Every Girl Needs Some

I left the house this morning in the care of our oldest. His plan was to spend some time with his youngest brother and do some school with him before I returned. I climbed into the car that our oldest drives and headed down the road. I turned by the school and drove until the road started to curve back and forth winding up the mountainside. As I drove, I noticed that I was no longer looking at the mountains from a distance, but I was now in the very presence of them. The road was at the base of the mountains with trees growing up on both sides of the mountains. To the right was a stream that lapped against the rocks. In places, it was peaceful and other places the water was harsh pushing all the time. Along the drive, the stream was there as a guide and its beauty beckoned me to come and drink in the view. The land was sprinkled with homes some no more than shacks. I have read about these homes in books about Appalachia. Other homes had no more money to support those living inside, but they were in better upkeep, usually with a well tended garden along the house. I love this drive. I don't get to make it often enough. As I turned right just past the school in the next state over, I know that shortly I will be to my destination. As I arrive, I am beckoned to once again come and sit; to drink in the coffee and friendship of the one who lives there. She is a sister in the Lord and there is always good conversation and laughter that comes from friendship. We spend time chatting and catching up on each other's lives sitting outside with the breeze tickling our faces. Her dog comes and nuzzles my leg; a familiar feel that I love from any animal. Too quickly the time ran through our fingers, and it was once again time to leave. Coffee mugs were gathered, hugs were exchanged with the promise of getting together again soon. I climbed back into oldest son's car and drove away back down the winding, twisting road. Fellowship is sweet, and too often we as women do not take the time to embrace it. Fellowship was much needed in my world today and I am thankful that I took the time to drink of that sweet gift. Although I lost an entire morning of working in my home, I feel much more equipped to deal with the things of the day. I have stopped and been refreshed and now I am ready to pour into others.

grace and peace,

julie