Faces of Thunder Rock #2...Fathers

Meet R.J. and Courtney--from Cajun country... Louisiana. We were blessed to meet this duo as they were passing through, headed to Ohio for a wedding. Father (RJ) and son, (Courtney) were making memories by spending time together camping. Courtney took some time off work, bought a used camper and truck, and they headed out for some adventure!!! 

Being in his 70's didn't slow RJ down one bit! They went rafting down the river and listening to him tell the story of how getting dumped at the last rapid even made it more fun, made my heart smile. But the gift I cherished the entire time of the visit--the memories they were making. They both put the brakes on their ordinary lives, their "to-do" lists, and work (Courtney is a nurse), and spent time together. Unscheduled time, time to listen and hear each other, time to enjoy nature and reflect on life. I am pretty sure it was time well spent.

Cherish the time you have with the people around you. Take the time to notice their smiles and quirky laughs. Remind them how thankful you are for them. Most of our family and friends are making an effort to visit us while we are here this season. We have enjoyed each and every visit and are looking forward to the ones that are coming in the next few weeks! Now, if someone could go convince my dad he should at least come for 1 visit while we are here that would be great. 

Quit making excuses... Live a life in which you make investments in things that have meaning.  

I am afraid that we are oftentimes so focused on our jobs, incomes, and the little kingdoms we build that we forget where our time is better spent. "Don't store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal," Matthew 6:19. Live a life that is focused on the things that have eternal value: Love God and Love Others!

Live a Meaningful Life!