Friday, August 21, 2009

Amidst the Storm


Raindrops lightly fall from the sky; a radiant sky half concealed by a dark, billowy cloud. Unfurling its arms to stretch from one corner of the sky to the other, a blanket of black slowly swathes the sky. Its watery tears drop down to the parched ground one by one, quickening into a torrential downpour. Moans and groans effuse from the depths of the growing darkness, casting a bleak shadow on sunlit hopes. One small hole in the clouds permits a single shaft of sunlight to pierce the darkness: a ray of hope amidst the storm.

Carrying the tempest as if with wings so swift, the wind wooshes through the trees. Bending and swaying, the old trees creak back and forth, their leaves rustling and quaking on each limb. Tugged and thrashed by the uproarious storm, leaves break from their comfortable perch and drift with the wind to places unknown.

Eight rows of clothes still hang on the line, having basked in the bright sunshine only minutes before. Now, drenched from the rain, they whip, tangle, and lash in the roaring wind. Seeking to throw them to the ground, the mighty gusts nearly tear the clothes apart. But, pinned securely to the line, they cling and do not let go.


Sheets of rain continue to pelt the earth, filling every crack and crevice. Water spills down the hills and winds through the valleys below. Dry, cracked, and deficient of water, the remains of a crooked creek rapidly fills, overflowing its shallow banks to gurgle and splash through the rough, rocky terrain. Surrounding trees soak up its cool, energizing flow with glee. Their roots plunge deeper, eagerly surging toward the reservoir containing long-awaited refreshment. Their limp arms find renewed strength to lift up their hands to the sky; each head turned expectantly toward the light.

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Pocket-Full-of-Posies

I finally completed the finishing touches on a purse I began sewing this summer and love how it turned out!



I especially like the girlie fabric and bright colors which add a feminine flair to this delightful purse. It would fit Bethany's personality to a tea: her artist's eye and love for bright pinks and lush flowers would instantly draw her to this cute accessory. I think I will stash it away for a birthday surprise.

Last summer I made a purse with this same pattern (The Veronica Pocketbook by Lazy Girl Designs)


A little "Yo-Yo" flower with a button in the center embellishes the closing flap. (The yo-yo kit/template we purchased makes them so easy to do!)

Monday, August 10, 2009

Tea Time


As in the case of several friends I know, change is about to cross the threshold of many lives during this season. Since time has passed quickly and new opportunities rapidly approach, some dear friends -- a group of young ladies I look up to, enjoy, and admire -- decided to gather together before the Lord guides several down new and exciting pathways in separate sectors of the nation.


What a privilege to reflect on God's work in our lives and to enjoy fellowship together again as sisters in the Lord! I cherish these opportunities. Thank you, Lord.

Our hostess and her sisters made a beautiful spread for us, creating a delightful atmosphere to savor treats and sweet morsels of conversation together.

Shortcake topped with fresh, juicy, red rasperries

Joyful hearts eager to pursue the Lord's direction!