The view from the deck off the dining room. Perfection.
I just spent a spontaneous weekend at the farm because my Dad is having some health issues. It’s tough, seeing my once invincible father age and face challenges that I’d give almost anything to spare him. But I was blessed to be able to go home and put my arms around his neck and tell him how much I love him.
Over the course of the weekend, he told me I’m wise and brave and he’s proud of me. I’m not so sure I live up to that, but it’s awfully good to hear. We also talked about how the things of this world will pass away, but our souls are eternal. It was good to talk with him and we’ll get through this tough time one way or another.
My husband and I spend some time walking the family farm (with a very happy dog chasing groundhogs and deer). I thought I’d take you with me on that walk, so you can catch a glimpse of the place that inspires me. This IS the Phillips Family Farm.
The pond that supplies water to the house. I nearly drowned here when I was four.
An outbuilding from my grandparents’ days.
The house my Dad grew up in sat near these holly trees.
The beginning of the loooong driveway–the bit of fence marks the entrance.
Thistle having a rest after chasing critters.
I can’t see through the tears well enough to type a reply (you know I have to hunt and peck to type….) but I am so glad you had the opportunity for that visit.
Me, too.
I am sorry to hear your dad is ailing. Prayers for you and your family.
Thank you SO much.
I hope your Dad’s health improves and he is able to continue living in his own home. I faced the same issues back in late eighties and will keep your Dad in my prayers.
I appreciate your prayers so much!!
Bless your heart. I know you are worried about your Dad. I lost mine 15 years ago and the hurt is still there. I hope you can visit your Dad as often as you can. I am a West Virginia girl and I love our country roads! May they always lead you back home.
Amen and thank you.
I so loved the pictures… I haven’t been back over there since we all went to see Daniel when he broke his leg. I, too, have many important memories of that farm. Stay strong and brave… many are praying for Larry. Love you, Sarah.
Thank you–so glad I could “show you around.”
Sarah– I’m so sorry to hear about your dad. We are in process of moving back to help my mom and dad. I will be in prayer for your family. my dad was talking about him tonight before I read this. He loved teaching with him!
You’re wonderful to move back home to take care of your dad! We should get them together at some point to talk about the old days . . .
I’m so sorry to hear about your dad’s health issues. Beautiful pictures of the farm though, and I’m glad you were able to spend some quality time with him. Take care
Thank you!
My dad, too, is not well at all, nor is my mother really. I grew up in countryside of Southern Illinois, and although it wasn’t West Virginia, I remember my dad and I singing the chorus to that familiar song all the time, ‘Country Roads…take me home, to the place where I belong. West Virginia, Mountain Mama..Country roads, take me home.’ Thank you for reminding me of that memory with my dad. I long to be home and help take care of them, but it’s not the right time yet. Instead, I’ll look forward to visiting them in July and will enjoy every minute of my time with them. God bless you and your family Sarah. 🙂
It’s so hard, wanting to be there when that’s not what you’ve been called to do. Thanks for letting me know I’m not the only one in this boat!
Hopefully God will make it clear to both of us when its time to change our path. 🙂