Welcome to JOYFUL REFLECTIONS. Also welcome to MARCH!!!! My header picture this month is a photo I took of the pretty Crocus blooms in our yard... The Crocuses and Daffodils are the first signs of spring here in Tennessee. I am definitely ready for SPRING...

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Now You'll Know Why I LOVE Snow


(Be sure and read yesterday's blog if you haven't done so. Many of you KNEW before reading this one--what is going to happen!!!! BUT--you don't know the details!) This is Part II of my story of when I moved to Hendersonville, TN in December of 2000. The minute I got to Hendersonville, I had a PEACE within me that I hadn't had in awhile. I loved my new job ---and even bought a townhouse there (thinking that I would be there for years and years). Before I go any farther, I need to change the subject and give you George's story.

George's wife died from cancer in 1999. They lived in Little River, SC. George stayed there after she died --until he changed jobs the end of 2000, looking for a 'new' life. He thought at first that the new job he was interested in was in Memphis---but later found that it was in Nashville (close to Hendersonville). SO---about the same time I interviewed for my job (October), George was in town interviewing for his job. He stayed with his parents ---who incidentally lived in Hendersonville and belonged to the church where I was going to be employed. He took his new job ---and so did I. He moved to Hendersonville in December and so did I. (Can you believe all of this?????) His home in South Carolina had not sold yet---so he lived temporarily with his parents after getting there.


Now here is the crazy part!!!! George is an Episcopalian ---so on his first Sunday in Hendersonville, he was going to attend worship at the Episcopal Church. However, it was snowing that morning (not much, but enough to scare a Tennessean)---so services at the Episcopal Church were cancelled. George went back to his parents' home and offered to take them to services at the Methodist Church. They took him up on it---and because of the snow, George attended my first service at that church, and never went back to the Episcopal Church after that Sunday. (See why I like SNOW so much!!! ha)


I spoke to the Adult Sunday School Classes that morning and George attended. But--we didn't actually meet until about January 7. BUT---think about it!!!! IF it hadn't have snowed that Sunday, George may have attended the Episcopal Church ---and I may never have met him. That little bit of snow is what God provided that morning in his quest to get us together. There's no other way to explain it.

I made it through those first couple of weeks meeting tons and tons of people. I knew from my experience in Texas (since there were times of terrible loneliness) that I would love to meet someone to spend my 'golden years' with. BUT--I had been 'single' (divorced) for about 20 years ---so I didn't think that my Prince Charming would ever come into my life. The list of what I 'wanted' in a man was VERY long... Was there someone JUST for me out there?????


On January 7, I was invited to speak to the Men's Group at the church. I just happened to sit at a table with George and his father. I remember talking to him a little---but as he still says, I was 'flirting' with some of the other men at our table. A week or so later, I was offering to teach a Bible Study Class. George called me to ask about the study --and to find out if his mother could attend even though she was blind and couldn't read the book. I of course told him that his mother was welcome to attend. After that call, I looked George up in the church directory --but since he was new (I didn't know that), he was not listed.


The Bible Study began the end of January and there were about 50 adults in the class---and that included George. As 'luck' would have it, George's job called for him to be out-of-town quite a bit. SO--he missed some of the Bible study Classes. We were emailing at that time ---and I offered to meet with him sometime and catch him up on the study. He then asked me out to dinner on March 29. I took the Bible Study books with me and thought that we would spend the evening talking about the study. HA HA HA---guess what???? The Bible Study NEVER came up. We talked for 2 hours ---and it was truly magical.


From that night on, we were inseparable. George may not have 'Had Me from Hello'---but he had me after that night when we had our first dinner together. God had put us together---and, after that evening, we both knew for sure why we were 'called' to Hendersonville. We knew within a week or two that we loved each other. George gave me my engagement ring on April 19 ---in our Bible Study Class. (And to think: I HAD to teach the class that evening AFTER getting my ring!!! Don't know how I did it!! ha).. We were married in an outdoor ceremony for family only in Knoxville beside the Tennessee River on June 21 of that year (2001).


After meeting George and getting married, my entire life changed. We sold George's South Carolina home and eventually sold my townhouse, and bought our dream-home here in Fairfield Glade in 2002. But we didn't move here until July of 2003 (when I retired). George continued to work until 2006 --when he officially retired also. Retirement for both of us is absolutely fabulous. BUT--like most busy retirees, we don't ever seem to have a free minute. We're both doing things that we never had time to do when we were younger.


My family and friends who knew me as a workaholic never believed that I could be happy NOT working those 12 hour days. I was independent and driven. I don't think my sons even know me anymore since they've never seen their mother enjoying gardening, hiking and being a birder. My-My--how I have changed!!!! But--I'm happier than I have EVER been in my entire life.


George and I are truly soulmates (for lack of a better word). We love being together ---and seldom are apart. Our marriage is truly from God---and we keep God at the center of our lives each and every single day. Our 8 years together so far (and we hope to have many more) have been the best times of both of our lives ---and with each passing day, our love for each other continues to grow and grow.


Yes---I stepped out of my comfortable box, listened to that little God-feeling inside of me, moved to Tennessee, met the man of my dreams, and am living a blessed life. That is my love story that I wanted to share today. My advice: Never give up on your dreams---and never ignore those deep feelings within you. Dreams CAN come true ---and mine did! Let it SNOW!!!!! ha


Hugs,

83 comments:

Darla said...

Let me grab a hanky...what a beautiful beginning for you and George...I enjoyed this special Love Story a lot.

Anonymous said...

A very moving story of how much God loves us if we are patient and "listen" to Him. Yes, I would think SNOW is special indeed!!!

Nina said...

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.... What a beautiful Love, Life story. It's not often people actually end up with their true soul mate. I'm thankful God made sure you both did. You are continuing the Blessing by creating such a Joyous Life together. May God Bless you and George with His, Peace, Love Hope and lots of Joy and Laughter. Love and Light, Nina P.

Sunny said...

Betsy,
What a lovely post. May you have many happy years together.
Sunny :)

Beth said...

Awww...Betsy, that is a wonderful story! No wonder you love snow. Amazing how something as simple as a snowy Sunday morning could alter two lives so completely. I'm so glad you shared your story. I'm sure it will inspire and encourage many people. Thank you. And God bless you and George.

Arkansas Patti said...

Perhaps now I understand those beatific smiles on your faces in every picture. What a beautiful story Betsy! There was no way you would not end up with George and he you.
This post is too beautiful to go into archives. Each year on your anniversary, you should repost it.
I know I would love to read it again. Thank you.

Unknown said...

What a beautiful way God gave you the desires of your heart Betsy! You've encouraged me to keep believing for my dream, a womens' resource center!

SmilingSally said...

Oh, Betsy, you just proved again that

GOD IS GOOD!

amelia said...

What a wonderful story!! Snow really must have a special place in your heart!!!

Susie said...

Oh my goodness Betsy your story moved me to tears. I'm with Darla, where's the hankie?

This is such a wonderful, sweet story. No doubt God wanted you two to be together. I'm so happy for you both.

You should send this story to Guidepost magazine. They'd love it.

Janice K said...

I am so happy for both of you! I remember a pastor once saying, "When your prayers aren't answered just the way you think they should be, it may be because God has something better for you." He certainly had something very special in mind for you.

God bless you for sharing His Presence in your lives....and you add to that His Grace...WoW! We have much to be thankful for.

Have a beautiful day.

Becky said...

Somethings are "just meant to be".

It pays to listen to God doesn't it. Thanks for the post.

This Is My Blog - fishing guy said...

Becky: Even though I knew the story, it was wonderful to read through it once more. God's directions can be so wonderful.

Dorothy said...

Mornin' Betsy,
Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful love story!!! Although the details are different, it reminds me so much of our love story!! Isn't it amazing how God works to bring about His good will for our lives!!!! Blessings to you and George!!!

Mandy said...

I read both parts and I love your story! I know God nudges us in certain directions and just think of what blessings we miss when we don't follow His lead!

Sunny said...

Snow is so beauteeeful and Peaceful and ...COLD!

I have missed reading your blog so much!!

You have such a lovely heading up there. Your whole blog is awesome. :)

Hugs, Judy

NCmountainwoman said...

Wonderful story, Betsy. Just like a fairy tale, "and they all lived happily ever after."

Small City Scenes said...

Awww Betsy what a great story. I remember you mentioned how you and George met when i first met you in blogland. So wonderful.
I think I need to step out of my box now tghat it no longer is a comfort zone. Well it is and it isn't.
Since my husband died almost two years ago I think I have only been drifting---and dreaming too. But not doing anythin. I quit my job in the nursery/greenhouse industry to care for him for 5 years and first off I need to find a part-time job---oh but I procrastinate so. LOL
Anyway I am so glad for you and George and the snow that brought you together---not to forget God's part in all of it. MB

Pat - Arkansas said...

Canceled the service because of a little snow? Episcopalians lost a good man to the Methodists! :) Serves 'em right!

Sweet story, Betsy.

Hugs, Episco-Pat

Becca's Dirt said...

Oh Betsy and George - I am tearing up from reading your touching story. In it there is hope for others and inspiration in your writings. You inspire me to not give up on finding that special someone. Sometimes I feel like I will always be alone.

penny said...

The joy you and George share together always shows in your photos, Betsy. You have both been blessed! Love a happy ending :D

Karin said...

Thank you sooooo much for sharing your absolutely beautiful story. Yes, God is good and will lead us in adventures that are far better than we could design for ourselves! Hugs!!!

I Am Woody said...

Your story just gives me chills. There can be such amazing things in our lives, if only we would let them happen. I am so glad for you both that you let it happen!!

Connie said...

What a wonderful love story. I will be happy if my retirement is even half as happy as yours. I'm truly happy for you.

Cheryl said...

I am beaming with joy for you and George! How wonderful a story you two share. There IS a reason for everything, but your gut feeling was what put everything into motion. I love this story, its a true love story! God Bless you both and many, many happy years together!

marmee said...

what a great story...i will have to share my story sometime of how dh and i met...a God thing.
isn't it great to have such a blessed life with the one we love.

Diane said...

No wonder you have a smile on your face all the time, Betsy. What a beautiful love story.

Betty said...

I hope you have many many years of happiness. That is a great story.
~~ Hugs ~~

Snap said...

Isn't love grand?!!! Does this fit the truth is stranger than fiction *line*?!!! Listen to the gut, go with the feeling ... finding your dreams and your man! YeeeeeHawwww! Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! Too wonderful!

Rita said...

Betsy that is such a wonderful story, it brought tears to my eyes. I am sooo happy for you and George. Life really has joyful things in store for us, if only we trust in the Lord.
Have a joyful day!!
Hugs Rita

Anonymous said...

Sweet story, life is funny that way isn't it? All those ifs that can change the course of things, love to hear how they worked out so well for such a nice couple!

Rose said...

Finally got a minute from Lorelei, and had to read the whole story! You could write a book from your life! I enjoyed this so much.

Patty said...

What a beautiful love story. I left Knoxville Dec. 97, eft my ex when I met my husband (online) in early 98..Moved in with him at the end of 98 and we married in Dec 2000.
Life does have a way of doing what it is suppose to do
I am glad we both found happiness!

Harriet said...

What a wonderful story! God is good to us and takes very good care of us in good times and bad.
Thanks for sharing.

Brenda Kay Ledford said...

Betsy,
What a beautiful love story. Isn't it amazing how "snow" brought you and George together. I love this. God works in mighty ways His wonders to perform. I'm so glad you two met, married and are so happy!

Deb Murphree/Alabama Politics said...

Betsy, you actually put tears in my eyes, reading about your deep devotion and love to both George and God. What a truly inspriational and caring woman you are. I know that in the short time I have known you, and finding out we both were from Big Stone Gap, in the past...I have grown to care about you and your friendship very much. Thank you for caring enough about us, your readers, to share the most important and intimate part of your life.

Deb Murphree/Alabama Politics said...

One more thing I forgot to add, you and I have so much in common Betsy, and a large portion of it, is the SNOW....I LOVE the snow.

Busy Bee Suz said...

Because of this great love story, I NOW love snow too. This is so great Betsy..so many little 'if's' in your life has brought you to where you are now. And all of this brought you and George to ME too. :)
Thanks for sharing, this made my day.
hugs, Suz

Dirt Princess said...

I am always like the 30th+ commenter on your blog!! Oneday I will make it into the top 5 (DARLA!!!!!!!) LOL!!!

What a wonderful wonderful story! It was fate for sure! I love hearing stories like this....just so heart warming. You both are truly blessed and I am glad you shared this with us. You are so right...follow your heart!

Diane AZ said...

Wonderful love story. It is beautiful how snow brought the two of you together. Wishing you and George many more happy years!

Judy said...

I am so glad I came over here and read your story. Thanks for sharing. You are both truly blessed and I am so happy for you. I have always believed in those "gut" feelings and they sure paid off in your case. I wish you many more happy years together.

Jo said...

Oh Betsy;) I'm all choked up and so glad for you two wonderful people. Bless you both, my friend. You know what has made this union a success? The fact that you are a triangle: George, Betsy (you) and God. You live for each other and God and that is what makes this such a precious post. Thank you, thank you for sharing. Be blessed my friend and (((hugs))) for both of you. Jo xxx

EcoRover said...

Nice story, and a good reason to love snow. Joan Baez has this great song about a farm she visited in Tennessee (with Kriss Kristofferson)--it's worth finding if your a fan of folk/country.

Randy said...

Betsy,
What a wonderful story. You were smart to listen to your gut feeling, I like to call it the little voice in my head. :-) As for the snow, I'm a firm believer everything happens for a reason even though we may not alwasy understand it at the time.:-) I'm glad you are so happy.--Randy

Cookie said...

What a sweet story!

Cicero Sings said...

Love, love, love your story!

Ebie said...

Hi Betsy, got your link from aNNa (Nature Trail). Great love story,and let it snow more!

Leedra said...

I had heard most of this post, all except the snow and where he proposed to you. I had not heard any of the first post. None of this surprises me. God brought Jimmy and me together too, we met at Fountain City Park walking track.

Leedra’s Photos For Fun


Leedra’s Greeting Cards


Photography By Leedra

Lagean Ellis said...

Betsy,
I love your story. Silly me, you brought me to tears. You are both special people and God brought you to me, too. You are such an inspiration to me and your "love story" has similarities to mine.

What a kind soul you are. No wonder George loves you. He couldn't resist. I am really glad God gave you such a wonderful gift. One that you cherish every day. It is quite evident here.

Do I have you blushing yet? hahaha

I hate change but I, too, have noticed so many differences in me since I've been with Ollie. What a difference "true love" makes.

~HUGS~
Gena

Tina said...

You are a great story teller, Betsy!
..now I see why you like snow so much..and when we get dumped with our many inches this winter I'm going to scoop it all up and send it down..tee he! Neat post!

Adrienne Zwart said...

Betsy, I got chills as I was reading this. I'm so happy that you followed God's calling. He really does always lead us to what's best! Thanks so much for sharing your story!

Ruth's Photo Blog said...

This is an inspiring story.Thanks for sharing these special times with me.God bless both of you and many more happy years ahead.

Blessings,Ruth

Lola said...

That is a lovely story. I'm glad that the Lord brought you 2 together. You had your first dinner date on my b-day. How nice.

GeneaDiva said...

What an inspiring love story you and George have. May God bless you for many many years together. I'm still teary-eyed after reading your story.

Janie said...

The love story of Betsy and George is truly a wonderful one. Strange how you both seemed to know where you needed to be... not realizing what you would find when you got there!

Regina said...

Beautiful story.
wonderful post.

Teresa @ Grammy Girlfriend said...

I enjoyed that read as much as anything I have done today...I even printed it off....It was such a sweet story. Thank you so much for sharing it with me.

EG CameraGirl said...

Great story, Betsy! Thank you for sharing it. ;-)

Inday said...

This blog brings tears to my eyes and thank you for the privilege of inviting me to read your sweet love story.

There is nothing impossible with Him indeed. I am truly touched of your beautiful story, your thoughtful and considerate heart ...now before it will snow there I guess you're now heading for the autumn as we are for springtime, I want to say, I love you Betsy.

You are right when you say "never to give up and listen to the voice (God.... I am glad I followed your advice before you told me because I have been seeing your name everywhere for some reason something was holding me back until I forced my courage to drop you a comment.

I do believe a relationship that is partnered with God will work out. All the best Betsy. Happy days will come to those who are happy like you. Much enjoyed reading yours.

Hugs

Bonnie

Thanks for the revisit. :)

Lori said...

This brought tears to my eyes, Betsy. What a beautiful love story. Sometimes I feel like some of my dreams have been shelved, but this gives me hope that there is still time for them to come true.

I'm so happy for you and George. Your life has truly been blessed!

(And yay for Methodists...I'm one, too!)

Jackie said...

What a great love story, Betsy!

Jackie

SquirrelQueen said...

Let it snow! Betsy that is such a wonderful story. The love between you and George always comes through on the photos, you two are most definitely soul mates.

In 1983, both my husband and I moved to Alaska, he from Oregon and me from Georgia. Even though we knew a few of the same people we didn't meet until almost ten years had passed. I was living in a duplex next door to his best friend. There is a bit more to the story but to save some space ...we fell in love and the rest is history. Some things are just meant to be.

Hugs,
Judy

Michele said...

Truly a sweet sweet story and I have always seen the love and the devotion you both have for each other in your photos way before reading these words.
It's amazing!! I am beginning to believe that things in life happen for a reason not really by chance or by good luck... I can only say make every day count, appreciate every moment and take from that everything that you possibly can... you both are truly wonderful people!!

Hugs♥

PCovi said...

We are always surprised when we see God's amazing plans unfold and I guess we should expect it!
This was a wonderful read and also a strong public testimony.
I'd love to hear what you said that first sunday to the adult classes...do you remember?

Shelley said...

I love stories with happy endings! And how appropriate that "Snow" started it all! Loved this!!! You two were truly meant to be together!!
Love and hugs to you both!
Shelley

cherie said...

oh ms. betsy, what a lovely, lovely story! snow does have a special significance for you. mr. george right there is so cute for saying you were flirting with other men, haha! loved that! i am sure that you two have always been meant for each other. this is so beautiful....

Rose said...

I love all those bird pictures...and talking about red-headed woodpeckers. I had not seen any in years, but have seen so many of them this year and had one coming very regular here. Haven't seen it in a bit, but I bet it will be back.

Anonymous said...

Betsy, that's an awesome story & it actually gives me hope of finding someone myself. I've been divorced now since 1994 & although I enjoy being on my own & not having to answer to anyone for the time being, that won't last forever - I won't want to grow old ALONE! You're the best ma'am & I love you for sharing your story & just being YOU! GOD bless you!

Janice K said...

What a great day you had! Very interesting to see what a baby Red Head looks like. Without looking closely, you might mistake him for a Downey. And all those cute pictures of babies...really sweet!

Tootie said...

Oh....I was right! I knew it! The first time I came to your blog, I could tell that you and George had a special love for each other. It does my heart good to read your love story. Thanks for sharing it.

Meems said...

Betsy,
Thank you for inviting me here to read 'your story' ... I would not have wanted to miss it. It is evident that you and George are good for each other. What I love most about all your photos and your stories is the utter "joy" you both exude for life, for God, for each other. I applaud you for stepping out of the comfortable place and listening with your "spiritual ears" to your heart. God truly is the best Father a girl could have!
Meems

Connie said...

Aw...what a sweet story, Betsy. No wonder you love snow! This post really made me smile. :)

Wendy said...

What a beautiful story, Betsy! I'm glad you listened to your intuition and followed your calling.

Now I know why you like snow!! I'll send you lots and lots this winter. LOL!

Gigi said...

hi Betsy ~ i am Meems mom, and i came over to your blog from your reference on hers. i've enjoyed your comments on her posts in the past, and i'm so glad to read your "love story". you probably had to step out of your comfort zone to give us a personal peek into your heart and life, but you also revealed the wonderful, caring relationship one can have with the heavenly Father, who leads us into the path of righteousness, love, peace and His will for our very best future. you have inspired me and many others with your refreshing, open honesty. thanks for sharing and may you and George have many more happy, fulfilling years together. God Bless you both!

Jen said...

Good things do come out of a bad situation...I have a whole new respect for snow now. :D
Great Love story Betsy; so glad you shared the details.
Continued blessings to you and George.

Jen said...

Good things do come out of a bad situation...I have a whole new respect for snow now. :D
Great Love story Betsy; so glad you shared the details.
Continued blessings to you and George.

diane b said...

I loved your story. It is so uplifting and happy.

Chatty Crone said...

Okay I can see why you love snow.

God works in mysterious ways - you know he made it snow that day for a reason.

What a beautiful love story!

Lynn said...

Betsy, I love this! Actually nothing you have said surprises me at all. How God moved you both in the direction of each other is beautiful. So much like our story. Totally different aspects but the exact same basic concept of moving both of us toward each other. We do understand more than you know. We love to meet other couples who have experienced God directly their lives to each other in a big amazing way. Blessings to you both.
Lynn

Chatty Crone said...

I love reading love stories - I sure do love how God PUT the two of you together - amazing, but not for God.

Dee said...

Dear Betsy, what an inspiring story. I explained in my comment on your posting that began this story why right now I need to be inspired. You've enthusiasm and belief in what will be, will be have made me feel truly "bubbly" today!!!! Thank you. Peace.

Anonymous said...

Oh Betsy, what an incredible, God-ordained story! No doubt about you and George being together, orchestrated by the Father. I knew from the moment I first opened your blog that you two are truly soulmates!! Your story had me smiling, with tears in my eyes at the same time. It's just precious! I'm so glad I've met you two snow-birds!! And I wish you many, many, many happy years together.

Terri D said...

Betsy, I hope this comment pops up for you, so you know I have read your two-part incredible story, that is very much like my own. Wow. God is good. We are truly blessed!