Learned associations

This past weekend we went to our cabin in southern Ohio. We know we are blessed to have this place and are hoping that someday, when circumstances permit, we will live there full time. It's funny, some people think stuff like this happens out of thin air, but no, it takes lots of time, work and sacrifice. By the time my husband does retire and we move down there, we'll probably sleep for the entire first month! That's the plan, and it's a few years away. But, having a plan gives us a goal and we are the type who enjoy the journey. Here's some photos I couldn't resist taking on the path that follows along the river. The Red Bud trees are plentiful in the woods of Southern Ohio as well as wild dogwoods. There are tons of wild flowers blooming too!

I love Buckeye trees.

We dug up a couple little ones to plant here at home. As my husband was putting them into the back of the car he hoped they weren't poison oak. I took a couple double takes at what he dug up. They DID look like poison oak.....but, it's been a few days and I've not broken out in a rash, so we must have got Buckeye trees. I have GOT to get a book that identifies trees, flowers and such for down there!

And, speaking of identifying....has anyone ever seen this flower?

It grows along the banks of the river. The blue is (I'm going to sound corny here), but it's breathtaking, seriously!!! such a pretty blue! I would love to have a dress that color!

What I love the most about our cabin and land is the quiet. To hear birds, the river and the wind in the trees is a gift from God. It soothes my mind and my body relaxes and breathes correctly again.

Somewhere along the way, I've associated traffic/neighbor noise with tension? I don't know.

But, it's SO wonderful to escape it now and then.

If I can find peace in the middle of chaos, then I am strong. But, that's not how it is for me, yet.

I associate chaos with evil.

Man, there's tons to learn, isn't there!!????

These past years, my prayer has been that hearts will soften in hopes that people will lay down their angers and resentments and see beyond their own pain. I know that is asking a lot. But, I will keep asking, praying and believing. And the beauty of one flower assures me God is listening.