Being of Service

My oldest daughter is off on an adventure, a cruise ship vacation with a bunch of single adults from church. They planned this for months and as the time approached have worked out ways to visit the ruins down in Mexico and other side trips. Several of my daughter’s friends are going to meet at the church parking lot and drive down together to save on gas and parking expenses. Bonnie asked if she could borrow Lucy’s Solara rather than go in her Jetta because it would be more comfortable and hold more stuff in the trunk.

Lucy got up early this morning, took the car over to one of those car wash places where you plunk in quarters and power washed to make it look nice for these young people. She even threw in an extra dollar to hot wax it and protect the finish from the salt air down n Galveston. Right now she’s got the vacuum cleaner and is giving the car a few last minute details; Windexing the windows and putting some Fabreeze on the carpet to make it smell great.

Bonnie came down a few minutes ago all excited about the trip. I explained that her mother had been up for hours doing nice things for her and that it would be wise to acknowledge all that with a Thank You. Bonnie was up half the night washing and folding cloths, ironing a few things and in general; trying to keep all those electrified nerves in check. One of her friends called around 2 in the morning, couldn’t sleep either, and wanted to go to the local I-HOP.

I’ll stay out of the way and think “pleasant thoughts” for them as they head into the Gulf waters and the Bay of Campeche where the weather is prime for creating a tropical storm. The weather service is contemplating sending one of their hurricane investigation airplanes to find out if there is any circulation involved with the tropical wave that is drifting to the north.

Bonnie just called on her cell phone; turns out they decided to go in Harrison’s car instead, a little bigger than Lucy’s Solara so we can go pick it up at church should we decided to. Well, at least it’s all cleaned, polished and smells nice. I looked at the weather map again; hope those kids took some Dramamine along; could be some “interesting” weather where they’re headed.

May these young people have a wonderful time, regardless of the challenges that the weather might bring. May they have a safe trip, free from calamity or harm as they enjoy each other’s company in a manner that meets the standards we expect of them. Lastly, may they have a mindset of gratitude for the opportunity that has been presented; that they be cognizant of the blessings that have been poured out in abundance for them. In the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ, Amen.