Monday, January 31, 2011

Guns, Dogs, and Blaze Orange

Today I did something I have never done before... wait for it.... I hunted.  Ok, I didn't actually shoot a bird, or even carry a gun, (I think you have to know how to use one in order to be an official hunter)but I did get up before the sun and tag along with a group of hunters. Yes, I finally gave in..the weather happened to be more to my liking, so I decided to give it a shot (no pun intended).

We began our morning at good ol Mickey D's, (for those of you who know me well, you know what a treat that was ha!), then we headed to our first field.  I have never seen so many crazy, wound up, beautiful dogs  in my life.  We had a crew of about 15 people and at least 20 dogs.  It was one of the most enjoyable, entertaining moments of my life.  There was little wind, the sky was clear, the weather was perfect, and I was surrounded by a gaggle of mammals completely consumed by their mission.  I must say, it was much better than I had anticipated.  At the end of the day, it wasn't too successful, a little too warm probably. But, I did get to see my dog point, and my hubby snagged one in the air, so I personally couldn't ask for much more (and I got in a LOT of walking:) ).

My point in all of this is to say that today I realized how truly blessed I am.  Looking back on my life just a few short years ago, I would have never dreamed that I would be walking around in blaze orange with a bunch of bird killers. Had I continued on my own path, I would never have gotten to experience the love of a new wonderful family, restored relationships with my own, an amazing, encouraging husband, a silly lovable dog, and the peace I now see daily.  God took this mess of a person, picked me up, forgave me,  and then dumped his love on me like I could never have imagined.  I am so glad today that I am in a place where I can see that, grasp it, and just purely enjoy it! Thank you God for your mercy, grace, and boundless love!

Today I would just ask you to take a moment to reflect, maybe even share, about what God has done with and in your own life.  I think it's important to never forget where we came from so we can truly appreciate what we have.  If you have never experienced that joy, than I pray that you would give Him a shot.  He can take your mess and turn it into something beautiful.  May we all bask in the glory of His power and love today, and take a moment to look at that clear blue sky all around us.

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