For the past two weeks, the Strachan family has been living, working, and playing in Southern California, primarily at the beach thanks to a close friend (yes, I know how ridiculously blessed we are). Overall it was really a great experience for all of us, including our children who have taken to the beach rather quickly.
We also celebrated my wife Colleen’s 40th birthday with Mickey Mouse and friends.
Something that surprised me was how the trip ended up leading to some renewed motivation to replace some old routines and habits and replace them with new ones. What caused this?

A part of it has to be that when we are removed from our regular routines, we have the ability to do an “intake,” so to speak, of the routines and habits we have developed over time. Getting to see how others live can also spur us on towards making changes that lead to greater health in our walk with Christ and each other.
I am aware of the fact that I wrote about “being present” in our neighborhoods a few weeks ago as many have to cut back on travel due to inflation, the rise of gas, etc., but I also did say that my prayer was that you would get some time away as well.
And I hope that perhaps besides the opportunity to rest and recharge, that you will also have an opportunity, like me, to re-assess some of your own habits, and see where Christ might be prompting you to make some changes in your life.
God bless,
Stu
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