"How much is too much?"

I heard a small group talking about where they like to purchase a good cup of coffee. There were quite a number of places shared that ranged from Starbucks to McDonalds to Krystal. It may not be too co-incidental that the gentleman who opted for Krystal's coffee also worked for the company for many years. So many things influence our choice. The conversation got around to the issue of "How much is too much to spend for a cup of coffee?" Is it really worth spending the extra money at a specialty coffee shop?

We all have some idea based on what is too much for us at the time. I can remember playing golf some years ago on a little course in Jackson, Georgia. We had a great group of men playing golf. Suddenly, it turned cold and the wind would almost blow right through you. We were approaching the 9th hole and I had already decided when we got into the clubhouse, I was going to buy a pullover cap and a hot cup of coffee. In one of those rare moments, I didn't care what it costs!

Years ago it would have seemed inconceivable that someone would spend nearly $3.00 a gallon for gas. Is it worth it? We can pay it or we can stay home. Perhaps many of us have changed some of our casual travel habits. The question still comes to us: "How much is too much?" There are some many items that we find ourselves investing in and we wonder if the cost it too great.

I hear stories from people who complain that they attended an Atlanta Braves Baseball game and as a family they spent $200-$300 for the event. Is it worth it? For one person it may be worth it, but to another it would not. A family of four could sit in the Lexus level and it would cost them $ 136. They could eat stadium food and easily spend $80 or more. With parking and a program their cost could run over $230. On the other hand, that same family could watch the same ballgame from the Upper Pavilion at a cost of $5 per person. They could bring their hotdogs, peanuts, and colas from home and attend a game for about $30. The question is "What is more important and what are we willing to pay?"

Choices, Choices, and more choices come our way everyday. I'm thrilled to have more choices and to explore what is really important. For most of us, we will continue the pilgrimage each day as we ask the question over and over and over again, "How much is too much?"

"Getting Started"

Where do I start? Have you ever wondered where to start as you begin a new day? As I sat down at my computer today, I found myself going through stacks and stacks of papers from previous days and trying to sort them into some usable fashion. Getting started can be a challenge for many of us. Perhaps one of the most important aspects of beginning the day is separating the important from the mundane. I find myself asking, "What is the most important thing I must do today?"

Spring has brought numerous outdoor projects for our family as we have decided to tackle improvements in the yard. We have been adding two new flower beds and planting our garden. Numerous other projects are nearing a state of readiness. Where do we start? I guess that's the question we raise in the midst of so many items on the agenda.

As I traveled recently to a nearby city, I pondered how to get started. I looked at the best way to get where I wanted to go. I tried to decide on the best route and what time I would leave. I used an online map to help with the process although it wasn't exact. The big thing is starting the journey.

What kind of journey will we start this week? Life is full of unique and special opportunities. Let's get started and enjoy a wonderful spring!

"The Best time of the Year"

At Christmastime each year, I enjoy hearing the lovely song which says "It's the most wonderful time of the year." Yes, Christmas is filled with joy and laughter.

I enjoy spring and the beauty of the season. As I walk throughout my neighborhood, I see children playing, people walking, and neighbors planting their favorite flowers and plants for the season. It is a season to be outdoors and to enjoy the beautiful weather. I stopped by a plant outlet recently and it took two police officers to direct all the traffic into the store. People gathered with excitement about their flowers and gardens.

It's a wonderful season to see young people involved in community activities such as baseball and softball. Many people are going fishing or getting ready to make a trip to the mountains or the beach.

It's a wonderful time of the year! Let's enjoy it!

"A Day with Nature"

Sometimes it's easy for us to forget what a beautiful world we live in. We find ourselves getting caught up in the agenda of everyday life with all the details and responsibilities that implies. It's easy to get stuck in front of the computer screen with all the programs and jobs we are involved in. There have been days when I have been indoors all day long, but somehow I search to reach the outdoors full of space and newness.

Our Church group went on an interesting journey this week as we gathered at Indian Springs State Park. Interestingly enough, this is the oldest state park in the nation. What a beautiful and lovely place it is. There is something for almost everybody. We got a takeout order from the local barbeque restaurant and we enjoyed a picnic at the park. There are great places to have a picnic. We saw people putting sulfur water into bottles to take home with them. Tradition has it that this has been used for healing through the years.The park has a beautiful lake for fishing. They even have boats and paddleboats for rent. They have a swimming area to enjoy the spring and summer. They have a wonderful camping area equipped with electricity, water, and even cable. There are so many great camping sites in shaded areas ready for people to enjoy.Our group explored a very old and historic cemetery located inside the state park.

Take the challenge this week and get outside and enjoy the great outdoors. State Parks can be a wonderful idea close to home and provide for a wonderful outing with friends and family!