What a Week!!!

 

Monday, February 3     Just another manic Monday, but with a twist—a short work week ahead! The day flew by, filled with productivity and everything I love about what I do. Wrapped up the work grind just in time to scoop Barrett up from school, and we were off—homeward bound. Packing was on the agenda, the kind where you’re shuffling and organizing for everyone to head out in their own direction.

As the evening began to whisper its arrival, I sneaked outside, feeling the last warmth of the day on my skin. My flower beds were calling, the earth begging to be stirred. With each rake of leaves, a secret was revealed. The ground was waking up! There, nestled in the soil, were the first hints of spring—tulips poking through the earth like little promises, and hyacinths already spilling their scent into the cool air. The quiet magic of it all was just the reminder I needed that the seasons are shifting, and with them, hope springs eternal.

Tuesday, February 4     A day of reconnection, indeed. From start to finish, my time at work was consumed by the task of untangling files within files—each one moved for some reason or another, each a small mystery waiting to be solved. It’s tedious, yes, but with my trusty camera phone in hand, I’m able to capture the file paths and reconnect them to their new homes. It feels a bit like piecing together a puzzle, one digital link at a time.

But it wasn’t all just work. As the hours passed, my thoughts wandered to a different kind of reconnection—the one waiting for us in Charlotte. The excitement builds with each moment closer to our trip. The bonds we’ll rekindle, the familiar faces and places that will make us feel like we’re right where we belong. It’s a mix of anticipation and nostalgia, a reminder that connections—whether in files or with loved ones—are what keep us grounded and full of hope.

Wednesday, February 5     Most people dread a dentist visit, but not when yours is a car guy. I actually look forward to my appointments just to hear about his latest project and to share mine. It’s like having a conversation about engines and horsepower while getting your teeth cleaned! That’s one visit I don’t mind.

After the dentist, we packed the car to the brim, getting ready to hit the road. We were ready for an adventure, so as soon as we left the house, we were set to head out of town. Our first stop was the Optimist Club meeting, where the speaker shared fascinating details about Russian submarines in the Gulf during World War II. It struck me how silent the whole situation was—why didn’t they blackout to protect the merchant ships? So many lives could’ve been spared, yet it felt like nothing was done to prevent the sinking of so many vessels. The United States, it seems, was caught off guard by a war on its own soil. It left me wondering—are we prepared now?

After the meeting, we drove north toward Concord, NC—the home of NASCAR and the iconic Charlotte Motor Speedway. The buzz of race cars and the spirit of speed filled the air as we made our way. By the time we reached Atlanta around 6 pm, we were ready to relax. We found our hotel, settled in, and had planned to stretch our legs with a walk, but with the game on, we decided to stay put. The excitement of the road had led to a quieter evening, but sometimes that’s the best kind of rest.

 

Thursday, February 6      We hit the road early, determined to get to Charlotte with plenty of time to spare. Since check-in wasn’t until 4 pm, we made a trip to Dairy Queen for lunch with Vicki and Art. It was a nice, low-key way to fuel up before the next adventure.

Our afternoon was all about cars. We toured the Hendrick Heritage Center, which houses Rick Hendrick’s private collection, along with the public collection at the Hendrick complex. Rick’s collection is absolutely breathtaking—a staggering 220 high-performance, rare, and classic cars, each one a testament to automotive history. The 58,000-sf museum felt like stepping into a time capsule of car culture, with replica venues capturing key moments from his life.

This year’s trade show had a fun twist—prizes for visiting every booth and collecting stamps. It turned the event into a bit of a scavenger hunt, making it more engaging and exciting. But beyond the thrill of the stamps, it gave us the chance to connect with the people manning each booth. Conversations flowed naturally as we stopped by, learning more about what they were offering while exchanging a few stories and insights along the way. It was a perfect balance of exploring, networking, and having a little fun in the process.

As the day wound down, we attended the evening program, starting with the Directors' Welcome Reception at the hotel. The menu was a carb lover’s dream—a pasta bar with all the fixings and a tempting array of desserts. But this wasn’t just about food. It was a moment for local Regions and Chapters to come together and make their annual donations to either the AACA or the AACA Library. A great way to wrap up a day filled with passion for cars and community.

 

Friday, February 7      The 2025 AACA Convention was officially underway, and the day kicked off with a series of seminars that kept us on our toes. I dove in with Terry Bond’s “Paper Automobilia,” followed by Dave Robertson’s “Road to Your First Nationals,” and wrapped it up before lunch with Walt Kostrzewa’s “The Wonderful World of Woodies.” Each session was packed with fascinating details, feeding my passion for cars and history.

After lunch, we headed into Charlotte to visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame Museum. We had a mission: find Curt’s brick and explore the city a bit. But to our surprise, our encounter with Jewell, the ticket taker, turned into something unexpected. After chatting with her for a bit, she handed us tickets and simulator passes for the day—an unplanned bonus! We had a blast on the simulator the first time around, though the second time, it felt like a demolition derby with all the other drivers crashing into us.

The evening continued with the Regions and Chapters Dinner, a chance to relax and enjoy great company. But the fun didn’t stop there. After the dinner, we stepped into the hallway and were transported to the Roaring ‘20s Speakeasy Casino Night. The atmosphere was electric—cards flying, people laughing, and the excitement palpable. After two hours of playing, I was still holding onto $10,000 to trade for raffle tickets. It was a night full of surprises, laughter, and a little bit of luck!

Saturday, February 8    It was a day packed with learning and honoring tradition. I spent most of the morning attending three back-to-back judging schools: the National Senior Masters Judges School, the Chief Judge School, and after a quick lunch, the Team Captain CJE. My mind was buzzing with all the new knowledge, but there was a brief escape during lunch when I stepped outside to check out the local car club member display. About 20 cars, all from the year 2000 and older, were on display—each one a snapshot of automotive history.

After the seminars, we had a short break before heading into the General Membership Meeting. It was a memorable moment when Vicki Bolton was installed as the Executive VP of AACA, with plans to take on the role of President in 2026. Her journey is an inspiring one, and we were lucky to witness it firsthand.

That evening, we attended the National Awards Banquet—a grand affair with at least 500 people gathered to receive their hard-earned awards. It was humbling to be in such company, and I was proud to be part of the evening. I had the honor of receiving the Master Editor Award for the monthly newsletter, The Exhaust Whistle, for the Great Southern Region in Birmingham, Alabama. But the night didn’t stop there—Darrin’s 1955 Chevy Bel Air two-door wagon was nominated and selected for a National Award as well! Walking across the stage to receive that recognition was such a special moment, knowing how much passion and effort had gone into it. It was a celebration of hard work, camaraderie, and the love we all share for cars.

 

Sunday, February 9    The long 9-hour drive home was a time for reflection, but it didn’t take long to dive straight back into the rhythm of everyday life. As soon as we got home, the familiar household chores took over—laundry, dinner, dishes, and everything in between. It’s always a reminder that life keeps moving, even after a week full of adventure and excitement.

But even with the return to routine, I couldn’t help but smile thinking about the amazing week we had. From the seminars and car shows to the awards and new connections made, it was a week to remember. A little chaos at home doesn’t take away from the joy of those moments; it just makes me appreciate the balance of life a little more. What a fantastic trip it was!

 

Giving Back to the Community is a Big Part of What I Do.

Monday, Jan 27    The final planning meeting for the Joy of Life Ball on February 8 was a whirlwind of last-minute details. As the clock ticks down, the team covered everything from final touches to ensuring everything falls into place for a flawless event. This incredible group, alongside a few dedicated individuals who came before them, has worked tirelessly over the last ten and a half years to raise an astounding $1.2 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Their commitment and passion are what make this event so special—transforming hard work into life-changing impact. The anticipation is building, and it’s clear this year will be no exception to the magic they’ve been creating year after year.

Tuesday, Jan 28.   
The Mustang Club gathered at Lost Pizza for a meeting, where most of us rolled in with our modern cars, though a few brave souls brought out their classic rides. I’ll admit, it still gets dark too early for me to take my old car out—my eyes just don’t handle the night driving like they used to. It was a bittersweet moment, though, as we reflected on the club’s 29 years of hosting the car show. Unfortunately, with fewer than eight members left, it just wasn’t practical to continue. When the vote came to cancel the event, I couldn’t help but feel relieved—it was the right decision, even though it marks the end of an era. We’ve had some great years, but it’s time to let go and focus on what’s best for the club now.

Wednesday, Jan 29 I absolutely love being part of the Optimist Club every Wednesday. It’s such a rewarding group to be a part of. Each meeting, we’re treated to a speaker, and sometimes we even get the privilege of welcoming our Student of the Month, giving us the chance to celebrate their hard work firsthand. Once a month, we host the Mobile Police Officer of the Month Luncheon, which is always a great opportunity to recognize and honor those who serve our community. What truly stands out to me, though, is how every single member goes above and beyond to make our youth feel valued and important. It’s that sense of dedication and care that makes this club such a special place.

Thursday, Jan 30    This morning, the fog rolled in overnight, creating a blanket of clouds on the ground. The shift in air and ground temps brought a quiet stillness, but it also made me reflect on how the fog can be a metaphor for life. Sometimes, our future feels unclear—like we know something’s ahead of us, but we just can’t see it yet. It’s a reminder that, even though we can’t always make out the path, God is guiding every one of our steps. Trusting Him in those moments when things feel uncertain isn’t always easy, but it’s in those moments that faith can be the most grounding. Just like the fog, we might not see everything clearly right now, but we can trust that the way will unfold in time.

Friday, Jan 31    The day felt like it was dragging with the weight of school and work, all while the excitement for the Senior Bowl Parade built up in the background. It was a Mardi Gras-style parade, which brought an extra layer of fun and energy to the whole event. One of the best twists this year was the lack of barriers along the sidewalk—it made the experience feel more personal, allowing us to actually interact with the football players as they strolled down Royal Street. Darrin and I took advantage of the downtime earlier in the day and walked around, snapping photos with all the College School mascots. It was a lighthearted way to kick off the festivities, and it definitely added to the fun vibe of the evening!

Saturday, Feb 1    Saturdays are usually for sleeping in, but not for Barrett! He’s been attending the Home Depot kids’ workshop for a few years now, and it’s become something he looks forward to every time. It’s been a special routine for just GiGi and Barrett lately, and I absolutely love that time we get to spend together. After the workshop, we headed home to tackle a little cleaning and sorting through some old photos from my grandfather. As we went through the boxes, I found some incredible treasures—like a few adding machines, a real-to-real, and an old record player that my dad had passed down to my husband. The memories tied to those items were so special, and it was like stepping back in time to relive some of those moments. It’s amazing how a little bit of sorting can lead to such a flood of memories!

Sunday, Feb 2     We kicked off the day with a fun Hot Rod Breakfast, and then headed over to Ronnie’s garage for a tour. It was amazing to see what he’s been working on! He had several Austin Minors that he’d either restored or modified—each one with its own unique touch. The working garage was a sight, but the real gems were the garages where he stores his prized rides. After all that excitement, it was time to shift gears and get the flower beds ready for spring. I was pleasantly surprised by how many flowers had survived the snow and deep freeze from last week—nature can be pretty resilient! The weather was warm, so I thought it’d be the perfect evening to invite friends over for dinner and maybe even eat out on the back deck. Of course, the temperature dropped faster than expected, so we had to enjoy our dinner indoors instead. Still, it was a great way to wrap up a fun day!

When the Northern Weather Meets the Gulf of Mexico...

Monday, Jan 20    Ah, the calm before the storm! Mobile, Alabama—sitting right on the edge of the Gulf—preparing for a rare, southern snowstorm. It’s a spectacle in itself, isn’t it? Snowflakes in the air, when you’re usually dodging hurricanes or basking in the sun. People are scrambling, gearing up for that 1-3 inches they’re predicting, but we all know how that goes. When snow’s in the forecast, it’s like the world suddenly shifts into “survival mode.”

The grocery store aisles? Completely barren, save for the lonely cans of beans and some random box of instant mashed potatoes. Bread? Gone. Like it’s the end of the world.

And let’s not forget the power outages. When the snow starts to pile up, you can bet the lights will flicker out as soon as that first flake hits. People up north might laugh, but for us? A little snow brings a whole different kind of chaos.

And then there’s the work-from-home hustle. I’m grabbing my computer, lugging it home, and setting up shop, just in case this snowstorm decides to make itself at home for a few days. I know, I know—it's Alabama, so the whole idea of working from home because of snow feels a little strange.

Of course, I’ll probably spend half the day watching snowflakes drift down while trying to stay focused on the task at hand. But there’s something cozy about the whole thing—my computer, a snow day, and a bit of Southern chaos to make it all feel just a little special. Just don’t let the snow melt too soon, alright?  “I’ll be over here in my blanket fort, pretending to work!”

Tuesday, Jan 21  Historic snowfall—eight inches in twelve hours! In Mobile, no less. It’s like the weather gods decided to throw us a curveball and gave us a snow day to remember. Barrett? He was in his element, turning the front yard into his own winter wonderland. PaPa didn’t stand a chance. Before long, he was out there with the sled, getting roped into snowball fights, and building a snowman that was almost as tall as Barrett himself.

As for me? I was right in the middle of it all—snowflakes in my hair, laughing too hard at Barrett’s enthusiasm. There we were, in the thick of a snowball fight, making snow angels like we were kids again, and then of course, the snow cream. Oh, the snow cream. Nothing says "Southern snow day" quite like it. Then, just to make sure we didn’t forget what we were doing in the first place, we took the golf cart out for a ride—faces freezing, but you couldn’t wipe the smiles off our faces.

Inside, it was all about filling the house with warmth and comfort—cooking up a storm and canning like we were preparing for winter’s grand finale. The air smelled like cozy, hearty food, and the whole day felt like one big celebration of a Southern winter gone wild. What an amazing day, one of those memories that’ll keep us smiling long after the snow’s melted away.

Wednesday, Jan 22 After the storm, the world was transformed. The snow, still thick and heavy, gleamed under the crisp sunshine, as if the whole sky had been wiped clean. It was overwhelming in the best possible way, like nature had just pressed the reset button, and everything was quiet, still, and impossibly beautiful. The air had that perfect chill, the kind that makes you feel alive with every breath.

Barrett and I couldn’t resist. We built even bigger snowmen, stacking snow higher, shaping it with a little more care, as if the snow had given us a second chance to get it right. And then came the walks—long, leisurely strolls through the snow-covered streets, the kind that make you feel like time slows down. Every step was a crunch, the snow sparkling under the clear blue sky.

We even took a trip out on the roads to our friends house to get Eleanor, our 1930 Model A, out of the garage for a snow day adventure. Her old-fashioned charm against the backdrop of pristine snow and the sun’s glow made for a scene out of a dream. We couldn’t resist capturing the moment, snapping photos of her in the snow, the old car standing proudly like a relic of a time gone by, and the world around her frozen in winter’s embrace.

It was one of those days where the beauty of it all just hits you in the chest. You can’t help but feel grateful for the moment, for the snow, the sun, and the memories that were already taking shape, even as the snow began to melt away.

Thursday, Jan 23 The snowman keep changing, doesn't it? As the snow melts, or as you add a new carrot nose or reshape the arms, it’s a reminder that nothing stays static. Life, like those snowmen, is ever-evolving—sometimes unpredictable, but always shaped by the moments that come before.

Our memories, too, are a bit like that snowman. They’re constantly shifting and changing, colored by the lens of where we are now, by new experiences and fresh perspectives. What once seemed certain might feel different in the light of time. And yet, just like the joy in building that snowman, there's beauty in the process. The way life morphs and shifts, how we continually add layers to our own story, is what makes it so fascinating.

It’s a beautiful thought to reflect on—how everything, from snowmen to memories, transforms with time. It makes the moment feel even more precious, knowing it will continue to change, but it will always be part of who we are.

Friday, Jan 24   Baking banana bread. The smell filled the house, wrapping around us like a warm blanket on a cold day. It’s one of those little comforts that seems to slow time down. It was more than just baking—it was about filling the house with warmth, both from the oven and from the heart.

The heat from the oven made the whole place feel like a cozy refuge from the snow outside. There’s something magical about the way the house transforms when you’re cooking - it goes from just being a place to live to being a home, a space that holds memories and moments.

Spoiling the family? That’s the fun part. There’s nothing like seeing everyone’s faces light up when they walk into the kitchen and the sweet, buttery aroma hits them. Barrett and PaPa laughing over something that only they could understand, while I slice the warm banana bread into thick, generous pieces. It’s the kind of moment that makes everything feel right in the world.

I’m not just spoiling them with food, though. There’s a deeper, quieter kind of spoiling happening here, sheltering them in a warmth that extends beyond the bread and the heat from the oven. It’s in the laughter shared, in the stories we tell, in the little moments that add up to something so much bigger than any one day.

The snow may be melting outside, but inside, we’ve created our own little winter paradise, one slice of banana bread at a time.

Saturday, Jan 25.   Cruising out in the '55—sunshine streaming after the winter storm, the engine purring as we roll down the road to our club outing. It’s more than just a drive; it’s an experience. The kind of day where the journey feels as exciting as the destination, and the road ahead feels full of promise. In the two years of our newly formed club , Back Roads Touring Club, we have found it’s so much more than a gathering of car enthusiasts—it’s a celebration of passion, creativity, and connection.

The cars, of course, are the star of the show. Hot rods with their roar and attitude, vintage beauties that whisper of another time, original classics gleaming like they’ve never aged a day, and modern marvels that turn heads in their own right. But it’s not just about the car, it’s about the people. A mosaic of personalities, each bringing something unique to the table. From seasoned mechanics to newcomers, from old-school aficionados to those with a taste for the future, we all share something in common: the thrill of the ride.

We talk about more than just repairs and upgrades—though we certainly have our fair share of car talk. It's about art, craftsmanship, and the joy of creating something that’s as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Every car is a canvas, every upgrade an opportunity to add a little bit of ourselves to the machine.

But it’s the community that makes it special. The way we encourage each other, share tips and tricks, and celebrate every success, big or small. We cheer each other on in repairs, laugh over mistakes, and revel in the beauty of our shared obsession. In the end, it’s not just about the cars, it’s about the connections we build, the fun we have, and the way it all comes together to create something far greater than the sum of its parts. The open road ahead is full of possibilities, and we’re driving it together.

Sunday, Jan 26   I love old things. There's something about them—how they carry a history, a story that’s been passed down and layered over time. The way old things feel warm, comforting, and full of meaning. I’m always drawn to blending the past and the present, mixing new with old to create little pockets of interest throughout my home.

In my kitchen, for example, there’s a mix of treasures that seem like they were meant to be together. Items from my grandparents' home sit side by side with quirky finds from garage sales, each piece telling its own tale. And then there’s the centerpiece - a photo taken by my grandfather, framed and nestled among them, a quiet nod to the legacy he left behind. The photo of the pancakes on the griddle at the Boy Ranch kitchen, capturing a moment of his life as a photographer, feels at home here in my kitchen, where food and family have always been at the heart of things.

Each item has its own memory, and when they’re together, they somehow create something new, something that tells the story of where I’ve been, who I’ve loved, and what I hold dear. The blend of the old and new isn’t just about style; it’s about creating a space that feels alive with the past and full of possibilities for the future.

New fun and friendships!

Monday, Jan 13 – Down in the heart of Mississippi, where the rhythm of the blues pulses through your veins, the music lives in every breeze and beneath every beat. Picture this: the Gulf Coast, with its breathtaking stretches of pristine, white sand beaches, calling you to experience the magic. Join me on a journey to Mississippi, where the Beach Cruisers and Cruisn’ the Coast Auto Advisory Committee bring the thrill of classic cars and vibrant community to life. Cruisn’ the Coast is  not just a road trip—it’s a weeklong celebration of everything that makes cruising so special. From the gleaming chrome to the unforgettable coastal scenery, where car enthusiasts and beach lovers alike come together to soak in the sights, sounds, and memories that only Mississippi can offer.

Tuesday, Jan 14 - On February 28, a celestial spectacle will unfold as all seven planets align in the night sky in a rare and breathtaking "planetary parade." As we track this cosmic event, our skyview app transforms each evening into a magical journey. With every glance upward, we’re uncovering the secrets of the heavens—learning to spot the shimmering planets as they dance across the sky, and tracing the patterns of constellations that have inspired awe for millennia. It’s a thrilling opportunity to deepen our connection to the cosmos, one starry night at a time.

Wednesday, Jan 15 – Someone just hit the big 1-2! Barrett is growing up way too fast, and it's leaving me in awe. Slow down, kid—adulting isn't as glamorous as it seems. Enjoy these years while you can, because soon enough, the world will ask you to be serious. For now, though, here's to savoring every carefree moment before reality comes knocking!

Thursday, Jan 16 – Reflections are the compass that guide us toward our dreams. When we pause to look inward, we clarify not only where we've been, but where we want to go. Speaking about our direction and future is powerful—it shapes our journey. In a world full of noise, there are few sacred spaces where we can truly open up about life: places of encouragement, Scripture, and prayer. These are the anchors that ground us. So speak boldly about your desires, about the life you envision, and the path you want to take. The universe listens when you declare your intentions with faith and clarity.

Friday, Jan 17 OWA with the teens is a whole new adventure. They’re no longer just kids—they’re becoming individuals, each one carving out their own unique space in the world. The beauty of it? They get to do it together, in sync with one another, their differences blending into something extraordinary. Each teen brings their own flair, talents, and quirks to create something magical—like the St. Luke Band, a perfect example of collective creativity. After school, we made our way to Buc-ee’s for a dinner stop, and those tropical shirts? They definitely made a statement, standing out in the crowd. Once we arrived at OWA, everyone jumped in to unload the equipment and set up, working together like a well-oiled machine. Free time was a blast, and the band? Simply awesome. Barrett took the stage as the lead singer for “Beat It,” lighting up the crowd and showing just how far they’ve come. It’s moments like this that remind us how much these teens are growing, not just in their music, but in their confidence and sense of self.

Saturday, Jan 18 The "Run of the Park" was an unforgettable day at OWA's Tropical Falls and Amusement Park, where the band not only played together but created memories that will last a lifetime. Our day started with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, followed by check-out and a full-on adventure at the park. The fun kicked off with a splash as we all braved the lazy river and raced down water slides, laughing and cooling off together. As the afternoon unfolded, we dove into the thrills of roller coasters and even hopped aboard the little kid trains—no ride left untouched. Beyond the adrenaline, something even more magical happened: new friendships blossomed, and old ones grew even stronger. It was a day of connection, joy, and pure fun, with the soundtrack of the band’s music echoing in the background as we all soaked in the perfect mix of laughter and adventure.

Sunday, Jan 19 – There is always a place for you—welcome home. “𝘑𝘦𝘴𝘶𝘴 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘺𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘥𝘢𝘺, 𝘵𝘰𝘥𝘢𝘺, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳. 𝘋𝘰 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘷𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘤𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴. 𝘍𝘰𝘳 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘨𝘰𝘰𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘦, 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘧𝘰𝘰𝘥𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘤𝘩 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘧𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘰𝘤𝘤𝘶𝘱𝘪𝘦𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮.”  —Hebrews 13:8-9. Life has a way of pulling us in different directions, making it easy to lose focus and stray from our path. But the beauty of this truth is that Jesus remains the same, unwavering and constant. No matter how far you've wandered or how long it's been since you’ve walked through the doors of a church, His love and grace are still waiting for you. There is always room at His table, and His arms are always open. Even when the world offers distractions, know that His heart for you has never changed. Come home, for there is a place just for you.

Back to School

Getting back into the swing of a schedule after two weeks of vacation is tough.

Monday, Jan 6 Putting the pieces together. The first day back to school, Barrett was up early and "fully charged." Much like solving a puzzle, we had to figure out how to arrange our lives back into routine. The transition from holiday freedom to structured days can be challenging, but with patience and a little creativity, we'll find our rhythm again.

Tuesday, Jan 7 The waterfront is ever-changing, just like our lives. When we moved to this piece of land, there wasn't much of a view of the river. Our aging neighbor eventually sold his property to a builder, who cleared the land, house and all. The builder constructed new houses, and two new neighbors moved in, taking most of the view. Now, a boathouse is set to take the rest. It's a reminder of how the landscape constantly evolves, reshaping our surroundings and perceptions

Wednesday, Jan 8 Music, music, and more music—Barrett's favorite day! He has band practice and piano lessons with Mr. Daniel Driskell making it a day full of melodies and rhythms. There's something magical about immersing oneself in the world of music, especially with a great teacher to guide the way.

Thursday, Jan 9 National Day of Mourning. He may not have been our best president, but he was undoubtedly one of our greatest humanitarians. Jimmy Carter dedicated his life to service, both in and out of the political sphere. His tireless work for Habitat for Humanity, his efforts in international diplomacy, and his unwavering commitment to human rights have left a lasting legacy. We will miss you, Jimmy. Your compassion, humility, and generosity have inspired us all.

Friday arrived without a suitcase—see how they run. On January 10, Barrett and I went to see The Black Jacket Symphony perform The Beatles' Abbey Road album. Barrett danced in his seat and, at the end, went down to the front of the stage. I am amazed at how many people enjoy watching him. The kid truly feels the music—it is his soul.

Saturday Jan 11. It's that wild and chaotic time of putting away Christmas decorations. What a mess! We often strive to control the world around us. We take pride in our ability to fix things, to manage things—in fact, to control nearly everything. But sometimes, life just doesn't fit into neat little boxes, and we have to trust the process.

Sunday, Jan 12 There is no place like home. On a frosty morning, there's nothing quite like a brisk walk. The crisp air, the crunch of leaves underfoot, and the quiet beauty of a winter landscape—it’s a perfect way to start the day and appreciate the simple joys of life.

2025 is going to be a year to remember!

Each day presents something interesting, awesome or just down right normal. Here is to the first Sunday night recap.

Jan 1. Celebrating the beginning of a new year. Friends and family are the center of our lives. We have learned to live for today. We don't know what tomorrow will bring. Maybe things will be better and maybe they will be worse. We are focused on today. We enjoy the moments we have with each other.

Jan 2. Pulling the last of the carrots from the kitchen garden. Some will become part of the ham bone soup from New Year's dinner with Joyce, David and Eddie. Some will find their way into carrot cake or stir fry.

Jan 3. Early morning winter walks with a spectacular view of Dog River and the Dog River Bridge. Quiet time should never be underestimated. Watching the sunrise with the anticipation of the adventures ahead calms the soul and creates the excitement for what the day will bring.

Jan 4. My grandfather's darkroom chair. I wonder how many WWII, space race, hippy days and the disco era photos were developed in the presence of this historic chair. But life moves on and so has this chair. Its life continues at the Playhouse in the Park filling the roles of Bob Cratchit seat or the center of Frankenstein lab.

Jan 5. New strings for my S&H Green Stamp guitar I have had since I was 8 years old . (Yes that is 57 years ago) Both my nephews Clay and Carson have had their turn to play it, now Barrett is taking his turn.

Broken Pieces

Photos of the day - also is the emotional moment of the day.

   My aunt Kathy passed away October of 2022 at the age of 84. She was the last of the "team." She was also the last of my parents generation. The reality of being the oldest generation in our family has hit hard over the last year. 

   Many things over the year and a half have helped me to realize that life moves forward. I was charged with cleaning out the home that my Aunt Kathy lived in. She had been there with her parents from the age of 13. My mother went on to college and never really lived in the home. Kathy referred to the team all the time.  They were Honey, Granddad, Grandmom and Kathy

   My grandfather was the generous type and he loved people. He was blessed as a young man to step into a job that shaped his lifetime. In the early 1920 he landed a job as a photographer for the Washington Post. He was given a camera and sent on assignment. The camera and him became one in no time and his photographs became noticed. Over the years he worked for companies like the New York Times, Saturday Evening Post and Life Magazine. Later in his career he went freelance with my Aunt Kathy at his side.

   My grandfather's mother was called Honey. We all thought that she was a saint. She had so much kindness and wisdom.  I remember her rubbing her hands late in life as she had arthritis.

  Grandmom didn't venture to much from the home on Fowl River. She was quiet and read books a lot. She never bragged about her cooking but she could make a wonderful meal out of left overs.

   Kathy hated to spend money on anything and saved everything. She was outdoors all the time. she would walk the Fowl River property everyday picking up sticks. 

    The house was packed full of treasures and trash. It took about 18 months to clear it out. While cleaning out my Grandparents home back in October 2023, I came across an old shoe box with pieces of stained glass. I put it in my car. I would put a few items every now an then in my car to take home. I set the box of glass pieces aside because I just hated the idea of throwing it away.

   I also have a good friend who does a lot of stained glass work.  He has made some incredible pieces.  

   One day when Paul was visiting, I offered him the glass. He looked through the shoe box and talked about each piece of glass. He accepted the gift and I never thought about it again. 

   Today he shows up at my house with this beautiful stained glass cross. Just another reminder that God can take the broken pieces of our lives and make something beautiful out of them.