My Happy Place

I found myself browsing campsites and mountain rentals longingly. The mountains are my happy place. I love the isolation, the quiet penetrated only by the rustle of leaves, the call of the loon, the shuffle of a chipmunk through the leaves. It restores my soul. The peace brings me clarity. I can feel my stress fall away with each moment I sit with the sun warming my face. My muscles relax with each evening I spend focused on keeping the fire going – moving the logs this way and that. My spirit is refreshed with each gust of wind across the lake, each drop of rain on my tarp, and every tiny wave I hear hit the shore.

Psalms 61:2

When my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

Blessed Solitude

The bible is replete with instances of people going off to be by themselves for a while. Jesus himself went into the wilderness, out on the lake, and off to a secluded part of the garden to be alone. There is something to be said for quiet time by yourself. It gives you time to mull things over – to focus – to feel without judgment. To be steadied on the rock by The Rock.

National Parks Are Supernatural Treasures

I am often amazed at God’s forethought, reassurance, and grace. Nature – wild and teeming with His creations remind me that He is a master craftsman. As I look up to the hills, across the valleys, and over the water, I am blessed by places of peace God created to renew us. Nature is a healing balm and a constant encouragement. Where you find poison ivy – you will also find jewelweed to heal you. Near the stinging nettle grows the horsetail plant. And, in the midst of a tumultuous crazy world, God has nestled these beautiful places of healing – my happy place.

Psalm 121

I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
    where does my help come from?
² My help comes from the Lord,
    the Maker of heaven and earth.