Home Again

Off the road after 23 days. Easy to type, but hard to deal with! I miss the road!
The last week has given me time to process. What did I learn?
1) God is so very good to this child of His. He and His people watched over me with diligence, tenderness, and love.
2) We live in a beautiful country. Any creativity we exhibit is a reflection of a God whose spoken word produced magnificence.
3) The time away energized my spirit. Any years I have left must be dedicated and devoted to living God's way.
4) Encouraging friends in the Spirit has to be the best use of my time. Praying with other believers provides a profound connection to the Father.
5) I am blessed with friends and family at home who strengthen my heart.

Road trips aren't for everyone I know, but I can't imagine why not. My Dad once told me he walked into my bedroom when I was little and found me with arms wrapped around my knees very late at night. "Why aren't you asleep, Brenda?" "How can anyone sleep when there is so much to think about?" I am thankful for a Dad who thought that was a cool answer from an 8 year old! He would have loved my road trips ---- so much to see and think about!
I am having a hard time adjusting to "life off the road." But, the same God who nurtured me day after day on this trip will lead me. What a great hope.
My friend Roberta has a license plate that reads " Soli D G" It is shorthand for Soli Deo Gloria ---- ALL glory to God. SDG is a great three letter summary for Road Trip 2010.

Ring, Ring

When I took this pic, I intended it to be the visual for a post about the sadness of entering Canada and finding my phone totally useless. The rain was a perfect background to express my tearful response ---- and my phone's, as well. I decided the Cruiser, the phone, and I are a mighty traveling trio. We are powerful until proven powerless by the bridge between Detroit and Windsor.
However, as I begin the goodbye to this road trip 2010, this represents a heart full of thankfulness. My face breaks out in a smile as I think of the hours spent talking to family and friends for 5000 miles. Of course, in Ontario I tried to respect the "no phones while driving" prohibitions. There was one slight slip as I sailed above the speed limit and happily talking away passing a sitting Ontario highway patrolman. I think he showed grace to this lone star lone traveler.
On those days of sheer exhilaration, I shared my joy with my dear ones. On days of fear and excruciating weariness, I heard words of encouragement from my dear ones. Gratefully, there were many more days of true joy.
I want to give a special "shout out" to Mr. Meek who was there each and every day, patiently listening to my play by play accounts. Thanks, friend.
And a profound thanks to all of you who emailed, posted on my FB wall, prayed, and vicariously traveled with me. I am a stronger person because I experienced the hand of God and the expression of His love through you all.
Tomorrow I will wrap up, but will have to take that last pic ----think hanging on to the Selah sign is probably most appropriate!

Too Beautiful To Capture

Ironically, there is no pic to this post. And, it is all about extraordinary vistas and landscapes. I left Green Bay, waving goodbye to Roberta, heading toward home. Driving through Madison, WI, I lifted my hands in prayer and asked the Lord to send revival to this town which so celebrates liberal thinking. I may not be watching Fox, but my heart still beats with a definite conservative cadence! That city is exceedingly pleasing to the eye.
But then I crossed Old Man River and entered Iowa. The broad expanses of hills, fields, and trees made my heart sing. "Oh, I wish I were a painter." There was no way for my little camera to capture even the slightest hint of what my eye could see. I stopped to sing my own praise song.
A brief stop in Ankeny to visit with an old friend gave me the extra energy I needed to push toward Kansas City.
The sun was going down as I entered Des Moines. The gold cupola of the State Capitol brilliantly shone. I must admit I had a visceral response to this sight. It reminded me of the 5 winters I spent in this beautiful town, and the years before that in sales meetings for my company, Principal Financial Group (based in Des Moines).
Liberty, MO's Fairfield Inn had a room and bed all ready for me after this long day. 14 hours of traveling were exhilarating but a tad exhausting.
My eyes, my heart, my mind, and my soul were fed on this day as the trip came close to an end.

July 4th in Door County

Walking through a back courtyard, I spotted this patriotic scene ---- isn't it great? The flowers seem to add the white touch to the red and blue of the chairs. And don't you love the umbrella?

As I put my itinerary together I pondered...."where will I be on July 4th?" I think back to many outstanding celebrations....on the shore of the Pacific Ocean with three young children romping in the waves as the fireworks boomed overhead; on the capital hill of Iowa listening to a military band and watching veterans spontaneously stand up all over the lawn; joining a family reunion of total strangers who warmly invited my friend Vicki, her mom, and me to "come sit with us and watch the fireworks!"

This time I was on the Door County peninsula, surrounded by Green Bay and Lake Michigan. We watched bursts of color and heard blasts of sound as we enjoyed the peacefulness of the woods and the water. This one will get a special star in my July 4th memory book.

As I traveled, I so appreciated our country. I watched very little TV, but prayed a lot for our leaders and fellow citizens. My son, Jeff, once told me "We need to see you praying for our leaders." Jeff, I took your counsel and spent much more time lifting up than I did putting down.

I am a proud American --- I am a thankful American --- I am a prayerful American.

Pearl of Great Price

The book of Proverbs talks about a good wife as a pearl of great price. Bob Roloff found one and loved her for 50 years. One week after that joyful celebration, a tanker truck ran over his car and his earthly life ended leaving Roberta and their son Kevin.

Their story was one of true love, lifetime partnership, and serving God's kingdom together.

We met at a Guideposts meeting. She was encouraged and strengthened by Mr. Fred Smith (that is the way she always addresses him). I am a legacy friend - and proud of it.

Her four nights of hospitality overwhelmed me. What a way to end this extraordinary trip ---spending time talking about the hand of God in our lives. It was the most natural conversation...nothing stilted, nothing staunchy....just two friends talking about their mutual friend, the Lord Jesus Christ.

In her loss, she feels the comfort of the Spirit. In her loss, she sees the ways she can comfort others. In her loss, she senses purpose and hope.

We ate, we laughed, we shopped then we ate some more, laughed a lot more and filled the back seat of her car with more Door County bags. We were most patriotic on this holiday weekend - we left money and greased the wheels of the peninsula economy. Oh, did I tell you we ate? It will be worth the hard work to eliminate the extra pounds I brought home...I got them eating some great food.

Door of Opportunity

Door County, WI ----a little bit of heaven on earth.

Forty paces from Roberta's back porch to the water's edge --- and then total privacy. It is hard to believe this very lake flows around major cities, three states, and roads of every sort. People, people, people surround Lake Michigan, but not at Roberta's house in Door County. This stretch is private, personal, and unspeakably gorgeous.

A friend made an apt comment...."Just think what the new heavens and earth will be when the beauty of this earth is so great." Hard to imagine anything more spectacular. I did my own share of praising Jesus as I walked along the shore, up and down the woody paths.

I am so grateful for my friend's generosity - and her gift of respite from the road.

God does good work, doesn't He? And His people kindly share the bounty of the beauty.

Passing the Baton of Faith

Nancy Leigh DeMoss is passionate about building a movement of True Women who will pass the baton of faith.....the Lord has given her a powerful platform and message. Her conference in Fort Worth October 16th and 17th is an opportunity to be deepened spiritually. Check for details at http://www.reviveourhearts.com/.

Meet My Brother

My good friend, Janet, has a brother and sister-in-law in Wheaton, IL. When learning of my itinerary, she immediately said, "You need to meet David and Andrea." She is so interesting, I knew I had a treat in store if it worked out.

They lived 5 blocks from Harold and Jeanette Myra --- a nice early morning walk.

A quick visit before heading to Green Bay made my day. What fascinating people! Thanks, Janet.

Sacred and Holy

Fittingly, there is no pic for this post. There is no way for me to capture the awe of Saturday morning in Appleton, WI.
Dr. James Veum transferred from earth to heaven last week. His life was honored and God was worshipped in Appleton on June 3rd. Roberta blessed me with her invitation to attend with her.
The First English Lutheran Church grabbed my heart and spirit as I entered. The beautiful woodwork, the stained glass, the high ceilings, and the strains of organ music transported me to a place of deep worship.
We moved through the service, following the liturgy, entering in with readings, and congregational singing. No song leader --- just a common agreement to begin at the end of the organ's bold introduction. That fascinated this Baptist girl!
I did not know Dr. Veum, but I hope to spend time with him in heaven. Each moment of the service drew me closer and closer to the spirit of God. The Spirit clearly filled that gracious room.
Sitting there gave me moments to review the trip. I saw God's protection, His blessings, His surprises, His epiphanies....good word in the church.
At the end of the service, Dr. Veum's son, Erik quietly stepped to the front, picked up his violin, and played one of Massenet's famous works. My heart and my eyes filled with emotion as the music soared. But, as the music ended,, Erik took a step, put his hand on the casket, and mouthed, "Bye, Dad." Even now as I write about it, my eyelids cannot keep back the tears. The common bond of children saying goodbye to godly parents binds us all.
I realized the wonder of sitting in Wisconsin with a room full of people I will probably never see again until heaven and yet experiencing the oneness of Christ's body. Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee.
The pastor sermonized and spoke the amen.....the organist struck the powerful first measure of Widor's Toccata --- I was glued to my seat. We will hear that in heaven --- it will play on the elevators, along with Handel's Messiah!
We silently walked out of the church. As we sat in the car for a moment, Roberta said, "I don't think we will need to go to church tomorrow!" She smiled and I totally agreed. Surely, the presence of the Lord was in that place and I was blessed beyond all expectation.

Refreshed by Roberta

Expecting me in Green Bay about 4:00, my friend Roberta patiently waited for me as I struggled to break free from the bonds of Cook County, Illinois. Remember the old poem that talks about breaking the surly bonds of earth? That was me......oh, well, the emotional trauma soon vanished as I drove into her Green Bay driveway.

The Cruiser stood a little taller as it parked bravely and proudly in front of this magnificent home. It spent the next few days in the garage ---- with its own kind, though.

As I crawled into the grand bed, I felt like Eloise at the Plaza.....

I stepped into the glass room to see a place set for me. The peace and beauty of Roberta are translated into the atmosphere of her home.

The Bible talks about entertaining angels unaware.....I felt like I was very much aware of being entertained by an angel --- God's gift of rest and refreshment.

Lost in Space

No pics on this one ----- I GOT LOST IN CHICAGO! My favorite town turned on me.
Actually, I turned on myself by not using a map, but depending on written directions copied from Mapquest. Those are great if you don't make mistakes, but if you veer off the path, you have no idea how to make corrections.
My children used to beg me not to make life applications from every experience. Sorry, kids ---- this one just begs for expansion.
Dad used to say, "You don't need a map if you have a guide." A dear friend of mine is on a road trip and uses "Ginger" the Garmin Guide. I prefer maps. However, I need to have one handy, not just neatly packed away in the back of the car.
Okay ---- time for application. My life needs the direction of the Holy Spirit through the Word --- the whole word. I can memorize a few snatches of scripture and depend on them. Great. But, if I veer off the path I need the whole counsel of God. I need more than a sketchy outline. And, I need it right there at my fingertips.
After driving aimlessly, I finally stopped and retrieved the map from the back. Mentally I did the "you are here" and "you want to be there." Sounds good, doesn't it? The only problem ---- I grabbed a regional map, not the local one. It showed me the big picture, but I needed the down and dirty, nitty-gritty version to get me out of the mess. In my life, it does no good to depend on platitudes and general statements of faith. When you are in deep water, you need the intimate knowledge of the most High....you need His light to show you EXACTLY where you are --- not generally where you think you might be.
Thanks to the patience of a friend who stayed on the phone with me, making me laugh, and making pointed remarks about my inability to navigate (with my strident pushback, of course), I arrived at the place to proceed safely.
The Holy Spirit stays on the phone with us as we wander --- and wonder. The Word of God points us to the places we got off the track and shows us where the on ramps are for our life of faith.
Thankfully, my kids don't read the blog because they would be saying, "Oh, Mom!"
Thankfully, my God doesn't give up on me -----and brings me safely home. Praise Him!

The Value of Friendship

On my itinerary June 1st says "Meeting with Harold Myra." That brief line couldn't possibly express the time with them. Yes, I was privileged to listen to him gracefully, yet pointedly, offer counsel about the direction and future of BWF. Whenever I sit down with him, I gratefully drink in his experience and leadership gifts.
But, time with the Myras is literally that ---- time with both Harold and Jeanette. Their partnership strengthens me, encourages me, and gives me many opportunities to laugh. They are just fun!
You can see by the pic I will never have a second career as a portrait photographer. Sorry to the Myras, but I wanted you to have some visual clue about these people who mean so much to me.
Behind them is a commissioned piece depicting one of their favorite places, Door County, WI. "We told him what color we wanted the water and the sand." Wonder if God had a hue chart as He masterfully moved His finger to color our world?
Harold was a favorite of my Dad's for decades. Dad used to ask people, "Who first said 'I believe in you?' " I am sure many built into Harold's life,, but Dad certainly let him know of his belief and trust.
Time in Wheaton was mentally and ministerially challenging. Time in Wheaton was spiritually strengthening. Thanks to the Myras for June 1st.

Illinois Greeting

Walking through Wheaton, Il. I felt warmly welcomed when I saw the personal greeting for the Cruiser.....isn't this extraordinary. How in the world did they know I was coming?
THEN, I remembered -----Those azure and blue colors (and the giant M) meant those good folks were fans of the University of Michigan, not the Cruiser and me. Well, they might be if they just knew us.
Being an Ohio State grad, I choose to cheer for the blue of the Cruiser, not the blue of our arch enemy!
But, it still felt great to be acknowledged so far away from home.

My Kind of Town

Driving from Benton Harbor, MI to Wheaton, IL allowed me to skirt one of my favorite cities of all --- -Chicago. As I threw coins and coins and coins into their toll boxes, I remembered the years I spent in and out of O'Hare, sales calls around the downtown corridor, discovering the tastiness of Maggiano's and visits to the Art Institute. My kind of town, Chicago is!

Revive Our Hearts

I bet you don't know where Buchanan, MI is! That is where I spent my day yesterday. Nancy Leigh DeMoss is the host of the Revive Our Hearts radio ministry, as well as the True Woman national seminars.

The final taping for the Spring season began at 8:15 yesterday and ended at 5:15 on Wednesday. After receiving an invitation to sit in, I reconfigured my schedule. WHAT A GREAT DECISION.

Nancy taped 8 radio programs and facilitated an after-taping session with the audience of women. This road trip has been a time of hearing God's voice. You would think in the woods, I would be totally tuned in to Him, but not always so. The Cruiser has been anointed by the Lord to be His ministry vehicle for me. It takes me from place to place of divine encounters.

As Nancy moved from program to program, I felt the arms of God wrapping around me, warming my heart, and urging me to seek and serve Him with a heart of love and enthusiasm.

After such a long day, Nancy graciously invited her out of towners to share dinner at her lovely home situated on a cliff overlooking the St. Joseph river. Just one more breathtaking example of God's handiwork.

http://www.reviveourhearts.com/ is her website. She will be in Ft. Worth October 14-16 for a True Woman meeting. They are expecting over 10,000 women to participate.

I don't know if I told you, but one of the "learnings" on this trip has been a clarifying of my current mission. I believe God has been saying, "Feed My Sheep." I think he is calling me to an even more purposeful ministry of encouragement and hope. This day with Nancy increased my passion for God and His women.

Nancy and my Dad were friends....interesting to see how the influence of Godly Dads plays out.

Niagara Falls with No Gun and No Guy!

My friend, Reagan Gasaway, checked in with me as I started out. "Girl, do you have a gun with you?" "No, God will watch over me." "Brenda, I don't think God would care at all if you had a gun with you."

Then, we talked about my itinerary. When I got to Niagara Falls, he asked if I was still going to be by myself. "Of course ---- this is a solo journey." "What fun is that? Niagara Falls with no guy?"

Immediately, I thought it sounded like a great country western theme ---- Niagara Falls with no gun and no guy.

I have done well just doing Smith without Wesson. God has watched over me with such great care.

Niagara Falls was one of the great surprises and gifts of the trip (even without a guy!)

I planned it as one of the shorter drive days to allow myself a morning in Brockville. My dear, sweet sister in the Lord, Diana Dodge shared her morning with me, so it was a good strategy.

The reservation I made at the Marriott was for the backside of the building on a AAA rate. Fine with me.

When I checked in, the gracious woman noticed I am still a gold customer with them, so she upgraded me. And upgrade me she did! I had a gorgeous room looking out at the falls (both American and Canadian) with an unobstructed view. I was just dazzled. That afternoon's rain moved out before I checked in, leaving a rainbow over the falls......it felt like a Universal Studios set.

At 9pm the colored lights over the falls came on --- I was just mesmerized. After sitting in the Jacuzzi tub with its own view of the falls, I pulled up the luxurious linens, and took in hour after hour of God's handiwork.

"Oh, Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your work in all of the earth." When we think of His voice being like that of roaring waters, Niagara gives us a hint of this powerful resonance.

I was so grateful for this quiet evening.

Oh, the pic was taken from my hotel room window!

Garden of Hope and Faith Walk - part 2

Garden of Hope and Faith Walk - part 1 of 2

I promised some pics of the Garden in Brockville, Ontario. I think this post is better left without narration. It is a work of love ---- it took 5 years to complete. I do hope you will have the blessing of walking through and experiencing the grand work of God's grace.

One word: the main sculpture through the meadow area is the Lord leading His sheep. Off to the side is one sheep with the scripture: "All we like sheep have gone astray." I loved that little sheep ---- I have been that little sheep. All praise be to the Good Shepherd and His love for us.

Amish Country

While driving through central Ohio from Cincinnati to Akron, I took the back roads....the Cruiser really LOVES the rolling hills and the freedom from the Interstate. Me, too!

I passed a beautiful farm house and noticed a clothesline in the back. Pulling into the driveway, I asked the young woman cutting the grass (with a manual rotary mower) for permission to snap a quick photo of the line. Her face seemed to say, "You crazy 21st century people.....you drive around by yourself in a bright blue car, asking to take pictures of black pants hanging out to dry." The irony of it did strike me.

Just a few miles down the road was Dick's Wicker and Buggy Makers. Oh, what a treat! I walked into his workplace seeking permission. He happily said yes, and then shared his stories of being an international wicker specialist. People from all over the world ship their badly deteriorated wicker pieces to Dick who skillfully restores them. He proudly described his web site and the way his global business has grown.

Did you know a buggy with wicker fittings can cost $10,000? And that is WITHOUT the horse! :) I think the Cruiser was feeling proud of its value ---- it seemed to wink at me as he described the cost of these motorless vehicles.

Dick was a former 18-wheeler long haul driver. After 40 years, his doctor made him retire and his hobby of wicker work fit perfectly with the needs of his Amish community. They have accepted him into their midst and he truly feels at home.

Oh, you can check him out at http://www.dickswickerandbuggy.com/