Of course this is funny, because we have all these ideas for decorating but never seem to get to them. Perhaps life will look a little different in a few years when Noah is past the preschool stage.
ReplyDeleteWow, 22 years that is awesome!! Please keep us posted as you're allowed so I know how to pray for him and for the places he shares the gospel.
Thanks for your encouraging words about finishing my RD. I first wanted to throw it across the room, but 6 weeks later edits seem doable and after playing around with a few ideas think I have found one I like for #2. Can't wait to see that pretty little cover of yours in B&N. I still think its the best yet :)
Just give it a few years, Julia - we are having fun redecorating a little bit in our house after 13 years here. But I'll admit I was a bit sad painting over those stars and moons on Paul's ceiling! No more little boy! Praying for you and C and your littles, your book, and everything...
Delete