Vacation – a holiday, break, trip, rest, retreat or an escape
Staycation – new word not found in the dictionary but we know it to mean the very same thing, although usually the trip portion is not more than a day from home.

While we were in the states on a vacation (known as a furlough to some) we were taken to the mountains for a few days. Oh my goodness; just a couple of hours from home and so very beautiful! The air was crisp and clean. The sky was clear, blue and had some puffy clouds. The congestion, traffic noise and busyness were almost non-existent. The sun shone brightly and warmed us in the fall air. The trees ever so gently moved in the little breeze. Their colors were beginning to show; bright yellows, reds, and rust colors amid the evergreens along with pine cones and needles of varying sizes and quantity.

We were on Lake Burton; peaceful with little boat activity since it was early October. The sun reflected off the water, deep shadows in some areas where the water depth was great and crystal clear in the shallow areas where one could actually see the bottom of the lake. The mountains all around us took on different shades of color according to the time of day or evening, where the sun was shining and the number and location of clouds. Clearly the same mountains were as green as ever when we drove through the winding, narrow roads. In the distance they looked dark blue and light grey depending on the alternating sun and shade. They even had a purple appearance at times. It was fabulous!

While out on a boat, and while driving around the lake, we viewed the areas devastated by a tornado about six months ago. Homes completely demolished; others with much damage still untouched; and properties littered with downed trees, now dead and needing attention. Some homeowners have begun the process of cleanup and rebuilding. The reports are that one life was lost in this shattering of homes and boat houses.

During our visit to the lake we saw the hand of God in the beauty all around us. The panoramic view, no doubt, changes with the seasons. The Artist provides those visiting with a different dynamic beauty and His creation surrounding this place is amazing. Squirrels scurrying about, fish inhabiting the lake, snakes, crickets, beetles, ants and bees all living in harmony. Only God could (and would) bring such a balance forth for enjoyment. I am reminded of the old hymn “This is my Father’s World”

“This is my Father’s world, and to my listening ears, all nature sings and round me rings the music of the spheres. This is my Father’s world I rest me in the thought, of rocks and trees, of skies and seas, His hand the wonders wrought.
This is my Father’s world, the birds their carols raise, the morning light, the lily white, declare their Maker’s praise. This is my Father’s world, He shines in all that’s fair, in the rustling grass, I hear Him pass; He speaks to me everywhere.”

Thinking back to what happened six months ago, we noted that the power of the tornado tore through cottages, houses, and castles. It had no respect of persons. Those of meager resources and those with much to spare were both greatly affected by the storm; again, God’s power at work. No matter how much one has, or what preparations were taken to build a strong abode, these things happen. The road we travel is rough. We know that scripture tells us to be thankful in all things or circumstances. There are hills and valleys to be navigated. There are detours that challenge us. No matter how much we have, we cannot avoid what the journey offers. We must continue to rebuild when life’s circumstances tear down our efforts all the time seeing, appreciating, and thanking God for the beauty He has surrounded us with and for the plan He has yet to show us. We continue to marvel at the presence of God all around us and whether it be north of Atlanta, or north of Lima, as the hymn says, “we hear Him pass and He speaks to us everywhere.” (It is our responsibility to be listening.)

Thank you to the Kublers for the vacation at the lake!