Are you astonished that we are now in the final month of 2017? This has been quite a year and I am beginning to “look back.” I think it advantageous for each of us to do a review, of sorts, of our time. Last year I knew, with no shadow of doubt, that my ‘word’ for 2017 was to be Sufficient. This ten-letter word has served me well. I know that God is sufficient but this year I fully and completely believe it. He has met me in places of doubt and disbelief and has been more than sufficient and faithful.
Most of you know that I struggle with a few things! Contentment (mostly where we live), and two prodigals. Please don’t think I don’t know how blessed I am. Because I DO. Our empty-nest life is filled to the brim with good things. I am loved by my family and my husband. I have a little four-legged furry critter who is my faithful companion and shadow. We enjoy good health and we are still physically strong. I am seriously trusting my good, good Father for the sale of our home to just the right family and the return of my two prodigals. I believe with every cell of my body that these things will come to fruition. Because He is sufficient and faithful. My cup is full and overflowing and it is with joy I take a look at November – shall we?
November began with a road trip to Boiling Springs, SC, to visit my online sister and blogging friend, Tammy Mashburn and her sweet man, Cecil. Tammy and I met in person in September 2016 and at that time I said to her, “Next time I’m bringing my hubs because our men will get along really well.” It took a year but we did it. Our men became friends. Our dogs became…hmm…let’s say, tolerant of one another! Lola is a very domineering female and our Sam is quite submissive. LOL-a! Little play on words. The weekend was a huge success and we are already planning another one in the Spring.
The next weekend we traveled to Lynchburg, VA, for college football weekend!!! I had bought tickets in September and we had great seats – on the 50 yard line. The five of us crammed in one hotel room, with our dog! Breakfast out in historic Lynchburg and then we dropped off our L.U. junior and headed home. Fast, furious, fun. Hannah is doing great at school – she works very hard! Simon, a freshman in high school, if truth be told, would rather play his guitar than do essays and math 
equations.
The next weekend was my Tennessee girlfriend lunch Saturday and we all met at Kris’ home in Johnson City for 4 hours of glory! The food was good too.
Thanksgiving was full. We got full. The house was full. The whole thing was FULL AND FUN. I did sit at the beautiful Thanksgiving table with my husband and was-band, two of my children, my grandchildren and my new “adopted” grandchild, Berlin age 10! (A story for another time.) Michael, my youngest, came home with us for a sleepover, a hike, and coffee. Michael grew up in this house so it always feels right when he’s here. .
I sidetracked the L.I.S.T. this month because I needed to take a deep dive into the month and I’m really glad I did because it reminds me of just how blessed we are. As my friend, Kathy, says, “God is good – all the time!!”
I’m already enjoying December – taking a lot of holy pauses this month to “savor the Savior.”
Join me?
This week I’ll be linking up with:
- Inspire Me Monday
- Glimpses of His Beauty
- God Sized Dreams
- Jennifer Dukes Lee
- Tea and Word
- Seeking God
- Porch Stories
- Coffee for Your Heart
- Tune In Tuesday
- Heart Encouragement
- Dance With Jesus
- Fresh Market Friday
- Thought Provoking Friday
- Counting My Blessings
Oh, what fun we had! I’m lobbying for a move to South Carolina!
Love you, Sister!
XO
Tammy
Let’s start planning May and a Beach House binge. We’ll sit up in your fluffy bed with two fur balls and watch it on the iPad!. We’ll let hubs and sweet man have the living room! Are chips allowed in your bed? LOLa
Yes, ‘astonishment’ is the word, Susan. How could 12 months zip by so very quickly?
And I love how you put it, about taking ‘holy pauses’ to reflect on our beloved Savior during these final yearning weeks.
Advent blessings to you, to yours …
And blessings to you and yours, Linda.
A full and fulfilling month. When we move to Lyman we will live next door to Boiling Springs. Perhaps y’all will come out for a day on the lake! Still praying along with you for the right people to buy your home. Love you <3
Patricia – yes, let’s plan on that lake day! Thank you friend for praying. So much appreciated. xo
Such a full month! And now it is time so savor the month. Don’t you love how God leads us exactly where He knows we need to be? Praying for the sale of your home!
Thank you Joanne – you are a dear friend.
What a wonderful review. I love going along on your adventures.
You have a lot of adventures too, Debbie – new ones in AZ!
It’s good to look back. I’m believing with you for the sale of your home and for your “prodigals” to return. I was one. My mom prayer fasted for two 40 days almost back-to-back (that was where she maybe fasted chocolate or something but set aside a firm time daily to pray for me). God answered!
I like that. Thank you for sharing Kelly.
Love your updates, Susan! Your book came in the mail yesterday–thank you! I’ll be posting a review on Tues. Dec. 12. Blessings to you, friend!
Thank you Sarah!
I’m ready for 2018. Your words remind me of these words from one of our Scriptures on Sunday, “God is faithful.” God is indeed faithful!
ALL THE TIME.
I could hear the echo of my heart in your words, Susan. December is, perhaps, the best month to consider a pause. Always a pleasure to stop by your place.
Debby, I ‘think’ we are close in age and honestly? If truth be told? I think our words, our emotions, our wants and desires are very kindred.
Love your word for 2017! I am being nudged along that line, (or something close) for 2018. Although He continues to speak “still” to me through these days too! So glad we can continue to pray the prodigals home! xoxo
I’m not sure about my 2018 word…two are floating around my spirit!
Looks like you had a good November. 🙂
Blessed. I loved your recent post by the way.
God is always sufficient! Praying for the sale of your home and especially for your prodigals.
Are you familiar with my friend’s site Women Praying for Prodigals
https://prayerforprodigals.wordpress.com/
Susan, you seem to be such an expert at making and keeping relationships! Nourishing the souls of others seems to feed your own. Blessings as you continue to spread your special brand of joy!
Wow, Alice! I’ll take that compliment!!! Christmas blessings to you and yours.
What a full month, Susan! And no, part of me can’t believe we’re halfway through December and part of me remembers all that this year held. I love your word. God is sufficient.
I love your recaps always, Susan. What fun times! Loving the photos and wow, I did not realize you sold items with designs! I pray you have a Merry Christmas. (Love and hugs)
Sweet girl, I just sent you an email!!!