"A Retreat in Savannah"

It's good to get away for a few days of retreat and renewal. Fifteen people from our church journeyed to the beautiful coastal city of Savannah. It is a city full of history and new beginnings. We shared devotion times together both in the early morning and in the late Evening. Participants of our retreat led us in wonderful times of devotion and prayer.

Retreats are always full of the unexpected and sometime catch us by surprise. We went to eat at Carey Hillard's restaurant on Sunday Evening and the most unusual thing happened. Our waiter came to the table carrying five glasses of water on his tray. All of a sudden, all five glasses of water came pouring down on my wife, Wilda, much like the scene of a coach getting water poured on him after the big game. The scene was simply amazing. Water went everywhere and ice cubes lined the floor. Our waiter, who had only been on the job two weeks didn't know what to do. I don't believe I've ever seen our group laugh so much. His fellow waiters got a pretty good laugh out of the situation as well. Such is the unexpected moments of life.

Some of our group members went on a Gospel Riverboat Cruise down the Savannah River. They enjoyed a big meal, and music on a big boat of tourists wanting a good time in the Evening. Others from our group found a unique place serving Italian food with excellent service. It was an Evening full of varied inspiration and fun.

Our hotel was located right across the street from Hunter-Army Airfield in Savannah. Those big planes would come soaring over the hotel making ready for a landing. Helicopters would come like yellow jackets trying to find a nest. They came in from almost every direction. It was really something.

The most amazing thing from the retreat was "fellowship." Every chance they got and late at night, members of our group could be found in the lobby playing games and drinking coffee. It was a time to enjoy being together. You never know what unexpected things will come our way. Get ready because some of the best moments of our lives might just happen today.

Are you ready?

"An Early Start to Labor Day"

Labor Day started early for me this year as it does most years. I participated once again in the running of the U.S. 10K Classic held each year in Marietta. It is a challenging course going from Cumberland Mall to Whitewater Park. It is mostly an uphill journey, but it is perhaps the most organized event that I will participate in all year long.

They have runners, walkers, cycles, in-line skaters, wheelchairs, and much more. Over 11,000 people get up on Labor Day very early to join in this endeavor that supports Charities that can help children. I am always amazed and astonished as the Green Berets come flying through the sky on their gliders carrying various banners. One of those will be the United States Flag which will fly prominently as the National Anthem is played. The Green Berets will land right on the starting line. It is something to behold.

I am always amazed at spectators along the way who get up early to find a great seat to cheer runners, participants, and family onward. Workers are eager to pass out water along the way. After you reach the finish line, there is a host of food, drink, music, and all sorts of things to help you celebrate the long endeavor.

It's easy to stay in bed, but some things on some days are just worth getting up for.