The gentle winds of autumn have really been a breath of fresh air here in the Lowcountry, perfect for a day at James Island County Park. It was so good to get together with fellow Dixie Landers and friends from the MUSC (Medical University of South Carolina) Storm Eye Institute at Dixie Land's Fall Outing. Present were 12 adults, four young people, three dogs (two working guides and one guide dog puppy in training) and, oh yes, two baby goats courtesy of Sheryl's Farm. Thanks to Shirley Anderson with MUSC for the pictures.
The beautiful weather was just right for a walk. I had already walked three miles with my Lab Sonny (who is soooo not a guide dog), so I went with Terrie to helped collect the food while our guests enjoyed a little hike. Dixie Land GDU provided snacks and drinks for all in attendance, and each of our young guests was able to take a turn bottle feeding the baby goats.
My fellow Dixie Landers and I continue to serve as peer mentors for people who have recently lost their sight. Last year, we joined forces with the Storm Eye Institute, teaching Sensitivity and Awareness to their staff and students, and helping them to find resources for their patients. We look forward to spending more time with our friends from MUSC and are excited about the possibility of starting a tandem bicycling partnership in the future. .
In October, I caught an early-morning train to Florida for Music Ministry in the Greater Orlando area. Here I am with Pastor and Mrs. Phil and Connie Glick (pictured above) during fellowship time at the First Baptist Church of Longwood, FL, following my concert there. Pastor Phil and Connie are longtime friends of mine from East Central Illinois, currently serving as volunteers for Wycliffe Associates in Orlando. I've been honored to work with the Glicks, presenting for their churches in Illinois. Also, in South Carolina, Pastor Phil and Connie served on our chaplaincy team during Top Dog-Charleston, 2019. It was great to be with them again, this time in one of God's Florida "family rooms." Thanks, Pastor Phil and Connie, for taking time out to come see me.
I was also blessed to catch up with my dear friends, Arleigh and Diane Baker and their son, Tom (the guy behind the camera). A fellow musician, Arleigh has served as a technical adviser of mine for many years. I always treasure time spent with him and his beautiful family.
In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I am indeed grateful for the heartfelt prayers and support of the churches, ministries, community organizations, pastors and other folks who believe in me, my Christian walk and my professional musicianship. What a joy it is to serve our Lord together, break bread and share in fellowship with such a wonderful bunch of people!
Stay tuned for more posts like this one. Until next time, God bless you and keep His Song in your heart!
© 2019 by Laurel Jean Waldenµµµµ
No comments:
Post a Comment