Louisville (Day 1)

I woke up at 3 a.m. this morning filled with the anticipation of a busy and productive day. I've always been like this. Angst isn't the correct word, but it somewhat describes what I feel when I know something good is about to happen. The opening day of hunting season, the day before the first day of school or summer vacation, and the final day of Truth Alive always found me up before the sun anticipating and exciting change and a bright new day.

Sunrise was beautiful this morning, and I enjoyed beginning the day with Lily at my side. A cool, slow breeze, the last hint of morning fog, and the sounds of mocking birds, house and summer sparrows, and indigo buntings filled the valleys around our home. Days like today make me love my mountain home even more.

I enjoy travel. Change thrills my soul, and I enjoy not only the scenery but also the opportunity for growth, personal development, and new experiences.

I am in Louisville, Kentucky for the 2009 Churchwide Gathering of Presbyterian Women. This is the first time that our Home has ever attended the gathering. Several board members and other friends have urged our attendance, and I'm excited about the possibilities that are in store for me this meeting. I love my job, and I love being able to represent the Home to so many unique individuals. I'm both encouraged and infuriated as I see the compassion and apathy I witness at such events.

(Please don't be offended by that comment, but I often find myself so involved in my own issues and interests that I miss the benefits of blessings of knowing what is happening in someone else's corner of the globe.)

I arrived in town early, fought downtown traffic patters (another reason I love my country home), and prepared everything for the upcoming conference. Our display, while missing an important member of the team, is set up in the large great room that houses many other displays and vendors. I'm amazed at this opportunity and the fact that this is the biggest meeting of my career so far. I'm enjoying the evening and look forward to tomorrow's meeting. This year's theme is "God will do wonders among you." I know there is a reason why I am here. I know that a door opened for our Home, its staff, and residents, and I am excited to see what wonders God will do with this new opportunity. I may never know the full extent of it's import, but I am excited and enthusiastic.