Saturday, January 31, 2015

Seminar

Today's seminar "You say you love me!.... ?"went well. Its such a joy to be with women and share life experiences. Interactive teaching is one of the most rewarding adventures in my life. Thank you to all for coming, I had a great time! We pondered the story of the prodigal son together. The richness of this parable amazes me. I find new insights and truth almost every time I read and contemplate it. God's love shines through it in some of the most beautiful and colorful rays.






Part of the fun is also to get to know new people
and hear some of their stories.

Friday, January 23, 2015

An eventful week January 16th to January 23rd 2015

Dear Friends

So much has happened during the last week. Lets start with the beautiful wedding in Key West.

The venue for the wedding and rehearsal dinner couldn't have been nicer, both right at the Bay. The sunsets were amazing, only rivaled by the beauty of the bride.









 
It shows that Alex and Meghan love one another dearly.



This is one good looking family


  What a joy and honor to be there to celebrate with them. I  was invited to do a scripture reading and  in lieu of wedding favors Alex and Meghan made a thoughtful donation to the orphanage in Kenya!To celebrate with friends is a true gift!






After the wedding I drove back to St. Pete to stay one night before heading back to Pittsburgh. The drive is amazing. 165 miles over the "Oversea Highway", passing almost over water and bridges connecting the islands. At times you can't tell were the water ends and the sky begins. Different watercolors reflect the sky a truly magical experience. At times I bursted out in giggles, it was so special! Crossing the State of Florida is fun too. Fenced in on both side of the highway reminds you that the Everglades are home to the American Crocodile. The road sign "Crocodile Crossing" confirms that this is a place of its own.




A last walk on the beach and watching a sunset before heading up North

The drive back was beautiful and I didn't mind all the hours in the car. I visited good friends in Raileigh. The West Virgina Mountains are breath - taking. I transition well into winter! God has protected me many times along the way. I praise Him for safty and strength!

Walking today in the snow
















Now that I am back again I am looking forward to meet with friends and church family. My seminar is coming up on the 31st of January and less then two weeks after I will leave for Kenya with my friend Christine. Always grateful for your prayers! Blessings, Maria

Monday, January 12, 2015

Key West

Dear Friends

I arrived safely in Key West, the most southern tip of the United States. Today Donna and I explored the area and visited Hemingway's house and the most southern point of the Continental USA. The weather is hot and humid and the sunsets are gorgeous.  What a different kind of America! People definitely live on "island time"!





Friday, January 9, 2015

Silence and Solitude

Dear Friends
My soul and heart enjoys the silence and solitude I experienced this week. Walking on the beach is part of my daily routine. To be in the presence of God is healing and refreshing. Enjoy with me the beauty of His creations, reflecting His power and strength!

Beautiful cloud formation over the ocean

The Beach of St. Pete

Moon raise at the same time the Sun set