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| Rosemary. Sage. Thyme. |
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| An embroidered cloth which belonged to Richard's grandmother. |
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Collection of second-hand dishes which have become
our seasonal treasures. |
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| Working on our "Thankful Tree" |
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| Crayon "bark" gets caught under our fingernails. |
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| The finished product. |
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| Complete with resident cardinal. (Painted by 9 year old artist) |
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Awaiting the feast.
(Indian corn napkin holders are also the work of young artist) |
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| Ready to "gobble" it up! |
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| Sweet feet. |
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| Happy, even though he's too young for solids. |
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| Sisters |
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| More sweet feet. |
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| Love. |
Many, many years ago, they left everything they'd ever known for the hope of creating something else. Something they believed would be better for them and their families. Two children were born during their long journey and given names to signify the experiences their families had endured:
Oceanus and
Peregrine. "Ocean" and "Wanderer".
I've never traveled on a boat. I don't know what it's like to have the laws of your country restrict the way you worship. And I've never had to grow my own food for survival. Compared to those courageous pilgrims who ventured across the ocean, my life looks pretty prosperous, and very secure. But I have traversed some stormy seas in my time. I've had my principles challenged by law and by popular beliefs now and then. I'm no green thumb, but 11 years practice in the kitchen has taught me a thing or two about how to feed a growing family. I have no need of leaving my home, carting my family to any distant land of promise.
But, I am a Pilgrim. Everyday I set out on a voyage of discovery and exploration. Everyday, I give thanks for the blessings of life, family, love, and - most of all - hope. For without hope, nothing else is possible.
Every dawn is the beginning of another journey. Some days the skies are heavy with threatening, gray clouds and we are tossed on choppy waters. Others, we glide tranquilly towards the shores of bliss. But always, we are sailing into unknown territory. Always, we are making history. Day by day, minute by minute, we choose which direction we'll take and what sights we will see. And who we will become.
What course will you chart today?
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Campbell Family
November 2013 |
Your words gave me chills. So well said. And your feast was beautiful. I especially like the embroidered tablecloth from Richard's grandmother. What a treasure. So grateful to have you in my life.
ReplyDeleteWow! What compliments! I appreciated your kind words so much. Arianne.
ReplyDeleteI knew you'd like that cloth, too! I thought of you when I was photographing it ;)