AT to the L: The Atlanta Excursion

Last weekend, Blake and I visited some friends in Atlanta, all of whom we had not seen for three to five years.  Don't you love connecting with old friends? It warms my heart - like eating homemade blueberry pancakes and syrup. So sweet. So delightful. On the way to Atlanta, we stopped in Hendersonville at the McKinney retreat center (a.k.a. Blake's parents' home in the forest) and in Chattanooga at my oh-so-fun cousin, Crystal's home. I loved getting to visit with my cousin, her husband, and their cute kids who always seem to say and do the funniest things.

Once in Georgia, we enjoyed a date night in downtown Atlanta followed by a leisurely day of visiting friends. I was impressed by the size and structure of Atlanta. It contained all of the charm of the South with the big city bustle and amenities I have grown to love. Our first connection was with Jeff and Deanna, former international missionaries whom Blake had spent time in Germany with during college. After years of stories and anecdotes, it was wonderful to meet them and their sweet children. We enjoyed discussing memories and future plans over a plate of yummy M&M cookies. Later a fox made its debut appearance in their lovely back yard and was completely oblivious to their attempts to evict him.

We rounded out the trip by reconnecting with Dr. David Gushee, a Mercer University professor formerly from our Alma Mater, whom we are thankful to also call a friend. He and his wife graciously welcomed us into their Atlanta home after we requested an appointment to discuss Blake's PhD options. We also discussed what my future plans might entail in regards to Ethics and education. Our visit with Dr. Gushee proved both productive and enjoyable. We were very encouraged by his support and the interest he took in our lives over the weekend.

At this point, while there are still a lot of decisions to be made and people to contact, life is rolling on in a good direction and seems to be picking up momentum. Blake and I are excited about what the future might hold - the places we will go, the people we will meet, and all the adventures we will face. We are grateful for good friends and colleagues, a loving and supportive family, and a myriad of blessings that God has poured down on us.

"For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'Plans to prosper not harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

I hope that it comforts you that God has a plan for your life. He is intricately involved in your comings and goings. No matter where you find yourself today, may you take joy in knowing that He is real, present, and active in your life.

Until we meet again, may your cup runneth over with love and your mouth runneth over with laughter.