America is now a failed state. Elections here are meaningless formality and the media and government wholly unbelievable. Time to suspend writing once again and focus solely on God. I wish you all well and pray you find peace in the tumult and a personal loving relationship with the one and only true God.

Undying faith

An old cemetery, often vadalized, maintained and kept in memory only by a few committed souls. It slowly crumbles with time and the careless acts of disinterested vandals. Is this the fate of America, giving up on its founding principles by acquiescing to unscrupulous, power-hungry thieves? Sadly it would seem so. We have allowed the rise of a godless, self-serving political class, wholly dishonest and disconnected from the people. This nation may be dying but God does not. Let the worsening corruption be a testament to our faith that, though the devils may hold sway in the vulgar world, they will never be able to claim what is truly God’s. Love and peace to all His people.

Hiking in snow and sleet

We hit the AT (Appalachian Trail) again on Sunday. Hiking in cold, wet weather is a great way to avoid people and spend quality time alone. The dogs love it. The lady and I enjoy time together undisturbed. And we all sleep well afterwards. Of course, going out in such weather is unthinkable for most, not because they can’t, but because they won’t. Some mistakenly think cold makes you sick. Others imagine the condition is harsher than it is. Still others fear accidents are more likely, yet have no issue driving to a mall surrounded by people they don’t know. (Fun fact: most vehicular accidents occur within 25 miles from home.)

Their aversion is the good fortune of people like us who prefer to avoid others when we’re on excursions like this. So if you do decide to venture out, invest in quality, practical clothing and gear to help you stay warm and dry. And dress in layers so you can adjust over time. Fashionable is nice for the ski lodge, but not so much for actually spending time outside in nasty weather. Be considerate of the pups for how long you stay out and what you let them do. (Keeping ours out of the frigid water can be a challenge sometimes.) Most of all keep your eyes, mind, and heart open. God is with us all the time – in the woods, at the lodge, or on the toilet. Learn to appreciate the wonders of His creation wherever and in whatever circumstances you find it. Rain or shine, it is still a beautiful world. Peace.

Icy surprise

Boxadors are so special they can walk on water😉

Quite expected to find a muddy mess yesterday, but was pleasantly surprised to find the ground and lake frozen. The bubbies enjoyed venturing onto the ice. At their urging I eventually joined them. All was well until an ominous noise and a white line shot across the ice. We rushed to shore without getting wet, but I decided not to press my luck anymore that day. Now today the temperature has spiked and the rain come to dash any hope of a white Christmas. Wrapping presents, baking pies, and watching more Christmas movies are a great way to spend Christmas Eve day before heading to candlelight service tonight. From our house to yours, a very merry Christmas. 👼🎅🎄