Another Christmas in Sedona.
2023 is the end of a year of laughter, tears, and reflection on my life. My 70th year.
This past spring, I traveled to Dayton for a family visit. While there, my sister, Debbie, and I made a trip to the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village in Michigan. We had been wanting to do this for years, and it was worth the wait. We spent 4 days exploring all the exhibits, including the Ford Factory, where we watched the F-150 trucks being built. It was fascinating, fun, and a special time together.
Before returning to Sedona, my mom (now 92) had a serious fall and ended up in the hospital. She was unable to return to her independent living apartment, so we had to find and move her to an assisted living facility where she could get proper care. It was extremely stressful. My dad (now 96), also in assisted living, continues to “hang in there” despite his many health issues. He is amazing, and I am thankful for both of them.
Mike and I were able to enjoy two road trips. The first one was the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, which we found quite different from the South Rim. Abundantly green, less crowded, much cooler, and more spectacular. Our second trip was to Moab, Utah, and Canyonlands, where we experienced breathtaking views of colorful canyons, mountains, and desert vistas. It was awesome!We plan to return and explore the area in the future.
Of course, our princess, Mookie, is #1 in our lives. Now, at 19 months, she is past puppyhood (which we didn’t think we could survive) and is slowly becoming a more obedient girl. She is by far the cutest dog in Sedona, loves going on neighborhood walks, and has her own “window” where she enjoys checking out the world beyond our fenced yard.
On a serious note, recently, a friend of mine passed away quite unexpectedly. At her funeral, a poem was read that dealt with the shortness of life, like the dash between the dates of birth and death engraved on a tombstone. It made me ponder how I live my “dash.” With love and compassion, or criticism and unforgiveness? Generosity and service, or greed and self-absorption? Peace and harmony, or anxiety and irritation? Faith and trust in the Lord, or living like I am God? There were three truths I came away with. 1. Life is brief; 2. Eternity is real; and 3. Jesus is our only true source of satisfaction. He is the reason for this season.
I pray that this coming year I give more attention to how I live my “dash.”.
Have a blessed,
joy-filled Christmas season.
