WHERE DO YOU WANT TO GO TODAY?

"snow-bo" in Steamboat

So, our family loves roadtrips...to anywhere, for any length of time, any time of day.  That is, assuming we have a few essential things...plenty of snacks, movies and maybe even Wii hooked up in the car. Chris figured out how to do this on our last trip and it allowed us to travel for 13 hours straight with minimal complaints...definitely in the running for "Dad of the Year"!  We love the anticipation of spending time with family or friends, exploring new places, visiting familiar favorites and the change of pace from being at home.  Most importantly, we really just enjoy being together, spending uninterrupted time doing the things we love...being outdoors, eating, laughing, eating some more, and marveling at the world around us.  The time in the car may differ--2 hours to Tucson or 20 hours to Kansas to pick up our dog; the people we get to spend time with changes--cousins from across the country or people we've just met while fishing.  But the one constant, regardless of everything else, is the unconditional love that God continually demonstrates to us...through a sunset or "snow-bo", a conversation, a shared experience, or a giant bear hug.  Getting beyond our routine and familiarity at home often renews our amazement of His love, grace and desire to have a dynamic relationship with us.  It wakes us up again to the blessings He has provided, His faithfulness that we experience each moment, and His promises for a plan and purpose for each of our lives.  Maybe we come home a little tired, a bit sunburned and with a desire to kick-off a plan for healthier eating.  But we feel more alive and carry around an excitement that we want to share with anyone that's willing to listen.  We want to tell our vacation stories and ride that "vacation buzz" out just a little bit longer.  Back in the all-too-familiar schedule of work or school or the heat of the Arizona summer can seem a bit well, depressing, frankly.  But does it have to be?  What if we were to look at our lives as one giant roadtrip, with incredible sights awaiting to be discovered...newly graded roads to be traveled on...and endless opportunities for exploration.  Even among familiar sights and people, God is continually working and waiting for us to check it out, come alongside Him and boldy jump in to what He's got going on.  What are we waiting for?  Where do you want to go today with God on His roadtrip with you?

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