Remembering

We didn't get it.  Not one single flake.  The predicted modest snowfall bypassed the metroplex and trailed down south.

So, in honor of today's weather forecast, I present an image from ten days ago.

Only a person who dreads the relentless heat of our August days would revel in a day like the one shown here.  This is me, driving down my street at 5pm.

It was sweet while it lasted and I was hoping for a return engagement. 

It was not to be. 

Now, I am going to turn on the Winter Olympics and get my fix long distance.

Though Vancouver is having a little trouble with that snow, aren't they?

The Heart of Love

My favorite one hit the floor this morning.

I was being so careful,

handling it gently like the treasure it is,

when it slipped from my grasp.

I felt it happening,

my fingers struggled to stop it,

but failed.

Not only is it the most exquisite Valentine's Day cookie I have ever seen, it was lovingly crafted by one so dear to my heart. 

But you know, the cookie, though broken,  

is still beautiful.

Still a treasure.

Made in love.

Be loved today.

Because you are.

"Nothing fazes us because Jesus loves us.  I'm absolutely convinced that nothing.....can get between us and God's love because of the way Jesus our Master has embraced us."

Romans 8, The Message

Winter Wallop

Winter gave us a big fat kiss on the cheek yesterday. 

The official record at the Dallas/Ft. Worth Airport was set today at 12+ inches in a 24 hour period.

Branches broke, the crepe myrtles sagged. 

I dashed into my car, camera in tow, before the beautiful whiteness transformed into drab slush.  It was a trick getting up my driveway and on the road, but the city was a feast for these eyes.

A Happy Birthday

"When we honestly ask ourselves which person in our lives mean the most to us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving advice, solutions, or cures, have chosen rather to share our pain and touch our wounds with a warm and tender hand. The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing, not curing, not healing and face with us the reality of our powerlessness, that is a friend who cares."


— Henri J.M. Nouwen (The Road to Daybreak: A Spiritual Journey)

This quote describes my friend, Jan.  My life is richer because she was born, and because she has joined in my journey, and allowed me to be with her. 
 
Jan loves life and embraces it with arms wide open.  Beautiful, stylish and creative, her warm and giving heart draws people like a magnet.  Did I also mention that she has a terrific sense of humor, loves roses and chocolate, and coffee?  If she knew you, having coffee with you would be one of her favorite things to do.

That is just the way she is.

I am thankful to be her friend.
 
Happy birthday, Jan!