I will never forget your commandments,
    for by them you give me life.

Psalm 119:93

Over the past three days I have shared some great photographs and stories from Tuesday’s gathering in New Bern. It was a lot to absorb and there is more I could share, but – meanwhile – day to day life is also full and meaningful and bursting with both grace and challenge.

To that end, here is a little “catch up” from the rest of the week.

My Mother

Mum, who has now been at her new home four weeks, remains seriously resistant to settling in. The house is still lovely, her room is still beautiful, the staff are still wonderful, and the residents still the same group of women in their 90’s. But my mum is still determined not to be happy.

This is distressing. But we are doing everything we can to encourage her, her friends visit every day, and absolutely everyone agrees that this is the best possible situation for my mother to receive the care she needs in the nicest possible environment.

Max

Max Retriever spends a lot of time visiting my mum, and he is the perfect dog for the job.

It’s obvious that the training Max had as a support animal taps into something fundamental and natural in his nature. It’s as if he knows that emotional support is his job and he takes it seriously.

He is a dog who lives to serve.

Max is in a little trouble with his vet, however, as he managed to gain a few pounds and weigh in at 103 this year. Nine years old now, it’s “senior” diet time for him!

The grandchildren

Well, yes, I should have led with the children. Between them (Naomi and Craig’s crew in Orlando and Mr. T. with Andrew and Alicia in Michigan for the summer) they make us smile in every conceivable way (thanks for the pics, Naomi).

The Orlando family had a five day hiatus at Disney this week. But it was so hot they spent most of the time hanging around the pool area. I am thankful they were based at Disney Beach Club Resort and not fighting the crowds in the Magic Kingdom.

When I think about how so many millions of people are literally in danger from the extreme conditions I am super-grateful for air-conditioning and shade and swimming pools and the means to access them.

Prayers for those who are suffering. And prayers for our nation as we struggle to respond honestly and compassionately and intelligently to the growing climate crisis.

So, “Happy Saturday” friends. I pray that you experience this weekend as a blessing and a joy. We have so much to be thankful for.

And, as the Psalmist says, “I will never forget your good word, Lord God, because it is through my commitment to follow your way that you give me life” (my paraphrase). – DEREK

pics: Max, Mum, Mum’s house and neighborhood, the children…