It's been two weeks since my last post. Sorry about that! A lot has happened since then... Let me begin with this.

On Saturday, July 28 our family left for vacation at Pawleys Island, SC. Now I grew up in South Carolina, and there are many beautiful places in the state. But I have to admit that Pawleys Island is the most beautiful place in SC that I've seen. The beaches, the walking trails, the golf courses, the stately oaks garnished with Spanish Moss, and the magnificent houses that compete for supremacy in color, style, and elegance blew me completely away. There have been times that I have really looked forward to coming home from vacation. That was not so this time. I would have no problem making Pawleys Island my home!

Another great thing about Pawleys Island is its proximity to Myrtle Beach. It's far enough to keep the crowds away, but close enough to visit. We visited the so-called "Redneck Riviera" a few times during the week. We made our first (and last) trip to Planet Hollywood... it's very overrated. The stores and restaurants at "Broadway at the Beach" were pretty cool. In fact, I almost bought a shirt in one of the novelty stores. It read, "Yes, I was raised in a barn." I might preach in it one day!

Also, while on vacation, I had one of those "milestone" occasions. I turned 35. It's a little sobering to think that I'm now closer to 50 than I am to 20. To help me celebrate the fact that I'm one year closer to joining AARP, the family took me to Sticky Fingers for dinner. What an awesome meal... It certainly takes the edge off any misgivings about growing older.

Anyway, I'll fill in more details next time...