New Beginnings

Do you know what posting generates the most responses on my Facebook page? Flowers! Our lilac and snowball bushes have been lush this year, and nothing says new beginnings like spring blossoms.

The first weekend in May we attended Greyson and Kirstin’s wedding. We’ve known Grey since he was born, so it was quite special to be part of this day. They married exactly a year ago in a small family ceremony and renewed their vows before friends at his parents’ home in the country. You could almost say they have had a second new beginning and just left for a honeymoon in Italy.

Yesterday I returned from celebrating granddaughter Audrey’s graduation from Arizona State University. Pictured below, I’m the one that’s not 5’10”, with my buttons popped off in pride at her accomplishments.

It was fun to watch Audrey and her friends before they go their separate ways and start the next chapters in their lives. Some will stay in Phoenix, as will Audrey who thankfully has a job. “Is her job related to her marketing degree?” asked practical grandpa. Yes, it is.

New beginnings got me to thinking about friendships. As our country drives down a new road, that road appears to be bumpy for some and smooth for others. We can’t assume which road our friends are on. I believe true friendships take precedence over circumstances; we can be happy with those who are in a good place and sympathetic to those who need understanding. A very wise man, King Solomon, has much to say about friendship. “A friend sticks closer than a brother.” Proverbs18:24. Is there such a thing as a reset button for a particular friendship? Now might be a good time if you find yourself on a road apart from your friend.

So what’s your new beginning? Has your family added someone new? Is there a friendship that needs renewed care? Those are significant. Or is it something small, like adding a new activity to your daily routine? I’m promising myself to accomplish much on Book II in Lila’s Journey this summer.

Before I go, I’ll sprinkle in pictures of a few friends–singing sisters on top, DAR sisters on the bottom.

Happy spring! Until next time . . .