It’s 75 degrees here, a far cry from the mid summer mornings in Texas. This is my third time to visit Buffalo (New York), but it’s Caleb and I’s first time back as a married couple to see his family. It took a little longer than necessary to get here (all our flights on Saturday were delayed because of bad weather), but we took advantage of the time sitting in the airport and did a lot of reading. I honestly believe that my mood stayed positive because my thoughts were focused on being thankful. More on that in a bit!
Before I say more about Buffalo, let me summarize our time in Virginia and share some insights. If you ever have the opportunity to visit Virginia or the east coast for that matter, you need to do it! I have always been a tropical beach bum, but the mountains also have an incredible way of calming the soul and reminding me of how small I am. I knew that our time in Virginia with Caleb’s mom and stepdad would be fun and relaxing, but it became the reset button that I was hoping for during this Sabbatical.
Riding the ski lift!
Scenic overlook with Mom and David
Massanutten Resort in McGaheysville, VA
We had incredibly beautiful weather, lots of rest, lots of quiet time, and lots of play time. I also decided to focus my prayers and thoughts on being thankful. Reading 1,000 Gifts has made me realize that I spend too much time asking God for things and not enough time praising and thanking Him for the things He has blessed me with. I know God encourages us to come before Him with all our needs, but sometimes I miss out on the joy that’s found in the here and now when I forget to give thanks. My petitions and concerns often have to do with the future, and I forget to recognize the good that’s right in front of me. I miss the moment. So for an entire week, I did nothing but pray prayers of thanksgiving, and I found myself feeling incredibly humbled. God has given me so much to be thankful for!
So here I am, enjoying a beautiful summer morning at my in-laws house and preparing for the rest of the week. We have some service projects lined up, dinners with relatives, and some sight-seeing to do. I’m particularly excited about the art museum, which I will write more about when I blog about how the artist in me has indulged in this Sabbatical.
I shall end with some sweet pictures of our time with cousins and nieces 🙂 Until next time!
Dad and June’s garden
Finally got to meet cousins Jessie and Chelsea and Caleb’s niece, Mackenzie!
Baby cousin, Nora <3
Our niece, Isabella at the zoo!
Didn’t take long for Bella to pass out. Uncle Scooter’s got the magical touch!
Love these cuties!!!