The Longest Winter

The skies were blue and the air was crisp but still warm- a perfect fall day. We were on the last boat ride of the year (2010) trying to savor the sun, the river – the joy.

Out we went, despite the wind causing the river to be extremely bumpy. Bumpy enough that I had to hold on to Addi so she wouldn’t go flying into the river. Goose was at our feet, scrounging for any leftover cheetos or ready to lap up spilled Gatorade. October. What a glorious month. Still happy that the suffocating heat of summer has dissipated yet not into the gray winter, yet!

This has been the hardest winter of my life. Pneumonia almost got me. Which led to muscle atrophy, then frustration then depression over the muscle atrophy and lack of energy. I forgot what sunshiny days do to the soul. I forgot that cheetos, boat rides, dogs, and sweet little redheaded granddaughter does for my soul.

The longest winter. It’s going to be the name of my book when I finally get around to structuring all the stories…. It feels like winter again, today- when it was marvelous springtime on Saturday… But this day, this day I will remember. I will remember sunshine, blue skies, and joy. I will remember that this is the day that God has given us. That it is indeed a gift- no matter how gray the skies, how dreary the air, how chilled I am… I will hold on to joy!

It’s easy and tempting to fall into forgetting- forgetting the blessings and the joys that surround ALL of us…

Today when there is such tragedy and despair happening around the world- especially in Japan…. Let’s chose to focus on the good that permeates life today- this minute and remember… And let’s pray for this world!!!!!

Thanks be To God from whom all blessings flow!!!!