Week to week, while preparing these blogs, I look through visual parts of the past. Many of the old images show scenes from our research trips as we've studied surviving western vehicles. Recently, I came across a photograph of a wagon-related event that took place almost twenty years ago. It jarred me as I don't feel twenty years older. (Well, maybe sometimes). Anyway, that thought was another reminder of just how fast time passes. There are people in that picture that are gone now... and with them are opportunities that can never again be replicated, no matter how strong the will.
A segment from an original Joseph Murphy broadside. It's another element of America's past that's gone forever. Only by constantly searching have we been able to save and share so much early transportation history. Image Courtesy of Wheels That Won The West® Archives. All Rights Reserved.
For each of us, the clock is ticking and seasons can pass before we know it. So, this Christmas, we encourage you to celebrate the big and small moments. Reach out to others and cherish the times with those around you. There is great wonderment, even in the little things. I see it in the times we spend with our grandkids. The laughter and smiles erupting when something as seemingly simple as a tiny frog is caught and studied, when a flowering weed is deemed to be a work of art that any mom would surely love to receive, or when a discarded stick turns into a magical sword for a pint-sized superhero. Sometimes the Lord uses small things to convey the biggest messages.
Over two thousand years ago, we were reminded of the value in noticing details that others miss; an angelic host, a guiding star, and a child born in Bethlehem. It was Prophesy fulfilled, Grace given, and Hope secured. God's Word encourages us to seek true treasure in Him and we pray you experience even more of that in 2026.
Scene from the 2025 Christmas celebration at Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri.
Thank you for your continued encouragement, emails, questions, and time. We appreciate your company and wish you a wonderful Christmas celebration. We'll be back soon with more stories, information, photos, and even some surprises.
Merry Christmas!
David
Matthew 6:19-21