Three times a year I get to go home and see my mom.  It’s hard living far away. Each time I start to get excited to see her as the date gets closer and I feel sad when I have to leave. Having my next trip already scheduled softens the blow.

There is nothing like going home. It is a welcome respite. I sleep better when I am there and the air in my hometown feels fresher, the colors are brighter, the songs of the birds are sweeter. Whether we are canning peach preserves or baking cookies or going for an adventure to the beach, the days are marked by laughter and new memories. It is true what they say. There is no place like home.

I hope whatever place is home for you is a place that you get to visit often and refresh your soul.

I do not cease to give thanks for you as I remember you in my prayers. (Ephesians 1:16 NRSV)

Renewing God, Thank you for my mom and a respite that renews the soul.  May all be so blessed. Amen.

Photo: Welcome Home with Rainbow Originally uploaded by Jaknouse (Transferred by Gobonobo) (Originally uploaded on en.wikipedia) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons