I'm home again. There were 5 days of sleeping in another bed not my own and the morning routine of keeping small travel toiletries corralled and balanced on the back of the john in a counterless bathroom. But the inconveniences were completely overshadowed by the wonderful visit with my granddaughters and son. Josh and I meshed our skills in the kitchen as he grilled and cooked, and I baked the desserts of his choice from the repertoire of family recipes. Jill and Elle, the grands, are now old enough to help in the preparation and how fun to see these tried and true concoctions created by the hands of a new generation!
Our few short days together were filled with shopping and playing games, swimming and a birthday party, and some good catch -up chats. I'm thankful for these gatherings and know God is working in all of our hearts to keep us connected to him and each other.
I came home to a cheery bouquet of flowers my husband set on the kitchen counter for my arrival. He had stayed home this time, and it was good to get back together.
As I unpacked my bags, conflicting emotions roiled around the edges of my heart--
joy in the memories,
sadness in missing the faces I'd been touching and kissing,
readiness to return to routine,
not certain I wanted to reenter the normal just yet,
happy to be with my hubby,
nudging to give it all to my Father and let him sort it out
--and I knew peace would eventually come as I delighted in the family ties I was privileged to be immersed in, close at hand or afar in a distant state.
Thank you, Father, for moments of sharing life with those I love and see too little. Thank you for ways to stay connected and your ties that bind us together. You said you would come and take us to live with you forever and you said you love us and will make your home with us now. That's way bigger than travel -sized promises; that's to be at home with you always!
Here's one of those favorite family recipes made on day three of my visit. It's only- four-ingredient- formula makes it quick and easy to prepare.
Soda Cracker Candy
1/2 c. butter 1c. chocolate chips
1 c. brown sugar Saltine crackers (Josh wanted Ritz this time)
Line a cookie sheet with tin foil. Grease the foil. Lay crackers side by side in sheet. Combine brown sugar and margarine in a sauce pan. Bring to a boil and boil 2 and 1/2 mins. Pour over crackers. Bake 3-5 mins. at 350 degrees. Remove from oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips over the crackers evenly. In a minute or so the chips will be melted and gooey. Smooth over the top with a knife. Set in the refrigerator to cool until the top is hardened. Peel away the foil and break into pieces.
This reminds me of an English toffee with a salty twist from the crackers. Warning: these will be hard to resist!
Have a great week!
Sounds like you had a wonderful reunion yourself, Ruth! I relate with the dicotomy of feelings when you must part with loved ones-big-time. Must try your recipe! Thanks so much for your visit. Let me know if you attend your reunion and how it goes. Hope you are blessed like I was.
ReplyDeleteOh my, I know just how you feel! With kids and grandkids in three states, plus senior parents in two states - I feel like I'm often saying hello and good-bye. And it's hard and sweet all at the same time! And oh, aren't we looking forward to someday ALL being HOME in HEAVEN together. :) Have a blessed week.
ReplyDeleteSweet, sweet husband but that's not new to you, is it, Ruth. It's always harder on the one staying home and like you, it's hard to leave but I'm always happy to get home.
ReplyDeleteI've made the soda toffee and it's one of our favorites. Lot of "bang" for the ease of making it.
Blessings,
Pamela
Trips like the one you describe are so good. Thank you for sharing your experiences.
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Charlotte