(Cracker Barrel, California 2019)
We took a trip down memory lane yesterday, surprising the kids. I'd wanted to do it ever since our arrival back in California. I wanted us to remember the good times from Tennessee, to focus on all that God had accomplished and the special memories we made on our trek out east and then back west across the country last year. So we piled in the van and headed off to the dairy supply store for what Elka needed first, then told the kids we had a surprise for them. We drove a little further and landed at our destination...Cracker Barrel. We delighted in memories and stories while we drove, reminiscing of our journey (both physically and spiritually) last year along the way. There were many good times. And one of those defining moments took place at Cracker Barrel. It was important to remember...
(Cracker Barrel, Tennessee 2018)
My how we've all grown!!
It was important to remember God's leading hand, His love and care, our leap of faith, and His faithful provision. That's what Cracker Barrel reminds us of...and the feelings were palpable as we walked up and stepped in yesterday, greeted by front porch rocking chairs and the smells of cozy candles and comfort food in the old country store.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."
Proverbs 3:5-6
We were thankful...and it was healing.
"The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps."
Proverbs 16:9
Next...we told the kids we had a second surprise, another stop that would surely remind them of our journey.
Bass Pro...is such a cool store!!
The kids loved the aquarium...and the shooting range.
The puppies loved it too! (Bass Pro is super dog-friendly.)
They made lots of friends of course and everyone had a great time!
It was an opportunity to focus on the bright side of an otherwise tumultuous time in our lives.
It was an opportunity to praise the Lord for His workmanship and pruning and love and guidance in our lives and it was a blessed family day all around and I'm thankful we got to go back to both Cracker Barrel...and Bass Pro.
"Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?
I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert."
Isaiah 43:19
