The holidays are here! And I’ve found myself in a new place, doing new things, enjoying the newness of life. I decided to spend some time in Florida with friends and do something I hardly ever do, take a VACATION. This was my reward for finishing up my MBA this year and I’m so grateful for it. Getting away from the mundane, everyday work-related responsibilities of life is much needed and I hope to take a vacation every year. Being able to spend that time away from the norm with loved ones is an extra bonus. Getting to spend it in 70 degree weather in the fall with no snow seems almost sinful…my roommate informed me just last night that the snow they were getting back home is starting to stick! I’m thinking of extending my stay here til spring…*smile*.
Even on my time off God has made it clear He has not taken a vacation. He continues to teach me and make Himself known to me. I’m learning a lot about the need for His children to mature and grow through my friend’s 2 year old Laurianna (fondly known as Lala). She’s in a stage right now where her little brain is a sponge and she is soaking up everything around her. My first night here I made a statement which she quickly repeated. (Mental note Nicole, do not say anything inappropriate in front of this child)…And when we dropped her off from daycare about 10 other kids in almost perfect unison repeated a word the teacher shared. It was like Lala times 10, LOL. I think we are similar with God in that we are always learning and growing in this life. Our experiences are intended to teach us, not to punish us or condemn us.
When we went to church Sunday I encountered His Spirit again. There was a woman ministering in dance and I knew that God was showing me that the way this woman worshiped Him and her style of dance was similar to mine. I always wondered what I looked like when I danced and what God saw…I got to see that on Sunday. I also benefited greatly from the message taken from Phil 4:4-9. So much so that I got the c.d of the sermon so I can listen to it repeatedly to remind myself to approach God with my petitions using proper protocol (with thanksgiving and reverence). And also to remember that God gives us His peace in response to our prayers because what we truly desire is peace…not the temporary fix of our circumstances.
The days have been filled with great food, laughter and fellowship. We went to the beach, laid out on the sand, and relaxed. I’ve been catching up on my Disney movies and can even tell you a few lines from Cinderella (Lala watches this faithfully at least once a day). Thanksgiving Day we endured the challenges of not having a stove that worked. My friend cooked a fantastic spread which could rival any professional chef. She did what needed to be done to make sure her family had a meal filled with love. I admire her. For the first time I ventured out on Black Friday and even caught some good deals. Everyday I feel myself “floating” around life and just enjoying the time here. I’m learning that blood is not always thicker than water. I’m learning that even if life is not the way we want it to be, God can give you something better.
I hope you are enjoying your holidays. I’ve experienced the depression and loneliness so many do during this time of year and can speak first hand on dreading the family focused events. But know that you have something no one else has. God has put people in your life to do life with you, even if they are not blood related.
I’m looking forward to taking Lala to the park today with her mommy (aka, my bestfriend) as well as her auntie. I’m looking forward to Christmas tree shopping. I’m looking forward to leftovers and good wine. But even more, I’m looking forward to seeing God’s goodness laced throughout this day…seeing what He wants to teach me today.
God’s Blessings to You and Yours.
Love, Nicole
Ms. Laurianna
Thanksgiving Dinner! Yum 😀
Black Friday Shopping!!
Beautiful! I am glad you enjoyed yourself.
thank you for the encouragement!!