Home alone on Saturday, I was happy to get a call from a friend inviting me to visit the tulip fields with her daughter and grandsons. Though the morning had been overcast and chilly, the sun had broken through the clouds in the early afternoon. Hoping that by arriving late in the afternoon the crowds would be dissipating, we ventured north towards Skagit Valley.

Have you ever experienced times in your life when God seems strangely silent? You pray and wait and watch...looking for an inkling that He is working, yet you see no change. Your faith is stretched as never before and all you can do is cling to the promises of God...a God you know to be faithful.

Do you remember way last summer when I mentioned that our church was searching for a new Pastor since our former, beloved, Pastor of 16 years had resigned? The search is still in process! Recently we invited a young Pastor and his wife, and baby son, to come out West for an interview.

When the skies seem grey and filled with rain for days on end, the thought of escaping  to find some sunny weather is enticing. And if you throw in a sandy beach and warm water, I'm all in! 

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, I wanted to add just a little touch of red throughout the main living areas of our home. My mother always added a little special decor for each major holiday so I guess I'm carrying on her tradition. Mom just added simple things...not much glitz and glamour. You can go crazy with themed decor with stores like Michael's or Hobby Lobby nearby, but that's just not my style. As you can see in the photo above, I just added some primroses to a bowl for a little color.

Venturing out for an evening at the theatre is one of my favorite things to do, especially in the winter. There is just something so wonderful about seeing the actors live on stage, displaying their talents, 

Spending a few days in the mountains was a balm for my soul. After the busyness of the Christmas season, the slow pace of life was so welcome. And...there was snow...lots and lots of snow!