Hello again

Hello, hello, hello .... is there anybody out there?

I feel like I've trudged up a really steep mountain this summer with a very heavy backpack through hundreds of huge trees and no map. It's been tough, it's been dark but here I am.

I sit in my new living room, looking out at the bright morning sky. The tall trees in this backyard protect me from viewing my suburban neighborhood but still allow me to see a wonderful blue sky. The birds are swooping and diving at our fruits trees (must pick those apples and pears), and all is serene.

My sweet husband has a late report, so is just stirring. Dear Little T had an overnighter with OMSI camp so is just waking up in Astoria. Our NEW PUPPY, Apollo, was whisked away my our middle daughter, Teressa, for an overnighter of his own in Monmouth (college town) and I'm sure has been spoiled by her roommates - and I didn't have to get up in the middle of the night to let him out.

Our son Trevor has really shown what he's made of lately -- he created amazing cover art for one of his friend's memorial CDs and has been so supportive with Allen's parents; AND, he worked his bottom off several days in a row to help us finish a heavy move from our old place. Now he needs to find a job that will utilize his amazing talents.

And our sweet Tara is finally home from the hospital and seems to be doing so much better. She made me cry yesterday, calling to tell me how much she loved me and that I've always been there for her when times are tough. She also needs a new line of work, but we're taking things one day at a time. She's an great kid.

I'm so grateful for all the love and prayers I received this summer, the understanding and comfort that notes and emails can provide. Tonight I'm attending a Beth Moore simulcast at our church and am taking Tara with me. God is the great healer and I can't wait to see His hand at work.

Thankfully it's Friday. I can't wait for a weekend without moving or hospital visits. I will attend the second half of the Beth Moore program, post some swap thanks, unpack some boxes, sew and R-E-L-A-X.

Isn't that what summers are for?

Hummingbird Happenings

As I stepped outside to encourage our new puppy's housetraining habits, I was dive-bomed by a hummingbird! Apparently, they're still around and a little ticked that I was falsely advertising food with an empty feeder. He even sat on the feeder and waited while I ran and grabbed my little camera. Then, I hustled back in and filled it up!

Unfortunately, our unseasonably cold weather started freezing the hummingbird food right away.
I was able to catch my pretty bird in flight.
I was worried about my little new friend, especially when I just saw him sitting on a branch. I soon found out that the reason he was just sitting instead of eating was so he/she could ensure NO OTHER bird got to eat. It was a bit sad to see how much energy this little one expended to keep others from being able to enjoy a bit of the goodness, too. We humans are like sometimes. Wasting energy needlessly trying to protect our territory or our "whatever" (insert idol here) ... instead of relaxing and sharing God's bounty.

I hope you are enjoying and sharing God's bounty this Christmas!