Joy Comes in the Morning

Weeping may endure for a night,

But joy comes in the morning.

Psalm 30:5b

I love reading the Psalms for it touches my heart nearly every time I read it. The above passage was today's reading and the words filled my heart with excitement.

During the past three years and nine months, my nights have been filled with weeping and sleeplessness. Yet, I knew God would be faithful and bring joy back into my life, for He has done it countless times. I took out my pink marker and underlined those words in my Bible to remind me yet again, how full my joy can be and is.

I realize joy is not always present in our lives. There are hills and valleys throughout our time on Earth. But dear reader, yet again, I am filled with JOY! And God is the giver of joy--and weeping, too. But for today, I will take the joy!!

Good-bye Applewood

Applewood is a favorite restaurant of mine. I've been there numerous times, but the most momentous one was on my first date with Blair. We closed the restaurant down with our non-stop talking. We had so much in common and there was chemistry too! We liked each other instantly! Nine days after that first date at our mutually loved place, Blair asked me to marry him! I said yes with no reservations.

Many times after that, we'd go there to toast our good fortune in finding each other and enjoy the wonderful food as well. It was always special.

After Blair passed into eternity two years later, I'd still go there. Sometimes with family, sometimes with a friend. Just last week, with two hiking friends, I had a delicious lamb chop accompanied with gnocchi in a white wine sauce and parmesan cheese. It was great--as expected
.

Unfortunately, the restaurant is now closed. They will continue catering but not dining in. I will miss that place. It's full of memories of great conversation, delicious food--and best of all, the launch off of a wonderful relationship--and marriage. I'm sad they are closed, but everything doesn't stay the same. Even great eateries.  Moving forward.....for backwards is not an option.

Wedding Toast