Photo taken by Dani Hahner

There I sat at the small table, a hamburger and fries from Wendy’s on my plate. Across from me sat an elderly woman who was bent over from the wear and tear of 102 years of life. A knitted sweater was draped over her shoulders and the wheelchair she sat in seemed to swallow up her tiny frame. A small cap covered her wispy white hair. Her head bent down wearily. I noticed that she hadn’t touched her lunch yet.

A friend of mine and I were having lunch with this lady a few months ago. During our meal, a young reporter joined us who began to interview this older woman about her life. Attaining the age of 102 years old is remarkable indeed and well worthy of attention. I enjoyed listening to this woman as she told us about her life. But she said something that day that I will never forget. When asked the question, “what is one piece of advice you would give to young people?,” I quickly turned my full attention to her, eagerly anticipating her answer. Her lips moved as she thoughtfully formed an answer and with great earnestness she said:

“Read your Bible. It has all you need to know for life and godliness. Be sure to read your Bible. It has all you will ever need.”

So simple, yet so profound. This woman – who was fully 6 times older than me and who had gained the wisdom from over a century of life here on earth – knew what she was talking about. She had lived a hard life, which began in an orphanage, alone and unwanted by anyone. She had no children, little family. She had struggled through over forty years of hard work to support herself, then her latest years were spent in a nursing home with no family to care for or look after her.

Yet…she clung to Jesus. She was carried by Him. She delved deep into His word and studied it. If you were to name any verse in the Bible, she could finish it. Though her hearing was almost gone, her body weak and frail, she had something more precious than perfect health and a “perfect” life by the world’s standard: she had Jesus and she could not wait to go home to Him. Though battered around by the storms of life, she could say with confidence that the Lord was her Sustainer and Rock. She had hidden herself in the Rock of Ages.

I came away pondering her answer. I read my Bible, but how often do I consider it more of a chore than a pleasure? When do I come before the Lord just to adore Him? Do I linger in His presence? Do the most wonderful things I can imagine pale in comparison with the beauty of Christ?

I pray for eyes to see and savor the preciousness of God’s word while I’m still young. God’s word is a treasure deeper than the deepest sea or chasm. Men have devoted their lives to studying its content, only scratching the surface. I remember years ago reading through a book of encouragement for young girls. In the introduction the author warned us to not replace her book with our Bible reading, emphasizing that it “doesn’t even begin to compare to the jewels of God’s word.” So, whether I felt like it or not, I made sure to read my Bible before cracking open that book. :) The Bible, as from the words of a 102 year old lady, is truly all we need for life and godliness.

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

Hello there! Well, I know it’s been a while since I popped in, so I have some pictures to post! Mom and I had the privilege of attending a women’s conference in Florida a few weeks ago. The speaker was Susan Hunt and I came away encouraged and refreshed in the Lord. We stayed with some dear friends of ours, the Lewis family. They are some of the sweetest, most gracious people I know. It was delightful to catch up and fellowship with them. Here are a few pictures from our time:

On the plane before take-off. Mom and I had way too much fun at the airport and flying together. I hadn’t flown since I was 3 years old, so it was definitely a treat and even more fun than I thought it would be! :)

At the Florida airport. Notice the palm trees behind me….it was so interesting coming from a cold(er) state to the warm, moist Floridian climate.

The Lewis’s made a welcome sign when we arrived. Aren’t these girlies too cute!?!

We played lots of games, including Monopoly Deal and Scum. Becca and I were partners in this round. :)

Pictures after the conference…

 <3

Hannah and I.

Mom and Mrs. Lewis

The day after the conference, we all went to the ocean!

The Lewis’s taught me how to boogie board, which was super duper fun. I love this picture of Sarah!

It was a cup-filling, encouraging time. I am so grateful!

I absolutely the season of autumn! I finally broke out my pea jacket this morning and had my first pumpkin latte a few days ago. Mom and I took a trip up to Columbia for an appointment earlier this week. Besides enjoying getting to spend a whole day with her, I loved soaking up the scenery of  yellow, red, and orange foliage along the drive. Little pumpkins, lighting candles, the fresh scent of fall…I do believe that simple delights will never lose their charm.

Now I have a question for you: what are some of YOUR favorite simple delights of autumn? I mentioned a few of mine, but do tell, I’d love to hear yours. :)

This is kind of like a journal entry….on my blog. A few hours ago we arrived home from a family camp with our church. The to-do list is long and my textbooks await, but before diving into those I want to take a few minutes to write about camp while it’s fresh on my mind. So from the comfort of a cushy seat with a hot drink in hand, here is an account of our first annual church family camp.

Let me begin by saying that I am so grateful for the hope we have in Christ. In Him alone do we have reason to live each day. In Him alone do we find our source of joy. I so frequently don’t take the time to ponder the mystery of the gospel, how I as a desperate sinner find favor in God’s sight through Jesus Christ! We will spend a lifetime and then eternity marveling in the goodness of God! That was such a good reminder from one of the sessions this morning.

Thursday was the first day of camp and a very busy day for me. After being at classes all morning and volleyball in the afternoon, I drove down to camp with a sweet young lady. It was fun to have some time to talk, and we arrived in time for the first evening session. We enjoyed fellowship, snacks, and a movie later that night. After the movie we popped into our bunks at our cabin, but giggles and jokes were rampant among our family that night, which made for a funny and memorable evening. (When you have the whole family in the same room in bunk beds, you’re bound to have fun.) Oh goodness, I love my family! :)

The next morning we got up and around, then went to help with breakfast. The family who was in charge of meals during camp did a wonderful job facilitating everything in the kitchen, and with many hands helping everything went smoothly. After the morning session, singing, and worship, there were edifying conversations, octa-ball, and sand volleyball. In the afternoon we played a game call the Mighty Mighty Scoop Noodle Challenge. We had an entire soccer field to use and most everyone played, which made for an excellent game. Basically it involves pool noodles, Frisbees and other various objects, and LOTS of sprinting. Needless to say, it was hilariously fun. After playing for an hour in the hot sun, we limped off the field and cleaned up for dinner. If it hadn’t been for one young lady’s wise advice to stretch, I would have hardly been able to walk this morning. :D I wish I had some pictures from the game and other activities, but here are a few that Mom snapped at the end of camp during cleanup:

Mopping the floor! With great three helpers it didn’t us take long.

Part of the dish crew. They did an excellent job.

CK did a good job with all the electronics. // These two dear ladies joyfully served in the kitchen.

Sweet Savannah with her baby. // Simon trying the water faucet. ;)

Family camp encouraged me in many ways. It was neat to spend time with our church family, getting to know each other better. So there is a summary, my friends, and I must say goodbye for the present. Thanks for dropping by and blessings to each of you!