When on vacation, I’ve become the self appointed photographer.  We no longer carry those bulky, fancy cameras with special lenses.  Now we opt for our cell phones.  Who knew a tiny device like that could take good photos?  Most of the shots I got were taken in the car and many became nothing more than a giant blur as we sped through the country, but we’re now at the point in our journey where pictures are worth a thousand words.

“VACATION” is defined as a leave of absence from a regular occupation, or a specific trip or journey, usually for the purpose of recreation or tourism.  In other words, it’s a time to hit the road and enjoy some free time.  I got to actually sleep in until 9 AM, which is something I never get to do in real life.  Our final leg to South Carolina, left me tired, cranky, yet eager to be with the family that moved away from Minnesota four years ago.  At that time I was sure we’d never get together again because of the distance, but I was wrong. As we pulled into the driveway of the welcoming landscaping and beautiful spring colors, I felt as though we were coming home.

The trip was intended for us to attend our eldest grandson’s graduation, but we also used the time to renew our relationship with family and enjoy some time away from the normality of our lives.  We had the opportunity to visit Jordan’s campus at North Greenville University – a Christian college where he’d spent the past four years studying. The school is set within a backdrop of mountains, surrounded by blooming trees and pristine skies.

The prayer chapel was especially impressive, with its stained glass window and waterfall trickling over lovely plantings. Prayer rails were installed and students were allowed to leave their special written prayers on the rails for others to pray for as well.  Post it notes were attached to some of them.  It was indeed a place where the Holy Spirit dwelt.  His love for these students was apparent in their prayers.

Of course we didn’t get to see the entire campus – old legs and bodies wouldn’t allow for that – but we did see that Jordan’s school career had been blessed with the presence of His Savior, throughout his life.  We also got a peak at the collection of Bibles and artifacts from long ago and far away places.

The day didn’t end there.  Off we went to Clemson University, where Freshman grandson, Josh is finishing his first year of college.  We met Josh at the ice cream shop, which is managed by students.  They also make the ice cream and waffle cones.  This is a much larger campus, so our tour consisted of a drive through it.  The only picture that I managed to take is of the stadium where the famous Clemson Tigers and their fans gather during football season.  There were massive dorms and buildings housing classrooms, labs, libraries, with so much brain food, it was difficult to comprehend.

The day was topped off with a trip to one of many barbecue restaurants along the way. It actually reminded me of the Whistle Stop Cafe from “Fried Green Tomatoes.”  This one was called the Smokin’ Pig and it was finger licking yummy.  It was good to know that Big George wasn’t cooking that day.

Pictures can be a wonderful way to record a trip or a special occasion, but the memories we create in the recesses of our mind will last forever.  I pray that I can hang on to those memories forever.