Sleeping Under The Stars ~ August 14, 2010

The Perseid Meteor Showers are making their annual appearance. It has been years since I lived in an area where I could actually see anything, but I always try. Watching a starry night fascinates me almost as much as a thunderstorm. They both remind me of the magnificence and omnipotence of God.

Thursday night was supposed to be the best viewing night, but there was simply too much cloud cover. However, I did enjoy just sitting outside and communing with God. Last night, I made the decision that I would sit outside again. I had not had a very good day, and just really needed to pour out my heart to the One who loves me and understands.

After about 20 minutes, Caitlyn wandered out to see if I had seen a meteorite yet. I told her no, but that I was going to get a blanket and just lay outside for a while. Caitlyn decided to join me, and as we lay on the blanket talking, it began to get a bit chilly. I volunteered to go in for another blanket. When I returned, she excitedly exclaimed that she had seen 2 streak by!! I really am happy for her. 😄🌟

We continued lying there, gazing at the skies and talking both of serious matters and total nonsense. The next thing I knew, I was waking up...and it was 4:30am. I may not have seen a meteorite, but I did add a treasured memory of time spent with my precious granddaughter. God is sooo good!!!

"He made all the stars--the Bear and Orion, the Pleiades and the constellations of the southern sky". ~ Job 9:9
(New Living Translation ©2007)

Perseid Meteor Shower

Emily Stuhler & Todd Terry ~ (Beyond The Farthest Star)

Look to the skies!! The annual Perseid Meteor Shower is back and the peak viewing time is Aug. 10-13, 2012. This weekend will provide a perfect time for creating special memories with your family. The photo on the right reminded me of the Christmas I got a telescope and my dad helping me to set it up. Just as this scene is one that proves to be a pivotal point in the relationship of the parent and child in Beyond The Farthest Star, it was a special moment with my dad. Years later, I wanted unforgettable moments like that with my own children. 

When my kids were younger, we lived in the country and could see an amazing number of stars. In Genesis 15:5, God tells Abram, "Look up at the heavens and count the stars--if indeed you can count them.", and just think---we each see only a small portion of them! Even a quiet night was special (and I must admit 2 of them were not thrilled when I hauled them out in the middle of a cold night to go view Halley's Comet with my astronomy class) but their astonishment and delight as we watched meteor showers with friends really caused us to marvel at God's creation!! Even as adults, they still talk about those nights and the fun we had.

If you are into camping, this is a fantastic weekend to get out and sleep under the stars. Actually, my granddaughter and I unintentionally did that 2 years ago! In mild hopes of spotting a few "shooting stars" despite living too near streetlights for a great view, we stretched out on blankets in my backyard to talk and watch the skies. We woke up at dawn! Cait saw 2 and I missed both, but we both gained a precious memory of time spent together. Stiff, sore muscles from sleeping on the ground, but IT WAS WORTH IT!!

Recently I won a book that I love! If anyone in your household has any interest in stargazing, I highly recommend The Stargazer's Guide To The Night Sky by Dr. Jason Lisle! It's worth it just for the fascinating photos. I also found a couple of articles that will give you more info about the Perseid Meteor Shower and give you some fun ideas for your family, along with some options if watching online is your only choice (or comfort level!!).

• Stargazing, Family Style
• EarthSky 
• Astronomy News 
• StarDate Online 
• NASA 

Families are meant to be treasured, and you will never regret taking the time you spend with them as you talk, share your faith & special moments, and let the ones you love know just how much they mean to you. You never know what a difference the memories of the moments will have or the impact they may have. Whether you are alone, with family, or with friends....relax, & spend some time this weekend stargazing!! What you discover will be----INDESCRIBABLE!! **********************************************************

Psalm 147:4 "He counts the stars and calls them all by name."