Today we woke up at 5:45, had a quick breakfast (cereal, an egg, a cinnamon muffin, a doughnut, milk), loaded up, and were heading for home by 6:35. We drove without stopping to Grand Island, Nebraska, where we got fuel and went to the bathroom in less than 20 minutes. Afterwards, we made and ate lunch on the road (peanut butter-and-jelly sandwich, nuts, an apple, IKEA cookies, water), then drove on non-stop to Kingdom City, Missouri, for our final fuel and bathroom break. At 8:20, we pulled in our driveway, a beautiful site for a somewhat-homesick girl. I immediately went out to see and feed my baby girls (aka my horses, Pearl and Blondie), then came in for unpacking, organization, supper (pasta, homemade bread, juice), a shower, and now a very late bedtime.
I truly enjoyed this trip, as I do every other one I have been blessed to go on. I am thankful God gave us the time, ability, and finances to take off for nine days. We skied for six days in a row, four in sunshine, which is a new record for us! We tried new foods, skied at four new resorts and one "familiar friend", reveled in the beauty of God's amazing creation, and enjoyed quality family time. I thank our Lord for keeping us safe and healthy, especially since we logged over 3,000 miles on the road. As I said above, I enjoyed this trip, but since this was the first time all four of us left since getting horses, I think I really gained a deeper appreciation for the simple pleasures of home. Getting up each morning and going out to feed my girls, sleeping in my own bed, having everything in the familiar locations -- these and many more things mean more to me than ever before. I have been given a gift of gratefulness and I will never look at my life at home the same way. Even when things get very hectic and stressful (hello, tomorrow!), I know that I will be able to remain peaceful and calm (mostly). I will remember the wonderful memories of yet another lovely trip, but I will also be content and happy in "daily life". I encourage you to take a broader look at your life. Even if you're feeling down and stuck in the same old routine, look up at the world around you. Be positive and count what Jesus has given you, not what you don't have. Maybe you can't take that vacation to some exotic location, but you CAN be a light for the Lord in your everyday life. Remember whose you are and that He loves and cares for you beyond comprehension. It is the amazing Father God who gave me a new perspective on life through a nine-day ski trip. He is who I cling to day in and day out, no matter what. And when I fall, He's there to pick me up, help me, and forgive me. He will do the same for you if you believe and trust in Him. It is my sincere hope and prayer that you already or will experience this. Thanks for reading, have a blessed day, and until next time....!
~Anna
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