Long, Leisurely Summer Days

Today has been near picture perfect for an early Summer day. I've been enjoying Wimbledon tennis and doggie-time indoors and my walks and bluebirds outdoors. Before going in last night, I could observe three of the baby bluebirds all cuddled up together on a branch of a tree that is very near our deck. Mama and Daddy Bluebird are always nearby. I'm glad they have managed to get them into the trees in our yard. That makes possibly nine children to this couple. They have also begun on their third brood as Mama is spending a lot of time around and in the bird box.

We had a storm hit Louisville last night in Central Kentucky. I heard about it before I went to Bible study, because we thought it would be coming this way. However, as we left the church, we were commenting on how beautiful it was, didn't see a storm anywhere on our horizon. When I watched the eleven o'clock news I was surprised to see all the damage done to Louisville, more specifically, Churchill Downs. Thankfully, there were no deaths or injuries to man nor horse, even though nine of the barns on the backside were destroyed or nearly so. Horses were running loose on the track and simulcast racing was cancelled for today. Pictures of a tornado have been on TV and in the newspaper. Again, we were lucky to have dodged another bullet here in the Lexington/Georgetown area.

My morning walks today included seeing many deer. I think they are getting used to having me walk by them now. Most times, they simply look up from where they are grazing or eating leaves and just watch until I pass by. When they are in the road or right by it, they will pause and take their time before heading into the nearest cover of woods or high grass. I was even given the opportunity this morning to see five baby swallows sitting on a wire. I wasn't sure what kind of species the babies were until Mama Swallow decided to swoop menacingly over my head. She then lit on the wire protectively above them. It's amazing how many baby birds you can hear and see this time of year when you take the time to watch and listen for them.

I wanted to say something about today's UpperRoom, but I see it's already time to get ready for my lunch date, so that will have to wait. I remember enjoying it, as usual, and flipping around in my Bible to read the verses that were highlighted. I know it had to do with being Holy because God is Holy. It reminds me of that comment about doing what someone says, not what they do. When God's people didn't want to always do what he said, He knew it would be more powerful to let the people do what He did. That's why he came to earth as a newborn. As this baby grew, he showed us the example of God's word through his life. So, in essence, through Jesus God is telling us to do, not just as he says, but as he does. We can be Holy, like God. We can do that by living our lives as our one and only role model did. Jesus Christ lived a Holy life. Let us go and do likewise.

I hope you're having a beautiful summer day. Stay safe, luv, Susan