A Hidden Jewel

About a month ago, April and I had a brief get-away. It was much needed and much enjoyed... It simply did not last long enough. We found a wonderful b&b just outside of Hattiesburg, MS. We have stayed at several b&b's over the years, and we agree that this one (True Vine Cottage) is at least tied at the top of the list.

The cottage sits near a large pond, well off the beaten path. Between the birds, geese, and the wonderful flower gardens, there is plenty to enjoy from the porch swing. The screened porch in the back connects to a beautiful courtyard, complete with running fountain.

The furnishings inside the two-bedroom cottage are charming and elegant. Everything was very clean and welcoming. I highly recommend True Vine Cottage for any occasion. Here's the website: http://www.truevinecottage.com/

Father-Daughter Picnic

Last Saturday, my daughters and I attended a Father-Daughter Picnic in Baton Rouge. We had a great time

together! As we sat listening to the guest speaker, I looked at each of my girls and

realized how each one is growing into a beautiful, young lady.

I am very proud of and thankful for my wonderfully inquisitive, silly, and sweet girls!

Created to...

I remember being amazed as a child the way the birds would arrive each year in late February or early March. The trees would stand bare against the grey skies with empty hands uplifted. Then, in an instant, the birds would come. I would hear the robins or crows-- whichever it happended to be that day-- and then watch as they settled, giving dark leaves to the stark oak trees.

I was reminded of this ritual a couple of weeks ago when I took two of the girls to choir practice. We stopped for a traffic light, and as we did, we were thrilled to see an amazing air show provided by a flock of birds. They truly astounded us with their complex patterns and their syncronicity. As the traffic light turned green and we pulled away, I began to think about how long it would take mankind to practice for such an air show. Even with weeks or months of practice with the best aircraft, the danger factor would be great. However, for the birds, this was spontaneous and without a single mishap.

Birds were created to fly. It's what they do. That day I experienced their expression of praise as they flew creatively and joyfully.

I think far too often we lose sight of what we were created to do. So here's the question: what were you created to do?