February is the month for #Write28days, and I will try to post something each day. I have no particular theme but will be following the word prompts given. The prompt for the first day is the word, disappointed. I like to write about real life happenings and finding joy and beauty.
Yes, there have been many disappointments in life, but there is also love, compassion and friendship. So rather than talk about being disappointed, I want to share snippets of happiness.
These first two weeks in February, my husband and I are spending time with his siblings at a beachfront condo in Florida. It’s an annual trip we’ve been taking for over ten years. Along the way we usually visit my siblings and more family and friends. This year as we drove down from South Carolina, we had lovely weather and a pretty relaxed trip.
DISAPPOINTED? TRY MUSIC WITH FRIENDS
Our first night we spent with my longtime friend from childhood and her husband. This friend and I spent so much time together as we were growing up that people often asked if we were sisters. And we played the piano together using duet books of hymns. People in church loved to listen to the hymns in this duet style.
We decided it would be fun to try some duets, but neither of us had the original books. She had found another one, but I was so out of practice that it was hard to follow along. We continued, but I was disappointed that I couldn’t sight read and play them well. But it was still fun and brought back memories.
Then we opened up the Celebration Hymnal. She went to the keyboard, and using various settings of strings, organ and more, she played while I stayed at the piano. We were both inspired and creative as we played from our hearts. Yes, the music was very loud but joyful. It was one of the best evenings I’ve had in a long time.
SUNSETS ON THE BEACH
Sunsets don’t really need words, so I will just put photos here and let you enjoy. These were all taken from the same balcony of this rental condo from two different days. Below the photos I have put the dates and times.
HEARTS BRIMMING WITH LOVE
The title of this post begins with the word disappointed. We all have disappointments and they do often bring sadness and hardship. But we don’t have to stay disappointed. Listening to or playing music can help lift our spirits. And when it’s done with heartfelt love and friends, joy cannot help but be present.
Sunsets, no matter where you live, are beautiful to view. When you are spending time with family you don’t see often, the time is all the more joy-filled. The love we share as we come together, means so much. Yes, all of us have had and still have disappointments, but for now we still have each other. And that is a wonderful blessing.
Romans 12:9-13 NASB
Love must be free of hypocrisy. Detest what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor, not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality.
This is my first post for #Write28days. If you’d like to join in just visit the link for all the information.
I enjoy listening to worship and praise music. What a glorious feeling when I hear words praising God! A wonderful feeling when I hear our 3 years old grandson, Rowan, singing songs about God.
Amen, Melissa, music that honors God is glorious! How special to hear your little grandson singing those songs. Precious! Blessings and love to you! xo
I love those photos! I lived in North Carolina for several years and have spent days on the coastal area roaming the sandy beaches and soaking up the sun and fresh air. Nature does wonder to one’s soul and spirit that’s for sure! 🙂
Glad you enjoyed the photos. I love walking on the beach and watching the waves come rolling in. Yes, the fresh air and sunshine and all of nature really does refresh us! Blessings to you!
What a wonderful way to spend two weeks, Gayl! I’m trying not to be jealous. 🙂 I remember playing piano duets with my sister as we were growing up. As I recall, I was probably too harsh about her lack of practice. I think she’s long forgiven me though. 🙂
Yes, Lisa, it is a wonderful way to spend two weeks! We’ve had a lot of fun and laughs already. I’m sure your sister has forgiven you. 🙂 What fun to have that in common! My friend and I were like sisters. Blessings to you! xo
What a heart-lifting time that must have been as you and your friend played duets together again! I remember those great duets back in the 60s & 70s at our church too. I’m so glad you can share your beaitiful photos with us too. Be blessed dear friend!
Oh, Bettie, it was very heart-lifting! So good to spend time together again. Glad you enjoyed the photos, too. Blessings to you, dear sister! xoxo
I’m looking forward to seeing more pictures from the beach. Have fun! If you go through Savannah on your way home. You can stop by for a “potty break”. We’re not far off of I95
Glad you enjoyed the pictures! I’m sure I’ll share more throughout the week. Thanks so much for your offer! We don’t usually travel I95, as we take back roads. But if we do, I’ll be sure to let you know! Blessings to you! xo
What an uplifting piece about travel, friendship, and worship music. When I am feeling down worship music always lifts my spirits. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks so much, Doreen! I’m glad it ministered to you. Yes, worship music has a way of lifting our spirits, doesn’t it? Blessings to you!
What a great opportunity to meet loved ones, and to enjoy beauty all around. Be inspired in your writing this month as well! God bless.
Thank you so much, dear Lisa! Yes, it’s a great opportunity and we’re enjoying our time already. I’m going to try to write every day, but I may get a little behind. Blessings to you with love and hugs! xo
Oh Gayl! This makes me so so happy. What a beautiful photo of you two together. I am so glad it worked out for you to make music together and remember the blessings of God in your lives. What a gift to read this and rejoice with you.
Thank you so much, Anna! It was such a blessing to spend that time together. I’m glad you are rejoicing with me. Much love to you with hugs and blessings! xoxo
Though I understand your disappointment about your piano skills, what a beautiful friendship you have! Rejoicing with you as you capture beautiful moments with family and friends.
Yes, Shirley and I have been friends for a very long time, but haven’t had much time together. So this time was really a blessing. I think if I took the time to practice more, my piano skills would be back up to par. 🙂 Blessings to you!