HAPPILY EVER AFTER

Did you watch the final episode of Downton Abbey? A lot was said about adapting and moving forward into the future and I picked up on it right away since that's where my mind is right now.  And besides, who can argue with the family of the Earl of Grantham?! This conversation takes place on New Year’s Eve--

Lady Cora, "The more adaptable we are, the more chance we have of getting through [meaning the future]" 

Husband, the Earl replies,  "We never know what's coming of course. Who does?"
The Dowager Countess says, "Makes me smile how every year we drink to the future ..."

and the response from Cousin Isobel was, "Well, we're going forward to the future not backwards to the past!"

To which the Dowager replies cheekily with a chuckle, "If only we had the choice!" [Some days I'm with her!]

The fictional story ended with an unspoken but definite nod to...

Since we don't actually live in a fairy tale world, we are perfectly aware that happily ever after is dependent on circumstances and wishful thinking.  But we also know that God’s Word tells us that joy is readily available in all circumstances.

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him" (Romans 15:13)

Very Grand Birthday Party

It'll soon be my granddaughter's 3rd birthday.  She's been putting together her guest list:  Barbie, Cinderella, Aurora, Monsters Inc, Dora, Caillou, Madeline, Minnie Mouse and certainly Sophia the First.  If you don't recognize any of the above, you haven't spent enough time around little girls lately!

Before my recent birthday, the same little girl asked me who I wanted to invite to my party.  That got me thinking and I've decided it would be large and very grand.