Joelle's view

 Joelle's photos are incredible.  i can't even believe the beauty she beholds on a regular basis.  so glad that if she must be so far west, she's taking it in intentionally and soaking up the vast and breathtaking creation all around her.  it's ridiculously stunning.  whenever i think a picture can't be beat, she sends something even more jaw dropping.  so cool.  

this last one?! c'mon...it looks like it's AI generated somehow.  the fog, the sun, and then our beautiful daughter right in the middle of it...

way to soak it up, kiddo!  simply spectacular! ❤

47 kms

 yes, he ran 47 kms.  in six hours.  on a blazing hot day.  don't even ask me how.  or why, for that matter.

but still, i'm most inspired by this man's mental grit and perseverance, and most incredibly, his joy in the process.  he is strong and courageous to even consider such an undertaking.  i love him for it.  great job, Jeffrey.  you are a force.  

Texas

 i've been thinking lots about Texas, and the unfolding tragedy there that has shattered so many hearts. it's all unthinkable.  you send your kids to camp.  it's not supposed to end as it did.  it's unexplainable.  it's the ultimate horror and shock, as best as i can truly only imagine.  how do you wake the next day?  the agony of knowing you weren't with your child during those final moments...it's actually too much.  how do you step forward, ever?

 Ann Voskamp blogs about it here. what i loved about her words is her raw honesty.  she doesn't dance around the hard questions.  she doesn't explain away with smooth or far-removed answers from someone who has no inkling of what it is to suffer.  she approaches the topic of tragedy and suffering with tender care and authentic transparency.  it's a helpful read.  again, you all know i love her and might be a bit biased. but helpful~ it still is...

and just a little of my fuchsia hydrangea to end on a brighter note.  how i love me some vibrant pink!

these two

they always have a sweet connection, but i think even more when i'm away.  

❤❤

i am yours

 I Am Yours

just a beautiful song today, by needtobreathe..

"...somtimes i'm walking on the ledge

and i'm afraid to just look down

it's like i think i'm in control

i'm giving gravity to doubt

but you love me where i am

enough for you to not look back

and it's the only kind of love

that i have ever felt like that..."

enjoy ❤