Thoughts on the "Winter that Wasn't"

What a strange, strange winter we are having. Strange in the BEST.POSSIBLE.WAY. Strange, like me.

Ever since October, when I began to mentally prepare myself for the forthcoming cold, I have been waiting. Each gloriously sun-shined filled day has lead to another and another. Even I don't believe Chad anymore when he repeats his mantra to the children: "Better get outside and enjoy this beautiful day, it will probably be the last!"

Over the months, each time that I laced up the tennies, I told myself that this could well be my last outdoor run for the season. I started thinking that in October. Here it is January and today I will be out on the trails of our beautiful State Park.

I have been telling my kids that someday, when they are parents and even grandparents, they will talk about the Winter of 2011-2012 with their families. Remembering the winter that wasn't. Now don't get me wrong, I'm not saying we are not still in for some cold and snow. But anytime that it does not begin until after mid-January it is something of which to take note.

As I walked my garbage out to the trash can, in my slippers and pajama pants, I marveled at the penetrating sun on my shoulders. In January. Whatever the cause or purpose in the weather's unusual pattern, I am thankful for today. Even if tomorrow, or the day after that brings piles of white stuff---today is glorious.

Christmas at the Farm

Everyone was able to gather for the Farm Family Christmas.

It never ceases to amaze me that four families are able

to coordinate and sacrifice time in order to all come together

several times a year. It may get chaotic, but the time together

will be times that can never be remade. So priceless! It definitely was different

not having any snow to fly around behind the Honda's on, this year. But the kids

and adults all found other forms of entertainment!

Brian & Lisa's Family

(Chad's brother)

Larry & Laurie's family

(Chad's sister)

Our family

15 of 16 grandchildren, with the great-grandma's too!

Chad's parents and siblings

All 16 grandchildren with grandma & grandpa

me and Nic

Christmas morning after Church