I had the unexpected pleasure of watch a heavy, wet snowfall in the wee hours of the morning. Prior to the snow there had been high winds with heavy gusts, but they had passed by the time the snow came. Now over 12 hours later, it is raining and washing away the slush that man created all day; but 2-4 more inches of snow is forecast for tonight.

By 8 a.m. we received over 6 inches of pristine, unique snowflakes joining together to weigh down tree limbs and wires causing power outages. Cars and roads were covered- a good day for 4 wheel-drive and driving slo-o-owly. Schools & many offices were closed. The Red Cross has set up an emergency shelter... 500-1000 in the county are without electricity this evening.

I wonder how many saw the beauty of all those lacy ice crystals as well as its mighty power. If I was younger, I'd build a snowman and make snow angels. I hope my gran'kids did.

But with all this beauty, I am remembering a young girl from the Middle East on the radio shortly after 9/11. She & the women with her were risking their very lives by talking to a male reporter of the abuses women in Islamic countries face every day. I don't remember any words except for hers, "I can't even go out and make a snowman."

Nearly 10 years later, I am still affected by her simple words. I shall never see snow or a snowman without remembering the freedom we have.

Yes, the snowfall early this morning was beautiful, mighty & a reminder never to take our freedoms for granted.

Shalom, Connie

P.S. Check my website for Valentine give-aways: http://www.4him2u.com
Names will be drawn February 28th for free books & journals.

Fireworks: A Celebration

The fireworks just ended & I had my choice of VIP seating. I live one mile from the Butte where they are traditionally displayed. I could sit on my patio or walk next door to the church's parking lot. I chose the latter; & had an unobstructed view of our country's birthday celebration.

Popcorn, lemonade, & other goodies were passed around during the oohs & aahs. A nice way to end the day with friends & fellow believers.

Sadly, conditions here in Central Oregon are very dry & resulted in several fires on the butte. Extra fire trucks came & the fire was controlled, but it is always sad to see trees burn. Thankfully the fire was going uphill. (Many businesses, apartments, & homes are at the bottom of the butte.)

The most important part of my day was earlier during a conversation with my 5 year old grandson. We talked about being free to be Christians, free to go to church, free to speak about God. He, of course, couldn't comprehend not talking about Jesus. And, you know, I really don't fully understand it either as I have never been in a country where it wasn't safe. The closest I have come is when writing to friends in Nigeria. They advised me what I could write & what to avoid so that my letter did not put them into any danger.

Yes, I was blessed to sit outside in the churchyard watching the amazing colors burst overhead with patriotic music playing through speakers behind us. I can think of no better place to say "Thank you, Lord, for the U.S.A.! Help me to understand the freedoms I have and to fully use them to worship, praise, and share Your Word."

Tomorrow & next few days will be 96-100 degrees with possible thunder & lightning- a very dangerous time for wildfires. Pray that homes & lives will not be lost. (Several acres burned today- one a few miles from me.)