Life has taken a sharp turn into crazy this month. It isn’t a surprise. We knew it was coming and were prepared… kind-of.
Josh has recently started interviewing for post-grad school jobs (are we really at that point already?!? I thought we just started this process), and he gets to juggle those between class, group meetings, and getting home once in awhile to let the dog out. In the past week my work has taken me to Charlotte, Cleveland, and now Pittsburgh, with planned stops in Cincinnati, Nashville, Memphis, Grand Rapids, and Chicago in the next week-and-a-half. It is exhausting to think about. Much as I enjoy my job, being gone 10 days out of 14 isn’t my first choice. Especially when it means that I don’t get to see much of my darling dog or my cute husband all dressed up in a nice suit.
But despite being away from my two favorite boys, I've enjoyed this journey so far. For one, time alone in the car is peaceful for me. I was able to rent an audio book of The Hiding Place from the library before I left, and the story, though terribly sad, is both refreshing and inspiring. I’ve read it several times before, and it has that effect every time. Here is a woman that loved God, cared deeply for His people, and was used by Him to touch thousands of lives. I love stories of God working through ordinary people. Not only that, listening to Corrie ten Boom's story of faith and courage helps me put my own life - whatever my frustrations, desires, and fears happen to be at the time - back in perspective.
On a more superficial note, I've also enjoyed spending ample time in excellent bookstores (don't worry, Josh, I only have two new books), my solo dinner of P. F. Chang's last night, and finding awesome new jeans on sale at the Gap.
By far my favorite part of this trip (and feel free to call me 75) is witnessing the brilliant array of colors along the road. Yes, it is my own mini color tour! The rolling hills of rural Pennsylvania were nothing short of incredible today, as I made my way down from Cleveland. I've been trying all day to capture a good shot but none of the pictures do it justice. Perhaps this is because I'm trying to take them with the camera on my phone. But in the spirit of cutting down on the number of electric devices and power cords I need to travel with, it is all I have with me.
Okay, so in this picture, the trees look past their peak. Some even look dead. So you'll just have to take my word for it.
5 comments:
I love the Hiding place! Have you read left to tell? That is one of my very favorite books. It is about the Rawandan Genocide. The lady is AMAZING. I am still working or your email:)
I loved reading The Hiding Place. I am reading Gilead right now. Have you read that? I think you would like it.
Jedda
I'm with you, Jess, we can both be 75 together. I LOVE the fall and the change in colors, and road trips can just be fun. Hope the rest of your trip goes well and you stay safe!
I got my book "Sin Boldly" in the mail yesterday and will be starting it soon. Thanks again!
Enjoy your trip. I'm not sure how you're listening to The Hiding Place and driving both. I'd cry so hard I wouldn't be able to see the road or the pretty trees either one. I love the story though...I saw the movie in church when I was 13 (that was almost 30 years ago!).
~ Kayren
Wow that's a lot of travel! Although, I like the fact that I get to benefit from it next week! :)
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