ON THE ROAD AGAIN!!!

The Lord lays trips on my heart; part of what I refer to as my God-job, the reason for my license plate:

I'm leaving Monday morning for the Northwest — between northern Oregon and the Sea-Tac area. My 12-year old grandson, Dyllon, is going out with me; he’ll fly back home with his dad when Steve comes out for the party, mentioned later on. I’m pretty excited to spend this time with Dyllon. Even though he lives here in Omaha, due to a lot of family situations, we’ve hardly ever spent a full day together alone. I’m hoping he’ll be able to put up with me for the 10 whole days before his dad arrives. To remind myself to be less serious and intense and, instead, more flexible, I’m planning to wear my Grandma Cary pink sequined ball cap [I wear it whenever I’m telling one of my G.C. stories at church or a youth group]. It should make Dyllon grin, which is always a treat.

I don’t know what God has laid on my roadway. I have learned over the years that He will put me in exactly the right place at exactly the right time to meet exactly the right people He has chosen for me — that I may pray for them, share with them, help them, or, as rarely occurs, but is wonderful when it does, to have them pray for me or share His “word” with me. I’ve had amazing experiences in the past — rest areas, gas stations, motels, restaurants, overlook sites — so am always excited when He says that it’s time to hit the road. [My first 2 actions when starting a trip — pray for protection through the Blood of Jesus and the ministering angels, and then play -- and loudly sing along with -- Willie Nelson's “On the Road Again” song.]

I will be away for a month. [I originally thought I was going for about 2-1/2 weeks; the Lord indicated I am to stay in the Tacoma area for an extra 2 weeks, which will add a pile of time out there. Biggest concern: Missing my dear husband; in our almost 25-years, I’ve only been gone this long one other time.] Should be back on August 19th.

The obvious purpose for the timing of the trip is that my mother’s 90th birthday party will be the end of the month. That should be interesting, to say the least. Lots of long-time family and friends, many of whom I’ve not seen for twenty or more years.

My goal, while traveling, is to use my blog as a journal. I will share the stories, the photos, the events ... maybe not every day, of course, but will most certainly keep my friends informed.

I’m looking forward to the mountains, rivers, ocean, beaches, ROCKS, ferry rides, and waterfront walks -- and my favorite dill pickle brand. However, even more importantly, I hope to see spiritual partners and intercessors and mentors. Can hardly wait.

NOTE #1: I've spent so much time this past week just getting ready -- cleaning the house and yard so Dave won't have to do much, packing, sorting, visiting folks, running errands, and on and on -- I haven't looked at any of your posts. I hope to accomplish that in the evening at the motels since there won't be much on my plate to do. I've "missed" you... you've been on my heart. Just haven't been able to concentrate on "visiting" you.

NOTE #2: If there is anyone in the NW area who reads my posts, and wants to connect, I will be more than happy to try to work it into my schedule. Think it could add a lot of fun and flexibility to this drive. [FYI, on the way out, I’ll be taking I-80 and I-84 to the Portland area; will be arriving there on Thursday.]