Her Father's Arms (Or- Grace at the Beach)

 Several weeks ago, in the middle of a heat wave, Luke had a day off of work. We celebrated by trekking up to Door County. We thought we would take advantage of the 94 degree day by cooling off at Whitefish Dunes. Well, we did get to cool off; the water was definitely cold. We took a few baby steps in, waited a couple minutes, then went a bit deeper.

We were especially looking forward to Grace's reaction, though. She had never been to a big beach before, and we thought she would love it.

Boy, were we wrong. Anytime she was lowered near the water, she started crying. We knew it wasn't the temperature, because she liked having her feet in the freezing water near the shore. She was just scared. The enormity of the water, along with the depth and the waves, must have just been too much for her little self to handle.

 

 

So, Luke held her above the water, wading around while I went swimming. Watching Grace feel strong and secure in her dad's arms, I couldn't help but feel how much that mirrors our relationship with God. We all go through times in life where our circumstances are scary and overwhelming. Yet even when God takes us into a dangerous place, His strong arms hold us secure. Grace trusted Luke so completely, and she was so happy as long as he was holding her. It's so important to remember that we can always trust our Heavenly Father's love as well!

 

"Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness."

~Isaiah 41:10

Then a storm rolled in, so we took some time to check out the nature center. After the rain, we went for a stroll along the trail at Whitefish Dunes. We saw some beautiful flowers and ferns!

Along the trail at Whitefish Dunes.

Bluebells at Whitefish Dunes

(Identified thanks to the UW-Stevens Point Wildflower Identification Guide- Love it!)

 

 After that we hopped into our car for a quick two-minute ride to Cave Point. It was gorgeous, and the passing storm had created a breathtaking sky and atmosphere. The temperature had dropped about 20 degrees as well, so that made it the perfect temperature for exploring.

Cave Point, just after the storm.

 

 

Looking at minnows and crawfish in the clear water.

Walking -very carefully- near the edge.