Peace and Hope for 2017

Family Thanksgiving visit

Coastal North Florida sunset

     As we approach another year, I feel hopeful and pray for hope for all of you. We hear too much doom and gloom right now, in my opinion. Of course, some bad things will happen as the weeks go by; that's how life is. But I also see and hear about many kind acts by ordinary people, many good outcomes in difficult situations, and many brave Americans doing their best for their families, community, and nation.


     I have promised myself to look around me in wonder every day (yes, even on those days--can I keep my promise even then?) seeking beauty in nature, courage and kindness in people, and simple decency toward and respect for everyone I encounter. I pray for the same for all of you who have celebrated the love of God in Christmas or the steadfast care of God in Hanukkah--as well as for all well-intentioned people vowing to care for one another in 2017.

     From our home and family to all of you: may peace, joy, and hope come your way.

Super moon setting over the ocean

Our Christmas home

Savoring and Giving Thanks--Our Son's Wedding

After a break from posting, I'll give you a quick glimpse of the reason we have been very busy and seldom online for the last several weeks. Our younger son, Peter, married an absolutely wonderful woman, Ashley, on Saturday, January 2nd. We have enjoyed the usual showers, bridesmaid luncheon, rehearsal, and rehearsal dinner (on two different nights because of the holidays)--all went smoothly and were wonderful celebrations. The wedding was stunning, and the reception a great party. In addition, we were thrilled to have some long-time friends, many of Pete's aunts & uncles from both sides of the family and several of his cousins and their families travel to Jacksonville from many different regions of the country for the occasion. We hosted as many meals and other gatherings in our home as we could to take full advantage of the time we were together over several days. We said the last good-byes this morning as several family members left on planes and trains.

It will take several days to sort through all the photos from the wedding and other celebrations and even longer to get the professional photos, but I will post one candid of the bride and groom for you to see. Although it's not the purpose of this blog to share family news and photos, I wanted to show you why I've been AWOL for awhile and to share our joy. And given how proud of our family and grateful for them we are, a few more posts about this amazing time in our lives may be coming.