Saturday, September 28, 2019

Farewell to Summer. Welcome Autumn!

God has promised strength for the day, rest for the labor,
light for the way, grace for the trials, help from above,
unfailing sympathy, undying love.

Author Dorthea Benton Frank's service at The Cathedral in Charleston, SC

I ended my summer in Charleston
at the funeral service of low country NYT best-selling author
Dorthea Benton Frank.
Her death was a shock to all.
Gone at the young age of 67.

I was introduced to Dottie in 2004.
When Rob and I flew from California to the south to visit
family, we spent a few days in Georgetown, SC at a quaint B&B.
After dining at a seafood restaurant, we walked along the river walk
and of course I ended up in a small bookstore.
I was looking for a summer read so the first book I picked up was
Sullivan's Island by Dorthea Benton Frank.
Never heard of her, but I liked the cover. So I bought it.
(Side note: I returned home to California and told my daughter,
"You must read Sullivan's Island."
Jacquie answered, "Mom, I bought that book at Barnes and Noble last month."
Small world, huh?)

Since Dottie's first book, I've read many of her twenty novels, and had the pleasure of
meeting her at several book signings at Books-A-Million when I worked there.

DBF lived a brilliant life but her sudden death once again reminded me
of how short life can be.  We don't know when we'll be taken out of
this world and placed into the next.
Saying that, I'm here to remind us that life is precious.
Love those around you.  Give a hug where a hug is due. Or even when it isn't due.
Speak a kind word to someone.

Simple autumn decorations sprinkled around our cozy condo


I love my Fall mantle. Pumpkins and shells.


Boating as much as possible before the chilling weather blows our way.


I wish you oceans of Autumn blessings, and remember ...
Keep those bodies movin'!


Then I will lead the blind along a way they never knew...
I will make the darkness become light for them,
and the rough ground smooth.
Isaiah 42:16





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On life's journey, whether traveling around the world or walking around your block, there's lots to learn about life, faith, friendship and fun! so lets dive into a new ocean together ... and lets keep that body movin'!