Here are a couple of my favorite pictures of Ken and I in our well used kayaks. We actually got these in 2005 and used them often. That is, until a couple of years ago. It was getting harder and harder to get in and out of these. In the first years that we had them, we even took them with us when we flew to Florida. These inflatable kayaks are in their own "airplane approved" luggage cases. Each one weighs about 35 pounds. We kayaked in Florida, Alabama, Kentucky, and lots of places in Illinois. Ken has even taken them in the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic ocean. I was not quite as brave as he was. However, I once was lifted up out of the water on the back of a Manatee while kayaking in the Inter-coastal waterway. Well, as part of our closet clean out, we talked about the fact that we were not using these anymore and most likely would NOT use them anymore. I suggested that we offer them to the kids. Doug and Susie were quite happy to add these to their rather extensive collection of outdoor "stuff" (a boat, a canoe, a camper....and much more). So tonight we passed the paddles.....and the kayaks....off to them. It did make me smile to see the added space in the closet in the scrapbook room. It feels good to be clearing out.
And then Ken decided that he needed to have an exercise bike. Winter is coming (sigh) and he will not be able to continue his exercise program when the weather changes. (He has been biking most weekends) So while it was "out with the kayaks" it was "in with the new piece of exercise equipment". Seriously, I am quite happy that Ken is actually DOING something to stay fit and active. So this is a good thing. I confess that it was not exactly my idea of a great thing, but I have warmed up to the idea. And, for now, the new "bike" is in the garage. It will stay there until it is to cold to be comfortable. At that point, we will have to decide exactly where Ken will be "biking" for the rest of the winter.
This is certainly true in so many areas, isn't it? Just when you get rid of one nagging little habit it seems like something different shows up to take its place. The process of clearing out "stuff" and downsizing is great. But it is also good to know when it is right to add some new things into the picture. Sometimes we get so attached to our old stuff that we don't want to part with it. I am sure that I am not only one with a closet or two left to clear out. It is really freeing to purge all of those old clothes that you haven't worn in a year or two (or four) and seeing that space in the cupboard when you get rid of those plastic containers without lids or chipped up coffee mug, brings a smile to your face. But it is also a great feeling to get some new clothes or a new dishes.
Yes, sometimes it is all about "out with the old and in with the new". I am especially glad that with the Holy Spirit, each day is a new day and there is always something new that Jesus is speaking to us. This is a time to let go of all of the "stuff" from the past and bring in all of the new things that Jesus has in store for us in this next season. It is time to celebrate, to hope, to love. This is the beginning of the Feast of Tabernacles - a time of celebration of the harvest and of thanksgiving. So this is exactly the right message!
Jesus, thank you for knowing exactly what I need to hear from you. Holy Spirit, you are always leading us into new things. Thank you for helping us let go of the past and go boldly into the future. Jesus, thank you for your love and care every day! Amen
PS Somehow this blog never posted last night! So here is Saturday's post, on Sunday! There must be a reason for the delay, so I will just say thank you for your perfect timing Jesus!
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