Beyond the Porchlight: A Christmas Journey

 

Forty incredible ladies set out on a festive adventure to Atlanta, ready to embrace the Christmas spirit together. Our first stop was Ponce City Market for lunch and a little shopping. The building’s history is fascinating: once the site of the Ponce de Leon amusement park, it later became a massive Sears distribution center, and today, it’s a vibrant hub of shops, restaurants, and community life.

Next, we visited the iconic Mary Mac’s Tea Room, a Southern institution since 1945, serving up classic comfort food with a side of history. I listened as the ladies, of varying ages, shared laughs,  stories, and genuine connections. Giggles could be heard as we loaded the bus, while those passing us on the street wanted to join the fun. Afterward, we checked into our hotel just across from the Fox Theatre, preparing for the highlight of the trip: the Christmas Together Tour with Amy Grant, CeCe Winans, and Michael W. Smith.

The concert did not disappoint; it was magical. Amy Grant hula-hooped while singing Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree, bringing smiles all around. When CeCe Winans sang The Goodness of God, her open arms seemed to fill the theater with the presence of Jesus. Later, our group witnessed the theater stand still as the famous trio led us all in Silent Night, and flashlights glowing across the Fox created a moment that words can’t capture.

Before heading home, we enjoyed a little more shopping, but the real stories came from the women themselves. Some were battling serious health challenges, while others were facing quiet homes awaiting their return. The most moving moment came on the bus ride home, when our driver played "The Goodness of God" after a brief
 devotion. Voices rose in harmony, tears fell, and hearts were full—reminding everyone why this journey is truly called Beyond the Porchlight.

This trip was about more than music or sightseeing—it was about fellowship, hope, and the joy of coming together during the holiday season.

Merry Christmas,

Beyond the Porchlight: The Islands of New England By Lorenda Smith

 A Journey Beyond the Scenery

Our latest Beyond the Porchlight adventure took us to the breathtaking Islands of New England—a place where history, faith, and the salt air seem to mingle together. From the cobblestone charm of Nantucket to the sweeping views along Cape Cod, every stop held beauty. But, as always, it was the people who made it unforgettable.

Several of our travelers had never visited this part of the country. One precious lady came with her niece and a close friend—it was their first time traveling with me. A few days after we returned, they stopped by my office with a lovely gift bag and a handwritten card. Inside, their words glowed with gratitude and joy:

“This trip was a blessing. We can’t stop talking about the memories we made.”

Moments like that remind me that what we do is so much more than travel—it’s connection, it’s community, and it’s shared joy.

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The Spirit of Discovery

Among our travelers was a single lady, almost 80, whose zest for life inspired us all. A seasoned explorer, she had seen much of the world, yet New England was new to her. I watched as she spoke with locals—not just polite conversation, but real, heartfelt curiosity. She asked questions with childlike wonder, listened with kindness, and found beauty in the smallest details.

Our local guide, born and raised on Cape Cod, became a wonderful storyteller for our group. She knew the people, the seasons, the history—and even how to navigate an unexpected Nor’easter with grace and humor! It’s guides like her who make a trip come alive.

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The Lobster Dinner & a Sunset to Remember

One of the highlights of our journey was the much-anticipated New England lobster dinner—a true taste of the coast. As plates were set and each traveler donned their lobster bib with laughter and pride, it was impossible not to smile. Cameras flashed, laughter echoed, and the room was filled with that easy joy that comes when everyone feels part of something special.

Outside, the evening sky painted a masterpiece. The sun sank slowly over the water, filling the horizon with shades of gold, pink, and soft violet. It was, without question, one of the most beautiful sunsets many of us had ever seen—a perfect backdrop to a night we’ll never forget.

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From Strangers to Friends

By the end of the journey, best friends, couples, family members, and first-time travelers had become one big family. We laughed, learned, prayed, and shared meals together. The sound of the ocean seemed to echo what we were all feeling—peace, joy, and gratitude.

The landscapes were stunning, yes. But what made this trip truly special were the people—their stories, their laughter, their willingness to step beyond the porchlight and into something new.

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A Lasting Light

As I reflect on our time in New England, I’m reminded again why these journeys matter. It’s not just the destinations we reach—it’s the hearts we touch and the friendships we form along the way.

Here’s to traveling with wonder, to finding beauty in the unexpected, and to always stepping Beyond the Porchlight. 🌅

Beyond the Porchlight: Hawaii Through Their Eyes

 

As I flipped on the porchlight and stepped into the early morning darkness, I felt this journey was going to be something special. One by one, our travelers gathered to head to the airport — sleepy, but smiling — porchlights glowing behind them at home as we all set off for Hawaii. Even in the quiet hours before sunrise, there was a sound of sweet fellowship.

Our first tour was Pearl Harbor. The mood shifted as our group walked across the memorial, silence settling over the waters. For our veterans, this was not just a historic site — it was personal. One, a decorated Vietnam veteran, carried the memories of his unit with him as he stood there. Another, who had once been stationed in Hawaii on the USS Enterprise and was on PT when the ship exploded, was returning to the islands for the first time since. Knowing these men, I was struck by the weight of history, memory, and resilience. I felt only admiration and appreciation. That evening, fireworks sparkled over the infinity pool at the Prince Waikiki — a brilliant reminder of joy and celebration after a day of reverence. The pool itself brought smiles as some giggled at the lack of clothing and maybe thoughts of younger years.

The following day, we visited the ‘Iolani Palace, where the stories of the Hawaiian monarchy unfolded. Our group gained a new appreciation for the depth of Hawaiian culture. I laughed as I watched senior adults — who’ve seen so much of the world already — grin ear to ear as we stopped for colorful Waiola Shave Ice, proving that delight has no age limit.

From there, we hopped to the Big Island, where Rainbow Falls greeted us and we all sank our toes into the black sand for the first time. On that same beach, one traveler paused to watch a local weaving Lauhala baskets beneath a sign that read: “You buy the land, you get the people — land & people are one.” As she shared that with me, I carried that sentiment for the rest of the trip.

Lunch in Hilo was a treat — my bowl of rice noodle vegetable soup at Tina’s Garden Café might have been one of the best I’ve ever had. Then on to Kailua-Kona, where we made fresh leis, each flower threaded with care. Later that night, we wore those leis to a traditional Polynesian luau — a celebration that wrapped us all in the heartbeat of Hawaiian culture.

Morning brought the scent of fresh-brewed Kona coffee at Bayview Farm. Every bean is still picked by hand, every sip is richer because of the tradition behind it. Even those who “don’t drink coffee” couldn’t resist. Dinner at Lava Java was the perfect ending to the day, paired with a sunset so spectacular that no one dared put their cameras down until the sky gave its final glow.

Then came Maui, the Valley Isle. Driving through Lahaina was sobering — a reminder of heartbreak and the unshakable spirit of its people. But the highlight awaited: the Road to Hana. With our local guides, Travis and Uncle Joe, weaving stories of heritage and humor, the road became more than a drive — it became a journey through heart and history.

And then came the waterfalls. Our travelers, from their 40s to 80s, let their voices ring out — singing “Waterfall!” each time one appeared. At Waimoku Falls, they didn’t just admire the view — they plunged into the icy water beneath it. In that moment, age melted away. There were no decades, only dreams being checked off bucket lists. Warm banana bread from Aunty Sandy’s fueled the adventure, and laughter flowed as freely as the water itself. If you’ve never seen seasoned adults fly down waterslides or leap into waterfall pools, including myself, you’re missing one of life’s greatest joys.

As the trip wound down, we shared meals, breathtaking sunsets, and stories that stitched us closer together. A few even donned henna tattoos, sending pictures home that made many question and wonder - who?

Travel is about the places, the food, the sights — but it’s most powerful when seen through the eyes of those who walk beside you, those you trust, and those who see you- the real you.

And so, porchlights once again are turned off as we return home — filled with memories, friendships, and the promise of the next Beyond the Porchlight adventure.

 Spain: A Journey of Beauty, Bonding, and Beyond

There’s something remarkable about stepping beyond your front door, boarding a plane, and finding yourself halfway across the world with people who begin as acquaintances and end as dear friends. That’s the heart of Beyond the Porchlight—not just the places we go, but the people who go with us.

My recent journey through Spain was more than sightseeing. It was a soul-filling adventure steeped in color, culture, and connection.

We began along the sun-drenched Costa del Sol, where our home base in Fuengirola welcomed us with stunning balcony views of the Alboran Sea. Mornings started with spectacular sunrises, and evenings ended with laughter on a moonlit beach where a few took a peaceful night cruise. Málaga offered us history and art—from the ancient Alcazaba to Picasso’s genius. We even found ourselves in the homes of gracious locals for lunch. The husband spent his typical work week in Madrid working in IT. However, he found himself at home due to the 2025 Iberian Peninsula blackout.  The beautiful home nestled by the sea, with the large windows open, offered refreshing cool air in the sunroom while enjoying home-cooked Spanish dishes. The lack of power didn't stop the conversation or the lovely prepared meal cooked on gas stoves. Without screens, we found ourselves more present, sharing stories and laughter.  The evening took us to Fuengirola for dinner at the Bar La Plaza. We didn't know what to expect with the electricity still out. However, we were all mesmerized by the service and welcome greeting; they seemed genuinely glad we were there. A few observed the local chefs cooking on gas grills with flashlights. I enjoyed a "Revuelto", a Spanish dish of scrambled eggs mixed with prawns, ham, mushrooms, and spinach. A dish I had never tasted, though I'm not sure why. It seemed simple, yet my palate felt like it had devoured a 5-star meal. We casually walked back to the hotel, unconcerned about the lack of power, simply living in the moment!

We crossed the awe-inspiring Puente Nuevo in Ronda and savored a wine and cheese pairing. Setenil de las Bodegas charmed us with its cliff-hugging whitewashed homes, and a flamenco show in Málaga brought passion and rhythm to life.

Marbella and Mijas swept us off our feet—literally—with a lively flamenco dance class, followed by seaside tapas and panoramic views from La Alcazaba de Mijas. We danced, we ate, we explored... and we bonded.

Granada was a highlight in every sense—the majestic Alhambra stole our breath, its architecture and gardens whispered tales of centuries past, and the snowy Sierra Nevadas stood sentinel in the distance.

From the coast, we boarded a high-speed train bound for Madrid. We navigated bustling streets and even busier metro lines, finding joy (and a few giggles) in every unexpected turn. Segovia gave us the fairytale ending we didn’t know we needed—ancient aqueducts, castle spires, cobblestone charm, and sunshine that wrapped us in warmth as we slowly said our goodbyes. But not before a lovely dinner at Los Galayos, where the meal seemed to go on for hours. Not because of slow service but because of continued tapas, savory delicacies, and spirits.

But the most beautiful part of Spain? The people I traveled with. They were kind, adventurous, and full of grace and humor. We may have come for the destination, but left with something even greater—deepened friendships, shared memories, and hearts that feel forever changed.

As I sit back home, porchlight turned off, I’m reminded that the real journey isn’t just across oceans. It’s into the hearts of those we walk beside, one unforgettable adventure at a time.

Hasta luego, Spain. You were a dream.

The Journey to Beyond the Porchlight

Why "Beyond the Porchlight"?

I never imagined I'd be writing a travel blog. But then again, I never imagined I'd travel far enough to need to leave the porchlight on for more than a night or two.

I grew up in a small South Georgia town rooted in faith and simple routines. Travel wasn't part of our lives. It was something for other people—something I saw in books or on TV, but never believed was meant for me. My daddy drove a big truck all week, and when he was home, we stayed close to home, too. And when we did leave—maybe to visit family—the porchlight stayed on. It was a quiet promise: "We'll be back soon. We're just away for a little while."

As a young mother of two, the idea of travel felt even more out of reach. But life has a way of opening unexpected doors. In my mid-thirties, I was allowed to travel for work. That "yes" changed everything for me, my family, and others. It opened my creative mind to the possibilities. People who, like me, may have thought travel was beyond their reach. Some had lost spouses and were afraid to go alone. But as more and more reached out and were brave enough to take the first step and to trust me, it became not just a job but a passion, and a ministry.  I have built genuine relationships through travel, and we quickly changed our roles from acquaintances to friends.

Over the years, those friends have become more like family. We've celebrated birthdays and anniversaries, shared quiet moments on balconies, and laughed until we cried on buses rolling through the countryside. I've stood beside them at funerals and weddings, hugged them through heartache, and heard stories about how the weeks between trips once felt lonely—until they had another adventure to look forward to. 

That's what travel has become for us: stepping away from the familiar, while still carrying it in our hearts. It's leaving the light on back home while we chase sunrises somewhere new.

Beyond the Porchlight is the space between home and adventure.

It's where memories are made, friendships are formed, and healing happens.

It's where we go when we finally say yes to adventure.

So whether you're a seasoned traveler or someone just now daring to go beyond your own porchlight, this space is for you.

To the first-timers.To the second-chancers. To a seasoned traveler. 

To the ones who whispered, "I want to go."

Let this be where the stories are told, the memories are honored, and the spirit of adventure never stops calling.