Sitting in the 'sun room' of our home, although it is an overcast day, looking out at a white, snow covered ground. The numerous, crystal flakes falling when I sat down have now dwindled to a very few. A peaceful time, listening to James Taylor. Another beautiful day.

Christmas came and went, as did Leif and his family. A great tradition having them spend a few days with us at Christmas time, even though we are now only a short distance away.

Snow on the ground, cold outside, warm inside, tree up and decorated, presents still to wrap, listening to carols and old standards, fudge made, chocolate pretzels and peanut clusters to come - only three and half more days.

Flying home from AZ this afternoon to what may be the winter's first big storm (12" of snow predicted). When teaching all those years, tomorrow would be a 'snow day.' Now every day is a snow day.

Being retired and on vacation is about like chewing Doublemint gum.

"What do we have as United Methodists? A theology of grace; a belief of God ever be us, wooing the world into repentance, relationship, and wholeness; an understanding about our redemption and forgiveness that forever sets us free; and a belief that we can, in cooperation with the Spirit of God, be perfected in love. That's what we have."  Christy Thomas (United Methodist Reporter, Nov. 30, 2012)