July 2008 - Month to Embrace

July was a month to embrace all the beautiful things in life...
such as, family, friends and freedom.

• 4th of July, Independence Day...a day to remember that we are blessed to live in this country. Because of brave men and women who serve, we have our freedom.
• Celebrated my daughter's 30th birthday with it being a surprise party at my home. She was so happy and excited to see everyone, especially all her cousins and her brother who was finally able to see her new baby girl.
• Three days later was another birthday celebration for my sister which we took to the Cheesecake Factory....and then went to visit our young 82 year aunt who is the life of any party. She can out dance you and stay up longer than anyone. Where does she get her energy? Wished we could get some!
• Went to Lake Arrowhead with a group of friends...enjoyed a boat ride around the lake, delicious food and beautiful friends.
• Met one of my treasured friends for dinner, so that she could meet my sweet granddaughter. My daughter enjoyed getting out of the house and seeing my friend and the waitress give special attention to her precious daughter.
• A beautiful birthday celebration for a special friend turning 55. There was about 10 powerful Goddess Babes embracing the joy and laughter that surrounded this loving birthday friend...it was truly a day to cherish forever...for it was a day filled with love.
• Another special birthday celebration of one of my best friends turning 55 and celebrating her wedding anniversary. What a fabulous time! We had so much fun playing games and laughing. The food was absolutely delicious...and what beautiful memories to cherish. You could feel the love of family and friends that helped made this day a happy one.
• A friend invited me to Palm Springs and what a perfect couple of days. We enjoyed the hot weather by the pool, then went out to dinner at Sullivan's...one of the best meal's I have ever had. Then we decided to see a movie, so we enjoyed watching "Mamma Mia."
• The last couple of days of July, I was blessed to spend special time with my beautiful daughter and adorable granddaughter while my wonderful son-in-law went on a business trip. I embraced every moment with both of them...time flies when you're having fun.

Detour to Heaven

Christopher, my son,
your journey on earth is done.
God gave you a detour
and given you the crown you’ve won.

We’re sad and we’re grieving
since God took you away.
But, you’re so blessed
to walk in His glory today.

We loved you with all our hearts
and felt you were too young to die.
Of course, we’ll trust in God’s plan
for He only knows the reason why.

You left behind so many
including your children and wife.
We will never be the same
without you in our life.

You’re in your heavenly home
it must be beautiful in Paradise.
We’ll deeply miss you--
but for now, we’ll say our good-byes.

One day we’ll embrace again
when our Lord reunites us together.
To be a family of God
where we’ll worship and praise Him forever.

Rachel M. Sparks
Copyright © 2008 Rachel M. Sparks