A Whirlwind Two Weeks!

Yes, it was really only two weeks ago when we left our home in the hands of God and a few close friends and neighbors.

 

So much has happened and there have been so many memorable and life-changing experiences.

 

I want to share it all with you, but realize that is impossible.  So, these are some of the highlights of the first week.

 

Monday

Chelsea, Alabama 

In 2008, Darla and I became friends on a blog for women when we realized we shared very similar views on matters of family, politics and faith.  We have remained "cyber" friends ever since.

 

When I realized we would be passing through her part of the country, I asked if we could finally meet.  She was so gracious and invited us to spend the night in their lovely home.

 

Meeting Darla and Don was like being reunited with life-long friends.  We felt so extremely comfortable in their presence and loved them immediately.

Thank you so much for inviting us into your home, for your gracious hospitality, and for making us part of your lives.

We shall treasure our time with you and thank our God for you and our new friendship.

 Tuesday & Wednesday

Lancaster, South Carolina

In 1965, I was introduced to Bill and Velta and it was in their home that Hubby proposed to me.  We have remained friends ever since, although we haven't seen each other in almost 30 years.

It was wonderful to visit and catch up on all that has transpired in all those years.  Bill and Hubby were like brothers making up for lost time.  It was such a precious time.

 

On Wednesday, they took us into Charlotte to visit the Billy Graham Library.

It was such an amazing experience to see how this world-changing ministry actually began and to see where Ruth Graham is buried, and at some point in the near future, Billy will be buried.

Beverly Shea and Cliff Barrows' wife are also buried here.

After spending the morning here, we met Marcy for lunch.

Marcy was one our "Kids" from Bastrop and it was wonderful to learn she lived right near by.  Thank you Marcy for taking time off work to meet us.  It was great seeing you again after all these years.

These first three days set the stage for the remainder of our week.

Hubby and I were filled with emotion as we reflected back of how God so richly blessed us with such an amazing time with new and old friends.  It was as if He put His loving arms around us and said

 

"I am going to love you through some of my most faithful and devoted servants."

And, love us He did!

 

All of these special people shared with us how God has and is leading them, how He is using them in various avenues of service, and the victory in their lives because of His faithfulness.

 

How can one not be blessed with friends like that!

 

Thank you

Don & Darla

and

Bill & Velta

for allowing us to be blessed by you!

 

And, the blessings continued as we shared in the wedding of our niece.

That's next time.