Documenting the joy and adventure found in the everyday this year, through postcards of my own and those of beloved friends.
The journey began Here.

January 31, 2011

Richmond: Betty Cabell Brogan

Betty Cabell.

We met Summer of 2003. We were destined to be friends. Rockbridge gave me four incredibly special friends that summer. One being Matty, two being Jules, three being Jessica, and of course four being Betty Cabell (listed in no particular order).

We have gone antiquing, shopping, eating, movie watching, and oh yeah- we went to Thailand together. Just a small trip around the world. We have more family dysfunction in common then either of us would wish upon the other. She's strong. Independent. Incredibly Intelligent. When I am with her, I remember that I too, am a grown up. It pushes me to expect more maturity out of others too. I would go anywhere in the world with her. No questions asked. And whenever I think my passport has been a little lonely in my desk drawer I think, "Where should BC and I go?".

Today I opened my mailbox to a couple of postcards. I knew the handwriting, but could not find the signature. On the second one alas it was there, and I of course then felt foolish having to place in my memory who I knew the cards were from.

If you need a lawyer- she's your representation.
If you need a friend whom will know in family strife and grief
how to let silence speak endless love, she's your sister.
If you need someone to banter all things pop culture and indulgent, she's your best friend.
If you need only to know that you are loved, she will send not just one, but two postcards.





all things being made new, all the time. a hope & a future. it's important to dress for the weather, but you do not need a wind shield scraper if you have a CD case. gray nail polish- still- scarves, loose black tea; i know what I like. also, flats a lot- not always heels. 4 books in 4 weeks- Man Walks Into a Room (N.Krauss), Naked (D.Sedaris), A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius (D.Essers), Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close (J.S. Foer). Listed chronologically in the order rad, but also from good to best, with best- the last 2, both- piercingly perfect. memoir style (the latter, fiction). the goal must be to speak frankly and clearly about loss & pain in a way that points to beauty & warmth & Christ.

(2nd postcard...)

Christmas & New Years decor still up in part despite best, sincere effort, glitter snow still appearing w/regularity. bother some? no. a miracle of physics? yes. downstairs neighbors life techno today. me? murder in the city, avett bros. cut hair for the first time since June! Bought postcards & coming home in the neighborhood where I've lived 5 years- almost went the wrong way on a one way street! But I didn't and that, really, is the main thing.
I broke the rules- I wrote 2. I still owe you a plane ticket to Thailand & a CAT scan in Bangkok.
BC

January 30, 2011

Missouri 2009: Mary

Today's Sentimental Sunday offering is brought to you from August 2009, by Mary Pendleton Stafford. In my life she's a rock star. I love her fiercely, and I pray for her often. I wish she were in my life more, but I know that the love in our friendship is tender and real- and so I understand the chaos of schedules/time/distance/time/time/time/distance/schedule/time, wait, have I mentioned time? Yes. We lack time for each other.

She wrote this in the midst of her cross country bike ride. She is a bold, courageous, real, adventurous woman. She inspires me.
And I miss her.



Kar Kar!
I loved this postcard so much- vintage and all- I thought you would like it.
The journey is going well. So much Jesus- I am falling in love all over again with him.
I'm in Kansas now- Martin Brakke in tow. I hope your heart is well and Jesus' love is tender on your heart.
Mary

January 29, 2011

Sunday Reflections: January 23


Check SpellingSunday Reflections
I was off on Sunday- and I did not want to go to Church. I wanted to snuggle into my bed and sleep the entire day. With 10 minutes to get out my house I threw my hair up into a ponytail, threw on jeans & drove north. I did not want to be there. I wanted to be alone. To be quiet. I wanted to not talk. To be anywhere else. But I went.
And Jesus blessed me so richly and extravagantly. He quieted the selfish parts of my heart so that I could listen. So that I could hear. So that I could be made completely whole in His presence. His alone. Not in my own. Not by myself or lost in my own thoughts.
Afterwards I hung out with the Daley's-catching up and laughing. I came home, worked on the house, followed two important football games, made dinner, and went to bed. Sunday began with a fight. A battle. It was loud and it was ugly. Praise God that when I realized that I could not win it- I went exactly where He wanted me. In a Sanctuary. To hear and listen about Revelation and Truth. I was challenged. I was humbled. I was found in my seat and I was spoken to. On a day off in which I often struggle to focus on the truth I was able to celebrate. Smile. Laugh. Be in my own skin. Freshly centered.
"Revelation is nothing without Jesus Christ."
"What do you think of the person being revealed?"
"Eternity is not long enough to get out of their hearts and souls all that they desire to express."
And finally Essen closed by reminding us that, "I am fundamentally not my own anymore. Receive the one who was revealed!"
---> eyes to hear. ears to see. to see the word and hear the vision. amen! k.

January 28, 2011

The British Museum: Talley

Lindsay Talley and I lived in the same place only for a moment. Actually legally, it was more then a moment. But in reality- I was never here. BUT every time I was home in Lexington, Linds and I were sure to grab dinner at some point and catch up. I have spent more time in the span of our friendship praying for her, and thinking about her then I have actually spent WITH her in person. Which sounds weird... but it's true.

She's in Texas now. Back home, researching her new adventure for Grad School. She is coming to visit VA in a couple of weeks. I am one excited kid. Sometimes when all of us are hanging out I think "man... Talley would complete this night". At my Birthday Party, Drew called her and "Face Timed" her into the party. I loved it.

She's the greatest.
And today I got her 2nd postcard.
Thanks Girl!


Dear Kari,
Tomorrow I'm going to Orlando for my first ever business trip. Exciting? Not really because it's the PGA trade show and I don't actually like golf. Oh well. It could be worse. Exciting news though, I'm finished with all my grad school applications! Yay! And I have an interview at Wake Forest in February. Love You!
Linds

January 27, 2011

Hello. Well Yes Hello: Abernathy

Let me introduce you to Abernathy Bland.
She's witty. Wickedly talented. Funny.
Bold. Authentic. Joyful. Captivating. Honest.
And she's an Aunt. A very proud, doting Aunt.

I met Abernathy in 2005 in Disney World, when Matt and I were there for a little vacation. Abernathy went to college with Matt, and at the time was an intern for the World of Disney. She worked at Pinocchio's Village Hause: fantastic place of eating (though she aspired to be Alice... I still think she'd make the most perfect Alice from Wonderland). She and her friends sang Happy Birthday to me and I loved her upon our first meeting.

Fast forward years later to an Oktoberfest party in Richmond at a beloved mutual friend's house. Reconnecting with Abernathy that night was so fun, and since then we've stayed in inconsistant yet consistent touch. We aspire to a Lexington hangout time with our favorite people- but alas we have yet to see such plans come to life.

Not that she's a starving an artist, but that she's an artist and like most artists she is starving for expression and the release of such... and to do this more often: she quit her day job. She's inspiring. She's focusing on the fabric of who she is, and I think you will agree, its a beautiful masterpiece of a life. She daydreams in color and she's wonderfully talented.

She made me a postcard. I opened my mail today and seriously- was so touched that she made me a one of kind Abernathy Bland Postcard of love, and she addressed it with a crown: Postcard Princess. I loved it. And here, check out her stuff. Pass her information along. Let her work make you smile. Let it make you scratch your head. Mostly- I hope it moves you to think and explore your own world, wherever you are at, doing whatever it is you may be doing. Thanks Abernathy for the mail- completely made my day. Especially because it came with a Bette Davis stamp!

Love.Love.
K


Go to her website:

Read her blog:


!Hey- I support anything that encourages savoring the moment + spreading good cheer. Best of luck to your postcard project. hope to see you soon for games. food. drinks. laughs + postcards!
p.s. here's a top 10 of loves right now. 1. Maya Angelou 2. coffee 3. ink pens 4. packaging tape 5. kindness 6. hat w giant flower (aqua) 7. black nails 8. bacon wrapped dates 9. pillows 10. piano music.
xoxo
Abernathy

You: Weekly Recap January 16-22+23



Weekly Recap January 16-22+23

1) Watching the Bachelor with Ryan. So ridiculously funny & captivating.
2) More TV time with Boys and Biggest Loser. Thankfully not being forced to eat a KK donut.
3) IKEA Road Trip. Time to think in the car- got out of town. Pretty day. Bought new bed... and more.
4) Took a leap of faith and sought advice in an old familiar place. Was the last place I went and was grateful for the wisdom and support to remember The Truth. Thankful most that I wasn't disapointed by what I heard or by whom rose to the act of vulnerability. Familiar but different.
5) Had a great talk about running, goals, motivation, and change with an unexpected person.
6) Friday I put together most of my IKEA furniture. Enjoyed a day at home with Gracie.
7) Carrabba's with Jessica and Alexis. Sangria. Laughter. Alexis telling me I'm a favorite. Jessica giggling at the bar. Honest conversation. Happy Hour.
8) Church. The Daley's. Perfect Sermon. Packers and Steelers Superbowl so so so excited.
9) Running. Love the challenge and discipline. Life...good.

January 23, 2011

January 2010: Lost.

Disney World 2010:
A year ago Matt, Mandy, Tex, Jeni and I were all together in Orlando to participate in the Family Fun Run 5K at Epcot. On my personal blog I have written a lot about that particular trip and period of my life. My heart always notices mile markers, and is introspective about the journey in terms of, "one year ago... I was (blank)". When I think about that sentence, I would probably fill blank in with more then one word, but all leading back to the truth of, "One year ago, I was lost." The first six months of 2010 were not good. There is no need or point to sugar coat them. However, the second half of 2010 was beloved and amazing.

Sometimes I admit I have a hard time thinking about where I was, how I was feeling, what I was thinking about, and what I was doing a year ago right now. I don't like her very much, I am worried for her- even though at the time I had no idea the depth I would have to go before there was nothing else to do... but rise.
I found this postcard recently. I knew when I wrote it that I had to send it, and I had to remember some goodness about that trip even though it was emotionally exhausting and mentally draining. Tonight I read those ten listed items and I know that they were true. I wish however, in the list I would have been able to mention that I was lost- so perhaps when I got home and the postcard came, I would know that it was time to be found. That came later. It didn't come in the mail with a stamp on it. It came on a curb. With a best friend whom held up a mirror and everything after that was different (in the hardest and best way possible). I wish I could articulate with sufficient vocabulary and sentence structure what happened, what changed, and how the Lord refined, rescued, and reformed me. Perhaps in the book... one day- I will be able to truly share the most amazing love story of my life that time after time has never quit, never walked out, never yelled, and never once believed the lies I so often have. Jesus. He's the best. His Grace never gets old. Even after meeting Him 15 years ago.
So you see... Postcards. Sometimes they tell the story of the moment, but sometimes like this one-- they also tell the story of what happened later. This one in particular is hard to remember. There is a lot not said. I am thankful for the journey. No doubt. But if I could add a number eleven to this list I would simply write, "It's time". But that... came six months later.

My personal blog has privacy restrictions, but if you would like to be included in the journey written there consider this your open invitation, and just email me so that I can add you to the list: karirburgess@gmail.com



SELF:
1) Tigger & Up Characters... Joy!
2) Finishing the 5K & well
3) 3D Toy Story Game/Ride
4) Bus ride from the Magic Kingdom (stretch) ;o)
5) Almonds
6) Castle Sparkly Beautiful
7) Hot Cocoa
8) Laughing
9) Dino Land
10) Glances

January 19, 2011

Recap: Jan. 9-15



Jan. 9-15 Run Down of Goodness

A little Jesus in the Radio Recap: (mini version)
1) Matt Nathanson: Come On Get Higher
2) Pink: Sober
3) MercyMe: Beautiful (still)
4) Tracy Chapman: Give Me One Reason

Highlights of Life:

1) Kari date day. Joyful Spirit & The Fighter
2) Jessica joining Planet Fitness
3) Made to order House Dinner and Game Night.
4) Dinner/Movie with Drew, Ryan, & Matty
----> Target: Reading Cat and the Hat. The old and new of life living and growing. Happy.
----> NOT when Matt scared me in the movie.
5) Intentional Conversation. Love it.
6) The birth of the Vegas Trip idea in March with the girls @ work.
7) Packers won!!! (And Steelers!)
8) Went to camp to have Gracie play and run while I walked. The memories. All good ones. Remembered past interns, inside jokes, favorite moments- missed friends. Thankful for that chapter of my story. Grateful for where I'm at. Was quiet and walked and prayed and had flashbacks and visions. Both hard and comfortable all at once.
9) Free munchkins @ DD in Roanoke.
10) 3 postcards from friends. Love them.
11) Had a bad day. Was talking to Kristyn. She shared how I have changed her life. And my influence. Felt loved, needed, and cared for. Turned bad day into good.

Carousel.

Last week I discovered a box of photographs that I printed for my Europe photo albums. They were printed with white borders, and I love them... I got crafty and decided that when the mood suits me that I will adhere card stock to them, and make my own postcards for this year's postcard adventure blog. This one below is from Paris, underneath the Eiffel Tower. It was a beloved, quiet, and peaceful night. There are many favorites from this evening- and I often go to others before this one. However, this one was perfect for what I had to say about last week.
Self.
Sometimes I feel a lot like the moving carousel on front of this card. Last week was not particularly stellar. I felt emotionally and mentally fatigued and that I was unable to slow down. It makes sense when I take my work schedule and life into consideration. I write this only to remind myself later that even in the midst of chaos and insanity that God is real. His promises are absolutely true and His love for me can keep up with the schedule and the stress and that I need and deserve to rest with Him. I know that change does not happen overnight but that transformation is happening. Freedom has come and I need to remember that the battle is being fought. Each day. I am worth more then the fear of failure. And I am worth more then I am often treated. I am finding how often choosing love can hurt. And that the instinct to walk away can still cut. But I am determined that in the midst of highs and lows of life to remember that a week as challenging as this one-- that I still found Joy. Hope. Love. And Truth to remain. And... felt the nearness of Christ.
Love. K

Each.Step.Laugh.Moment.


January 11
Self:
The other day I was asked about my photography and how it was going. I shared a little bit about the art show this fall and pieces that I have sold in the Joyful Spirit in Lexington. We chatted a bit about the editing process, and it was so good for my soul. He may have asked a small question- but it opened a window and for me- it again pressed the importance and need to remain creative at home in everyday life. And while right now I feel empowered by my vision for 2011, I admit I feel somewhat overwhelmed by what I desire to tackle. I am trying to remember that life isn't lived by the whole of years- but compiled by fragments of time. Each choice. Each moment. Each laugh. Each tear. I suppose that is the theme of this year. Not the race. Not the decade. Each step. Each moment. To expand and grow and let that flight of spirit, body, and mind be the most important.
Love.Love. Me

January 16, 2011

San Francisco 1999: Brother

Sentimental Sunday's:

A blast from the past... a beloved brother sent this postcard in June of 1999 during his time living in San Francisco. Which was much too far away for me, but was exactly what he needed. I think I always knew that, but I admit that during those years I needed him too and struggled with the distance. I went out to visit for Spring Break my Sr. year in High School. When I returned home I missed him more then I knew how to process-- and this postcard hit the spot. I got it a few days before I graduated, and taped it to the mirror in my room. It lived there for a long time.

Bill was the first best friend I ever had and still to this day there is not a man whom I trust to love and protect me better. I sincerely hope and pray that my future daughter, will have an older brother just like him. (I'm banking on the fact when its time to have a family I will first have a son, then a daughter. I know I can't control it, but its just how I have always pictured/planned it in my head, haha).

Kari,
Wanted to drop a note to say "hello", I tried to call but you were out. I wanted to stick my tongue out at you over the phone but this will have to do.
Miss you.
Love.
Bill

January 15, 2011

From School: Mandy

From School... in Cincinnati from Amanda Faith. One of my most beloved Sisters in life. Thanks for the mail! You round out an incredibly fun week of postcards.


School has been so much better since break. Between my marvelous "teacher" wardrobe & pure joy over teaching poetry, confidence has been the game changer. I don't feel like confidence is generally something I struggle with, but when it comes to confidence in my authority... I'm a little girl. Not this semester! It's you or me kiddies! Mandy

January 12, 2011

Asheville: Matty, SJ, Drew & Ryan



Seriously. They are the best friends ever. They each wrote a line... almost makes up for not being able to go after we'd planned it!

Kari,
Hey, wish you were here with us!!! We have been thinking about you lots. Fooventures are just not the same without you ;(
I'm eating pork at every meal, it's the best. You would make this the best!!
Smooches, Matty, sj, DREW, Ryan (exclamation point 3x)

(Matty is obviously the pork contributor!)

January 11, 2011

The Woodlands: Lindsay

My first guest contributor!!! A postcard from The Woodlands, Texas!



dear Kari,
crazy that you decided to do postcard adventure 2011 because I found a ton of old postcards in my room here when I moved back. So I've been trying to use them all. I can't wait to see you in February and have real time life update with you. Sneak Peek: life in Tejas has been so good for me. Better than I ever expected. Love you, Kari Burgess. hugs and kisses! Linds

(i love you too! xox)

Jesus In The Radio Recap I

I have this thing in my life I like to lovingly call, "Jesus in the Radio". It's one of those parts of my life in the car and with either XM or Shuffle that a song plays, and I usually tap my finger on my gear shift in a way that my ring makes a clinking sound, and I just say... "seriously?"

Some people have been witness to this more times then we can count, and honestly- its not really funny while absolutely hilarious. So as part of this postcard project I thought it'd be interesting to write the songs of the week in review, and have that be my Sunday reflection. In no particular order I list them, but here are the songs in which I heard CONSTANTLY this week. To the point I started scribbling down their title names just to prove my point (to myself).

Oh Jesus. In the Radio. Seriously. Every song has a point in my little world, so if you would like more clarification message me. But I will save y'all from a 10 song explanation. ;o)



Jan 2-8
Jesus in the Radio Recap
1) Rihanna: What's My Name
2) Five For Fighting: Chances
3) The Script: For the First Time
4) Kelly Clarkson: Already Gone
5) One Republic: Secrets
6) Andrew Peterson: Dance Through Minefields
7) Lady Gaga: Bad Romance
via Shuffle...
8) Josh Groban: Higher Window
9) Sara Evans: A Little Bit Stronger
10) Awaited: Wise Men (Reach)

Seriously.Random.
-k

January 10, 2011

Jan 6: House Dinner

Postcard from Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC), Sketched by: HRH Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana. Trip: Dec/January 2007 into 2008.



Self. House dinner continues...
1) Pot Roast and Waffle Cookie Sundae's
2) "No. You have to wait to eat a cookie"
3) Trey got lost
4) Becky's Date: A 10!!
5) Celebrity top names: Ryan: Super Why, Matty: Larry King, Chad: The Fonz, Kari: Bill Cosby, Kelly: Bo Derek, Drew: Ross, Bob: Paula Deen, Trey: Spock, Holmes: JP, Anna: I totally forgot what her names were.
6) Mom and Dad moment with Matty on the porch as everyone left.
7) Matty sampling obscure music on his iPod...calling it Pop. But I love Pop, and I didn't love what I heard. LOL.
8) Tradition. Home. Laughter. Community.
9) Email from SJ saying she feels at home in my home. Loved it.
Great night.
Love.Love. Me

January 9, 2011

Sentimental Sunday's

Sentimental Sunday's... to pay homage to favorite past postcards sent on the day the mail doesn't come! As I continue to work my mind around this half marathon idea, I figured we'd keep the Disney theme going. Below is a postcard from Tokyo DisneySea circa June 2010. Some weeks I'll post old ones of my own, or favorites of the past sent by those I love.


Self.
1) Not understanding a single word of the Jungle Cruise
2) Mickey
3) Space Mountain
4) Blue Sky. Hot day.
5) Laughter.
6) Passport in Hotel Safe.
7) Happy. Even in the absence of T.M.M.
8) Last Park Done.
Yay.
Me.

The longer version:
1) the Jungle Cruise was completely in Japanese. I had no idea what was so funny!
2) The only Mickey in the parks was found in ToonTown, as Steamboat Mickey. Loved it.
3) Space Mountain. I was behind a group of girls that wore wigs, fake colored eye lashes, heels, and dresses. They thought I was completely underdressed in my yoga pants, tank top, and chacos.
4) The sky was so blue. I remember thinking that it was so strange to see blue sky after having spent the time in China, where the air pollution was so thick and distracting.
5) Laughter. I laughed a lot.
6) Passport was no where to be lost--- tucked safely inside my hotel safe! Oh...Disney Paris you brought back memories.
7) Happy. Even in the absence of Tex, Mandy, and Matty. It was weird but still incredibly fun to be there, just missed them. I think Disney and those friends go together like peas and carrots.
8) Last Park. Done. Checked off after the World, the Land, Hong Kong, Paris, and finally complete in Tokyo. That is until Shanghai opens! Holla!!


January 7, 2011

Vision.



Self.
It's appropriate that I found this postcard today and more so that the title of the picture is "vision". Without sounding too cheesy I have a vision and dream for this year. The greatest thing about relationships in life for me- have always been the pursuit of better, dreams, greatness, change, and mutual motivation and accountability. I have always wanted to run. Chronic Bronchitis, Asthma, and fear of failure have often paralyzed me. However. In 2011, I am taking back control and I am enlisting my sisters... to run the half marathon in Disney World in September. I have a vision to complete, not win this race. Which means I win anyway. (and get a Disney medal: YES!) So Mickey... I will see you this fall! AHH!
Love.Love. Me


So Yes. In the past three days I have gotten incredible support and enthusiasm. Not to mention Matty has agreed to travel to the World this Fall to be an official Cheerleader- perhaps with Jessica too! The best reaction comes from Kristyn when I called her at 9am to ask her what she was doing this particular weekend in September, and that's she's busy, she goes: "Are you getting married?" Kalan is also interested, Mandy is thinking about it, and Krystal... well she's not so interested but she's happy for me. I also have Jessica at work pumped- and she even wrote it in her calendar. I asked Drew and Ryan (Ryan, whom has NEVER been to a Disney Park) if they would do it, and both had inquisitive interested eye reactions...

Suffice it to say I'm thrilled that I have returned to an incredibly special place in my life that my ideas are well liked and supported- and that by simply by making this leap and asking those I love to join me: there could be a massive party at the finish line after this race!

Are you interested in running with us? We all have our reasons- what is yours?
Send me a postcard and tell me about it! (shameless plug, though I don't care!)

http://espnwwos.disney.go.com/events/rundisney/wine-and-dine-half-marathon/

January 5, 2011

I Do. I have. I am.



Self.
Last night SJ, Holmes, Drew, Becky, and Matty came over. The house was alive with laughter- some hostile competitive yelling (Holmes --->Drew) during Phase 10 strategy, dessert, 80's movies and goodness. Conversation was easy and real and when it was time to sleep you were content. Woke up to Mercy Me's "Beautiful" in your head and paused in the state between slumber and awake in prayer- thanking the Lord for messages and melodies of truth in the start of what would be an otherwise ordinary Monday.
Love.Love. Me


January 4, 2011

From a small idea...

From a small idea... To a BIG project.

As you know with me, nothing is ever small or particularly simple. I had a friend suggest recently that we should become pen pals. I have one pen pal right now, Kathryn- I say I have her has a pen pal but the truth is, I am a horrible pen pal and have not written her back in months. I still have her birthday card sitting here at my desk, but I did get her Christmas card out in the mail: Go Me. I have never been a "New Years Resolution" type- but this year, being a better letter writer is my resolution for the new year.

Anyway... so I began to think this idea of pen pals out loud with some special friends, and I started to reflect on what I loved most about traveling. If you have ever asked me for travel tips, advice, or perspective you will know that my number one piece of advice next to packing simply in common colors that can mix and match easily, is that you HAVE TO, absolutely HAVE TO send postcards home- to YOURSELF. I have always done it. Taking the time to write a few thoughts about what you saw, how you felt, what you thought about, a prayer, dream, wish, or my most favorite "the top ten" of all those things combined, will become a time machine when you return from the adventure complete. I have countless postcards that I have written to myself that stir different emotions in their recollection then photo's alone, or my memory can support.

And while my full time travel and gallivanting schedule has been replaced by full time employment, I admit I miss the time reflecting and writing a few quick thoughts on a postcard, placing the 28 cent stamp on it and mailing it home. My refrigerator is covered with postcards I have both been sent by self, brothers, sisters, and best friends. They capture a time. A season. A view. I love their messages, and I love that those that have loved me best know that to send a postcard you are sending a life line of love and friendship in a way a phone call, text, or email can't.

This year I want to take what I loved from away, and bring it home. And so I plan to document the journey like I did when away, now at home via the USPS on a postcard. I have countless blank ones purchased never sent, or pictures I just really liked, that I plan to use. Having returned and settled back into Lexington after a few years of being everywhere else, I am excited to use this form of communication to share this great huge life of joy, love, friendship, hardship, and exploration. Adventure is everywhere. I am thankful for Matty's Christmas postcard that expresses it perfectly:



"...I once thought that life was experienced in the grandeur of adventure and excitement (and it is), but more so I've discovered life in the everyday. God has graced us with extraordinary life where we are... My hope for your holiday and coming year is that you may see the great love and grace of our Lord in the extraordinary life He's given you, just where you are!"

How does this impact you?

Well... this small idea of documenting the journey so that January 1, 2012 I could create a coffee table book expanded as I shared this idea with my friends. The invitation has grown, and so if you happen to be at home at Starbucks, or riding an elephants back in Thailand and want to include your journey in this adventure send me a postcard. I will scan and post those I get sent, and will regularly update my own.

Please send all postcards to me @:
34 White Oak Lane, Lexington Virginia 24450