David and Linus

I truly am an old man and I spend an increased amount of time reflecting on that fact. I do not do so with a negative mindset, just consideration of all the pros and cons of my past history and all I have learned in the process. I am also very nostalgic and thankful for how I was raised, where I lived, and the parents I was blessed to be assigned to by the Creator. I am also grateful for other people who also contributed to my understanding of life.

I figure it is time to flesh some of this out into words that might provoke thoughts from anyone who might be interested, perhaps some who have been through some of the same stuff.  As I see it, my life is pretty much broken down into five sections. They are not all of equal length or importance, but they've all contributed to who I am and advantages and disadvantages I have discovered:

1. My childhood in Eastern North Carolina from 1948-1966

2. My time in the US Navy from 1967-1971

3. My career as a professional musician 1972-1978

4. My career as a church pastor 1980-2010 (I know...musician to pastor doesn't make much sense. God truly does have a sense of humor.)

5. Retired due to health problems 2011 to present

And then there is Linus. Linus is our beautiful little dog that was found at a local rescue facility by my lovely wife. I have to admit that for much of my life I was not much of a "dog person". Our first little dog, a Jack Russell named Peanut changed that and Linus has just added to the joy of having such a companion.

So, these five life sections of life fill up the well I draw from. I'd like to share the water I've discovered and also hear what you've discovered. I will also sprinkle it some other stuff. For instance, I am a darn good Southern cook, so I'll drop some recipes. Let's visit. We're just getting started.