"October's Bright Blue Weather"

It's the title of a poem that my Mom often quoted to us when we were growing up. I have read it, but can't remember any of the lines without referencing it, and don't even remember the poet's name. I'll have to do the research and report back to you. At any rate, the descriptive title is both an alluring sentiment and an apt snapshot of the mini-vacation the bride and I had about a week or so ago. It was the annual long weekend for me due to state teachers' conferences and it joyfully coincided with a four-day weekend on the bride's schedule too, so we chose to take a drive that allowed both a chance for soaking in a hot springs and also for a quick visit with the collegiate son. The beautiful bride's several sessions of internet perusing and planning resulted in a fun itinerary: one night in a Medieval themed room at a "luxury Bed and Breakfast" near Lava Hot Springs in southern Idaho, a scenic jaunt through Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, and Sunday morning worship and lunch with the boy in Bozeman before returning home. As already alluded to, the crisp, golden days couldn't have been more perfect for our travels: autumn's brilliantly bedecked forests gleaming against the azure abyss beyond; rugged peaks--drizzled with wintry icing--towering above white-capped lakes or winding rivers; peaceful sepia prairies splattered with random patches of red or gold; steamy wisps of whiteness vehemently verifying the volcanic landscape. No matter how frequently I witness the wonders of God's glorious creation, every time I still gasp in awe and revel in His masterful artistry! And the simple blessing of October's bright blueness to enjoy it all in is further proof of His divine providence.

So, in the continuing adjustment to our "just-the-two-of-us" status, this getaway was new territory. Our soak was lovely; misty swirls of steam floating from sandy bottomed pools of varying degrees of hotness contributed to wonderfully relaxing and pleasant moments. Vacation dining is different without the rest of the family too; we enjoyed some flavorful Thai cuisine for dinner one evening, and superbly fresh and piquant Mexican for lunch the next day. Yum! Our "Medieval Chamber" accommodations were fun, but we felt a little guilty knowing how much the princess would have enjoyed the decor too. The ornate four-poster bed was hand-carved in England and purportedly a replica of that of King Henry VIII; the wall paper reasonably resembled a stone castle wall; a not-quite full-size suit of armor occupied a nook along one wall; regal red-plush padded throne-chairs flanked a decorative wooden hearth--both carved from lustrous mahogany; lighting dangled from iron dragon-head fixtures; a portrait of good King Henry and other medieval scenes completed the theme. Here are a few photos of the furnishings--just for fun:
We breakfasted in the morning with some of the other guests on a tasty spread of fruits, and toast, bacon, eggs, and potatoes. This family dining style pushed us a bit beyond our social comfort levels, but was interesting nonetheless. We were a bit surprised that the other guests were considerably younger than us: college students or recent graduates, but it was interesting to meet them and hear their stories. One couple had stayed there on their honeymoon a year before and were back again; another couple were young parents of a toddler and an infant while also university students. They were thankful for nearby grandparents that were caring for their children so they could take this needed getaway. We confessed that we were newly-emptied-nesters so were experiencing life in new ways as well. So, our scenic and relaxing trek culminated with the quick check-in with the son in Bozeman. We got to town just in time to pick him up at his apartment and drive him to late service at church. Worshiping with the kids is always a divine pleasure. We bought him an Arby's meal for lunch and took him grocery shopping for a few needed items, before dropping him off at the university gymnasium for his "sword fighting" club session, and driving on home. We praise God for His blessings on our journey and the lessons he teaches us and the ways He shapes us with each new experience. And, we pray you too will seek Him and find His "bright-blue-weather" blessings in the moments of your life as well.