Winter: Cold, Snow, Ice, Sleet, Hail, Rain, Sun - Fun!

The title of this blog perfectly describes the many weather patterns that occur during the winter time, yes at times, even in the same day! I love it! I am not alone in this feeling of unrestrained joy. There are some bloggers among us who at the sight of the first snow flake emit a gleeful smile and a jubilant cry of ecstasy, then their are others who just say "oh no not again, yuck"! Not me, I say bring it on. To me it's a beautiful gift from Jehovah, and Jehovah is so kind, he pleases everyone. Also, remember winter is with us only about 3 months, so enjoy it while it is here.

What kind of things can you do that are fun? Take a look at this beautiful Currier and Ives scene of people skating in Central Park.

You sure can't do that in the

summertime.

What about skiing, or snowboarding? That's exciting, and you need the wintertime and the snow to do it.

Also, think about this. How could we ever make snowmen without the snow? Snowmen fall from heaven unassembled. It's our job to put them together, especially with our children and grandchildren. Think about all the fun, and memories that brings.

It's not just humans who take delight in this time of year but also the animals. Seeing them frolicking in the snow underscores Jehovah's happy, humorous personality.

Isn't he the cutest? Now do you like winter? He sure looks like he's having fun.

This looks like Romeo. Look how much fun he's

having. I think he hears Sparrow calling him to come into the house. He's saying "just five more minutes, I'm trying to catch that squirrel"?

I must admit there are times in the winter that can be challenging, like scraping the ice off of the car.

Much could be said about the inconveniences of winter, of the cold and ice, of the frost and snow. Winter often reminds one of spinning car wheels caught in slippery ruts, of grinding engines that are slow to start, if they start at all in sub-zero temperatures. Perhaps you think of the hurried pace through slush and sleet, of freezing fingers, ears and feet.

But, I prefer to think of this time of year as a time of beauty and fun, doing things you can't do or enjoy at any other time of the year, like sleigh riding down a big snowy hill, or shaping a snowman or two, especially with young ones. Skating on frozen ponds. Skiing down powder like slopes. The simple pleasure of stepping on thin frozen ice formed on the road, or driveway, just to hear it crackling under your feet. A walk in the quiet, snow laden woods, meditating on the beauty of God's creation. Reading a book next to a blazing fireplace either alone, or better yet, with a young child. There is nothing better than coming home from being out in the ministry, feeling cold, putting on the fireplace, making a cup of hot chocolate, looking out of my picture window at the breathtaking grandeur of the soft, crystal white blanket of snow.

A picture is worth a thousand words.

Well, I could go on, but I won't. I have to save some things to say for the next blog.

For those who are not crazy about the winter, I do hope I have encourage you to think differently about it. After all, it is a gift to us from Jehovah, and we will have it forever.

Genesis 8:22: “For all the days the earth continues, seed sowing and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night, will never cease" I am so happy!!!!

This is Raven-as the crow flies