I'll Fly Away

Someday. And I'm pretty psyched about it. Well, when I think about it.

I recently heard one of my favorite all-time hymns on the radio. It was a bit more jazzed up than what may be found in your traditional Sunday service. It's a song that had always resonated with my as a kid, probably because it first reminded me of my grandma. As I grew, I noticed it always stirred some excitement me. Now, I'm not one who is usually into hymns, at least traditional old-people hymns. But of the few that I really enjoy, this has to be one of my favorites.

It is also one that challenges me. I feel like I spend a whole heck of a lot of time concerned about the ephemeral. Don't get me wrong--there is a lot to be said for striving to live a life worthy of being considered a Christ follower. Christ says as much throughout the New Testament. But why do we (ahem, that's a resounding I) strive so hard for the things of this life when our hearts and souls really belong to another place, our true home, a place of eternal awesomeness? (Yes, I know what I just said and, well, I meant it.) I am a firm believer in working on being content with our current life circumstances while simultaneously longing for home. I don't think anyone would say that it's an easy balance to achieve, but I am positive that it possible.

For me, I hope to let my mind linger on thoughts of heaven far more than I have in the past. And, if I've been neglectful, hopefully God will give me a little nudge by playing a song or two to remind me.

There are a million variations and lyrics to this song, but here is one of the more traditional versions:

I'll Fly Away

Some bright morning when this life is over I'll fly away To that home on God's celestial shore I'll fly away I'll fly away oh glory I'll fly away When I die hallelujah by and by I'll fly away When the shadows of this life have gone I'll fly away Like a bird from these prison walls I'll fly I'll fly away Oh how glad and happy when we meet I'll fly away No more cold iron shackles on my feet I'll fly away Just a few more weary days and then I'll fly away To a land where joys will never end I'll fly away Indeed, we will!

Busy Busy Busy

4000 miles over five days within a two-week period. 8 states crossed--three were crossed three times, two were crossed twice. A lot of back-tracking, it seems.

I need a vacation from my vacation. But will someone please do the packing for me? And while you are at it, you may sit in a camped vehicle for me. For 17 hours. Three different times. Each one way. Not that I'm complaining. Well, not too loudly, anyway. At least my next venture has me flying home. That will hopefully be a much more comfortable experience. And that's not saying much.

My travels have been anything but tame and I don't expect to be able to relax a little until next week. Here are just a few pics depicting what's been going on.

This was a nice beginning to my travels. I was JUST on my way out of town:



So that is still a headache I get to deal with. And a neck ache.

Then, I had a chance to have a little fun in the snow. Gotta love the ensemble. But hey, it was a balmy 20 degrees, so I had to take advantage of the "heat wave":



After Christmas, I attended an out-of-state wedding. Here's an image of the table centerpieces. I love mirrors!


And, last but certainly not least, the diaper cake I made for my sister's baby shower:


Next up: hopefully a nap!