THE SOUL is shaped by words, images, & experiences.

THIS BLOG is about those things that have left their impression on me. I'd love for you to comment on what affects you.
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Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Bougatsa at the End of the Barren Road

Due to a massive exodus of holiday-goers, the streets of Athens are deserted. (Like this blog in recent weeks. Sorry!) My intent to grab a loaf of bread from our neighborhood bakery this morning turned into a quest. Masked windows and locked doors shunned me at every step. Clothing shops still bearing the bright banners of the summer sales appeared ghostly. I peeked in at their empty racks and imagined the absent garments gracing sunburned backs. (Admittedly, I felt a little envious of the vacationers, until I recalled the unbearably crowded beaches of past Augusts.)

"Greek businesses should stagger their vacation times," I complained.

Then I thought, "But, isn't life like this August rush?" Our days of excitement aren't spread out; they come and go in clumps.

My kids visited last month. We had a wonderful time together (see posts below). Now, they’re gone. I won’t pretend I didn’t lament over their leaving. I did. After Peter and I dropped them off at the airport, I came home and scoured the apartment of all evidence of them. I didn't want to be tempted to cry over their wrinkled bedsheets, empty hangers and full waste baskets.

But you know what? The lonely days, the difficult days—they’re all good. Each one is a gift from God. "This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."

The Bible says: “Be still, and know that I am God”.

The great thing about walking a barren road is, without the distractions, it’s easier to concentrate on Him.

I eventually did find a bakery open for business today. Just to be on the safe side, I bought three extra loaves to store in my freezer. Best of all, I treated myself to a delicious piece of Greek custard pie. (See bougatsa)

4 comments:

dot said...

Reminds me of what happens to our Jersey shore towns after Labor Day. Lydia, remember our experience in Belmar trying to find a place to eat?
Also reminds me of Ecclesiastes 3:1. To every thing there is a season.

Brenda Susan said...

Lydia, This is a good reminder for me to enjoy my sons while they are still in my home. We are so ready for them to move on.( They are 21 & 25, the 25 yr old has been out for a few years then had to return due to roommate issues.)

So I keep imagining getting that bedroom back for my own prayer & exercise room. Probably should be grabbing the few momments we have left together as a family in one house huh? Thnx for the reminder!
Brenda

Shannon said...

hi Mrs. Lydia!!
I just wanted to say hi!!! this is Shannon Mamaloukas. I can't even begin to tell you how much I enjoy reading your blog. Vannessa told me about it. ANd it has been so heartwarming and homesickening to be in a church that reads bro Peter's prayer letters (Bible Baptist Beleivers in Macedonia Oh)!! Congratulations to the newly weds!!

Love, Shannon

Lydia said...

DOT, you're absolutely right. Eccl. 3:1 sure puts things into perspective.

BRENDA, Your time is coming! ;) Enjoy the full season while it lasts.

HI SHANNON! Thanks! What a wonderful surprise to see you here! We miss you and pray for you all. Work on that husband of yours about coming next vacation he gets. ;)Why not?