Black Bears and Safaris

So, I just got back from vacationing in Pigeon Forge, TN.  I love it down there. I honestly think I could retire and move to the mountains and become a hermit.  Maybe my posts would become more regular...lol

It was a fantastic trip. We took our time getting there. Of course, I had to snap a gazillion pictures. Once we arrived at our cabin we found ourselves facing 35 steps to get to the porch. Yes, it was a climb, but the view was gorgeous once you huffed and puffed your way to the top. The Lord gave us gorgeous weather the entire way there and back.

Our first excursion was a trip to a place called Circle G Ranch. If you ever get the chance to visit, do it. It's a drive through Safari and the animals come right up to your window. We bought some pellets to feed them and away we went. 120 acres of Water Buffalos, Red Deer, Donkeys, Camels, Goats, tons of exotic animals that I can't name. All of the animals were unique and had tons of personality. However, I fell in love with the Alpacas. Who Knew?!

The next day we went to Cade's Cove. It wasn't until after we left the park that we saw our first and only black bear.  She was a beauty. People had stopped on both sides of the rode and were taking pictures and video. It was amazing.  For me, it made the trip perfect. Black Bears and a Safari all in one trip.







Needless to say, I had a blast. The mountains were on fire with color...just another reminder of God's love for us. The animals were so sweet and friendly. I would definitely go back to Circle G Ranch.

Quite honestly, sitting by the river on those giant rocks was amazing. Just finding that moment of stillness inside yourself and letting God speak through all creation....that's what it's all about.

If I get a chance I'll post some more vacation pics.

Until next time...have a wonderful day.

God Bless~

New Pics in The Shop

Hello everyone!

Hope you all have been enjoying this gorgeous Fall weather. I have added some new pics in my Etsy shop. Hope you can check em out.


Here is the first pic

Here is the second pic!



Thanks so much!

Beyond The Veil

What do we do when a loved one passes beyond the veil of this life? What can we do? Mourn, remember, celebrate. Life on Earth passes so quickly. Sometimes that can be a blessing. If we see our loved ones suffering and fading away. Still, even when we know the parting is coming soon, there is nothing we can do to prepare.

Oh, we can make arrangements and get papers in order. We can divvy up the keepsakes and heirlooms. But emotionally, what do we do? We are left hurting and empty. Hoping we said all we needed to say. Or maybe, wishing we would have said "I love You" one more time. We start second guessing everything we did, telling ourselves we could have done more, said more, been around more. It's perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed with the could haves and should haves.

However, in the midst of our hurting and grieving there is a silent listener to our crying. A strong and steady anchor holding us together. An ever-present comforter waiting for us to call on Him. Just whisper his name. Jesus. And He will take you in His arms so fast. You will experience peace like you have never known. 

Truly, I have no words that can describe the peace and comfort that I experienced when my mamaw and papaw passed. Nothing in this world can give you that. Not your spouse, your children, your pets, alcohol, drugs...you name it. There is nothing or no one but Jesus that can give you that peace.

I pray that you find that peace. I pray that your heart be lifted from the burden of unanswered questions and second guesses. Be gentle with yourself and remember This Too Shall Pass!!

For I am persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor  powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 8 38-39

Feeling Like a Kid

Isn't it funny how a pile of leaves can turn any adult into a 6 year old?!  I was heading out my driveway this morning and the whole lane was covered in bright, yellow leaves. I just couldn't resist. I floored the car and split those leaves wide open.  Yes. I was giggling the whole time and no I didn't mess up anyone's hard work. These leaves were hot off the branch!

I was feeling like a kid all over again. It made my heart light. I think as  an adult we have to relish those moments when we find them.  We get so weighed down with work, family, our health, bills, trying to decide if we can get through one more winter before replacing all four tires. It's nice to find a moment where all those worries disappear and a twinge of childhood innocence sneaks in, taps us on the shoulder and says, "tag! You're it!"

All that worry. And worry is such a waste of good energy but we all do it.  I read a sign once that said, "worry ends where faith begins." Boy, ain't that the truth!!  I try my best to surrender daily to Jesus all my cares, worries, plans...everything!  Seems like worrying is the first thing to raise its ugly head.  Still, when the going gets tough, I know Jesus is there and will get me through anything.

Matthew 6:25-34

Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? 

Always Count Your Blessings!

I'm gonna try to not worry this weekend!  And should I start to feel the pull of anxiety...I'll remember to count my blessings!  That should put things in perspective!

Thanks for stopping in and taking time to read my ramblings.  I pray you have a wonderful day today!  

Laugh. Smile. Sing a song!

~ God bless