Gracious, this little town is beyond its normal, quiet and serene, it is just about comatose! Seems everyone with any sense at all is out of town and into warmer weather. I saw one young man jogging in the subdivision where I am keeping tabs of a friend's house and cat. Poor fella probably doesn't know what to do with all his friends out of town.

It's beautiful today, cold, but gorgeous! There are patches of green dotting the yards, while buds are taking shape on bushes and tree branches. While raking yesterday, I noticed blades of green from the bulbs that have been "incubating" this winter ... yep, there's hope for those of us still wearing our winter coats while our friends and neighbors bask in the sun in Florida or San Padre Island, TX. We'll get our "turn in the sun!" In the meantime, I am enjoying a glass of ice tea, the company of a reluctant "full figured" kitty, and the sweet feel of a home that is filled with much love!

What joy to know Spring is "officially" here. After a very cold and snowy winter, everything seems eager for the warmth of Spring! Birds have been seeking nesting sites, tree branches are displaying small "bumps" where buds are preparing to emerge and raccoons, rabbits, and even a fox have shown their presence.  It is, indeed, a time of newness. Now, if the temperatures would only cooperate. I was reminded by a lady in the check out line at the local grocery store that it's sectional time here in Indiana, that means anything can go ... from the weather to tournament results. While it may be a bit cliche, it is true. So, whether it is a week or a month before temperature warm to "short sleeve" weather, one thing is for certain ... warmth, brilliant color, picnics and the busy sounds of the animal kingdom "multiplying," will be here shortly! That makes my cold bones very happy!!

As I prepare to tuck myself in for the evening, my heart reminds me how very blessed I am to live in this country. Oh sure, in this country we have our share of changes, disputes, differences of opinion; however, we are free to express our views. Somehow even with our various ways of viewing life situations, there is still a respect for each individual's right to express his or her's opinion. I like that! So, tonight my prayer is each of us remember what a privilege it is to live in this country and  to pray that gift  be given to everyone in this world. 

The name of the game is Balance! It seems whatever I confront each day, it is yet another opportunity to find my balance. I was in JoAnn Fabric's the other day and saw an interesting piece. It was a wall decor made of wood and on it were the words: "Life is like riding a bike, to keep your balance you have to keep moving."

Most of my life people have commented about how I do not seem to relax well. I always have to be doing something. Even when I watch TV I find my hands occupied with some kind of hand work. Knitting, sewing, filing my nails.....yep, I am definitely guilty of not simply sitting idle. What I have observed is if I am engaged in something action oriented there is less "head chatter." That is to say, it seems to be satisfied I'm focused on something. If I am not, my mind has plenty to say to me about everything! What I also know is movement helps me satisfy the need I have to accomplish something. Good, bad, or indifferent, it seems some sort of action keeps me in balance. 

Sometimes the wisest thing we can do is wait!  While this can often be the most difficult thing to do, it generally brings the best results. There is much to be said about taking the time to "hit the pause button" before jumping into a decision or responding to someone's words or deeds, especially when our emotions are high. Truth be told, it is the difference between "reacting" and "taking action." Think about that!

  Whomever your "sweetie" is, hug them, tell them something you are grateful for about them and ask if there is something you can do for them. That is my suggestion as a perfect gift on Valentine's Day; and, most importantly, every day. Ever wonder why only one day a year is set aside for such sweetness? Oh, do not get me wrong, there are many people who take the time to show their appreciation and gratitude for the "sweetie" in their life. 
  With that said, Valentine's Day can be a difficult day for many people who do not have a "significant other." I suggest we extend that definition of "sweetie" to mean anyone who makes your heart feel warm and cozy. It could be a favorite friend, family member, neighbor or even a family pet! I have a friend who's stepson suggested they send Valentine's cards to random people from the phone book. So, this year, I took that action as well. Of course, I pondered if the man or woman with whom I sent the card would be have some explaining to do if they had a significant other, but I thought it was worth the "risk." So, I simply wrote on the card it was a random act of kindness and wished them a happy heart. 
  Perhaps you would like to take such action? And you can't use the excuse "it's too late," because whenever that person receives the card it will be Valentine's Day!