Years ago, one of my art teachers accused me of being sentimental because of the subjects I chose to draw and paint. I didn't think it was something to disdain, so I continue to be hopelessly sentimental to this day. I had a sentimental journey this week, as a matter of fact. We were blessed to visit my old stomping grounds of Jacksonville, in northeast Florida.
The photo above is taken from the Ortega Bridge on the west side of the city, and has a nice view of the downtown skyline. I love riding the roads of my memories, and this spot is one of my favorites. I've spent many hours here writing, praying, meditating, and listening to G-d's voice.
While in the neighborhood, we saw a nursery with hundreds of flowering plants for sale, so I just had to stop and take photos. We also brought back some new ones for our yard. Sorry I don't know the names of these, but aren't they joy giving?
We stopped in at my happy place, the Chamblin Book Mine. This place is book lover's dream, and I've written about it in previous posts. They sell used and new books in a grocery store sized building, with shelves from floor to ceiling and boxes of overflowing books lining the aisles. It's worth the visit if you're ever near Jacksonville. They do trades, so we always take some for credit on our next purchase. I love this place! See how happy I am?
Rabbi Jem is collecting adventure type books for our grandson, and he was tickled to add a couple of new ones to his collection. I found a Susan Branch cookbook for my own stash. I love her artwork, and am working at collecting all of her titles.
I couldn't resist taking a picture of Jem and this sign. How creepy is it to have a "horror" room? You'd be amazed by how many books were in this section. It reminded me of the Scripture, "All who hate me love death." I want no part of it.
We stopped by mama's place to check on things, and I saw this happy little patio. Isn't it inviting? The lady who lives there is very creative and hospitable. I enjoyed a visit with her.
Back at home, the Confederate jasmine is blooming, and the scent is so sweet. Couple that with the orange blossoms in our area, and you have a purely heavenly perfume.
My cranberry hibiscus is also in bloom for the first time. I bought the plant because of the medicinal properties of the leaves, not knowing it had such lovely flowers. What a happy surprise.
Our tomatoes are coming out. This one will be a big beauty, if the bugs don't get it. Farming is not easy, Gail-Friends. Growing vegies has made me very thankful for the farmers.
This week, I am very thankful for the strength of the L-rd. My life has been super busy lately. I'm also walking through the shadow of death. My mother is eighty-four and in a nursing home near us. She is declining rapidly, both mentally and physically. Seeing her slip away is sad, and I constantly cling to Psalm 23:
"Yea, though I walk through valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil.
His rod and His staff (the Word and Spirit) comfort me."
His promise is real, Gail-Friends. I don't know how people go through hard times without His love.
What are you thankful for this week?
Thankful Thursday is my day to focus on and be thankful for the good things in my life.
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