Fearless

We are winding down here in Winona Lake.  The movie wrapped this week, and a lot was learned throughout the filming.  There is one person in particular from whom I felt I learned the most.  Her name is Virginia.  She is a beautiful woman who let us in to her heart from day one.  She came on the set a week after we had begun.  I first met her at breakfast.  She had never worked with any of the crew, and yet as she entered the room, she carried her breakfast and joined someone sitting by himself.  She simply said, "May I join you?"  (It looked so simple.)  They had what looked like a wonderful conversation.  He, having to leave, she picked up her remaining breakfast and made her way to our table.  We too had a lovely conversation with this woman.

I have been watching her throughout the filming and have been amazed by what I've seen.  She enters a room confidently.  She knows her job.  She knows when to give critique, but does it with love.  She is not afraid to try new things.  She makes everyone around her feel valued and loved, and not once have I seen her let fear keep her from reaching out to another.  She has become, with the best of intent, the mama on the set.  People come to her for advice, invite her to join them on outings, and make sure to give her a hug before they head out for the night.

Virginia has been a gift to this movie!

I have learned a lot watching this fearless woman!

Questions that Bring Smiles

During my devotions this last week I was presented with a question that simply made me smile.  "Was there ever a time in your life where you were loved by someone that would demonstrate the idea of 'love your neighbor as yourself'?"  I didn't have to sit here for long before memories, old and new, began to race through my mind.  Back home we were surrounded by people who I am pretty sure came right out of the heart of God.  Because of them, our lives will never be the same.  And here in Indiana it is again as if God hand-picked people to surround us with His love.  Some of that love has been simple, hello's and smiles as we pass on the street, taking time to stop and chat on the sidewalk, or a hug as we enter a room.  And some a bit more complex, baking us cookies and leaving a precious note on our doorstep, cutting a key so we can drop by at any time of day to do laundry, researching all sorts of activities in the area so our family will have fun and feel welcomed.  Was there ever a time where I felt loved?  Continually!  My God is a beautiful giver of sweet gifts.

This question was a wonderful thing to ponder as it didn't allow for thoughts that were anything but pure, lovely and of good report.  So, I would love to present it to you.  When have you experienced the love of a neighbor?  I would love to hear about it!

Our neighborhood, where we see many of these beautiful people!

Family is a Blessing

Living this far from family made me a bit sad over the holiday weekend.  We were surrounded by people, enjoying the lake, and the fireworks, but it didn't hold the usual luster.  There is just something about family.  Those of you who know us, know that most every holiday we were in Portland or had parents or siblings in town.  It is what we do.  It was such a blessing to have that time together, to make more memories, to establish beautiful traditions.  But this Fourth, it was not the same.  In fact, the whole weekend I struggled shaking my blues.

Monday, however, was a new day!  We were filming the classroom scene, and with it came a bunch of beautiful children.  Children are my delight.  We spent many hours together in the extras holding, so I got to know many of them. We also met their mamas, and one family in particular became sweet friends.  We visited with them Wednesday, and after three hours of hide-and-seek, running around the house, chocolate chip cookies and conversation, we felt like family.  God is so good at taking our sadness and replacing it with joy, giving alternate families when ours is not to be had.  Thank you, Papa, for your goodness.

So, for those of you surrounded by family, today, take a moment and thank the Lord for His beautiful blessings.  I know families can bring interesting dynamics, drama, and sometimes a little crazy, but they are family, and they are yours.

The love of a grandpa can't be beat!

Family cuddle. :)

Grandma's give the best hugs!

Walking with grandma, on a crisp afternoon, precious.

Flutters

On the set Tuesday, I found myself delighted.  Kylia and I were relaxing on the curb, just a short distance from the action taking place on camera.  Seth was in the action.  As we were watching I caught a glimpse of him.  He must have sensed I was looking at him because he turned around and our eyes met, he smiled, we waved, and I couldn't help but giggle.  I leaned over to Kylia and asked, "Is it weird that daddy can still make mommy giggle after almost seventeen years?"  She just smiled.

Later that afternoon I was again on the outskirts talking with others connected with the movie.  Seth had stepped back a bit and was in an out-of-the-way location, and fairly close to me.  So, I excused myself and made my way over to him.  We both stood, watching the crew re-set, and I just leaned in and brushed my arm against his.  And with a sheepish grin, he asked, "Are you flirting with me?"  I nodded.  He told me I needed to stop because I was a bit distracting.  Well, all I can say is that he'd been distracting me all day. :)

Along with the giggles, were moments of pride for my man.  I had a number of people share with me what a great guy Seth was.  One was glad he was on the set as he brought a certain quality that was valued.  Another recognized and shared that I had a good man.  And others that his work was wonderful.

I love watching my man moving in his calling.  We aren't directing yet, but he is definitely in his element using the creative talents the Lord has blessed him with.  And for today I am all aflutter with love.