NEW Book Release! Lady on the Run is published!

Lady on the Run is now published!

Rosie ... on the Run!
(the cover tells a story)

My journey to have my latest novel published

has been a long one, but so rewarding in many ways.
I compare it to running a marathon and finally crossing the finish line!

I have learned (over and over)
the importance of God's timing.

In fact, He gave me the last sentence of the book
the night before I was to have my manuscript formatted!

A little history of this story ...

I wrote Lady on the Run in the 70's as a non-fiction,

but due to several 'life-happenings'
I tossed my manuscript in a box ... until a few years ago.

As I sat and re-read the forty-some-year-old typed pages

I knew the story would become a novel.

That's when Rosie's journey began ....

Lake Tahoe 1977

Rosie's running days began in the mid-70's.

Years before she traveled the world,

Rosie was a stay-at-home Mom 

who by happenstance became an avid runner.

Her inspiring story will find you laughing on one page,

perhaps crying on the next,
and like Rosie, challenging you personally to ask,
What am I running from? 
and more important,
What am I running to?

If you're already into health, fitness, and fun,

or thinking about health, fitness, and fun*,

or would rather just read about health, fitness, and fun,

then Lady on the Run is for you.
(*A Ladies on the Run Handbook in the back of book)

Here is one of several reviews:

"Sharon Leaf's 40 years of running experience, quirky characters, and engaging story produce a book guaranteed to motivate, educate, and entertain.  Lady on the Run will inspire wanna-be runners to take their first steps toward physical (and spiritual) health.  Those who already run will be challenged to set new goals and  train not just for running their physical races, but for running their spiritual race--at their own pace!"

              Lori Slice Hatcher, author of Hungry for God, Starving for Time, 
              5-minute Devotions for Busy Women

You can now order
Lady on the Run
Paperback and ebook
on the following links:

www.amazon.com/dp/B08BMKCGH5

amazon.com/gp/product/B08B379FBY

My Author Page:

www.amazon.com/author/www.sharonleaf.com


I wish you oceans of joyful Reading, wRiting, and Running blessings!


Smooth out your road in front of me,
straight and level
so that I'll know where to walk.
Psalm 5:8

The Los Angeles Marathon 1978
My first 10K ... 6.2 miles ... running in my baby blue Brooks!
The finish line was in the Los Angeles Coliseum
Home of the 1932 and 1984 Olympics

... let us run with patience the race that is set before us.
Hebrews 12:1

www.sharonleaf.com

A New Decade. A New Season

A New Decade.  A New Season

At every crossroad, follow your dream.
It is courageous to let your heart lead the way.

The holidays are coming to a close.

A thankful Thanksgiving.

A joyful Christmas.

The ringing in of a new year.

A new decade.

2020.

Like most of you,

I've been pondering on several things that I plan to change.

(I do not call them New Year Resolutions).

I recently received a rejection of my manuscript

Lady on the Run.

(due to a wonderful editor having to retire for personal reasons)
Disappointment. Questioning my writing gift
(even though the editor loves my story and my writing).
Lots of emotions involved that all writers experience.

So I came to a crossroad and had to make a decision.

Do I continue on until my book is published,
 Or,

do I put it on the shelf and forget about it,
like I did forty years ago?

For this moment in time ... neither.

However, I have decided to lay down my writing for a season.

Writing takes hours upon hours of time spent in front of the beloved computer.

At my golden age of 74 next month,

I'm choosing to cherish my last days, months (years!) on earth

by focusing on

Spending more time with family, friends, and neighbors.

Volunteering locally.

Researching subjects that are near to me, such as Israel.

Reading.  Taking longer walks.

And lots more.

I'll be spending less time on social media and more time 

reading and studying my Bible.

And talkin' to Jesus.

I know, I know!  I can hear all of you dedicated writers saying,
"You can do it all! Just be more organized ... be more .... "
I am organized.  Well, somewhat. Now that I'm a
RED* (Retired-Extremely-Daring)
I often get distracted ... it's the elusive butterfly syndrome.

But whatever else I'm doing (even washing the dishes), I have this little voice whispering in my ear,
"You should be in your office, pounding on your iMac, writing, writing, writing!"
And that little voice is what I want live without for ... maybe a month, or two ... we'll see.

Sunset from our back patio 2019

I recently read about a friend/writer who did this, and she found a new sense of inner peace.

Relaxing instead of stressing about her next blog.

This was another confirmation of what I need to do.

Ahh, yes ... the right thing for me to do ... for a season.

Until Lady on the Run* is published,
you can enjoy my adventures on the high seas in my book
Lady and the Sea
(available on Amazon.com)

As you ponder and pray for God's direction for your next season in the coming year,

I wish all of you, my dear friends, 

oceans of happy and prosperous New Year's blessings!

My aim is to raise hope by pointing the way to life without end.

This is the life God promised long ago--

and He doesn't break promises.

Titus 1:1 (the Message)

*Lady on the Run now available!

www.amazon.com/author/sharonleaf.com

Lady Traveler ... Home for awhile. What Now?

To know someone here or there
with whom you feel there is an understanding
in spite of distances or thoughts unexpressed~~
that can make of this earth's garden.
Goethe

Sunset from our back yard on Lake Murray

Rob and I are settled in our cozy condo on the lake.
But there's still lots of odds and ends to do.
For example, Rob is painting the backyard deck as I write.
Bought a pontoon boat.
Sold the motor home.
Took a vacation to Texas.  Now what?

We've spent the last four years on the road.
so after a few days around the house,
we look at each other.
Rob: "What do you want to do?"
Me: "If I watch another HG TV show, I'll scream!"
"Boat ride?"
"Yes!"

Fun with family & friends on the pontoon

The RED (Retired-Extremely-Daring) dog days of summer are in full swing.
I'm doing a little gardening in our front yard.
We've continue to have family and friends over for
BBQ's (grillin') and boat rides.
I'm taking time to visit with our
wild and crazy neighbors.
Truthfully, the place is pretty peaceful.

Leaf's Garden. It's grown lots since this pic.

The most positive aspect about being home more?
We can be more involved in our local church
 Flourish Church.
I'm excited about the ladies Bible study that began last week
(not to forget our ongoing Bible study that meets on Wednesdays).
Rob led the Men's Monthly Fellowship breakfast last week.
Rob: "The food is scrumptious!"
And I only have 2,700 more words to add to
Lady on the Run.

The lazy days of summer are blissful, just the way I like it.
But we always need to be ready in season and out of season
because we never know who God will send across our path
that may need an encouraging word to get them through their day.

I wish you oceans of peaceful summer days.

All sunshine and sovereign is God,
generous in gifts and glory.
Psalm 84:10

www.sharonleaf.com

www.retiredandgoodliving.com

Remember Lady Traveler's First RV Road Trip?

What were we thinking?

We weren't.

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I--I took the one less traveled by,

and that has made all the difference.

Our first little motor home at the Wimberley Texas Flood 2015

For those of you who are new to my Lady Traveler blog

here's Part 2 of a little story about our very first

RV Road Trip in 2015.

We didn't plan to buy the 1987 Mallard Sprinter motor home,

but for $5,000, how could we go wrong?

Part 1 and Part 2 blogs are posted on the website:

www.retirementandgoodliving

Part 1, my previous blog on this website, tells how we stumbled across

this little darling.

Read and enjoy!

Relaxing after a long day volunteering with first-response team
Christ In Action (CIA)

Now, after reading my story, perhaps you might want to hit the road

in some sort of RV ... motor home, 5th wheel, trailer ... lots to choose from.

The choice is yours.

Whether you're retired and/or looking for some way to help others,

or you just want to go travelin',

an RV can take you just about anywhere your

little heart desires.

All in a day's work to help bring hope to America's families
Volunteering with Christ In Action 2015 at the Wimberley Texas flood

We traveled in our Mallard Sprint for six months

until we met our beautiful 2004 American Tradition 40-foot home-on-wheels,

Moon River.

That's when we really took off for places unknown.

25+ (I've lost count) states and have loved every minute.

After watching hours of the Travel Channel,

we began experiencing God's beautiful country first-hand ...

... east, west, north south.

We've met wonderful friends of whom I still

communicate via Facebook, blogs, e-mails, and Instagram, 

and even meet again on life's highways!

It is a small world after all.

Lots of states on Route 66, including Missouri to visit son Shawn (4 times).

I love expanding my boundaries.

Rob and I have lived in Sweden and traveled to over 25+ countries,

including living on a World War II ship for 14 months.

(I have my favorites and perhaps I'll return one day to

Israel and/or Italy).

Tuscany, I love you!

Wherever you are, make this a good day ... your best day!
It's your choice.

And ... keep that body movin'!

Teach us to number our days aright,

that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

Psalm 90:12

You can order my book, Lady and the Sea at:

www.sharonleaf.com

or

www.amazon.com

www.retirementandgoodliving.com

The Runaway

The Runaway

Our days are identical suitcases ~ all the same size ~
but some people can pack more into them than others.

When wRiter's Block hits ... close the laptop and run away!

A little over a month ago I had been writing my heart out
until my eyes crossed and my tummy growled, begging for food.
I only had time to indulge in another cup of coffee.

I love when God gives me the words that flow from my heart,
to my brain, to my fingers, and on to my computer.
If you're an artist, you know what I mean ...
... the juices start flowing.
You're fearless!

But when that mean ol' writer's block comes a knockin',
what do you do?
Hide?  Stay in bed?  Go shopping?  Not me.
 This Lady Traveler shuts down the laptop, backs away from her desk and ...
hits the road!

This happened recently,
so I dropped this suggestion on Robinski over morning coffee.
"Lets go to Texas!"
"Uh, sure, okay.  When?"
"Next week, before we sell Moon River."
Our motor home had been for sale for over a month.
A few bites, but no sale.

Memories of our last chapter.  Ready to turn the page for the next chapter. 

We had no longer hung our clothes, stored some food in the pantry and frig,
and locked the door of our beloved RV,
ready to leave the next morning for the lone star state, when, out of nowhere,
a gentleman vacationing from Idaho took one look at her, and wham!
Our beloved RV was sold.
So, what did we do?
We unloaded clothes and food,
re-loaded clothes in our car,
and hit the road for Texas the next morning as planned.
Good-bye writer's block!

I love our road trips, but this trip was definitely different than most.
We were usually in our motor home towing our Ford Escape.
This trip we were driving our red car.
Confession: I began having RV withdrawals.
Rob wasn't asking me to check my "RV Parky" app for rest stops or fuel stops.
I missed 'sitting up high' over the traffic on I-20 west with
Popcorn sitting on my lap.
(she stayed home in a kennel that spoils her rotten).
No more fixing BLT sandwiches at rest stops.
But I kept these emotions to myself.  Why?
I glanced over at Robinski.
He was really having a relaxing time cruising down the interstate in our red Escape.
"Why do you look so happy?" I finally asked.
"No stress," he quickly answered.

I then realized that with all the fun and adventure we'd experienced,
the responsibility that had been on his shoulders
these past 4 1/2 years had been heavy.
"Hey, lets pull over and have lunch at that Mexican restaurant," he added joyfully.
He didn't have to worry about finding a parking space large enough for our home-on-wheels.
Can all you RV owners agree to all of the above?
Note: Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't trade a minute of our hours on the road,
but lets face it, there are moments when you ask,
Why did I buy this monster?

Cruising down one of many interstates across the USA ~ 2015-2019

We had a wonderful two-week-Texas-vaca' on the road
visiting family and friends,
stopping by Magnolia Table in Waco, Texas ...
and staying in hotels,
unloading overnight bags, and
eating lots of complimentary breakfasts of
bacon, eggs, OJ and coffee.
Note: when looking for hotels online, read the reviews.
For me, I always make sure a hotel is rated high for clean and safe.
The Hampton Inn is good for one-night stays, or longer.

Home sweet home on Lake Murray

I returned home refreshed, but tired.
Then came the head cold.
Pray. Rest. Don't spread germs. Stay home. Rest.
Now, a week later, I'm getting back to normal,
and the writing bug has returned.
Yesterday I finished my June blog for the website
Retirement and Good Living (soon to be published)
This morning I'm writing my Lady Traveler blog.
Now my eyes are starting to cross, and my tummy is crying out for food.
More coffee and rest, then I'll continue adding a few thousand more words for
Lady on the Run.

So, if you're getting any kind of block,
back away for awhile.
If you can't take trip, then take a walk.
Outdoors does wonders for your body, soul, and spirit.

Until next time,
I wish you oceans of safe summer blessings!
And remember ... keep that body movin'!

Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Psalm 90:12

www.sharonleaf.com

www.retirementandgoodliving.com

Lady Traveler ... What Now?

Lady Traveler asks ... What Now?

Writing in Barcelona, Spain

Have you ever asked yourself, what now?

Most of the time we don't have time to ask ourselves that question.

We're too busy going from one project to the next, one destination to the next.

Before we think, Do I really want to do this?

or

Do I really need to do this?

We forge ahead.

Today I'm wondering if I'm biting off more than I can chew.

Most of you know I published a book several years ago,

Lady and the Sea.

Have I bit off more than I can chew?

Over the last few years I've shared this story at many venues.

Now, in the near future, my next book

Lady on the Run will be published.

If you can't run, then walk

So now, I'm asking myself,

Can I begin this process all over again?...

...to gather even more followers...they're now called tribes.

And, oh, all the marketing that it entails,

not to mention the speaking engagements.

The theme of Lady on the Run is

Finding the joy of running your physical race and your spiritual race~at your own pace!

Since my knee replacement three years ago my pace is power walking.

Hours of walking.
Keeping my body movin'.
With a title Lady on the Run, 

I have to be an example, right?

The list goes on...and on.

You writers, walkers, business owners know what I'm talking about.

Me running 1/2 marathon  in 1979

So what now?

Do I stop mid-stream?

or

do I run the race that is set before me?

I wouldn't be asking myself these questions if I were younger.

But I'm 73!
I move slower. I look forward to my afternoon siesta.
On and on.

Then I remember the words spoken by the main speaker at the 

Carolina Christian Writers Conference last month:

"Reclaim your time...shed distractions. 

Be still in your calling, your purpose, your anchor.

Choose rest.

Create and honor a sacred place of prayer, meditation, and rest."

I'm not a philosopher nor am I a counselor.

But through the years I've learned a thing or two.

One,

If I don't have an answer,

I ASK GOD.
Two,

Our Creator has the answers.
He's waiting to walk with us through life.
Three,
so I wait to hear from Him.

As I'm writing this blog, I realize that I must close for now

and go to my sacred place to find my answers.

That is where God is.

I suggest you do the same.

Let's find our answers together as we run--or walk--the race that's set before us!

Hebrews 12:1

www.sharonleaf.com

www.retirmentandgoodliving.com

Lady Traveler's Travel Tips wherever you may wander

When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money,

Then take half the clothes and twice the money.

One of my favorite summer shirts you'll see in many of my RV travels
(Kentucky Lakes, Kentucky 2016)

There are hundreds of websites, U-tubes, and such
that focus on various travel topics.
but I thought I'd share a few of my own personal thoughts to make
packing a little more personal.
Today I'll write about wardrobe tips for your upcoming summer trips.

When packing clothing for a long or short trip,
take a look at what you packed, then cut it in half.
I promise you won't wear half of what you packed so no need to
add work to the process.
When there is climate changes involved, packing can be a bit more challenging.

A favorite t-shirt-- wash-N-wear items to throw in the washer-dryer in our 40' motor home
(Aspen, Colorado 2016)

We drove our motor home to California last September,
so shorts, a few of my favorite t-shirts, and my favorite pair of 'safe' sandals
were my priority wardrobe.
Fortunately, the weather was warm and beautiful on our 6,000 mile, 2-month journey.
(In colder weather I pack a sweater, a pair of jeans,
and a pair of boots incase the weather turns cool).

The most important thing to wear everywhere is your
SMILE!
Your smile will outshine anything you will wear.
So don't forget to pack it!

See? I wear the same t-shirts over and over and over.
 (in Zion, Utah)

My only piece of luggage when traveling international to warm countries such as
Belize and Costa Rica is my faithful backpack on wheels.
For cooler countries, such as Paris, London, or Scandinavia,
I roll everything in a carry-on, take a large purse, dress in layers,
carry my coat on the plane, and wear my boots.
Look for websites and u-tubes for packing information.

My very favorite shirt; I wear it everywhere.
I love Paris! (2014)

I wear and pack very little make-up.
I use facial wipes to cleanse face every night,
smear on lots of lotion, and drink gallons of water.
We love to eat at local restaurants in every town and country,
so I keep my Isagenix shakes and vitamins nearby to keep me on the straight and narrow.

I love Paris when I eat!
(Dreyer Island, SC)

So whether you love to travel,
enjoy watching TV travel programs,
or just enjoy reading about traveling on blogs, hopefully mine,
I'm happy to have you on board.

We'll soon be heading to the beach for two weeks.
I'm looking forward to relaxing days of reading, wRiting, walking, blogging,
eating, swimming, meeting new friends ... sound fun?
Please come along!
You can find more about my travels on my website
www.sharonleaf.com

A few more important tips:
#1: Before we leave our house, we call our local police department.
They'll drive by our house several times a day or night, at random times.
#2:  We contact our local post office to hold our mail.
#3:  We have a trustworthy neighbor that keeps an eye on our home.
Now, we're off to a great start!


You gave me life and showed me kindness,
and in your providence watched over my spirit.
Job 10:12

Whether you travel around the world or around your block,
I wish you oceans of travel blessings!

Daughter's 50th, and other Surgical Moments

Sunrise at Hunting Island, SC 2016

May your footsteps set you upon a lifetime journey of love.
May you wake each day with His blessings
and sleep each night in His keeping.
And may you always walk in His tender care.

Hello... how are you?
Now, may I ask,
when does one have the time to write?

I know, I know,

a writer must make time to write.
Just as a
painter must make time to paint that priceless picture,
or the photographer must make time for those magnificent photo shoots,

So, lets talk a little about guilt
because I know we all go through this
at one time or another.

Confession:
I'm guilty of sleeping until after 7,

sipping my first cup of coffee until 8 or 9 while reading, watching TV,
or watching a sunrise.

By the time I put on my face,

get dressed, make the bed,

eat breakfast, clean kitchen,

put in a load of laundry or two,

take Popcorn for her morning walk,

It's lunchtime.

And so the days go.

However, I do have lots of fun in-between.
No guilt there.
After all, I am retired.

Between the process of all my long-awaited 

pre-op surgery appointments, classes, etc.
over the last two months,

I have been spending lots of time at the gym

swimming and working out

to prepare my body for my upcoming knee replacement surgery.
Brownie points here.

Jacquie's 50th Birthday Bash
Family & Friends
"Girls Just Wanna Have Fun!"

And then there was my daughter's big

50th BIRTHDAY KARAOKE PARTY
last Saturday night.

I always over-extend myself at her parties

because I have so much fun

singing old and new songs from

all genres.

Now I'm hoarse and my knee really hurts.

But worth all the pain for a night

of pure celebration.
More brownie points.

Speaking of age...
Golly, I don't feel 70 until

I realize that I now have a daughter who is

50!

I'm old,

But young at heart.

And that's what matters.
More brownie points to feeling young.

As I continue to prepare for my surgery,

which shall FINALLY take place this Monday morning,

My heart is full of thankfulness

for the many blessings in my life,
including the best ortho-surgeon in the south
(thus the long waiting list for surgery).
I also know that I am in the hands of the great physician,
Jesus,
not to forget my Robinski and family and friends.

Then after three weeks of in-house rehab,

Robinski will gently load me into 

Moon River,
(I named her just the other day; so appropriate, don't you think?)

our 40-foot American Tradition coach,

and off we'll travel to Myrtle Beach for a week...

or more.

Moon River is ready to travel

I know I'll find time to write on the road.
Then: no more guilt.
But don't expect too much while

I'm mending from my surgery.

Strangely, as I write this blog,
I feel the guilt melting away.
After all, what is really meaningful in this life anyway?
Yep,
God, Family, and Friends.

So as you read this,
I hope you are being set free from the guilt you may be feeling.
Make sure your priorities are in order,
then go out and make this a beautiful day.

And that's all I'm gonna say about that.

I shall soon return as
Lady Traveler aka the Bionic Woman!

Until next time,
Keep traveling on your journey of love

Stand at the crossroads and look...
ask where the good way is,
and walk in it, 
and you will find rest for your souls.
Joshua 6:16

Here's wishing you oceans of springtime blessings.

www.sharonleaf.com

Lady Traveler's ideas on Reading, Writing, Traveling versus Relationships

Paris is always a good idea ~ Audrey Hepburn

Wake up, Sharon!

You're not in Paris anymore.

There's work to be done.

A book to finish...

Lady on the Run
"How to run your physical race and your spiritual race--at your own pace"
I was an avid runner in the 70's, taught a running class, and I'm writing a book about my journey.

Lady on the Run
Me and My 90-year-old mentor and friend, Mary in 2013
at her home in Morro Bay.
We ran a 1/2 marathon together in the late '70's

... A conference to prepare for.
And, oh yes, the book club next week.

Book signing at "Living Real Conference" March 2015
Book Club March 2015

Business cards, flyers, poster, pens, Square, etc.

Yes, the almost-famous author has a full schedule.
But when it comes down to it,
what is really important in life?
You have it right.
Relationships.
With God.
With family.
With friends.

My true friend, Debbie Kreitzer,
Laguna Beach, CA 2007

There is no 'distance barrier' with
God, family, or friends.
Although Debbie went to heaven almost two months ago,
I can still hear her whispering in my ear,
"It is what it is."
"Get over it."
Thanks, Debbie, I needed that.
Confession: 
When I can't hear her voice in my ear,
I listen to a Voicemail she left me when she was
still able to talk.
I cry from the pain of missing her in 'real time.'

Whatever your passion--
writing, traveling, painting, photography, singing,
gardening, cleaning house, reaching out to help someone--
remember to take time for those
special people in your life.

To know someone here or there with whom 
you feel there is an understanding
in spite of distance or thoughts expressed --
that can make of this earth a garden.

Wherever you travel,
I wish you oceans of moments with God,
with family,
and friends.


All sunshine and sovereign is God,
generous in gifts and glory.
Psalm 84:10

www.sharonleaf.com

Travelin' north to North Carolina

Joys come from simple and natural things; mists over meadows,

sunlight on leaves, the path of the moon over water,
water fights with the family.

Aiming at my granddaughter!

We laughed so hard we cried!
(Granddaughter Destinee)

I apologize for my absence from Lady Traveler,

But hey! it's summer!   

I'll make this short and to the point because

 I'm having a wonderful fun-filled summer.

I'm not taking much time to sit in my office

at my desk on my iMac.  My choice.  No guilt.

Instead, I'm spending an hour a day at the clubhouse pool

getting in my hour swim.

No lounging because I get enough sun swimming; 

the sun's reflection doubles my tan

so I make sure I put 70Block on my face). 

Sun block and an umbrella

 I'm also volunteering a few hours a week at our church office, going to visit Gi-Gi (Rob's Mom),

assisting Rob in business matters,

writing, and going on fun outings with family and friends.

Road trip vehicle, Rob's baby.
Ford Edge Sport with paddle shifters & 22" rims

We'll be taking a road trip to Winston-Salem, NC this week-end

to see our daughter.

We haven't seen her or her hubby in a year

so we're looking forward to our reunion.

In the midst of our sunny summer, lets take time to pray

 for those who are going through hard times, for our country, and pray for the peace of Jerusalem.  

Shout and sing for joy, you people of Jerusalem,

because the Holy One of Israel does great things before your eyes.

Isaiah 12:6 NCV

I wish you smooth summer sailing and oceans of blessings!

www.sharonleaf.com

Life is a Journey

One large bouquet (YOU!) can go a long way.
When you mentor, you multiply

Life is not a journey to the grave

with the intention of arriving safely

in one pretty and well preserved piece,

but to skid across the line broadside,

thoroughly used up, worn out,

leaking oil, shouting

GERONIMO!

There are moments when we feel worn out, 

used up, ready to throw in the towel. 

 Our emotions can do a number on us physically,

telling us to go to bed and pull the covers over our heads.  

I've done that, but through the years I have learned a better way. When these feeling try to overcome me, 

I make a bee-line to my back door.  

Don't judge me...I'm not running away.  

I know that once I'm outside, breathing in fresh air, 

listening to birds chirping, admiring God's creation,

I will gather a better perspective of my challenge-at-hand. 

I'm not a psychologist, but I have a little tip:  

Next time you are met with a challenge or disappointment, 

go to that place of quietness where you can take some deep breaths, settle your spirit, quiet your emotions, and talk to your Creator.  Jesus is waiting for you, to lead you and guide you 

through the valley of the shadow of death.  

You will come out stronger, ready to get back in the race and shout, GERONIMO!

After running my first 1/2 marathon.
VICTORY!

A word for someone out there in Blog Land: 

Keep running your race--at your own pace.  

God is not finished with you.  

Look around.  

Someone is watching you, whether you know it or not.  

Point them towards heaven with the life you live.  

You lead, not with only the words you speak, but by example. Through your writing, your art, your gift of hospitality, your smile.

Holding forth the word of life;

that I may rejoice in the day of Christ,

that I have not run in vain,

neither laboured in vain.

Philippians 2:16

I wish you smooth running and oceans of blessings!

www.sharonleaf.com 

Summer's Past, and Summers Past

Flying to Belize

One cannot collect all the beautiful shells on the beach.
One can collect only a few,
and they are more beautiful if they are few.

I usually travel during the summer, but this year I told Rob that I wanted to hang around Leaf's Lake House and relax.  I made a commitment to myself that I would spend August relaxing, reading, wRiting, and swimming.  And of course visiting Rob's mother who has been in the hospital, now in physical therapy, soon to be admitted to a nursing home.  Through it all, she keeps her sense of humor and love for God.  But now that summer is winding down, I'm feeling a little sad because I've enjoyed these past weeks so much.

The weather here in the south has been unpredictable with more rain, clouds, thunder, lightning than usual.  But each time I'd glide into the swimming pool, I would look up--eyes protected with UV sunglasses--into the cloud-filled sky to find the sun shining through, right over the pool.  Smiling, I continued lapping.  One afternoon there came a cloudburst, but no thunder and lightning.  Swimming in the rain with my sunglasses protecting my eyes from the pounding rain felt like a delightful outdoor shower.  My summer of tenacity voted me Esther Williams of Golden Hills.  Like I always say, it's never too late!  Sixty-four-year-old Diana Nyad can vouch for that! (she just completed swimming from Cuba to Florida!)

Summer is winding down, but I'm feeling invigorated as Autumn breezes slowly approach.  I will replace swimming with long walks and SaSuBe dance classes.

A Tip to all of you out there in Lady Leaf Land:  take care of your body, soul and spirit.  You'll feel--and look--much better when you do.

How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!

How vast is the sum of them!

We're I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand.

Psalm 139:17-18

I wish you smooth sailing through Fall and oceans of blessings!

Brother's house in Zion

Ahh, Zion National Park

U.S. Whitewater Center
Charlotte, NC

www.sharonleaf.com