For Richer, For Poorer

My husband and I have been married for 31 years and our vows included the phrase: "for richer, for poorer." Looking back over our past years, we experienced the "poorer" side of life financially but every day is "richer!"

During our pre-marriage counseling sessions our minister talked a great deal about finances. He cautioned my husband about following a career in Christian education because of the financial constraints. However God had called him into Christian education. His calling became my calling long before we were married. He served in this ministry for twenty-nine years. He was "laid off" in 2010.

God continues to provide for us during our "poorer" seasons and we have become spiritually "richer" for the experience. It continues to strengthen our dependency on God  and deepen our love for each other. We have never lacked for a place to sleep or lacked food on the table; God has always provided and for this reason, we are RICHER!

Cliff Hangers

A cliff hanger is an event that appears unexpectedly on the path to a destination and the outcome can create a sense of fear or adventure.

I have experienced both outcomes over the course of my life. It takes tremendous concentration on my Guide - GOD. My innate desire is to find a route around the cliff so I can get away from the obstacles but GOD won't allow it. He has planned this course for me and by locking my eyes on Him alone and following Him step by step He leads me to a resting place where I can be refreshed in His Presence that knows no fear!

Fortunately, as a Christian, I know my ultimate destination leads Heavenward!

*** Psalm 27 ***

North Carolina Mountain Wildflowers - June 2011

The images below were captured with my Kodak EasyShare Z7590 10X zoom camera on the Blue Ridge Parkway June 2011, between mileposts 164 - 179. I don't know the names of all of them. There are no labels on the roadway. I was able to locate some of the names.

Budding Rhododendron

Rhododendron

Chimney Rock State Park, North Carolina

My husband and I have lived in North Carolina for 28 years but had never visited Chimney Rock State Park - just 2 hours away from our home. There is something about scenic photos that do not give you the feeling you've been there but I trust you will be inspired by them enough to make a trip to visit this park in person. We took the elevator to the "Chimney"! Yes, it has an elevator and it took 30 seconds to get to the landing but we still had many steps to climb to get to the top of the massive rock. The stairs were out of the question for us. I think a guide said there were about 400 stairs. Our worn knees and out of shape bodies would not have made it. We visited on a week day; less crowded. We only had time to hike one moderate trail - Hickory Nut Trail. It led us to an amazing waterfall. The rock structures were massive all around and the views were breathtaking. I did not know that Lake Lure was nearby. It looked like a postcard from the top of the mountain. Enjoy our photos and do visit soon!

Respecting the Heritage of The American Flag

Recently the American Flag was ordered to be flown half staff out of respect for a world famous musician. I refuse to name this individual on my blog. The flag is to be flown at half staff out of respect or mourning. I feel some elected officials went too far.

The American Flag should be flown for every service man or woman who gave their life on enemy soil so we could continue to enjoy our freedom.

Squirrel Appreciation Day

It's true! I just heard on the radio that today, January 21,  is Squirrel Appreciation Day! I cannot believe it. Yesterday was pet paradise and today squirrels get recognition. What is up with all this nonsense? Are people really that far out in their minds? The report stated that this time of year squirrels are looking for food because they have depleted their supply and good folks should set out some nuts for the squirrel family.

When I was really little, my dad stood on the back porch and shot squirrels and he'd cook them for supper. Tasted just like southern fried chicken.

Boarding for Pets

I had a few pets when I was growing up at home but I haven't had a pet since. I had a huge chuckle when I read an article in a magazine advertising boarding for pets. I know the pet industry is big business and no matter how poor a person, if he has a pet he will go to any length to make sure his "best friend" is well cared for and has whatever he wishes.

Take a look at this place: http://www.petparadiseresort.com/locations/charlotte-airport.aspx

Visit to Mount Airy, North Carolina

I am fortunate to live only a couple of hours away from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Last week my husband and I enjoyed a three day getaway to Pilot Mountain, NC, not too far from Winston Salem, NC and really close to our favorite spot - Mount Airy, NC. For all those Andy Griffith and Barney Fife fans of Mayberry - visiting this site was an added treat to our trip. We personally met Emmett Forrest, long time friend of Andy who is in trust with all his memorabilia. Mr. Forrest stopped by the museum in Mount Airy. http://www.visitmayberry.com/