We visited the Stavekirk on Washington Island, a replica of the wooden churches built all over Norway in the 1100's when the king mandated church attendance. The crosses against the blue sky are what caught my eye.

Rae and I took Erik's boat out for a spin on a beautiful morning. She was a bit unsure of herself in the boat and so she ended up snuggling with me the entire time - loved it! Public dock in Ellison Bay.

Here we are on the beach.

Me as Picasso...ha! This is me on the front lawn at my brother's place in Ellison Bay, WI. We were fortunate enough to spend 12 days there as a family. It is by far, the most restful place there is for us as a family. If you let Him, God will use this place to take you to such a deeply restful state of being. The area is as dramatic as it is restful too...striking bluffs rising 100' out of the lake, perfectly blue skies, cold and clear water for exploring and swimming. Yep, it's official. My new favorite place is Ellison Bay.

Wired

Thinking about wiring...thinking about life...from time to time, this blog will focus on the exploration of one resounding truth that God has taught me...that each and every one of us has been created on purpose and for a purpose. We have been wired - each one of us uniquely - to reveal what life in the kingdom can be like when we lean into who we really are...in our personality style, spiritual giftedness, passions and more.Jesus said, "You will know the truth and the truth will set you free." The main focus of that verse is salvation...translation - when we realize that true redemption from our rebellion and sin is found in Jesus, we are set free to experience life in all it's beauty. And a massive part of that freedom is...1) realizing who you were made to be in Christ - how you are 'wired' - and 2) the kingdom impact you can have when you live out that unique calling. BTW - kingdom impact has everything to do with all areas of your life...family, hobbies, sports, arts, job, church, friendships. It has to, by neccesity, because you carry your wiring into every context.

Speaking of which...

Just in case you're wondering what specific cup of coffee we're talking about, it's an Americano. 14 oz of hot water with 3 glorious shots of espresso. Throw in some 1/2 and 1/2 with Splenda and you've got yourself a recipe for success!

Seems appropriate to begin here...an image of light, color and strength taken at 4th Pres in Chicago. (Quite possibly the best picture I've ever taken.) More importantly, a picture of peace of rest from one of the weekends that Toby and I have enjoyed in Chicago. What strikes me are the contrasting light and shadow, the angles and lines, and the ornate against the plain. That place gave my heart time and rest to reflect, soak up the healing of God's Word, mourn, rejoice...and enjoy a wonderful cup of coffee in solitude.