“So, my very dear friends, don’t get thrown off course. Every desirable and beneficial gift comes out of heaven.” James 1:16 (The Message)
This past summer, my family and I were given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. My parents and my sister and her family offered to pay our way to fly across country and spend seven wonderful days in California – exploring, talking, laughing, and reconnecting.
Some of you may remember me talking about how my sister and I are really close and last year she was given the wonderful opportunity to work at a job she loves but that required them to relocate from the midwest to California. Despite the distance in miles, we take the time weekly to catch up on the phone and stay connected. When she and my parents offered to pay for the five of us to go visit for a week this summer, we were beyond blessed. I’m not sure what I enjoyed more – the anticipation and planning of the trip or being there.
The trip was a huge blessing from start to finish. In addition to seeing where they live and all their new favorites, Bill was able to show our kids where he was stationed for four years when he served in the Navy. Even though his ship has been decommissioned, the port in Alameda houses the U.S.S. Hornet and we were able to tour that ship, one similar to his old stomping ground.
In addition to touring the Navy ship, we visited Alcatraz and Fisherman’s Wharf, the Oakland Zoo, Muir Woods (my first redwoods up close and personal) as well as lots of family time swimming and playing games. We each had our own favorites from the trip, but I think we’d all agree that the time spent laughing, playing games, and just enjoying being together was the best part! It, of course, went way too fast, but we came home refreshed, relaxed, and completely filled to bursting with God’s goodness on our lives.
While nothing is completely “perfect” here on Earth, this trip was pretty fantastic and I honestly can’t sit here and tell you anything disastrous that happened. When I think about our trip, I only remember the fun, laughter, family jokes that were created, and look forward to planning another trip together very soon.
Come back next time to see how God’s blessings shine through even in the imperfect adventures.
© Cheri Swalwell 2015