I Once Was Lost, But Now Am Found

Three random thoughts this morning...

Two days ago, Ruth Graham went to Heaven. As I was looking at the memoriam to her at the Billy Graham website, there were memories that reminded me of some memories of my grandmother. I think if they had/will have the opportunity to meet, they would be kindred spirits. Two very godly women.

I am currently re-reading the book Searching For God Knows What by Donald Miller. I appreciate his honesty in his own spiritual journey. I see Jesus more clearly through his eyes.

"I realize a lot of people don't like Jesus, or just ignore Him or have no use for Him, but I think the best thing a person can do is to read through the Gospels in the Bible and really look at Jesus, because if a person does this, they will realize that the Jesus they learned about in Sunday school or the Jesus they hear jokes about or the skinny, Gandhi Jesus that exists in their imaginations isn't anything like the real Jesus at all."

For 12 years I have participated in Bible Study Fellowship. There are 7 studies before you loop around and begin again. This year we are focusing on the three synoptic gospels. I think my goal this time will be to really try and see the person, not the formula many churches attempt to propagate.

Ruth Graham and Barbara Hart get to see Jesus now without any baggage. What an awesome thing.

Homesick

This is one of the times during the year I am usually looking forward to seeing my family at our cottage in MI. Unfortunately this year, with bringing Katy to college in August, we need to pass on our annual 4th of July trip.

This saddens me greatly.


Yesterday I updated our refridgerator with new pictures and kept some of the "classics". It's fun to see how children grow and how adults get better with age (like a fine wine!!). I have aunts who inspire me, and family who loves me.

Laura noticed we four in the same order, happenstance!

I just don't see them enough!

1st & 3rd photos on the right are funny!

It's time for an official invitation: November 29, 30, December 1 is the RHS Renaissance Feast. PLEASE COME for a visit!! It's beautiful in Sarasota that time of year--and it's a great event and memory to share with family.

btw-much better view if you click on the photos!

A New Dress

Catherine DiMedici

Let the designing begin!

Venice, 1583

Fabric has been selected, basic design has been approved (sister Katy once again doing an original for this coming year's Lady Chamberlain, Emma), and now getting the dress from paper to reality is my task over the next several weeks.

close up view of bodice inspiriation

I will be giving updates throughout the process....

A New Life

It's a new week, new day, with new opportunities to focus on a lot of positive things.






On days 5 and 6 of my 60 day discovery, I collaborated with Katy to design 14 centerpiece floral arrangements for a dear friend's daughter's wedding. I loved the creative outlet while being able to help such good friends! Working through the process with Katy was an added bonus and the highlight of the project. I'm soaking in these opportunities while she's home for the summer...triple blessings!



Kristine's wedding reception was held at the Edson Keith Mansion at Phillippi Estate Park here in Sarasota. It was picture perfect, mainly because of Ryan and Christine's humble, gracious, and godly character. They are truly beginning their new life.


Day 7 (yesterday) was a great follow-up with the news that another couple our family is close with is expecting their first baby! All these new lives being created by God!!


His handiwork is everywhere!



photos courtesy of Laura