Along the Garden Path ~ Outdoor Wednesday

There's a wonderful arboretum and botanical garden just a skip and a hop from my house. I used to go there a lot when my daughter was small. It's such a peaceful place, ideal for centering your thoughts, or just letting your mind wander. And everywhere you turn, something magnificent awaits.

Here in Southeast Texas, we don't get many "perfect" days this close to summer, but Monday was one of them. So, when my sister suggested we go to Mercer Arboretum, I jumped at the chance. And when I had a phone call that needed to be returned, I couldn't resist the potential of this shady bench (above). With very little effort, I could've napped the afternoon away right there. Maybe next time I will.

Walk with me? (Click on the images for bigger and better views.)

While resting a spell in a swing, I looked up and saw this.

Who couldn't spend an afternoon sitting on a bench in this shady spot?

This wall of water provides a cool splatter on those hot summer days in Texas.

If you look closely, you'll see a couple of turtles in this lily pond.

So many tree species, I could never remember them all.

A perfect place for lovers to stroll arm-in-arm.

Sometimes you just have to step away from the bad news of the world and find the splendor in an ordinary day. I found it here on Monday ... and all free for the taking. Who could ask for more?

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Join Susan for Outdoor Wednesday.

Grateful on Tuesday

Every Tuesday, Laura poses the question, "What are you grateful for today?" She calls it "Gratituesday" and one thing I've learned is when you start counting your blessings, your problems tend to disappear.

Emily hosts "Tuesdays Unwrapped," where bloggers find that unexpected gift in the midst of the ordinary.

Yesterday, I spent the large part of the afternoon with my twin sister, just running errands here and there. Afterwards, I dropped her off at her house and was reminded again how blessed I am. Two years ago, she bought a house in my neighborhood. I mean right down the street.

It may seem a small thing to some, but we're best friends and it's been a blessing living so close to each other.

Join Laura for Gratituesday at Heavenly Homemakers!
Join Emily for Tuesdays Unwrapped at Chatting at the Sky

Splashes of Spring

While browsing in an antique shop recently, I couldn't leave this adorable pair of $9.00 rainboots behind. In a perfect world, they would have real flowers in them (secured in small jars of water, slipped inside each boot), but my world isn't perfect, so these fake flowers will have to do for now. What could be more symbolic of spring than a pair of rainboots?

It's a Show and Tell party over at Cindy's blog. If you want to be wowed, head on over.

Wildflowers in Texas - Outdoor Wednesday

The Man and I took a little day trip yesterday, in search of some Texas wildflowers. This photo was shot in Independence, Texas, a quaint little town with a lot of history.

After my sis suggested I should've posted all of my wildflower pics, I decided, why not? So, here they are:

You'll find other great outdoor views at Susan's Outdoor Wednesday blog party.

On Sunday

The song I'm posting below, "On Sunday," was written by my lovely and talented identical twin sister, Gayle, and it features Gayle on all of the vocals. I may seem a bit prejudiced, but I just tell it like I see it. Gayle has been an anointed songwriter since she was 15 years of age. (Go to her blog if you'd like more info about her musical history)

"On Sunday" is a powerful and moving song about the cross and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. I can't listen to it without getting goosebumps. So, crank up the volume and enjoy! The lyrics appear below the video clip.

This post is part of the Sunday blog community at Spiritual Sundays. Be blessed and have a wonderful Easter weekend! He arose! Let's celebrate!

ON SUNDAY
Words and music by Gayle Allen Cox©
All vocals performed by Gayle Allen Cox
Musical arrangements produced and performed by Michael Rathbun

On Friday, He was crucified.
He bowed His head and he gave his life
That Friday, when they nailed Him to a tree.
He bore my sins.
He paid the cost.
He took my blame.
He gave his all,
That Friday, when they nailed Him to a tree.

On Friday, an angry mob cried, "Crucify him, this so-called god,"
That Friday, when they nailed Him to a tree.
The heavens cried. The thunder rolled.
The sky was black and the air was cold,
That Friday, when they nailed Him to a tree.

But on Sunday, He arose!
And on Sunday, He conquered every foe!
'Cause on Sunday, the stone was rolled away!
The devil was delivered a resounding defeat!
The plan of God was at least complete!
'Cause on Sunday, He conquered death, hell and the grave.

On Friday, the veil was torn in two.
Nothing stood between the presence of God and you.
So on Sunday, sin could be erased.
Redeeming love brought amazing grace.
'Cause on Sunday, the stone was rolled away.

The battle was over.
The victory was won.
Eternal life for you and me was won.
'Cause on Sunday, He conquered death, hell and the grave.