Fall into fun...

Doesn't he just look so happy? Issac Babcock, from the Winter Park/Maitland Observer, snapped this shot of Rex at Fleet Peeples Labor Day weekend. Mom has worked so hard to keep Fleet Peeples dog friendly, and our little family celebrity (along with his big brother) certainly appreciates her efforts!

Labor Day weekend, technically speaking, puts an end to summer. Whites and seersucker have been put away, and slowly but surely, fall is starting to roll in. While it's still pretty warm in the afternoons here in Savannah, it's noticeably cooler in the morning and just downright pleasant in the evening. SEC football is in full swing, and pumpkin spice lattes are back at your local Starbucks. Soon, it'll be time for me to head to Sam's and stock up on pumpkin bread mix for the fall season and holidays. 

There's a lot to look forward too. Football season always means a chance to see friends and family more frequently than I get to see them the rest of the year. Sugarland is coming in concert to Savannah in October, which I am super excited about. And in a week, I get to head down to the Sunshine State for two weeks for work, which is a sudden, unexpected surprise. I've been feeling particularly stressed out about things at the office, and I think being able to get away for a bit and do something a little different will be a most welcome change of pace.

Wherever you are and whatever you're up to, I hope you will relish these last several weeks of longer days and warm weather. Have a happy, happy fall!

Love the time

I was first introduced to David Bailey in July of 2000. After applying and being denied admission to Emory's youth theological study programs, we weren't quite sure what I would do with my summer. Well, with God's grace, Mom & Dad stumbled upon the Summer Youth Institute at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. I went, as I recall, quite reluctantly. What was in store for me during the two weeks I spent in the 'burgh still blows me away to this day. I formed incredibly strong, wonderful friendships with my fellow SYIers, interns and staff.

But, one of the greatest gifts from that summer was David Bailey and his music. You can read David's bio here. I certainly can't do justice to it. What you will find is that it is an incredible testament of faith, hope and love. David was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in July of 1996 and given six months. That six months turned into 14 years. On September 3rd, David was moved into hospice care, and I hope that you will please keep David and his family in your prayers. And remember, that regardless of what happens in this transitory life, "we'll live forever in this home that we call love."

Way beyond the now into the not yet,

it’s easier to wonder than it is to forget.

Hope knows no boundaries and faith no borderline,

so we can only learn to love the time.

Love the time it takes to watch the sunrise.

Love the time the thunder splits the air.

Love the time the snow covers the rooftops.

Love the time we have to share.

Way beyond the not yet into the never been,

there’s a silent song that waits for us to sing.

It’s message is a miracle and it’s melody sublime.

We gotta learn to love the time

Love the time the chance unfolds before you.

Love the time it takes to find the truth.

Love the time you’re dancing with the mysteries.

Love the wisdom of the old and the vision of the youth.

Way beyond the never been into the here we are.

The hour glass is turned again like a distant shooting star.

If we ignore the moments we commit the greatest crime.

We gotta learn to love the time.

- David M. Bailey