Winter

Winter: cold, dark, long, dreary, depressing, dead. That pretty much sums up my feelings of winter being a Florida girl.  I hate winter. Everything is dead; the grass, the trees (at least the leaves on the trees), the flowers and this winter was no different. It started out just like stated above and then turned into a blizzard. Things were happening and I didn't understand why. My life had entered what seemed to be an eternal winter state. But I had forgotten that winter was only a season and that this wasn't going to last forever. There was no spring in sight for me. Thankfully God swept in the way he does and gently reminded me that this is all part of his plan. He spoke the world into existence, he designed the seasons, and He did it all for His glory. God wanted to teach me something else this winter. He wanted to show me that it's all about Him. 

You see, we did have a long cold winter here in NC and right when we thought it was almost over, we were hit with three big snow storms. Seeing our house, neighborhood, our dead yard and trees all covered in beautiful white snow instantly reminded me of how God works. This season of winter in our life has been totally covered by Him. His love, His grace, His mercy. And just like the snow, He makes all things beautiful. We as humans are sinful. Our lives are messy and ugly but because of Jesus it can all be redeemed. Winter may be hard, but it serves a purpose and God will make all things new.

Looking back at our pictures from the snow, I see how happy and excited my kids were. They don't dislike winter. They embrace it head on and soak in every bit of the cold they can. They know nothing of this ugly season and with their childlike faith they enjoy it. It's funny how much my children teach me. If I could just view life through their little eyes. I would be free of my judgmental mind and live each day to the fullest not wanting my head to hit the pillow (my kids hate sleep)!

It's only now that I can see the big picture and thank God for the seasons, the earthly ones and the seasons of life. God always has a purpose and it is always for our good and His glory. I can now look at winter and know that it may be tough and long but just like the covering of the snow, God is coving our life with His grace, love and mercy. He is in control and we can rejoice knowing that he will redeem every winter in our lives. 

Thank you God for this winter!

(But man oh man are we ever jumping for joy that spring is here!!!)

Below are pictures from our three big snows! We had a very nice "break" and Michael was off from school for about two weeks total. All the neighbors came over to get a head start at the top of our driveway to sled down the road. We had a few minor accidents and scares, but no major injuries! As you can see from the pictures, we really enjoyed the white stuff!

::Snow One::

::Snow Two::

::Snow Three::