"And His Bride Has Made Herself Ready."

Happy Thursday!




Last night we watched a movie about Bobby Darin's life. There was a smoothness in his voice hard to describe. The crooners of his time sure could sing a love song! Currently, Sara Groves' song, "Fly" comes to mind. It is a beautiful love song, romantic and sweet- a wedding song. One of my favorites.


I recall the afternoon of my wedding. My highlighted, curly blonde hair was staying put with a lot of hairspray. I can readily remember applying light lavender eye-shadow and cinnamon-rose lipstick from Merle Norman. My knit dress from J.C. Penney's was dressed up by a double strand of pearls and button earrings with gold embossed edges. My shaky hands held tight to a handmade silk bouquet with flowers representing all the people that weren't there. Lily of the Valley for my grandmother Marie, dusty rose carnations for my Hantie, lupine-like purple flowers for my mom, regal yellow-gold roses for my grandmother Marilyn and a wild flower mix for the rest. My tall ivory shoes were hard to walk in, but I was in love with the man I was walking towards.


Preparing for that day, although mostly alone, was one of the most important things I've ever done. There wasn't anything more pressing or prominent in my life. 


This morning, in the chill of the early hours I read Rev. 19:7b, "And his bride has made herself ready." What a reminder that I am a part of another ceremony. This time I want everyone I love to be there! 1 Peter 1:13-16 gives me all the planning advise I need.


What have you learned about getting ready for a wedding?




Warmly,


Alis

Jane Eyre and "Until We Meet Again Cake"

Good Morning Porch Pals!




It has been a long time since we were together. I've missed you, and move ahead this morning with excitement.


There is something I've learned this summer, and that is some journeys of the heart are not to be public, and some stories, although written, are not to be read by everyone. Since June I have been living those stories and will share glimpses of them.


One story might be titled, "Reconnecting." Another might be named, "Letting Go." Still another might be designated, "Growing Season..."


This morning I am still appreciating last night. I spent the evening with my Titus 2 Girl saying goodbye our way. She is leaving for college in a week. There have been going away parties, and more to follow (that's how much she's loved!) but I needed time to reconcile her departure in a more personal way. A meal, a movie, memories retold, and mitigated pangs of sadness.


The most recent "Jane Eyre" movie was dark and haunting. I enjoyed it very much and silently pleaded for Mr. Rochester and Jane to be together forever. 


We baked a rich, opaque, dark chocolate cake to go with the film, that is only crumbs on a plate this morning. The kitchen has been our gathering place. A spot to examine our lives, our theology, our relationships, our families, and our futures. The walls stow a myriad of moments. Teaching moments, tearful moments, silly, nonsensical moments!


Tonight we said goodbye our way. A girl's night! Chick flick and chocolate. God bless you, sweet friend! Until we meet again.




From the porch,




Alis