Oh, how I love connections that bring a message of hope and belonging. My husband and I went to Scottsville, VA and enjoyed a cup of coffee and breakfast in a local coffee shop called, Baine’s Coffee Shop. Such a lovely place. My senses were filled with the smell of coffee, the sounds of conversation and music, the beautiful colors and titles of books, the smoothness of the leather sofa, the strings of a guitar, and the beat of the bongo. On a table near the cashier were books they were highlighting. A book about Ocracoke caught my eye. The author is Pat Garber, who has written about the natural habitat of the island in North Carolina.

I remembered my friend who loves this area and vacations there often. She is moving to New York to be with her daughter and her family. She retired and is off on an adventure. The season of life that gives us more time with family and freedom to do our bucket list items. Later that week I mailed the book to her new home with a message written in the book. I didn’t hear from her so I wondered if she got it. Was it lost in the mail? Then, I get an email from her at just the right moment. I was at a training for work and in that moment I just closed my eyes, teared up, and smiled. Thank you God. Thank you God for this connection outside this room, and the reminder that you whisper in our ear and heart to remember, to connect, to love. I’m reminded of the song “His Eye is On the Sparrow.” He sees us. Knows us.

Let me share a word with you given to me by another mom in a similar season, “Kairos”. There are situations that require you to slow down, see clearly, and respond wisely. Look carefully for those moments and listen for God’s voice of wisdom. These kairos moments and seasons are the qualitative moments, not the quantitative, or time. It is the story, the song, and the dance you find yourself in right now. Be. right. there. Be open to kairos. God is with you.

Dear Anna,

We arrived home from Ocracoke last night to find the book waiting.  How wonderful and, as always, such a thoughtful Anna gesture!

I actually think I met Pat Garber, the author, on a visit years ago.  My cousin and I were biking around the marshes and saw this charming little cottage with a yard full of flowers.  The owner came out and we chatted for a while.  I’ve always thought about getting her book but never did.  Now I will truly enjoy it.

We think this was probably our last trip to Ocracoke now that we live so far away.  You have added to our memories of the island. New adventures await.

Things here in New York have been great so far.  The people are friendly and interesting and the setting is beautiful.  Best of all is getting to see my daughter and her family for impromptu visits.

I love seeing pictures of the gang on Facebook.  It’s good to see the team able to enjoy some social time again.

Please send everyone my love.

And love and hugs to you Anna!!  Enjoy that family and take care.

Xoxo xoxo,