I’m sitting here with no place to go. Our area had almost a foot of snow, which is unusual. It closed down the city. My husband loves the free days off. I’m enjoying his free time, as well, but this snow doesn’t look like it’s going anywhere soon. We live over a mountain, so the hubs may be home bound a couple more days. I predict a bout of cabin fever!

It makes me wonder what retirement will be like. 24/7 is a lot of quality time. What’s the old saying? “Absence makes the heart grow fonder.” I find the older I get, the more territorial I get. I need my space and my routine. So does he. We’ve always liked the days we’re both home “puttering” separately, but could get a hug or share a sandwich at our leisure. That’s the delight of a long friendship/marriage.

What a month December was. Our Christmas felt like “It’s a Wonderful Life.” We always ring in Christmas a week before with my husband’s birthday. This year he celebrated his 60th with a 60′s Rock Star Party. We all dressed up like 60′s rock stars (or at least we tried!) and sang many great oldies from our youth. Who doesn’t love 60′s music? Mike loved both the music and the party, and so did we.

Our daughters, sons-in-law, and granddaughters were home for Christmas. We celebrated Christmas Eve outside with our church family. We sang hymns in the frosty weather, listened to the Christmas story, and watched an awesome fireworks display. When we looked out the window Christmas morning, everything had turned white, due to an unexpected snow. Big, beautiful snowflakes fell softly all Christmas day. It felt magical, like we were part of an amazing snow globe.

The happy events were just what we needed following December’s rantings and ravings from Congress and the many negative news reports from around the world. Life shouldn’t be this chaotic and cruel. Christmas reminded us that there’s still beauty in the world, and lots of good, decent people who love God and our country. We are blessed, in America, no matter the circumstances.

“Do not be afraid!  Stand firm; you will see deliverance. The Lord will fight for you; you need only be still.”

I trust the Lord. How about you?

©2011 BLN

About a month ago, my youngest daughter delivered our 4th granddaughter. Her name is Juliana (Juli-ah-na) Nicole. Her name suits her well, because she’s a jewel of a baby. Juliana has smiled from day one. I don’t care what you say, it’s NOT just gas.

Anyone who’s become a grandparent knows there’s no relationship like the one with grandchildren. Grandparents fall insanely in love. Grandchildren are wonderful at reciprocating that love. Since aging and grandchildren go hand in hand, I don’t mind aging. What an incredible stage of life.

And now, a drum roll, please. Here’s Juliana!

Tex, the dog, is the only boy in the family. He’s already protective of his little “sis,” though he’s jealous of her, too. Typical, whether human or canine!

Juliana not only has loving parents and adoring grandparents, she also has cousins who are anxious to show her the ropes! Here’s a picture of her big girl cousins: Kristen, Elizabeth, and Presley Kate.

We grandparents have so much to be thankful for. I’d love to hear about your grandchildren. Feel free to comment.

On another note~

I am thrilled that the scorching days of summer have passed, and that fall is showing its beautiful, cool self. The leaves are just beginning to turn, but already are stunning. Every day brings more beauty.

It’s time for me to go get my hair colored and cut, so I’ll close for today. I’m reading Tris Hussey’s book, Create Your Own Blog. It’s inspiring. I’ll be back tomorrow! I know that’s hard to believe. I’ll have to earn your trust!

©2010 BLN