"When I found the one I love, I held him and would not let him go" (Song of Solomon 3:4). My name is Kristy Dykes, and I write Christian love stories for Barbour Publishing...perhaps because I live with a hero husband. At this site, I cover marriage, romance, and Christian fiction. These book titles make me smile--and offer great truths: Sometimes I Wake Up Grumpy and Sometimes I Let Him Sleep, Love Extravagantly, Every Marriage Is A Fixer-Upper, Red-Hot Monogamy.
Sunday, August 03, 2008
THIS IS STEINHATCHEE
Milton, here for Kristy:
Here are several pictures and a video from my visit in Steinhatchee. There is a rumor going around Steinhatchee that preachers don't have to shave every day there. Have you heard that rumor?
I have stories to tell that will circle parts of the Panhandle of Florida as Kristy and I shared wonderful, amazing, and unbelievably funny experiences together. Kristy bragged about being a native of Florida and especially a native of Jacksonville, Fl.
Oh, did we ever live! We walked together through small town America holding hands every step of the way. Have you ever lived in a town with only one caution light? We did and loved it.
***
Saturday we (Norma and Ron are with me.) drove from Steinhatchee to see my parents and siblings. Uncle Johnny and Aunt Margie and cousin Debbie were there too, and we all had a fabulous time at Tricia's home on Kristy's birthday. You will not believe the present that all our family gave her. They are amazing people. I wept. I will tell you about that soon. I cannot share about it just yet.
My father commented the following on the last post about the gathering.
Dad Dykes said...
What a grand time we had with the Family together yesterday. It was wonderful reminiscing about Kristy as we remembered her birth date. After we feasted on the goodies and dainties we laughed and cried again as we shared the happy memories of Kristy on her 57th birthday. She was our daughter. We remember her with many fond thoughts and always will.
She is one more reason why we look forward to Heaven.
She was a grand Lady!
Dad Dykes
***
Later today or tomorrow I will draw three names for winners of one of Kristy's books from all those who answered the question, "Where is Steinhatchee?" Don't you know that free is better than cheap. Ha! Kristy gave hundreds and hundreds of books away and I am sure she is thrilled about giving three more away.
Now that everyone knows where Steinhatchee is, enjoy Steinhatchee and the beautiful scenery.
***
How is Milton?
If you were to take your hand and press against your body for thirty seconds, try five minutes, try six hours, try thirty seven years and then all of a sudden remove it, that is just a little how I feel. Your hand would be gone from your body, but the feeling of it having been there would continue. Even more, that is how I feel with Kristy gone.
Her presence is in everything I see, every place I dine, every street I drive, every town I pass through, every place I walk, every place I sit, every thought and memory, every word from my mouth, every dream of the heart. It is a sweet and wonderful presence yet with such pain and loss.
Her cloud of peace is resting over me and I am sitting in a chair of strength that is holding me. Through God, Kristy has given me hope that I will make it. Kristy is one amazing lady.
***
Here is more of Steinhatchee. How do you say Steinhatchee?
I've heard that the death of a spouse is like an amputation. Apparently, that is correct, as that seems to be how you're feeling. I've always told my husband I hope and pray he goes first. I can't imagine the feelings you described so well.
Milton, The pictures are beautiful! I'm happy to see that beard on your face, that's what you need to do! Rest, take it easy, and enjoy! That quaint little church, oh it took my breath away! I have a love for all the little steepled churches you find in the most unique little villages and towns. I have many pictures that we've taken when we traveled here and yon.
Bless you, Milton - as you set out on another journey. Kristy will forever be a part of you, though her physical presence is not seen. Just as you shared, you see her in everything, feel her touch and sense her presence.
I'm so happy that Norma, Ron, and all the family are WITH YOU AND SO SUPPORTIVE! You're continually in my prayers, --- you, Julie, Jennifer, the grandbabies and ALL the family! God's not done yet!
I got a message from my birthday alarm notifier of Kristy's birthday and almost sent a card, but I wasn't sure how you'd feel. Now I wish I'd followed my instinct. However, she's now celebrating outside of time. What a concept! We talked about that (being outside of time) at a Bible study last night. Amazing.
I'm glad the cloud of peace and chair of strength are continuing to lift you up and keep you at peace, Milton. May God give them to you for as long as you need them.
I can't wait until you're ready to share Kristy's birthday present from her family.
We continue to hold you up in prayer. Are Julie and Jennifer and the grands doing all right?
BTW, I pronounced Steinhatchee wrong, too. You don't even want to know. ;)
I've been out of state and returned to find that Kristy passed while I was away. I'm so sorry for your loss, but I can just picture her dancing on streets of gold in that ice blue dress. She's a beautiful lady. Rest, relax, and enjoy your memories of those 36 years together. She'll live eternally in our hearts, minds, and memories, especially yours, as well as in heaven with her sweet Lord.
I was reading her blog every day and keeping up until I was away for two weeks. My prayers continue for you and your family. May God bless you and yours. The pictures are beautiful, and I love the picture of the church.
Milton, I got a Facebook note from Mark White last Thursday talking about Kristy's homegoing. Darla and I were so shocked. We did not know anything that was going on. I'm so sorry. Friday night, we went on the link to the recording of her service, and watched it all and cried and rejoiced with you. Hearing Terry and Sandra sing...Ron McGee preach...Larry Ford bring down the house! Wow! It was almost too much to take. Our prayers are with you! If there is anything that we can do...don't hesitate to ask. We love you! We loved Kristy! Heaven's Sounding Sweeter All the Time -- and much more now - more than ever! - Don and Darla Railey New Life Center Bloomingdale, IL
P.S. I know where Steinhatchee, Sopchoppy, and Carrabelle is!! My home stomping grounds!
Milton, I am so glad to see you are surrounded by family and friends...yet I know you are missing Kristy so much. As you cheered her on, I think she is cheering you on now. I can almost hear her saying, "You can do it, Milton! You are never alone. One step at a time, you can climb this mountain. Hold on to Jesus. He will never let go of you."
Suzanne and I enjoyed spending the last few days together with you and Ron & Norma. We were glad to have you in our home. Our time at the river was good even though it rained most of the time. Nothing like that balcony!
We are praying for you as you walk out this new journey that the Father has for you. Keep the faith and know that He will give order to your path and direction for your steps.
“Pizzazz! Enthusiasm! High energy! Those are a few of the words that describe Kristy Dykes. From the moment she steps up to the platform, she captivates your attention. As both a writer and a speaker, Kristy is moving and motivating. She will touch your heart with love and laughter.”-- FLORENCE LITTAUER. A former newspaper columnist, Kristy Dykes is an award-winning author of 10 Christian fiction titles as well as over 600 articles in many publications including two New York Times subsidiaries. Her titles have been on the Christian bestsellers list and Top 20 List at christianbook.com, and have won many awards including Second Place in the 2007 Barclay Gold, Third Place in the 2007 Inspirational Readers Choice Contest, and Third Place in the ACFW 2006 Book of the Year Contest (novella category). Kristy writes a column for the ezine of the inspirational chapter of Romance Writers of America, has taught at many conferences and two colleges, and speaks for women's and writers' events.
Living a kaleidoscopic life as a pastor’s wife, she jokes that she has 1.2 million acts of kindness in circulation instead of 1.2 million books. And she loves every minute of it!
Kristy won Second Place in the 2007 Barclay Gold for her novella "Angel Food" in the 4-in-1 collection Kiss the (Cook) Bride. She won Third Place for the same title in the 2007 Inspirational Readers Choice Contest, awarded by FHL, the inspirational chapter of Romance Writers of America. Kristy also won Third Place in the 2006 Book of the Year Contest, awarded by American Christian Fiction Writers, for her novella "Reunited" in the 4-in-1 collection Wedded Bliss?.
1) The Heart of the Matter, a novel, is now available at christianbook.com. "Can Luke overcome his vain prejudice? Can Jeris allow her tender heart to trust again? Will they let God show them the heart of the matter?" (1 Samuel 16:7) 2) Kiss the Bride, a 4-in-1 novella collection, is also available. Coauthors: Kristy Dykes, Aisha Ford, Vickie McDonough, Carrie Turansky. Plot: Four restaurant owners discover a dash of hope, a dollop of longing, and a plateful of faith are the recipe for romance.
every day there. Have you heard that rumor?
10 Comments:
Milton,
I've heard that the death of a spouse is like an amputation. Apparently, that is correct, as that seems to be how you're feeling. I've always told my husband I hope and pray he goes first. I can't imagine the feelings you described so well.
Praying for comfort and peace.
Pastor,, how pretty is all up there.. Happy belated Birthday Kristy, iknow she had a grand day with Jesus,
stil praying
Milton,
The pictures are beautiful! I'm happy to see that beard on your face, that's what you need to do! Rest, take it easy, and enjoy!
That quaint little church, oh it took my breath away! I have a love for all the little steepled churches you find in the most unique little villages and towns. I have many pictures that we've taken when we traveled here and yon.
Bless you, Milton - as you set out on another journey. Kristy will forever be a part of you, though her physical presence is not seen. Just as you shared, you see her in everything, feel her touch and sense her presence.
I'm so happy that Norma, Ron, and all the family are WITH YOU AND SO SUPPORTIVE! You're continually in my prayers, --- you, Julie, Jennifer, the grandbabies and ALL the family! God's not done yet!
Cathy (TN)
I got a message from my birthday alarm notifier of Kristy's birthday and almost sent a card, but I wasn't sure how you'd feel. Now I wish I'd followed my instinct. However, she's now celebrating outside of time. What a concept! We talked about that (being outside of time) at a Bible study last night. Amazing.
I'm glad the cloud of peace and chair of strength are continuing to lift you up and keep you at peace, Milton. May God give them to you for as long as you need them.
I can't wait until you're ready to share Kristy's birthday present from her family.
We continue to hold you up in prayer. Are Julie and Jennifer and the grands doing all right?
BTW, I pronounced Steinhatchee wrong, too. You don't even want to know. ;)
I've been out of state and returned to find that Kristy passed while I was away. I'm so sorry for your loss, but I can just picture her dancing on streets of gold in that ice blue dress. She's a beautiful lady. Rest, relax, and enjoy your memories of those 36 years together. She'll live eternally in our hearts, minds, and memories, especially yours, as well as in heaven with her sweet Lord.
I was reading her blog every day and keeping up until I was away for two weeks. My prayers continue for you and your family. May God bless you and yours. The pictures are beautiful, and I love the picture of the church.
Barb
Milton,
I got a Facebook note from Mark White last Thursday talking about Kristy's homegoing. Darla and I were so shocked. We did not know anything that was going on. I'm so sorry. Friday night, we went on the link to the recording of her service, and watched it all and cried and rejoiced with you. Hearing Terry and Sandra sing...Ron McGee preach...Larry Ford bring down the house! Wow! It was almost too much to take. Our prayers are with you! If there is anything that we can do...don't hesitate to ask. We love you! We loved Kristy! Heaven's Sounding Sweeter All the Time -- and much more now - more than ever! -
Don and Darla Railey
New Life Center
Bloomingdale, IL
P.S. I know where Steinhatchee, Sopchoppy, and Carrabelle is!! My home stomping grounds!
Milton,
I am so glad to see you are surrounded by family and friends...yet I know you are missing Kristy so much. As you cheered her on, I think she is cheering you on now. I can almost hear her saying, "You can do it, Milton! You are never alone. One step at a time, you can climb this mountain. Hold on to Jesus. He will never let go of you."
Love and prayers from,
Carrie in NJ
Milton,
Suzanne and I enjoyed spending the last few days together with you and Ron & Norma. We were glad to have you in our home. Our time at the river was good even though it rained most of the time. Nothing like that balcony!
We are praying for you as you walk out this new journey that the Father has for you. Keep the faith and know that He will give order to your path and direction for your steps.
We love you,
George & Suzanne
Milton,
You inspire & comfort me!
As Kristy would say:
"THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!"
I continue to pray for all of you.
God Bless You For your courage to face this chapter in life.
He leadeth you beside the still waters to restore your soul.
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