A Great Way to start the Year. . .

“Real satisfaction is found not in money, but in loving relationships with God, our spouse, children, and friends. Loving relationships are our greatest assets. Most of us could live with less money, and may of necessity have to do so. But, if that helps us focus on relationships, then we still come out winners. Let me remind you of the words of Jesus: "A man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions." If you understand that truth it will change your life forever.”  

This was excerpted from an article by Gary Chapman, author of the Five Love Languages, and really touched me.  I’ve had times in my life when material possessions played too much a part of what I ‘thought’ would make me happy instead of the family and friendships I should have treasured . . .along with a deeper relationship with God.  But I now realize WHAT is truly important and what really makes me happy.  I’d like to share a recent experience with you that is related to the above discussion. 

  This was one of the BEST New Year’s I’ve ever had in my life and was spent with some great new friends in West Virginia on a snow ski trip.  

We had 25 people in a 4-story cabin/condo and while it may sound crowded, it was a blast.  We cooked hot chili’s and soups to warm us from the cold, took lots of great photos, played hilarious games til midnight or after, played in the snow and had snowball fights, and laughed until my sides hurt.  

“Apples to Apples” and “Catch Phrase” are my two favorite new games.  I will forever hear names crackling over the 2-way radios such as “Moon-doggie” “Helen Keller” “Green Hornet” “Bodacious Betty” “Foxy Roxy” and of course “Tiny Dancer”. 

Most of this group became friends over 30 years ago through water skiing and/or Callaway Gardens and have remained friends through the years enjoying annual beach/Lake weekends, and snow ski adventures. During all of this ‘fun’ it’s always apparent how this group cares for each other despite their ribbing and teasing each other. 

In fact we had a devotional that Sunday night and Dave spoke about the comaraderie and encouragement this group has for each other.

As I lay flat in the snow  from a fall or as I crept down the mountain in my prevalent “pizza slice” stance I received only encouragement (with a few friendly giggles). 

 

As I said, it was one of the best times I’ve ever had, and an adventure I’ll always remember.  "Thanks” Don for inviting me, and a big thanks to all of them for making me feel welcomed on this particular adventure at Snowshoe.