On our way to New Beginnings

 

     We learned the truth in the saying ; "The first step in your journey is to LOOSE YOUR WAY."

     Kit and I had been without our safe and snug haven for 5 months and now, we would be adventurous sojourners in a new city, state and household. But, it was the Lord's expedition for us and along with it, He gave us a passion within to go forth in faith, trusting His loving and faithful heart towards us. Our first stop along the way was the charming city of Flagstaff, Arizona.

     A colossal moment for us happened after we stopped at the grocery store to stock up on our 'road trip goodies,' ( chocolates, Trail mix, bottled waters, cheese, crackers and chips). We tried to stay somewhat healthy in our pickings. Back on the rustic mountain road, the Lord reminded me as well as consoled my heart of the vision He gave me in January as I had asked Him when He would have Kit and I travel to the east coast. As I looked out of my window, I saw an abundance of tall, lush pine trees dusted in snow as well as snow patches gracing the ground of the woods. It was the very image of what God gave me in the vision. I shared it with Kit and we both smiled, feeling within our spirits tremendous peace as we knew we were in the will and perfect timing of the Lord.

     It was such a delight driving through the beautiful country side, my thoughts wandering and dancing...I was dreaming with anticipations of east coast snow days, visits to the Smithsonian in Washington DC, embracing childhood memories of my years as a little girl in Alexandria, the excitement of the upcoming boisterous thunder storms, luminous fireflies and the captivating four seasons with their brilliant display evoking pure joy.

     During our four day driving adventure, the Lord blessed us with many beautiful scenic views. Our first was an awesome and fierce thunder storm in Texas. The sun was setting and the golden hues were peaking through the billowing clouds reflecting on the vast and disengaged terrain. That accompanied by dramatic lightning bolts almost seemed surreal. We were also pleased as it was our first place of lodging and we knew we would soon be eating a hot meal. I can still remember being soaking wet as we ran into the KFC next to our hotel and ordered a a variety of food to take back to our hotel room . (Have you ever been so hungry that everything on the menu tempts you and you can't decide which meal to get?) That was Kit and I  on that cold stormy night. We enjoyed our chicken dinners, hot bubble baths, cable TV and a great nights sleep. (Learning one thing...you do not feed your dog KFC chicken and biscuits on a road trip...bad combination!)  Our poor little Patchey was up in the night with and upset stomach and we felt so badly. 

     During our entire trip  the air was so chilly that it made all of our coffee stops more snug and cozy .We discovered many treasures along the way. I will always remember one special stop we made in Ohio. It was right after a fresh snowfall. We stopped for gas and I ventured into the quaint convenient store. They had cappuccino machines as well as a variety of  flavored coffees ...I splurged and got us piping hot vanilla and hazelnut frothy cappuccinos. They were heavenly. Another memorable moment was driving into Pennsylvania. There before us as the dusk was beginning to yield to the dark, were hundreds of quaint homes staggered upon the mountainside overlooking a very peaceful river. Soft glistening lights were glowing through the windows making me wonder what wonderful things were going on inside of each home so perfectly portrayed...home cooked dinners, children sharing their schooldays with their parents, fireside chats or friends enjoying a cup of coffee, glass of wine or a great movie together. Soon, Kit and I would be in our new home enjoying our time  getting to know a  new friend, settling into our upstairs quarters and having a wonderful summer in the beautiful and enchanting state of Maryland.  We were so elated to see all that God was going to do. 

     We arrived to the  charming city of Cheverly Maryland at 1:30 AM, ( much later than we had originally estimated). Finally, after our hour of getting lost, we  found Jillian's home. We sighed a deep sigh of relief. Even though it was late and we were exhausted, (being the great connoisseur of homes  that I am) , I couldn't help but notice the symmetrical and lovely street with it's enticing and alluring houses. It reminded me of the street Julia Roberts lived on in the classic movie Steel Magnolias with the the large towering oak trees, hedged lawns, and quaint dwellings. I felt  warm cozy inside...also very tired.

     Jillian greeted us. (It was so sweet of her to stay up and welcome us at such a late time). She showed us to our room and we said quick our good nights as we were all quite sleepy. The bed felt wonderful.

     We woke up the next morning to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the chilly air. Though it was late March, the wintry weather was not making way for the new season of spring to arrive. We enjoyed delicious pastries, eggs , coffee and began to get acquainted with Jillian.

     Kit and I unloaded our trailer, moved our things in the upstairs quarters and began to explore the city. New grocery stores, new streets to learn, we were busy scouting our new land and when we finished with Cheverly, we ventured into Washington DC. It was grandiose and spectacular. All of the historic architecture, endless museums, metro trains , awesome eateries, notable hotels and  of course the White house were awe inspiring. We were both taken aback by The Arlington National Cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. I will never forget our hike up hill through the cemetery with our dog Patch. Another mountainous moment. It began raining and we didn't even care that we were getting soaking wet as we safely arrived to the tomb. The view from the top of the hill with all of the grave sites, landmarks and beautiful foliage amongst the gentle rain storm was  amazing, as well as breathtaking. Kit and I were falling in love with our new home and so excited to be on the east coast. We thanked God for getting us there safely and headed home for a hot and comforting dinner with our new 'room-mate' Jillian.

     Thank you Lord for a safe, lovely and scenic trip across the United States. Thank you for Kentucky Fried Chicken, hot coffee, our beautiful new land and for a place to stay as you continue to weave and create l this wondrous tapestry of The King's Tavern.