Rest for the weary: The blessing of vacation

Mark 6:31(NASB) And He said to them, "Come away by yourselves to a secluded place and rest a while." (For there were many people coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat.)


I rarely ever feel joy or just sheer happiness from the day-to-day occurrences.  Usually I have to go within and to the Lord to find it.  From my life situations I find frustration, anger, disappointment, and anxiety.  But I can shout HALLELUJAH for a vacation I just went on with my family.  A vacation that restored my soul and renewed my faith that my frustrating life situations can change and one day I will find joy and happiness from the day-to-day.  

We rented this beautiful house on Lake Sidney Lanier in Georgia for a week.

Every morning, this is what I woke up to... (after a run, a bike ride, or a swim in the lake) 

Then we would head out on my uncle's boat for a cruise.

At one point when we were out on the water I became so overcome with emotion.  I thought about all that I have had to endure over the past few years-the loss of some dear family members, watching a very close friend lose her battle with cancer, my infertility, the challenges of keeping my marriage strong, and facing financial struggles.  Being on the water and surrounded by this wonderful setting that God created, I felt comforted and in His presence.  So I was thankful for my big hat and sunglasses so no one could see my mascara running!

The week was not without some adventure

And a little sightseeing

But in the end it was all about time well spent with my family

And rest for my weariness

May I continue to see glimpses of my burden becoming lighter.  In Jesus name,