"Rest Awhile"

I woke up and peeked though the zipper of my hammock. The darkness of the night had disappeared as a new morning was born, once again uncovering the beauty around us. Just outside the small pavilion where four of us had hung our hammocks, I could see the bright blue water stretching far beyond the sandy white beach.
"I'm pretty sure this is the life!" was one of the first thoughts that popped into my mind. :) I can't remember the last time I had felt this relaxed.
Kendra, Bethany, Beth and I had managed to slip away for a day and a half to a beautiful little beach cove a taxi, ferry, and motor ride away. Despite the fact that the ocean is not very far, our lifestyle here hasn't afford too much time away. I remember my niece once asking me, "Auntie Sarah, have you gone to the beach lately?" I had to think back aways- it had been over five months.
Now as our days here are being numbered, we all decided to make extra effort to enjoy our beautiful backyard beyond the city smog.
It was a delightful time away, and a good reminder that God does want us to "rest awhile" now and again. He has given us both the gift of work and relaxation, but it's sometimes hard to know the healthy balance. I guess that's something we need to work out with Him- He knows best.
As we stepped off the ferry back into the city, I felt like we were hitting reality again. But it was okay. Our little time away had given us precious memories to hold forever, and renewed strength to face whatever was next.
Today I got a card that had the following saying: "Lord help me remember that nothing is going to happen today that You and I can't handle together." It's so true, but I believe with the Lord, not only can you "handle" what life brings you, it also becomes a joy.

Thanks again for letting me spill out what's on my heart and mind- or at least a tiny fraction of it! ;)

Sending hugs and greetings from the Philippines!
SH

P.s. pictures to follow sometime this week :)