Believe it or not, it’s hard for me to believe that Maddie and I head out for our trip after church tomorrow. As slow as time seemed to pass when lugging that backpack up the treadmill, overall, time has flown by since we set the July 2nd departure date.

I spent most of yesterday loading up the Jeep. I couldn’t help but remember the theme song from the Beverly Hillbillies as I added more and more items into PB&J. I’ve checked and rechecked my list, but I’m sure I will forget to take something.

A little spice was added to the mix last night. Maddie finished up work in Asheville and was heading to Rutherfordton to have supper with friends before coming home. She called me around 7:30 with news that you never want to get from one of your children: “I’m broke down on the side of the interstate.”

It looks like her alternator has given up on her. To make things worse, I had just taken our van to my dad’s for him to use while we are on the trip. I didn’t have anything to pull the trailer and Maddie’s car. A church member to the rescue! Mark was “Johnny on the spot.” He was a huge blessing! We didn’t get back home until after 11:00 PM.

Today will be composed of triple checking the list, cutting the grass, and packing the last few things in the Jeep. I hope the next few weeks will bring excitement, adventure, and growth. I look forward to sharing it with you.

Colossians 3:16-17 ¹⁶ Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.¹⁷ And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

As fun as this trip will be, I pray that we keep things in focus and continually give thanks to the Father. May He be glorified and His Son’s Name magnified in our lives as He leads us by His Spirit.

Because He Calls, Old Climbing Dad