Ready for a Ride

All ready in his "transportation system." We called them strollers, but they definitely lacked the amenities of this new equipment. It is amazing that our children survived to adulthood with the lack of safety features. Glad my grandchildren are so well protected.

Jack Be Nimble

Okay, you knew I couldn't finish this day without a Jack moment. The child is a miracle of nature. He is the pride of his parents, his grandparents, and soon ----- the world.

On April 22, 2009 Jack was born in Baptist Hospital. Around the corner from Jeff and Anne lives a couple who welcomed their son, Henry, on April 22, 2009 at Baptist Hospital. Jack and Henry were in the nursery together! Tonight as we paraded through the neighborhood, we stopped to visit with the neighbors. It looked like a scene from "Look Who's Talking." Jack and Henry sat in their identical carriers, rolling their eyes at the adults who were clearly doing the chest bump thing. They oohed and aahed over the other child, all the time knowing theirs was the cutest, smartest, most "est" of all.

Sue and Rich Goldsmith, Anne's parents, have spent the weekend and thoroughly enjoyed the Jack time. They are outstanding grandparents - and they faithfully pray for Jeff, Anne, and Jack. What a privilege to share "my kid" with them.

Saying Amen

"The documents have been emailed to you. The buyers signed, and are moving into Parkchester tomorrow." WOW! An answer to a long-uttered prayer. The house actually sold. This news was the perfect amen to my road trip. Coming back to Dallas without the responsibility of the house is a great gift.

Where do you find a notary on Saturday morning? Ken at the Bank of America in Brentwood, TN, will always be one of my favorite people. Two trips (forgot one the first time), two long lines of waiting for Ken's official stamp, one hurried run to Kinko's for hastily done copies, and a successful drop-off at FedEx (Iknow, they are the same place, but it makes a more breathless narrative...) allowed me to exhale audibly. Thus, the pic for this entry is a forever memory....

When I "shared" the good news on FB, I received numerous responses from people who prayed for the sale. How precious that friends who don't really know me have prayed faithfully for the Lord to bless another family with this wonderful house.

Lots of amens on this journey.....but lots of hallelujahs, as well. God is good....He is good all the time.

Dun rode the road

I did it! I rode the whole thing (minus 6 miles in Miami) ---- and added miles and miles each time I got lost in a big city. An aside --- if you are ever trying to find US 41 in Tampa, it is Florida Avenue. About the 4th time around downtown, I found it.

I often thought about the feelings of realizing the dream of "driving US 41." Honestly, the last 75 miles were focused on getting to Nashville. The "call of baby Jack" pushed me to drive past the George Dickel Distillery, two TVA dams, and one mountain wood carver with little desire to pull off and explore.

The day included a spectacular drive through the mountains of Tennessee. There are seven serpentine, breathtaking miles out of Monteagle, TN. I passed the driveway for Rock City. The vision of all those barns across America painted with "See Rock City" flashed into my mind. Here I was at the real thing. But, that would have to wait for another trip --- my face was turned toward Nashville!

Often, 41 paralleled Interstate 24. I glanced to my left or right, watching trucks and cars flying by. My decision to observe every stop sign, every traffic light, and every school crossing was a good one. Getting from point A to point B isn't always a question of expediency, but experience.
I learned about finishing well. I learned about seeing a dream from beginning to end. I learned about the joy of discovery --- and recovery! I learned you can love a bright blue Cruiser for thousands of miles and never, never get tired of sharing the road together.
Seems like the most appropriate close is "Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow...amen."

Chattanooga Chew-Chew

Ben Haden, President of Changed Lives, loves Cracker Barrel. So do I. The country ham biscuit is a perfect way to start the morning. The chain began in Lebanon, TN. and I was a customer way back then...and there.
Stories of my parents, his dear wife who recently transferred to heaven, and all things current kept us munching for nearly 90 minutes. Dad once asked a small group of friends, "How do you define Jesus?" Ben answered, "My best friend." That response stayed with Dad to the end and inspired him as he lived out his own faith walk.
We took a tour of the Changed Lives offices, including the theater built for his TV show. When you hear someone on the radio, or see them on TV, you don't think of all that it takes behind the scenes. As we stepped through one room, Ben warned, "Watch out for the wires." I think that would be a good subtitle ----
Chattanooga was the last overnight stop on the trip. Sharing the ultimate day with a dear friend of our family was a special way to begin the final trek. There is line in a Christian song ---"I'm a life that's been changed." Ben Haden, a former CIA agent, newspaper publisher, and business CEO, knows what a changed life in Jesus truly looks like!

In Remembrance

Six miles from my Chattanooga destination, I entered the north Georgia town of Ringgold. I started noticing American flags on the outskirts. It barely registered until I drove into the town center. Suddenly, flags were everywhere. The courthouse lawn was covered in a display that could not be ignored. Stopping to look, I soon realized each flag stood on a base with a name and war listed. This flag indicated a man or woman who gave their life in battle. My eyes stung as I stood there stunned.
Two policemen sat nearby. I asked about the flags. "They are on every street of our town ---- 786 of them!" World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam --- they were all there.
Thank you, Lord, for Ringgold, Georgia. Thank you for the lives of these men and women who sacrified so I could freely drive from state to state.
What a way to end a day filled with blessing.

OOPS

The house caught my eye as I drove through the small Georgia community. I was making good time toward Atlanta, but quickly remembered the purpose of this trip wasn't speed, but experience. The house was just too good to drive past.
I turned around, and parked in front of the abandoned structure. I parked in the side yard once occupied by an old service station....it felt like time travel. I started to jump out and leave the car running. But, that broke rule one of the single woman's road trip code: "safety first - and know where your keys are at all times!"
I stepped out and walked to the front. Across the small city street were 4 men weed eating. Soon a white van pulled up directly across from me. Just at that moment, one of the weedeaters turned around. "Property of Georgia Department of Corrections." YIKES. These weren't city workers, were they?
The armed guard stood between me and the men and stared until I returned to the Cruiser. I waved as I drove off, but he didn't return the courtesy.
My daughter, Heather, laughed as I told her. "Mom, I can just see the report on CNN about prisoners in Georgia driving cross-country in a bright blue P.T.Cruiser getaway car!"

Penultimate

Baby Jack's grandfather, Rich Goldsmith, and I have something in common ----- we love words. During a vocabulary jousting, I threw out "penultimate." "Second to last," Rich instanteously responded.
Penultimate is one of my favorite words --- I like the way it sounds and I like the fact that most people misuse it. "Ultimate" isn't good enough for most --- they think adding the pen elevates it to some higher level. But no --- it means second to last, as Rich knew.
Yesterday was the penultimate day of the US 41 road trip and in many ways it had a touch of the ultimate. From the departure at Lake City, Fl. to the night's sleep in Chattanooga, TN, the day combined the best elements of the road trip: friendly faces, interesting experiences, visual beauty, and an awareness of God's goodness.
Whatever tomorrow brings on the ultimate day of this journey, the penultimate will have its own special memories.

Ring Around the Ringling

Alright, it is nearly 11:30 PM - I have driven for 11 hours today and yet I have accomplished something wonderful -----I figured out how to put a photo in this blog. I can sleep a happy woman tonight.

Well, back to the subject at hand. After lunch, I stopped by the Ringling Museum because my friend Victoria suggested I do so. And, happily, it was on highway 41. The purist in me rejoiced.

Well, it was a rich experience and I barely scratched the surface. The Ringlings traveled the world in their lifetime of love and circuses. The 66 acre estate in downtown Sarasota houses their magnificent art collection. Two buildings feature circus exhibits. At the end, sitting directly on the Sarasota Bay is their mansion. This is the a photo of the view down the promenade leading up to the front door.

Alright, now that I figured out the photo once - let's see if I can do it again. I may try to backtrack, so read the entries quickly before I mistakenly delete them.

Good Eats

Breakfast on the morning terrace with Marianne and Jack; lunch with high school friend, Gary, in Sarasota; dinner at Brookfield, Fl.'s Coney Island Drive In - quite a good day.
Songs seemed to come to mind today. As I drove, the Cruiser quite enjoyed hearing "Make new friends, but keep the old; one is silver and the other gold."
Marianne, Jack, and I share a decade old kinship. My high school buddy and I go back decades and decades (NO, I am not going to tell you how many...).
As we ate beside the azure Sarasota Bay, enjoying a spectacular seafood salad, fruit and cranberry bread, we talked about grown kids, grandkids, and our excitement in this period of life. "I don't remember getting older - when did they?" ran through my mind. The famous line from Fiddler on the Roof seemed to perfectly fit our lunch.
A funny little phrase ran through my mind - "get older and bolder, not older and colder." My friends Marianne, Jack, and Gary are living bold....fun to share in their eagerness.
In case you wondered about dinner... it was delish! I had a hot dog with sauerkraut and mustard.....yummy. If you are ever in Brookfield, FL, make a point to satisfy your hot dog hunger at Coney Island (Serving the fine folks since 1960).

Hanging With The WindowWashers

"What are those hooks for?" The guest asked about the commercial-sized hooks dotting the walls of the rooftop outdoor living space. These could easily support King Kong. "They are for the window washers," answered Marianne. Not only did I NOT want to think about such a job --I didn't even want to think about approaching the railing. As the others oohed and ahhed over the resort-like grounds 13 stories below, I stood firmly in the middle of the terrazo-tiled area. Thankfully there are several thousand feet of space in which I could cower.
My hosts discovered two things about me tonight --- I don't like tomatoes and I don't like heights. The Psalmist wrote of God's caring for us on our high places. It doesn't take much for me to start calling out for hinds' feet.
Tomorrow I leave Cape Coral and drive to Sarasota where I have some interesting adventures lying in wait. I will tell you about them tomorrow night. One thing for sure ---- there won't be any precipices and probably no tomatoes.
As I am typing, spectacular lightning is putting on a show worthy of the most fabulous July 4th fireworks. Thanks for riding with me.

PS. This happy photo is on the morning terrace, not the rooftop! See how brave I am.

The Tour Rolls On

Never did I imagine these three weeks would be filled with so many opportunities to see what God is doing in the lives of friends, old and new. Yesterday began with breakfast (which turned into lunch) with my friend, Joe. He and I worked for the same company back in the '90s. His work has taken their family to Asia and back. "People kept telling us the country had changed while we were gone, but actually I think we changed more. We are global thinkers." Having spent almost no time outside the US, I find it hard to "think globally." As we talked, I thought about the old hymn, "In Christ there is no East, no West.....in Him no South, no North." Well, as a transplanted mid-westerner I know there is still a bit of a North/South thing going on, but for the most part, the walls do break down, don't they? The truth of Jesus defies language, culture, and political systems. Nothing can hold it back. Hoorah!
Joe spent 8 weeks in Houston for medical care. As he went, he asked the Lord to put people in front of him who needed Jesus. His stories of sharing the gospel "as he went" encouraged my heart. What is in front of me? Where on US 41 is there a word I can speak for Jesus?
The Fellowship of Believers Tour rolls on even as I traverse 41....I like that.

Sky High

It is 3 am (ignore the blog clock --- it has its own time zone). Sleep came and went quickly last night. I am sitting high atop my friends' waterfront condo, amazed at how many lights stay on all night. I can see miles from the Chattahoochee River to the Gulf of Mexico. The canals interlaced between make this feel like a western version of Venice. In a few hours the sun will stretch its arms and shake people from their snoozing. But, right now, it is all mine. My friend, Marianne, and I talked about "friendly water" and "scary water." On the drive through South Carolina, I drove to the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. The sky was gray, the waves were angrily slapping at the rock shore. It felt scary. These inlet canals have a peaceful nature. They welcome the myriad of pleasure boats without dashing them about. These are friendly waters. Day two on Route 41 is a far cry from the shores of Lake Superior and Copper Harbor, Michigan. The contrast is part of the texture of this trip. As I sit and look across this bejeweled Florida coast, I am thankful for America the Beautiful.

People of 41

When I make the final mile of this astounding journey, I will think back on a trip that took 2 years to complete. I will consider the diversity of landscape from Lake Superior to the Atlantic Ocean. Most of all, I will remember the people that live and work on US 41. Yesterday, I added another face to the album --- Clyde Butcher,an internationally acclaimed photographer whose Big Cypress Gallery occupies a lovely space on the Tamiami Trail. His flowing beard, his ample girth, and the love of his art are pieces of the Clyde mosaic. Google him. See the country through his eyes. Yay for the folks of 41.
One quick note: just down the road from Clyde is the smallest post office in the United States....I kid you not. It is a shed! So, if anyone ever asks - you have the answer: Ochopee, Florida.

Mutability - Verse 2

"Tell your friend that SW 8th street in Miami is no place for her....and if she decides to do it anyway to stay in the car and not stop." Well, let's see. How important is touching both ends of 41? Important enough to risk my life or at least the life of the Cruiser? I think not. So, I changed my mind. I may never physically experience the thrill of the entire 1990 miles of US 41, but I have lived to tell the story of the other 1984 miles. Or, as my brother said, "Don't let the end of the trail be the end of the Trail."
I joined the revered old road at the intersection of the Florida Turnpike and 41. And for those who are following the weather ---- as I was approaching Miami/Dade County, the following warning boomed out of my radio: "This is a tornado warning for NW Miami/Dade County....this is a tornado warning." YEP! Had I not changed my mind, I would have driven directly into the path of the storm. I know it feels like an excuse for veering off, but it did give me some solace.

Immutable God/Mutable Me

"The model is the most important thing in the room. Look at the model --- nothing else---look at the model. You are NOT drawing the model...look at him." "But he is losing weight - he looked like that last week and now he doesn't," my friend Chris responded to her teacher.
WOW! How that struck me. God is my immutable model ---- He is DEFINITELY the most important person in the room. But, do I see Him like that? Not always. How wonderful that He doesn't gain weight or lose weight. He doesn't shift His position or get antsy as He stands on the modeling platform. There is NO shadow of turning with Him.
I change - He doesn't. Praise Him!

Garden in the Rain

"There are no refunds for bad weather,"said the ticket seller as we entered the Morikami Museum. No "glad to have you here," "Welcome to our gracious gardens," No, just "no refunds." Remember the soup nazi from Seinfeld? I think she was accredited in his school of customer service.
Despite the pouring rain, my friend Chris, her friend Mary Ann, and I ventured forth. We watched a movie, ate in the lovely cafe, and then challenged ourselves to the elements. The Japanese gardens are magnificent. The one mile walk simply transports you from South Florida to the Far East.
A bonsai exhibit particularly caught my eye. On the identification plaques were two dates .... the date of "birth" and the date that training began. Being unfamiliar with bonsai lingo, that phrase really struck me. And then I started imagining a vast hallway in heaven with our busts on display. Underneath would be the date of our natural birth and then the date the Holy Spirit began our training. How thankful I am for the bending, pruning, shaping, disciplining, and encouragement of the Holy Spirit. How grateful I am for the transforming of my mind. How appreciative I am for a date that training began.
The rains were caught up in the clouds while we traversed the pathways. A most pleasant day.
When friendships are woven into days of joyful adventure, it just doesn't get much better. The Fellowship of Believers Tour has brought such interesting experiences ---- serendipity of the spirit.

Resonating with Resonance

If you know my friend Steve Brown, then you automatically think of his deep, resonant voice. I think he took lessons directly from God. I had lunch with Steve yesterday in Orlando. Cool! We laughed, we talked, we reminisced about Dad, and enjoyed great food. He had just interviewed Susan Isaacs, author of Angry Conversations with God. My daughter in law Anne, (oh, and mother of Jack )is the editor. He said the time with her was great because she was the "real deal."

Eye of the Storm

"If you don't have to drive, stay in. The storm is over Orlando with heavy rains and lightning. Don't drive if you don't have to." The message came across the radio, momentarily blocking my right-wing conservative talk show rant. Currently, I was driving 5 miles an hour through the heart of the city.....HMMMMM, yes the city of Orlando. The traffic was backed up, the sky was brilliant with lightning, and the Cruiser truly thought it should sprout water wings. But, God is good. I made it to the home of Chris and Mark Miller with nary a bump, or bruise. And, as I pulled off the Florida Turnpike, the strangest thing happened.....I squinted. This bright yellowness was coming through the windshield. Oh, yes, that is the sun.
One great bonus.....somewhere around Palm Beach the most extravagant artwork graced the sky...a perfect, yes, perfect rainbow covered the clouds....then another arc appeared...TWO RAINBOWS. I know when we see a rainbow we can think of God's promise, but a double one? Guess this would be the Verily, VERILY!

Greeting passer

Before leaving Jacksonville, I met with Dr. Mac Brunson who is pastor of First Baptist. He was pastor at FBC in Dallas just prior to this position. He was an author in the Breakfast With Fred book. Have I told you about my "autograph book" project? I realized I was going to see several of the authors in the book on this trip, so I decided to take one copy and have them sign it. I will probably get about 5 signatures as I go this time. Sadly, the idea came after Dad and Charlie "Tremendous" Jones went on to heaven, but they left their mark!
When you think of the perfect house is there a feature on the "must have" list? I actually have two: a secret room and a library. Dr. Brunson has captured one of those (and who knows, he may have a secret room. Bill Glass of Champions for Life does in his office!). He invited me into his office and then into his library. Floor to ceiling bookcases with books all organized and even labeled with their Dewey Decimal Codes. Do they still use those? An antique reading desk in the middle of the voluminous room served as a perfect work space.
"Here are my Fred books, he said pointing to a row." Fun.
As we talked, I brought greetings from Ed Yates in Dallas, Michael Allen in Charleston, caught him up on several other friends, and then he prayed for my journey. The Fellowship of Believers Tour rolls on.

Somewhere over the rainbow

You may have noticed ---- Florida is experiencing the heaviest, most consistent rain since one of their newsmaking tropical depressions. As I left Jacksonville yesterday, everyone warned me about the impending doom ahead.
I ran into and out of showers, but actually saw evidences of sunshine. Amazing.
The instructions to my friend Robin's house were pretty straightforward, but somehow I missed a turn. However, I am getting adept at the turning around move. To be honest, I was distracted by a large man with flowing gray hair and no shirt standing behind a car (try to get the picture) which covered his lower half. He was standing directly across from my turn, so my curiosity cost me a few blocks of uncertainty. Apparently, he fancies himself to be a witch. No, I didn't stop to "do a Charlie."
I wish you could walk into this sanctuary Robin, Victoria, and Victoria's son call home. It is literally nestled at the end of a cul de sac, plucked out of an iffy neighborhood into its own world. The art, the furnishings, the color, the flow ----I couldn't stop looking, asking, and absorbing. They have been redoing the house for 9 years. It was simply a disheveled shell when they bought it and they have lovingly brought this cottage masterpiece to life. Is this an HGTV dream or what?
In the guest room/study, I started to lay down to sleep (after midnight) when my eye caught two photos on the bookshelf.....Dad and Robin in their last visit shortly before his death. Kinda cool!

Are You Blue?

My friend, Vicki, noted my blog was simply too girly for me. After several unsuccessful attempts to "bluify" the format, I appealed to my son, Jeff. So, instead of shocking pink when you pull up the blog, you get something slightly reminiscent of Cruiser blue. Now, when Jeff teaches me to add pictures to the blog, you will truly appreciate that! Thanks, Jeff.....and thanks, Vicki, for de-pinking me.

Charleston Chapter of Fred in the Bed

Each Saturday from 2004 to 2007, twenty to thirty people came to my house to hear Dad talk about what he was thinking. We affectionately called it "Fred in the Bed" because the chairs were pulled up around Dad's bed. One of the members of the group was a bright young medical student, Michael Allen. He and his Mom, Diane, were faithful attendees.Michael is now a psychiatric resident in Charleston, SC.
Dad often used a phrase, "Beyond arithmetic" to describe providence. I thought of that as I called Michael to tell him I was stopping in SC on my trip. "Coincidentally" Michael lives 5 minutes from my hotel and his normally full patient schedule opened up. "I couldn't get anyone to set an appointment for Wednesday morning." I could hear Dad laughing.
We talked about his recent trip to the Billy Graham Training Center to hear Howard Hendricks, his work, and how Dad stretched him. We now have a BWF Ambassador in Charleston, SC. Great way to start the day.

The Race is On

Driving along US 17 through North Carolina before the South Carolina border, I caught sight of a race car (very much the worse for the wear)sitting at the side of the road. I approached and noticed writing all over the body: "My Savior is alive." "Jesus Saves." The tires were flat, the front was mashed, and the rear bumpers were caved in. All of a sudden it hit me, "Aren't we like that sometimes? We have been beaten in life's race, but even at a stand still we have a purpose as long as our message is still clear." I circled around, stopped to take a photograph, and paused to thank the race car for teaching me today. And, may I wear my racing stripes with such dignity even as my tires go flat.

Two score and two

Do you have a great Facebook story? Somebody is going to publish a bestseller collection of them. I have one!
Over forty years ago, Candy Schulz and I were friends at Ohio State. We were active in Campus Crusade for Christ (along with our future spouses). Over the years I often wondered about her, but knew no way to connect....until FB!
In a strange chain of events, we "friended" each other and started talking. Of course you can guess she lives in a city right on my road trip route. So, yesterday afternoon, I pulled into Raleigh, NC, found her apartment (without getting lost), and jumped into a great conversation that ended at midnight only because my eyes started drooping.
What a great time we had! As we talked about what the Lord is doing, it became clear to me the theme of this road trip is "Fellowship of Believers." I am on a journey to see the faithfulness of our Lord in the lives of friends and family.

Joy in the Journey

I warmly hugged Seth Macon, an energetic 90 year old, and said hello. "How are you?" "Well, I'm taking it one half day at a time --- it is just a bit bold at my age to attempt an entire day." That sense of humor is why he is the youngest 90 year old I know.
We walked into their apartment to greet his still-beautiful wife, Hazel. "Oh, Hazel, you look wonderful." Without missing a beat she said, "Brenda, you know there are three stages of life, don't you? Youth, middle age, and 'my, you look good.'" I laughed and laughed.
Joy in their journey and much joy on mine.

Keys in the City

Among Dad's possessions were several plaques supporting "keys to the city" presented him by mayors and organizations. Yesterday, in Greensboro I did a reverse --- I left my keys in the city. After a wonderful visit with friends Seth and Hazel Macon, I happily walked to the Cruiser. HMMMMM, I know I have keys in here somewhere. But where? The first thing I did was play the denial game...then, I started walking around like I was circling Mount Sinai. Ooh, what are those shiny objects in the back of the Cruiser? MY KEYS! A call to AAA, a wait in the lovely Greensboro sunshine, a visit with Joe the mobile locksmith ----and yes, a very awkward climb over my suitcase and into the back of the Cruiser (without the keys the automatic lock wouldn't work....) rescued my trip.
And just when I thought this trip was pretty plain vanilla...a tasty little experience.

In The Garden

Spending the night with Mack and LuAnne Arrington in Greensboro is like sleeping between the pages of Southern Living magazine. It has all the warmth, charm, and beauty expected of the genteel South. Lu and I met while both working for Principal Financial Group. It was an immediate connection and nearly 20 years later we still enjoy our visits. A bonus is Mack, her creative, energetic, and thought-provoking husband. He is part of a think tank I organized for BWF. And, sure enough --- he came up with some great ideas about the way men think. Believe me, I will never pass that course!
Early this morning, I woke up and started walking around their luscious backyard with hidden seating areas, a formal, cross-shaped garden, verdant (don't get to use that word much in Texas) plantings, and secret bridges. "And He walks with me and He talks with me, and He tells me I am His own..." Those words to the old hymn started playing in my brain. No, they haven't yet installed a sound system which pipes this music in. But as an aside, the Billy Graham Museum in Charlotte has a prayer garden where Ruth is buried. As you walk down the flagstone steps, hymns float all around you from the speakers hidden in the trees --- it feels almost surreal. Okay, back to Greensboro....I am taking the morning to work on the BWF Weekly Thought, then going to a retirement home to visit old friends. Seth is one of the authors in the Breakfast with Fred book and always a joy.

Building a Legacy

"Today our church is 90 years old. We remember what those who came before did and commit to leaving something for those 90 years from now." This statement summed up the celebration at the Reynolda Church where Meredith, Brian, Colby, Caden, and Colin Hurd belong. It was a very special Sunday with an active, worshipful memorial to the past ---- but more importantly, a devotion for the future. AND, they had donuts between services....lots and lots and lots of donuts. This is Krispy Kreme country. "In the beginning was the......donut!"
After lunch I took my traditional (and obligatory) Sunday afternoon nap then pointed the Cruiser toward Greensboro.
On the way I kept replaying that idea of looking to the future while holding to the values and blessings of the past. Sometimes I think we too hurriedly jettison our history in the name of progress. Principles never change, so why don't we eliminate the cultural implications and build on the solid tenets that never grow old?
I find it fascinating to think that I could leave something that would be helpful in 90 years. Improbable, but a great challenge. The Cruiser and I will continue to ponder!

Smiles, soccer, and souvlaka

What a day this has been. Early this morning we attacked the second phase of the art project. What a good time with the Hurd boys. We have one or two more stages and then we can declare them "museum quality."
"Today is your last game....go out there and have fun, but remember winning is fun, too." As I overheard the coach's motivational speech, I laughed to myself. Isn't that true of life? We are told to play it for fun while knowing that winning is the ultimate fun. Or is it? Just something to think about.
"I'm glad I'm not Greek because I would have to wear girly clothes." Colby's comment as the children's dancers paraded past made me laugh out loud. Traditional costumes were totally lost on his macho sensibilities.
Time to work on the art projects again. Catch up with you all later. Road Trips are definitely the best!

Paneras and Postings

I am not a coffee drinker. But, I love good bread and free wifi. THEREFORE, Panera's has become my mobile office. An asiago cheese roast beef sandwich will put me in a work mode anytime. And, it is a whole lot better for me than a Big Mac.
Mid-afternoon I pulled into Winston-Salem without getting lost! YAY for me. I headed to the Hurd House and excitedly greeted three little ones, one big one(Meredith). Brian is on a men's retreat, so Meredith is "herding the Hurds."
"Mom, we are on a very specialized diet. You might want to run out and get yourself something to eat." "Where is the closest Panera's?" Imagine my relief as she drew me a map to one within ten minutes of their house. Ah, home again, home again, jiggity jig.
Meredith and the boys are at Colby's soccer practice. I am here catching up with you all and chomping away. Let's see --- special diet probably doesn't have hold much hope for breakfast. No worry --- I will stash some Panera's pastry in my purse and be good to go.
As soon as they return home, we are going to take the boys to the Greek Festival near their house. As it turns out, almost EVERYTHING is close to their house. What fun!
Tomorrow is soccer, crafts day (we hit WalMart and bought supplies this afternoon), and hopefully a nap for Gram.
It is good to see them. They are a wonderful family. I am most blessed.
This Road Trip has a great deal of opportunities to feed my soul by seeing friends and family --- "Praise God from Whom all Blessings Flow."

Ties That Bind

Do you have any relatives you seldom see, but really love? My cousin Pete and his wife Becky are like that. They are hospitable, funny, smart, and genuine. Pete's Mom,Helen, was my Mom's favorite sister. My sister, Mary Helen, is named for her. She died when I was in college, but the memories of her are still very much alive. Five years ago I reconnected with Pete and Becky and visited them in their mountain home just off the Blue Ridge Parkway.
It was there I realized life could forever be different for me. As I sat out on their deck in the middle of the Appalachians with my laptop, I knew something had radically changed....I could do my work anywhere! That was a huge AHA!
As I planned the road trip, I checked with them to see if they were going to be in Deep Gap or on the shore in their full-time home. Secretly, I was hoping for Deep Gap. The Blue Ridge Parkway and I have an ongoing love affair. The minute I enter, I feel at home (much like I do at Holly Lake).
And, to think I could introduce the Cruiser to the Parkway ---- does it get any better? You are thinking --- Brenda needs a life, aren't you?
We watched the smokey haze clear off this morning, and the mountains break through. We solved all the world's problem over Pete's well-made breakfast. We laughed about families and shared stories.
Then, I turned the Cruiser toward Winston-Salem. BUT not before I navigated the curviest, craziest road I have ever traversed....Elk Run Road just off the Parkway. It cries out for a sports car, or motorcycle ---but I didn't let the Cruiser know for it was doing a fine job of switch-back after switch-back.
I will finish up tonight by giving you a quick comment in the next entry about the Hurds.

Friends are Friends Forever

Michael W. Smith and his wife wrote,"Friends are friends forever when the Lord is Lord of them." Twenty years ago I last saw Mark and Cindy Kranich. During that time we randomly touched base by email, but never face to face.
A recent move for them to Banner Elk/Boone made it possible for us to reconnect.
"What do you say?" "How can it not be a tad awkward?" "I will just listen...(right!)"
From hello, the years slipped away and we spent hours sharing something that has no time stamp--- our love for Jesus.
What fun it was to catch up with each other in the "what are you doing now?" category, but then to move on to the eternal verities. Indeed, we are friends forever.
It reminded me of the last verse of Amazing Grace...."when we've been there ten thousand years, bright shining as the sun...we've no less days to sing God's praise than when we first began."
What fun it was to see their enthusiasm, their love for each other, their passion for life, and to know they have a distinct purpose in this move.
I don't want it to be 20 years before the next visit, but I bet if it is, we will pick up where we left off last night after a yummy dinner at Casa Rustica in Boone. If you are in the area, make time for dinner there.

God - The Tree Guy

In Dallas, one of the arborists advertises his services as "The Tree Guy." He may know trees, but he didn't create a single one. There is really only one ultimate Tree Guy --- and HE does magnificent work.
Day Seven led me through East Tennessee to a connection with US 321 in Elizabethton. A quick clue for you --- if you are ever in this town, do NOT say, "E-LIZ-a-beth-ton" if you want any respect at all. It is E-liz-a-BETH-ton. Go figure.
Once I finally found the road after 90 minutes of wandering from Johnson City to Elizabethton, back to Johnson City, and then returning to Elizabethton ----if the Cruiser could have slapped me, I would have been black and blue. WHERE ARE WE GOING?
Alright, so I got a little lost. My friend, Chris, loves these towns ---- guess I was just doing paying homage for her.
ANYWAY, I started the climb on this magnificent two lane highway which led past Lake Watauga and into the description defying pine trees. You do GOOD WORK, Lord. Miles and miles of mountain roads, lakes, streams, and green trees. It doesn't get much better than this.
My son, Jeff, thinks Christians of all people should be known for their love and protection of our beautiful earth. Hugging a tree now and again may be a proper way to say thank you ---- not because the tree is my brother, but because my heavenly Father touched this world with such glory.

Jack and Sparrows

Grandson Andrew, age 10, likes to call his new cousin Jack Sparrow. Although terribly exciting to a 10 year old boy, the thought of a precious little grandson with "shivering timbers" strikes fear in my heart.
But thinking of Jack and sparrows brings to mind Ethel Waters and her rich, vibrant voice: "His eye is on the sparrow and I know He watches me." As I see Jeff and Anne constantly focusing on their wee one, I hear that melody and feel the truth of its words.
Tomorrow morning I pack the Cruiser and head for Boone, N.C. ----- in the thousand year reign, I hope the Lord gives me a job on the Blue Ridge Parkway! There may be more dramatic places on earth, but none that resonates so strongly with my spirit.
Vanderbilt Hospital in Nashville is where Fred and Mary Alice Smith brought all three of us into the world. Nashville was home until I was five and then again when my children were small. It is right to know there are still Tennessee roots.
The Cruiser keeps one eye on me as it is parked in front of the house. "Time to get going....time to get on the road....let's go."
I will talk to you tomorrow from the mountains of North Carolina looking down on the Parkway and knowing all is right with the world.

What Words Describe "Jack-Time?"

Snapshots of today: 1) Anne is kneeling on the floor while Jack has tummy time "Oh, Jack, you are so smart....you turned your head; you listened to the music...you enjoyed your tummy time...I am so proud of you!" 2) Jeff is walking Jack around the house giving him a tour with narrative. "Jack, this is the dining room which is now your playroom, your Mommy's music room, and a gathering place for all your things....this is the kitchen where Gram is making supper....say hello to Gram!" 3) Jeff and Anne discussing his progress between themselves, "I think he is going to start scooting soon - he is moving his legs well." Jack is 3 weeks old! :)

I wonder if the Godhead discusses us in the same way. Perhaps the great cloud of witnesses stands around cheering us as we move our legs and strengthen our necks. I imagine we are loved just as Jack is.

Guess what ---- Jeff and Anne are NOT addicted to Fox news.....I went wrong somewhere. One of my friends (another non-Foxer) suggested that this road trip is about transitioning. I think it may be about de-toxing......or maybe de-foxing. NAH!

Fun day ----families are the best.

Music City's calling

Interstate 40 is definitely on my least favorite list of highways. But, today, the 18 wheelers were not as intimidating (even in my Cruiser). I was on the way to Nashville to see Jeff, Anne, and TA-DA, Jack Eliot Horch. In two short weeks, this nearly 9 pound boy has taken over an entire household --- his equipment graces living room, dining room, and nursery. There is no doubt Jack has come to stay. And how grateful I am for his life.
As he slept with his head against my chest, I felt an indescribable connection. Reading son Jeff's blog (www.thehorches.com/blog) prepared me for the love that he and Anne have for one another and for Jack, but oh, it explodes out of the blog and into real life. It is fun to be here with them.
As I began this morning, the phone rang. "Dave died last night." Dave Nelson was just fifty, with a loving wife, and three terrific children. We were friends for 15 years and associated with both Principal Financial Group, and Manulife. He was a good man whose life made a difference. Although my junior by 15 years, he was my boss twice. He believed in me and helped me stretch way beyond my comfort zone. I will miss him. He was excited about the road trip, so I will put just a little extra oomph into it in his memory.

Purposeful or Purpose-fall?

While driving through Arkansas, my sweet friend Johanna and I discussed God's purpose in our lives, the nature of soul dreams, and the pursuit of God's will. Johanna keeps my hungering and thirsting on the right path. Left to my own devices, I hunger and thirst after pasta and well-made breads.
Later on that evening, my hungerings and their purposefulness came together to save my bones, but not my pride.
After checking into the motel, I went to the car to do my impression of a pack burro...with computer, overnight bag, backpack(cleverly disguised as a purse), and preaching-sized Bible. Gingerly opening the front door, I passed the luggage cart and sneered as I gleefully considered my ability to transport using only arms and legs. No sooner had I let that thought pass through my head, did I feel my feet in slow motion......headed upwards. Yes, I was definitely slipping, sliding, and falling.
The thirty-five pounds I strategically added to my frame in the last year found their raison d'etre ---- their reason to live....they padded my hips and backside preventing major damage.
The young desk clerk looked shocked, and then immediately defensive....they must teach this technique in hospitality school. Clearly, it was my fault that I was on the floor!
My underwear, my dinner, my laptop, and my dignity were splayed out before the world of Comfort Inn. And, of course, my 10 pound Bible which landed on top of everything. "Thus saith the Lord" seemed to fill the room.
He extended his hand, wishing I had hungered and thirsted for more righteousness and less chocolate,but daring not to groan.
Day three ended with a thud, but with a big laugh (once I was behind closed doors).

Of monkeys and relativity

My title implies I sadly confused Darwin and Einstein... Not so!
This morning I dropped my four Richardsons (daughter Heather, son-in-law Bob, grandson Andrew, and granddaughter Bree Anna) at the Tyler Zoo for a romp through the park. We are badly spoiled by San Diego, St. Louis, and Fort Worth, but they climbed back into the car with glowing reports. For grandkids, as long as there are snakes and other creepy crawlers, their day is worthwhile.
After dropping them off, the Cruiser and I drove to Mother Frances Hospital in Tyler. Yesterday I mentioned I would speak of one more goodbye. My good friend, Patti, has been in the ICU for nearly 3 weeks with pneumonia and colon infection. Her tiny little body belies the strong spirit and faith so powerfully demonstrated even as she fails.
I want her to miraculously recover, come to the Selah House, and regain her strength. I didn't want to leave today thinking that this goodbye may be the last one. As I begin a new chapter, I didn't want to think Patti's next entry may be on heavenly shores.
It seems leaving on this trip entails much more than packing a bag, ordering brand new AAA road maps, and inflating the tires.
Relativity, you ask? The afternoon was spent in Tyler with brother Fred, sister-in-law Carol, niece Haley and my four Richardsons. I laughed as I attempted to back out..."Have you changed your oil? Everything's in order? Keep in touch." My brother sounded much like our Dad did as I left for college. But, it is good to have someone care about your tires!
Zig Ziglar says, "Make today worth remembering." Not a bad goal.

Goodbye - Hello

"This ends a chapter for you," said my son-in-law, Bob as I swept out the garage, pulled the door, and walked to my car. Andrew, my ten year old grandson immediately responded, "But you will write the next chapter at Holly Lake."

When I planned this road trip, I had no idea it would follow by 12 hours my saying goodbye to 11460 Parkchester Drive, Dallas, Texas...my home for 32 years. I walked through the rooms and replayed memories. I finally sat in the emptiness and pushed my brain to replay the move-in day.

"There is so much wall space --- we can collect things for a lifetime." Funny thing to remember, isn't it?

I pictured Bob and Jeannette Deffinbaugh leading a corps of volunteers as we moved in so long ago. Then quickly I remembered earlier that day as Jeannette piled boxes for the movers to cart away for the next chapter. Who knew friendship could be bookends?

We moved in with three young children, lots of hope, and much gratitude. I moved out with much gratitude, awareness of God's faithfulness, and three married children, and five grandchildren - WOW!

So, as I begin this road trip, it is with freshness and delight. Perhaps the house will sell while I am gone. Perhaps the next family will be moved in when I finally get back to Texas. Perhaps their lives, their mail, and their drivers licenses will have a Parkchester address. I pray for them as I prayed for the house. May the blessings of that house shower them with grace and love.

Tonight, I sit in one of my favorite places --- at the computer looking out the window at tall pines and scavenging deer, waiting for four Richardsons to arrive. What a great way to start my journey. Since this house came into my life, every trip begins and ends here. So, too,does this magnificent adventure that lies ahead.

I eagerly await Sunday when I pull out, looking toward Nashville. But, there is much to do before then. And, even another goodbye. But, that will be the story for tomorrow.

Good to have you along.

Packing The Car

On Friday, the Cruiser and I plan to roll out of Dallas and finish up the 2007 road trip. Come along with me as I excitedly experience, explore, and expand. Okay, I promise not to alliterate for 4000 miles.
On Friday, the blogging will begin...