Tuesday, August 21, 2007

Bah-ston

Edited with Day I AND DAY II below:
Sweet siestas,
Why the Lord would bless me with the spiritual sisters that you have become to me leaves me humbled on the floor. It is the least I could do to give you a brief update before I leave tomorrow!
The life of Shelly Bland lately:
1) If I have to tell one more individual 'goodbye,' I honestly don't know that I am going to make it. The words would probably refuse to leave my mouth. I don't like goodbye's. My El Olam has set eternity in my heart, and it's just stinking hard. So, if you need to tell me 'goodbye' anytime soon, I probably will run in the other direction and start making weird noises of denial!
2) I am leaving tomorrow morning sometime (aka - as soon as I can manage to get myself out of bed, load up the car, and get to the nearest Starbucks.)
3) I sat outside with my doggies tonight. My feet touched the newly cut grass, I was staring up at the stars, and I had on shorts and a t-shirt. I then got this disturbing ache in my heart when I realized I would not be able to do this when I got to Boston. Well, actually, I think I got a little mad too. I am already going to be having to put on long sleeve shirts and toss my flip-flops aside when I get there. People, I think 60 degrees is cold. No joke. It is going to be just as much of a miracle for me to survive the cold as it has been for my Jehovah-Jireh to financially get me there. Lord bless me!
4) I am actually driving to Providence, RI before I get to Boston, MA (they're not very far from one another). Mandy and one of her seminary buddies are meeting me in Providence for a LPL event. Being with some siestas, praising Jesus, and being in the Word - seriously - what better way to start off my semester?
5) I have had so many people lovingly tell me to 'be safe,' 'drive safe,' etc. that I am just about moved to tears over it. Either that, or I'm a bad driver and they are concerned for any human being that will be on the I-95 path from Georgia to Massachusetts in these following days :)
6) I have done the essentials before I left home: got my nails done (thanks to gift certificates), eaten at every possible restaurant I could fit into these 5 days (thanks Mom),and gone to the beach. This tan has to last me for uh...err...3 years, so I decided I should probably go :)
7) I have more laundry to do, things to pack, and it's almost 11 pm. Shh! Don't tell my Mom. She's got enough Mama anxiety knowing that her baby girl is going to be driving to Boston by herself in these next few days and she would probably have a Mama fit if she knew I were still up. So, because I love myself and I don't want to be drooling on my steering wheel tomorrow, I'm signing off. My heart is full. My mind is full. And I am so looking forward to my first hotel night. I am hoping it will have internet and I can talk more about Jesus with you sweet women instead of my traveling agendas! lol
Always a Georgia Peach
DAY I


This was my first state line I crossed. I thought I could keep myself entertained by taking photos of the rest of them. However, when I crossed the North Carolina one, the sandwich I was stuffing in my mouth inhibited me from grabbing the camera at my 70 mph speed and snapping it. So this is all I have! The rest of the state lines that I crossed, I did so on back roads, so I missed out on the fun signs :(

I really wanted to be this guy's new bff, but we had to part ways. I'm sure that we could've been good friends though.


Y'all. I pulled over at some random exit in SC, and saw THIS roller coaster at a park. I just nearly died. In case you didn't know this, I LOVE roller coasters. It was all I could do to make myself get back in the car. I really considered that 3 hours at the park would be just fine. But then I remembered the 17+ hours I had left to drive. So I pouted just a little bit and got back in the car like a big girl.

I spent many hours driving along the Blue Ridge Mountain path and I have been completely breathless at the beauty of His majesty displayed in creation. Clearly, my picture through my window at 70 mph doesn't do justice...but girls! If you could've just seen the way His sun beams danced and cascaded over the pines on the mountains. He stole my breathe away...again.
Too many hours in the car could, theoretically speaking, also cause one to:
1) Use bath foam mistakenly as lip balm and wonder what the intense lip-plumping (err...burning) sensation must be.
2) Talk to, and then began answering, oneself.
3) Make one think they sing just as well Darlene Zschech or Nichole Nordeman.
4) Cause one to be engaged in a new form of walking known to be similar to that of the Tin Man or your friendly penguin.
5) Beat one's head against the steering wheel at the gigantic size of the state of Virginia.
And PS - I have felt your prayers ladies. Seriously...I have thought about it almost every hour that I've been on the road today. I have been amazed at the thickness of His presence He has allowed me to feel and I know it is because of you. From a humbled and grateful heart, thank you...thank you sweet siestas.

DAY II
1) Well ladies, I've made it to Connecticut tonight and am about 2 hours from where I need to be tomorrow in Rhode Island for the LPL conference.
2) I was speaking with a couple of friends earlier and told them how much I felt your prayers and the thickness of His presence guarding my coming forth and going out.
3) So...THANK YOU! Thank you so very much. I have just smiled back at my Jesus multiple times today telling Him how much I love the adventure. And how humbled I am to get to be blessed by the obedience of your hearts. It leaves me overwhelmed.
4) Y'all. I need to confess something. I stopped in a total of 4 (or was it 5) Cracker Barrel restaurants today. It's not that I'm obsessed, it's just that I know that there are none in Boston and I was really trying to hang on to the thought of lima beans, chicken & dumplins, and corn bread for as long as I could. I knew when I reached one in northern Pennsylvania (near NY)that I needed to take my heavy heart to the Lord because the atmosphere had changed. I wasn't sure if I could order sweet tea, or if they would look at me funny if I said 'mam.' I bought some Buckeye chocolates for fear that I wouldn't get them again for a long time, and returned to my car (aka - looney bin by this point in the drive). I took a deep holy spirit breathe, lifted my head to the heavenlies, and told Jesus I was ready to embrace the northern part of the Mason-Dixie line :)
5) My weary body is telling me to go to bed. So I am :) I'll be at a LPL conference until Saturday, and moving in my dorm after that in Boston.

I love you dearly siestas. Jesus has captured my heart with a love for you and I cannot wait to get connected with you in the spirit again soon. Thank you for your grace over my life in my not being able to post anything about His Word to me lately. Keep seeking Him siestas. He Himself is the Greatest Reward. Hugs

47 comments:

jennyhope said...

oh i feel like we are saying goodbye but we have our internet relationship. Also, I am a little sad that I won't be at the LPL event! Praying you up! It is soooo hot here but I am not sure I could handle the cold there. I am so excited for you!!!!! Now go get your praise on in the car!

Amanda said...

What a night... I will be praying for you tomorrow!

Lisa Bolling said...

You are constantly in my thoughts and prayers. Please let me know that you arrive safely.
God bless and keep you in His care!
Love in Christ,
Lisa

a boy a girl and a pug said...

I can't think of a better way to start a new chapter than Beth Moore there to pump you up! Have a safe trip and don't forget to park ya car in harvad yard. LOL or however that goes.

Lindsee Lou said...

Oh Shelly! As much as I wouldn't want to make that drive alone, I can't imagine the Jesus time you get with him! (You know me and my "Car time with Jesus!")

Praying for you as you drive, and your sweet Mama. My mama would be having a fit whether or not I was driving alone.

Lots of love, hugs and prayers on your new adventure. And, have fun at Beth Moore! I am just sure you'll see and meet some blogging siestas!

Linds

jennyhope said...

do they have tanning beds in Boston? Kidding

Lyndy said...

I am praying for you my sweet friend. I can't wait to hear all about your new adventure. I am excited to see what all God has in store for you. I know it will be something great.

Hugs, Lyndy

Unknown said...

Shelly, the weather in the NE changes as fast as a teenage girl...and just as unpredictably. Don't put away your shorts and flip flops yet...you will indeed need them!
By the way, you are totally a LPL junkie. Gotta go get another fix eh? No seriously, I completely understand how being a WORD junkie can inevitably lead you to be a LPL junkie...because it is all about God's incredible WORD!
Have SO MUCH FUN on your trip to the North!
Watch out BOSTON...here comes an incredibly anointed, God loving siesta...she's gonna ROCK YOUR CITY!

Little Steps Of Faith said...

hey girlie:-)
i am so happy 4 u, that this new chapter of your life is starting.
God is just awesome like that:)

i think it is just fine to say that God has blessed this blogworld more than any of us could imagine, and HE has changed lives from the inside out!

do be in touch when you can; looking forward to being with you in spirit; keep ahold of my guardian angel while you drive, and then send it back lol:)

you are loved, you are special, and i know, without a doubt that more blessins' are to come:)

So long from the south siesta:)

Angelina Bumbellina:-)

Anonymous said...

can't wait to c u.
lv

jen said...

Hi there. Okay, I know you don't know me, I'm a confessed "lurker". I found your blog through another and have loved it. I just wanted to say that I will be praying for your move and for Gods protection during the trip. And have a blast praising our Jesus at the LPL event! Prayers from TX. :)

Anonymous said...

I look forward to meeting you in Providence and hope your drive allows much time for contemplation...my favorite part of road trips.

Michelle said...

Oh...don't worry about your tan...you won't be too far from the Cape (which when I lived in NY) became one of my favorite places to be!!! (((hugs)))

THE SMITHS said...

I'm so happy for you lady. Enjoy every minute of the drive up there... Hubby's Mom lives in Mass. Maybe, just maybe we could meet up one day!

Jenny said...

I'm so excited that you're starting this new adventure with Jesus! Praise the Lord and drive safe! (And I have no idea if you're a good driver, so when I say drive safe, I mean it!)

Sharon Brumfield said...

Tried to leave a comment this morning but when I got ready to submit it I got dropped.
I am back to let you know that I will be praying for you and I look forward to hearing what God is teaching you.

Kelly S. said...

Thank you thank you for the update! I am praying for you, can't wait to find out what happens next! Please be safe!
Love you,
Kelly
ps. my (dermotologist) brother says.....self tanner!

Heather said...

I hope you have (had) a safe trip as well! Look forward to seeing (reading) all that God does in your life as you continue the learning and growing closer to Him!

Anonymous said...

I am praying for you today; I'm sure it's not too late.
Tonya

Angela Baylis said...

Dear Shelly,

I am so happy for you right now! Your mother must be so proud of you, too!
Another Mom wanting you to drive safely and ENJOY our siesta Beth once again! I so wish I could join you!
Thanks for including my daughter and I am still so aprreciative for all of your help in regards to her! Please keep in touch if you aren't too busy!

Anonymous said...

It was so great to see you while you were here! I am glad that I have this blog connection! I know that our Jesus will keep you safe on your journey... physically and metaphorically! Love and prayers will be with you!

jen said...

Me again. :) I hope you're move is going well and you've been able to get some rest in. I wanted to let you know I've tagged you with the Nice Matters Blog Award. :)

Praying for you!

Holly said...

Praying for you tomorrow! Glad you made it safe today, Shelly (lip balm and all ;)...God is good!

My uncle, who lived in Clearwater, FL for many years lives in Boston and seems to like it a lot. I hope that you find it to be a blessing.

Remember to "pawk" your "cawr" at the "mawll."
Love,
holly

Unknown said...

You are my new hero! I would NEVER have the guts to drive the trip you are making by myself! You GO girl!

Thanks for the update!

jennyhope said...

praying for you as you are in whatever hotel.

Kelly S. said...

I praise Him for your safety.
Thanks for the update. Carry on!(should I say travel on!)
Love you

MelanieJoy said...

Be safe!! Continue to trust Him and enjoy the journey!! You're in my prayers as well.

Speaking Thru Me Ministries said...

hey sweet girl - keep going, THEY need your light and strength from Him up there!! "Shine like a start, His star!!" Phil. 2:14-15
I am so excited to read all He is going to do in you and through you up there!! wow - so cool!! Please keep in otuch and know that I am lifting you up as He leads!!! you are loved and you are missed - even through the net!!

talk to you soon!!

Lisa @ The Preacher's Wife said...

What an adventure!!! Do you have any idea how this road trip thrills my heart for you??

Ahhh to be young with the world ahead of you...You go girl, in the power of the Almighty!!

much love to you!!

Lisa

Heather said...

Glad that the drive is going so well for you so far! You are prayed for the last 10 or so hours to go! :)

mandy said...

not too happy that you're taking pictures while driving.... nope.

be safe.
and i'll hug you tomorrow!!!!

connorcolesmom said...

Shelly,
Oh I have been praying for you!!
I am glad you posted b/c I have wondered how it was going. I know God gave you that beautiful sunset "dancing over the mountains" just for you my friend :)
He wants you to know how proud He is of you and how much He loves you!!!Oh and I love the pictures but I am going to be a mommy for a second "be careful taking pictures and driving" :)
Still covering you in prayer!!
I love you and can't wait to hear more!!
Kim

Anonymous said...

Dear Shelly,

Wanted to let you know that I just started reading your blog and have been blown away by the maturity that you possess at your young age, as well as the gift He has given you of touching our hearts with your writing..... I shared your blog with another siesta, and we were just in tears and so moved......

I will be praying God's travelling mercies over you the next couple of days.

Barbara
(Canada)

jennyhope said...

you have been awarded something on my blog! ps i was on your heart for a reason today! it was a tough day!

Linda said...

Wow what a trip you have had so far thanks for sharing the pictures were fun felt like I was riding with you Did your lips get bigger or were you able to wipe it off in time? :) On a more serious note, please know that I am praying for you during this exciting and new season of life for you. You are such a blessing.
Blessings

mandy said...

see you today!!!!!

Unknown said...

Goodness girl, are you moving in THIS Saturday or Sunday? I thought we were talking about next weekend! I won't be around til then;-) but i wouldn't complain if you sent me some pics of the room over email...;-)Have a great weekend! Can't wait to meet ya!

Anonymous said...

Wow girl! You are amazing! I am amazed at how well you can read a map! I believe I would never get to my destination! Keep us posted! You will be in our prayers!

Unknown said...

Have a greatly anointed time this weekend as you sit at the Fathers feet! He loves you and is so proud of you!

And life north of the Mason Dixon isn't TOO scary now is it Peach? We aren't the most tactful people at times...but you'll come to appreciate this new season as you find diamonds in the rough!

Holly said...

Clapping for the goodness of God over your trip! May He be praised!!

Continuing to pray...and will be praying for you and Mandy at the LPL event. OH PRAISE GOD!
With love,
holly

Lindsee Lou said...

I am glad you got yourself some Cracker Barrel. Until your next time, you can live vicariously through me because I have one 20 minutes away! :)

Glad your almost there! Can't wait to see pictures of your new home. And yes, please be careful driving and taking pictures. We need you, Shelly! ;)

Lots of love,
Lindsee

Kelly S. said...

Enjoy your weekend with LPL. What a great way to begin this chapter of your life. Just so thankful you made the trip well. Love you!

Fran said...

You go girl...again and again and again!! You are truly inspiring us all by your faith and courage and most of all obedience!! He's got you in the palm of His hand and He's just thrilled with you!!

Keep going strong...You have Him and His Word...what more could you want?!

Blessings....

Jackie said...

you are in my prayers, sweet sister. Let us know when you're there.

connorcolesmom said...

I woke up this morning with you on my mind and I lifted you up! I am so glad you are there!! Travis has pictures on his blog and I could just tell the Spirit has filled that arena! I look forward to hearing how God ministered to you this weekend!!
God bless my friend!
Kim

Patty said...

Shelly!
I have thought of you and Mandy today. I can't wait to hear how God spoke to your heart at the conference. I better see you in Nashville in a few weeks. ;o) What a journey you are on with our Jesus!! I laughed at the Cracker Barrel food. Why? Because I just took my son there a few days ago and I was craving the chicken and dumplins and cornbread and I also bought buckeyes. Marsha's homemade buckeyes. They are to die for good!! I love you and may God bless you with sweet tea in the north!! :o)

Shelly said...

Barbara,

Thank you for your sweet comment. May His Great Name be praised for any of the good that His resurrection Spirit allows to be brought forth out of this pauper-state life of mine! Bless you and your girlfriend. And I guess I'm closer to you now being in Boston, rather than GA :)