Dateline Pensacola:

I don’t know quite how to explain it, but something about turning left onto Interstate 10 and heading west into the Florida Panhandle tugged at my heart. It has been twenty-seven years and two extended ministries since we left “The Western Gate to the Sunshine State, where thousands live like millions wish they could” (thanks, perennial 80’s mayor Vince Whibbs), but there is still this sense of heading towards home.

We raised our children here; well, until Andrew was 14 and Naomi 12. Trinity Presbyterian Church, local history pre-dating St. Augustine, Old South gentility, bayous, white sand beaches, Naval aviation, Blue Angels, Cordova Park….

So we left Max with Naomi in Orlando – a straight swap for David and Beks – and made our way to this beautiful old house just a stone’s throw from Bayou Texar in East Pensacola Heights (this amazing house is going to get it’s own post!).

We settled in and drove out to take a look at the beach, where I immediately got my first speeding ticket since 1973 (David and Beks were delighted!). Then we returned to our house for a late relaxing dinner.

Our grandchildren are in love with this house, in love with the beach, and excited to see what Pensacola has to offer over the next few days.

This morning it’s going to begin with worship at Trinity – we couldn’t imagine starting out our Sunday in any other way.

For us, this quiet city in the northwest corner of Florida is already delivering. Enjoy the photos; and, as the week progresses, everything to come. – DEREK