What can happen in one short week?

• A country bumpkin can drive through Chicago both ways without mishap and with correct change for the toll booth.
• A bargain shopper can buy steal-of-a-deal new snow boots at an outlet store.
• Old friends can spend a day together and pick up the conversation right where it ended almost 30 years ago.
• Co-authors can hammer out the direction of a new book…and laugh a lot in the process.
• One writer can enjoy lunch several days running with publishing house personnel, an agent, and special needs ministry colleagues.
• An Iowan can navigate Grand Rapids, Michigan all week long and not get lost once.
• The same Iowan can flawlessly execute a Michigan left turn. (Cue applause)
• A writers’ conference can result in complete strangers becoming fast friends over coffee and hand outs.
• The trees along Lake Michigan’s eastern shore can be beautiful enough to bring a person to tears.
• Arriving home after a wonderful week reminds weary travelers of a truth that bears repeating, though clicking one’s heels is optional…

…There truly is no place like home!