Monday Mugs || Charlotte Sister

The first time I flew into Charlotte, NC, I had no idea who was picking me up from the airport.

I mean, I knew her; we had met via email through a mutual friend and we had spoken on the phone several times. But I didn’t really know what to expect when I got off the plane. I had never done anything like this before—flying into somewhere I had never been to stay with someone I had never met. For non-adventurous me, it was quite an adventure.

I was there to attend an event with Stonecroft, a ministry organization, exploring possible writing opportunities. Lisa was a writer and speaker and worked with Stonecroft, and she graciously invited me to her home for a few days to attend the event. Lisa—with her sweet smile and cheerful disposition—was exactly who I needed. I felt as if we had known each other forever, and this was just another happy reunion of kindred spirits.

So the second time I flew into Charlotte, NC, I couldn’t wait to be picked up from the airport.

This time I was in Charlotte to speak at a writers’ conference; Lisa would be speaking, too, and we attended together. Again, Lisa graciously opened her home for me as a haven of rest through the full days of conferencing. She cooked amazing food and we talked late into the night. A soul sister if there ever was one.

I could tell you more about my visits to Charlotte—about how God unexpectedly paid for my travel needs in  unpredictable ways. About the small career-affirming moments when I felt God wink at me. About my first view of the Charlotte skyline from my window seat. And oh, the Carolina barbecue!

But the thing I love most about Charlotte is Lisa. The next time I fly into Charlotte will be even better than the first, because I know who’s picking me up from the airport.

Monday Mugs is where I tell the stories behind my coffee mugs. Each one holds a story (and coffee, of course) of somewhere I’ve been or something I’ve seen. The photos are my actual mugs, not lookalikes found online. So grab one of your own mugs (fill it with coffee first) and hear the stories of mine. And don’t forget the cream and sugar.