Living Well

We had noticed a number of snazzy convertible sports cars in the church parking lot as of late. We had assumed they belonged to the youth. In a manner speaking they do.

I dropped by to check on one of our 80ish friends recovering from surgery. Spotting a new convertible sports car in her carport, I asked if her granddaughter was visiting. “Oh no, that’s mine. I had to do something; my old car was over ten years old.” Silly me!



Another “youngster” tells the story of her purchase. “I was recovering from a broken hip and developed a blood clot. I decided if I recovered, I was going to buy the sports car I had always wanted.” She more than recovered; she is moving full speed ahead.



Sunday I had the honor of picking up our most admired friend for church. Ethel is 97 years old. She explained her daughter thought she was too old to live alone and surely too old to be driving. She declined her daughter’s offer to move her to MN to live with her. “Well, I have just had too many friends to up and leave them!”



She did reluctantly agree to move into an apartment and relinquished her large luxury vehicle. Ethel says she considers her apartment living much like living in a resort hotel. “I can do as little or as much as I want. I order my meals off the menu just like a fancy restaurant.” Best of all, she and her best buddy are free to go when and where as they please. And go they do. In style in their little sports coupe of course. Ethel says they may consider a van later own. Their walkers are beginning to take up too much space.



The longevity of these precious friends certainly is impressive. More important they are living life well and on their terms! You go girls!



3 John 1:2 “Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.”

Garvan Woodland Gardens

We finally made it! For months now we have scheduled several trips to the Garvan Woodland Gardens in Hot Springs. Each time something has come up to derail our visit. I understand that Christmas and spring Azaleas and Daffodils are prime times. Because of weather, schedules or sickness, we have missed out.



One of the many water falls in the gardens



As Sunday approached I held my breath. Once we actually set foot on the grounds, I could not believe we actually were there. I had expected it would be filled with folks our age. That was not the case. There were young couples with small children for the most part. We enjoyed visiting with many of them. What could be a more fun filled place to be for a small child that lots of rocks, caves,water and fish?

We made the mistake of not picking up our map at the entry way. While we enjoyed all of it, we could have made better choices with directions. Go figure huh? A young man about two years old took charge. “Everyone this way he directed.” We laughed but considered he might have a better sense of direction than we. Most families came to celebrate Mothers’ Day. Some had driven several hours to honor their Mom’s wish to visit the Gardens.



While we did miss the peak blooming season, we very much enjoyed our visit with these precious young families.. As another small child reluctantly left the Koi pond paused to waive and shout, “Goodbye catfish. I will see you again soon.” We have the same hopes little one.


Psalm 127:3 Children are a heritage from the LORD, children a reward from Him.

Demolition Duo

We have done it yet again! Even though we swore this little cottage would be our forever home; we have purchased another. And of course, it is a fixer upper. We have completed the demolition. Now the reconstruction begins. More accurately, the waiting begins.  Coordinating and waiting for contractors and supplies can test the most patient of souls.


Dan says it is the blessings of God. I say we have become accidental house flippers. Every home we have purchased during our married life except our current cottage has been a foreclosure. For the most part each home has required tender loving care in the form of cleaning, painting, landscaping and updated fixtures. This most recent one presents more of a challenge.



Dan peeking around the wall that is no more! :)



The new old house is just around the corner from the cottage. What a difference a few feet can make. The street runs along the golf course and is more secluded and quieter. We are thankful to still be close to our sweet neighbors and friends we have become attached to. We are closer to the golf course and hiking trail. The marina is still within walking distance.

We agreed we would be in no hurry to complete this project. Time outs for other outings and activities are still on the calendar. Our goal is to have the front part of the house ready to move in soon after Memorial week vacation. The back of the house and other projects can be done more leisurely.

Of course leisure is relative. Dan takes his time with every detail. I am in no hurry as long as all is done yesterday. Everything should work out well don’t you think?



If you are in the neighborhood drop by. We will no doubt find a project suited just for you!





Now, please bless Your servant's house so that it will continue before You forever. For You, Lord GOD, have spoken, and with Your blessing Your servant's house will be blessed forever. 2 Samuel 7:29