May 1st: Friday Focus

 

It's not just Friday - it's May 1st already!  Whewie... time flies.

I've had such a sweet week with my sister-in-law, Jo Anne, visiting!  She headed back to Tallahassee yesterday morning.  Her daughter-in-law graduates with a Master's Degree in music therapy on Saturday, at Florida State University.  We are so proud of her and happy for her!  I was so pleased that Jo Anne took a few days to come down for a visit here!

She drove down on Monday.  It takes about five hours to make the trip.  On Tuesday, she wanted to go shopping at Belk, which we did.  We also went downtown to my favorite shop, Scout & Tag.  She enjoyed it, too, and we both made purchases (of course!)!

Jo Anne had never been to Tarpon Springs, which is a heavily Greek city, known for sponge diving and all things Greek, including delicious food and bakery items.  One of Jo Anne's best friends, Paula, is Greek, and she told Jo Anne that her favorite restaurant there is Hella's.  Well, that is also my favorite (and it was Joe's favorite for the bakery!).  Nice that our tastes were validated!  Here is my picture dump from Tarpon Springs...

Cute sculptures and a bench. Jo Anne's eyes are closed (sorry!).

I had to "pet" the cat sculpture...

Gyro platter... it was delicious! I brought half of it home.

We spent Thursday morning sitting at the kitchen table, talking and having breakfast, and yet another cup of coffee.  She left for Tallahassee around noon, but got to meet Anne (from across the street) before she left.  She expressed her condolences. We lost my brother to cancer 23 years ago, so Jo Anne understands the sorrow as well.  She is also a great example of giving it to God and continuing the journey set before us.  She retired from teaching at a Christian school a few years ago.  My brother would be so very proud of her and their two kids.  I am proud of her, my niece and my nephew (and their spouses and children)!

I am hosting a new small group at my house this evening.  Only six or seven are coming so far, but I think it will grow!!  I'm serving dinner... pulled chicken BBQ for sandwiches, potato salad, coleslaw, tossed green salad, and a fruit salad (Publix does it all so well!).  Our Women's Ministry Director, Donna, is bringing dessert!

Peace and Hugs!

From every stormy wind that blows,
From every swelling tide of woes,
There is a calm, a sure retreat;
'Tis found beneath the mercy seat.