Hello 2012

Summer, 1 day shy of 16 weeks

You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Psalm 16:11 (NKJV)

2012 dawned clear and bright. One of those days that reminds us why we live in Florida. While our friends to the north are battling snow and ice, we loaded up the horses and headed out for a ride. Husband very kindly gave us his holiday to drive me so that I could join my friends and a bunch of their friends at Hardee Lakes County Park off County Road 62 near Bowling Green. Another reclaimed phosphate mine recycled into a recreation area. There are five large lakes with hiking and horseback riding trails, boat ramps, picnic facilities and several nice restrooms. The campground leaves a lot to be desired, $26 for one night with no electricity, water or bathrooms, but for day use, it is only $5.00 per car which bought us a nice long ride and time for a picnic. We rode for almost three hours without crossing a trail twice. We were on the lake shore, in the woods and in clearings. It was a nice mix of terrain. At one point, some of the riders even let their horses swim. Mine is always too busy eating the green, wet water plants to be concerned with swimming. With such a big group, you could switch off and ride with the slow paced riders some and then, mix in with the ones who like to go fast. It was just the kind of ride I enjoy. The only complaint I had was some areas were so dry that we kicked up a lot of dust. But, I could tell that those same places are very wet in the rainy season, so I think it was better to be dry than sinking up to the horses knees in muck. Husband took Summer to keep him company and the two of them did a little hiking, but mostly stretched out in the back of the truck for a nap. That’s how I caught them sleeping under the shade of a big oak together when we returned. We started off the day with long sleeves, but by midday it was warm enough to sit in the shade in short sleeves as we snacked on leftover ham and rolls and visited with new friends. I used to have a superstition that however I spent New Year’s Day was how I would spend the rest of the year. I would always avoid cleaning house or doing laundry and try to do something fun. Now, of course, I know that housework and laundry will always be a big part of my life, but if I get even just a few more days like today, I will be relaxed and happy. It is interesting to me that those old mining areas which were once rough and barren can be made into such beautiful places with time, trees and amenities. Kind of like my life once God took control of it. Where once there was emptiness is now joy. Whether or not I am on horseback!

I see where there is a group of bloggers posting the same subject every month on the first for a year. I think I will participate with my new favorite subject. I didn’t have my camera today so don’t have a picture of her sleeping in the truck with husband. This one will have to suffice.

http://www.murrieta365.com/

Also, please pray.  http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/01/01/mount-rainer-national-par_n_1178709.html

This hits home with me.  Oldest son has this same job in a different park.  “Routine” traffic stops all the time.  I am on my knees.