mountains
Hills, valleys, mountains, and tunnels were all behind us as we arrived at my cousin’s home in West Virginia. The sun was setting as we toured the garden and the newly completed art studio and woodworking shop behind their house on the east end of Charleston. We soon gathered folding chairs and headed to the riverfront to take in the music along the shore facing the University of Charleston. The starry night accentuated the dome of the capitol as the five of us sat taking in the music, the cool evening breeze, and the stories of family and past experiences. As we collected our seats and returned them to the back of the van I was struck by the wonder of God’s blessing to be sharing such a lovely time with family. Although many years had passed since we had really spent any prolonged time together the ease and warmth of our conversations seemed to melt those years as if they were yesterday. With anticipation of more joyful communion and festival activities to come, we retired for the evening with thankful hearts for renewed connections. Prayers of gratitude soothed this boomer to a restful night’s sleep.