Hump Day–And All Is Well

The snow is falling outside, although the weatherman insisted we would only see rain.  I prefer the snow.  It silently falls and covers the ground to make for a quiet peaceful world.  It is a wet snow and I know that it will not stay long.  The rains that I know will come later today will melt it away in record time if the slightly above freezing temperatures don’t do it in sooner.  Yet for now I will enjoy it.

 

The wet weather will keep me inside today.  Working on items for my etsy shop as well as tending a pot of beans I put on for supper.  And if time allows I plan to whip up a batch of schnetka for nibbling with coffee later on this afternoon.  All in all I know I have plenty to keep me well beyond busy for the day. 

 

Still I long for the warmer weather and the chance to get myself outdoors and my hands into the earth.  I found my columbine starting to come up the other day.  I want to be sure and tend any brave flowers that may be peeking up from their winters rest a bit too early.  Covering with a blanket of mulch so that old man winter will not have the chance to nip them and keep them from their full potential when the weather truly is warmer in the months to come. 

 

I was sure to fill all bird feeders yesterday before the weather did turn as I knew the birds would appreciate the extra attention and goodies while the weather was a bit nasty.  I love my feathered friends so.  The joy they bring to me is more than I can express.  They truly are special little creatures and something I believe so many do not take the time to stop and enjoy.  But aren't there so many things that the average man does not stop and realize each day.   That is the true sadness in the world.  That it is all right at our finger tips yet we are too busy with trivial often worthless things to see the beauty of simplicity.  But then anyone who has read any of my prior readings knows that is one of my soapboxes. 

 

Blessings to you and yours this blessed Wednesday.  May you have a moment to enjoy a simply joy.

Stay Safe…

This last year has brought about a variety of extremes when it comes to the subject of weather.  It seems that this is a pattern that will not be soon to slow.  Hurricane Irene has made herself known in the last couple days as she churns her way through the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and other tropical paradises in the Caribbean.  Now she sets her eye on the eastern coast of the US.  At this time it appears that the Carolinas are her first stop and then a leisurely stroll up the coast visiting Virginia, DC, and so on.  She then plans to make her last stop (or so it seems at this time) at no other than the Big Apple itself. 

 

Hurricanes are not something that comes to mind when I think of New York City. Yet none the less it seems at this time that one may be visiting them in the next few days.  For all my friends in the path of Irene I send my thoughts and blessings.  I know that such thoughts bring little help in the anticipation of what may or will come yet the thought is there.  I hope that (as the weather men say) one of those tiny spaghetti strings which is located further east, away from the coast is the true trek Irene plans and her desires turn towards a more ocean voyage rather than one that comes inland. 

Monday Mumblings–Five months til Yule

As I rose this morning, I glanced at the calendar and realized that it was the 25th of July already.  Can you believe that it is only five months away from Yule.  I have to admit that I love the thought of that. To be honest it is mostly because of the cooler temperatures that I know will be present at that time.  The temperatures this summer have been brutal to almost anyone who lives in the States.  Oklahoma is well used to having an occasional “hot” summer yet some of the areas further north are way out of their comfort zone with the temperatures as well as the humidity they have been experiencing this year.

It does seem though that the uneasiness that I felt earlier in the year may be subsiding somewhat.  I find myself a bit more focused as well as energized.  It is probably the time of the year and the need to start gathering and preparing for the coming fall and winter is calling even though it seems to still be a ways off.  I have already started considering the treats I will bake and give away for the holidays as well as started my holiday gift shopping.  Last year I was able to complete all of this busy work well before and I was left with ample time to leisurely bake and cook to my hearts content.  It was quite enjoyable.

Although thought of cooler times are well on my mind, I still am saddened by the excessive heat.  The flowers have struggled so, as well as many of my bushes in my yard.  We have been without rain in some areas for so long that the ground has started to crack and buckle.  Many areas have mandatory water rationing and thus can not water their yards as they may wish too.  I am fortunate that we have a water well and thus I am able to water within reason.  Our pond once more has started to decrease in water yet it could be much worse.  Earlier in the year (May) we received a good rain which filled it to the brim.  If we had not gotten that, it would be no more than a muddy little hole. 

Last night I woke to the sound of rain drops on the skylight, a noise that usually does not wake me.  It did not rain much but enough to dampen things a little.  I in turn went out this morning and turned on the sprinklers for a bit so the birds could have a bit of fun before it became too hot today.

Here is hoping that this finds you all well and if by chance the heat has gotten you down, just remember…. Two more months until fall and only five until Yule.  Then we will have a whole new weather condition to complain about. 

blessings,

Mother Moon

Update to Earlier Posting - Ryans Story

Earlier today I posted about the aftermath of the tornados that ravaged through our state earlier this week. One of the accounts that I spoke of was a pregnant mother who attempted to shield her three other children (5, 3 and 15 months) by placing herself over them in the bath tub. Although her efforts were heroic and all she could do, the family was thrown in multiple places as the tornado ripped through their neighborhood, taking their home down to the foundation.

The mother, daughter, and 15 month old son were later found and taken to a nearby hospital. Cole, the 15 month old later succumbed to his injuries and passed. The mother and 5 year old daughter, remain in critical condition. I also spoke of Ryan, the three year old son who was still missing. I found out earlier today that he was found early this morning. Despite hope for a better outcome, he did not make it.

Attached is a link in regards to their story as well as means to help the family out if any of you feel led to do so. There is nothing more heartbreaking than the loss of a child. The hurt seems to be felt more when a face can be put with the one who is no longer with us. Three short years is a brief time to have an impact on this world, yet from the smile on this little boys face, I can tell that he touched many. Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers as they continue to struggle with the events that have befell them this week. The loss of two of their children (and brother) as well as the continual recovery of the mom and sister as well as rebuilding.

One Never Knows

Morning all. Once again I find myself distant and not blogging as much as I would like too. It has definitely been a year of distractions and other things to keep my attention and energy. I have so missed being here and keeping up with everyone and what has been going on. Yet I think that all of us can identify with how life can sometimes just have other plans.


Since I last was here I made yet another trip to my grandkids for a visit. It was my granddaughters 8th birthday and of course I could not miss that. She is growing up so fast. She had a slumber party this year with four other girls. Oh how that brought back memories. Although I will say that it seems little girls grow up faster these days. I am glad she is what some may call a nerd. Interested in school and reading. Although I know that it will not keep her from some things forever, for now she can still be a bit of a little girl. No Justin Beiber for her. Yippee.....


Earlier this week we also had our first official scare with Oklahoma weather. It seems to be such a frantic year for everyone when it comes to weather these days. In April it seemed that it was the southeast that would take the brunt. I kept my tongue tight as I knew that May was the month that Oklahoma always seems to experience its share of tornado alley. The month went smooth for some time until earlier this week. For three days we were warned that severe weather was an extreme possibility. We had went to our moms for a visit and was heading home when we were hit the first time. We were caught in a good storm with all the makings. Strong winds, heavy rains, and hail. Fortunately no tornados were produced at least not in our vicinity. We did however get Vince's truck battered sufficiently with the golf ball to tennis ball hail that fell. A cracked windshield and plenty of dings were our evidence when we finally arrived home that evening. The next day brought even stronger warnings. I prepared the tornado bad as well as the bag with items in it that I may want to have if everything blew away.

It is not an easy thing to pick what one would put in such a bag. Jewelry, trinkets, important papers and such. Thank goodness for backup drives. As all my photos and such can also be kept if need be. As expected, the storms started in the early afternoon and exploded immediately. We watched as they marched across the state growing into massive tornados. We knew that they would eventually have to cross over us and sure enough they did later in the afternoon. In a matter of 15 minutes the storms started and escalated themselves up to tornado status and headed straight for us. Getting Winston into the cellar was a bit of a chore. Last year when I went to the cellar he was still a bit of a pup so I could easily toss him in when he declined from wanting to do it himself. This summer was a bit of a different story. At 95 pounds I was glad Vincent was home with me as I am not sure if I could have gotten him in by myself.


We listened on our weather radio as the tornado sirens went off and we could hear the wind howling above us. When we finally emerged some wind damage was evident. A wooden fence had been blown into the neighbor's yard, taking the pickets and stabbing them into the ground upright, yet all our homes were ok. The storm had just passed north and west of us by not quite a mile. Later that day we went out to survey the damage and I was astonished at how close we were to being hit. The more severe damage started to show itself just a quarter of a mile from our home. Trees uprooted and stripped of their bark, roofs torn from homes, mangled metal twisted around fences and thrown into the tops of trees. Tornados hit on all sides of us. To the south and west, to the east and to the north.


Some ways north of us a mother huddled with her three kids (7,3, and 15 months) in a bathtub. The storm took their home completely off the foundation and threw all four of them in multiple directions. The mother (5 months pregnant herself) was found beneath debris. Two of the kids were found near a lake not far from their home. The 3 year old little boy Ryan is still missing. The 15 month old little boy later died of his injuries and the mother and 7 year old girl lay in a hospital in critical condition. Remember this family and little Ryan who is still missing. It is a clear example of how quickly something can be taken from you and how much we need to remember how precious life and those we hold dear are.


Last time I was here I promised to return and start up my blogging at a more frequent pace. I am hoping once again to do that. Yet like last time I am not sure what life may throw my way again. It has been a funny year, full of things unexpected and a reflection and realization of things that are constant and fixed. I hope that spring/summer is bringing all of you happiness and times of special joy. For those of you who may be traveling through some rougher times, I wish you the energy and wisdom to continue and to find the rare gems along the way that will make the journey worthwhile.


Blessings until we meet again.

What a Difference a Week Can Make

Last week at this time, although I was feeling quite under the weather we were enjoying a wonderful day of mid 70 degree weather.  I could see the signs of spring everywhere from the subtle nudges of the budding trees to the melodic songs of the birds as they lazily perched on their branches soaking up the warmth. 

What a difference a week can make.  I managed to drag myself out the following Monday to the doctor as the impending winter storm to come had me quite worried that if I did not I would be stuck inside with my massive sinus headache for the time the storm and any remnants it brought remained.  I was lucky I had as I was diagnosed with a sinus infection and given adequate meds to keep me busy for the next few days. 

Although I did not feel much like doing anything I managed to gas my car up and purchase the necessities I might need if by the chance the ice storm they warned about was to hit. 

*  Salt to melt any ice that may cover my porch so that I would not fall and bust my butt. 

*  Extra water just in case the pipes burst from the below 0 zero temps that we were to have

*  Extra food - as I knew that there was a good possibility I would be stranded for a few days

I checked my post box as I thought it may be a few days before I was able to get into town and do it.  I was greeted with a wonderful surprise from Faerie Moon Creations ; A pair of earrings that I simply had to have had arrived.  A nice little bright spot in my day. 

My oldest son arrived at my home early afternoon to help me out with the chores that were just a bit to cumbersome to manage in my condition.  He filled up the generator with gas and moved it to a suitable position for me to use it if I did lose electricity in the coming days.  He carried the salt and water I had purchased earlier into the house.  Best of all he sat with me for a couple hours and just visited.  We shared an enjoyable visit over coffee and soon he was off and I was left to wait for the storm to arrive.

As evening fell the sleet began to fall.  For a good two hours it hit the windows and tinkled on the vent over the stove.  I welcomed its sounds as it was better than the ice that had previously been fore casted and which I had feared.  It is always hard to see the trees and such covered with a thickness of ice that makes them bend and too often break under its weight.  Shortly after 11 pm the snow began to fall and it was silent.  I went to bed shortly thereafter.

The next morning when I awoke the snow was still falling and the winds had joined in.  Gusts of 45 to 60 could be heard howling outside.  Glancing outside and in spots seeing the dried grass of our yard I did not think we had received too much snow yet as I observed more I realized that it was drifting quite well in places, especially behind my car.

Although the weather was frightful Winston still had to occasionally go outside and do his duty.  Being the lab he is he simply loved the cold and snow that was falling.  He would dart out the door, almost falling from the slickness that was on the back steps. Like a kid on Christmas he bounded across the yard trying to place his paws in each part of snow that had accumulated.  Yet the wind brought with it funny sounds and strange scents that brought him back inside quickly. 

Vincent finally arrived home early morning.  The roads had not been as bad where he came from yet as he arrived home he stated that we were definitely getting more than most.  I started a pot of chicken soup and we settled in for the day until the storm had passed.

When it was over we received 11 inches with drifts 4 to 5 feet.  My car is still snowed in and I have not left the house except once when Vincent and I ventured out on Wednesday to replenish my bird seed supply.  Yesterday as the temperatures warmed I realized that a small pipe had busted and the plumber was called early to fix it.  Feeling much better I cleared the three foot snow drifts from my back porch and made sure that a heat lamp was placed under the house where the break had occurred.  I filled the empty bird feeders which I have to say made the bird estactic.  A chore I can already see I will have to repeat again today. 

We received an additional 2-3 inches of snow yesterday yet it was a quiet gentle snow which I simply enjoyed.  Again this evening they say we may receive a bit more then one more blast next week. 

It seems like the last 7 days have been more.  So much has occurred.  You would think that being home and unable to go anywhere I would have been able to catch up on reading past blogs (which I have some) and been able to write everyday.... Yet it was Wednesday until I really felt back to myself and then I had to try and catch up on back housework. 

Imbolc came and gone and I am not even sure if the groundhog saw his shadow.  Today once again the sun is shining and it is the first day since last Saturday that we are to get above freezing.  I am looking forward to the slow thaw that it will aid in.  I intend to go and shovel a path to the garage as well as to the driveway.  The drift behind my car.... I am not sure what I will do about it.  A neighbor has promised to try and come over with his tractor and move some if time permits. 

I know that our winter plight is far from some that many of you have experienced.  Ours has only been one week where many of you have had this going on for months now.  So I will cease with my whining.  To those of you who are still under your piles of snow and those of you who still have more to come I send warm wishes and hopes that spring will soon decide to return to us again to melt the coldness that winter has so willingly shared with so many this year.  I wish also for the tender greenness to return the warmth that is so spring to slowly come back. The days are slowly lengthening and such signs are slowly becoming more evident.  Although many of us sit under a blanket of white Spring is close by just waiting to come forth. 

Hope all of you have a very blessed weekend.  Stay warm and go Green Bay. 

Just Another Spring Day In Oklahoma

Weather is something that is to be expected in Oklahoma. Whether it is the wind, the humidity, or the storms, we have a variety to deal with. In the Spring months, especially May, one knows to be aware that a Spring thunderstorm could pop up at an instant and easily turn into a tornado. Recently we have had serveral opportunities to be reminded of this.

The week before a total of 34 tornados broke out in one day across the state. Last weekend a storm went through Oklahoma City, bringing with it baseball to softball size hail. If you have never experienced a severe hail storm it can be almost as devasting as a tornado. In the aftermath, birds could be found throughout yards wounded by the powerful force of the hail as it fell. Vinyl siding on homes was pulverized to nothing. Trees were stripped of their leaves. And a jogger who was caught out in the storm when it began was received severe injuries before he was able to seek cover. His back was covered in welts from the beating.

This last Wednesday, was another day when the state of Oklahoma was covered with the potential for big storms. At first I did not think much about it as being in such a place you tend to become complacent about it. Yet as the afternoon rolled around and the continuous storm updates were flashed across the tv, I began to become more aware of the potential. The first storm to spring up did so in a matter of minutes. It was headed towards a town where Vincent's daughter lives, so I sent a text to tell her to be safe. Soon after she calls me back telling me that she is not at home yet driving back from the city, going straight into the area where the storm is. Fortunately the storms at this time were traveling slowly and she managed to arrive home safe before they reached her.

Although I complain at times about the continuous coverage of the weather on tv, on this day I was grateful. At this time most of the weather was well north of me. Still I prepared for what may come. And in true form I was not disappointed. A storm quickly started up south west of us and started to grow. As it drew closer, the rain began. Still reports were that it was not tornadic just a strong storm. The rain continued to come down in buckets and soon the wind. I could tell that circulation was happening due to the manner in which the rain was falling from all directions. The tv had gone out yet I had my trusty weather radio and was able to listen to coverage.

Just when I thought it may pass over us, a report came across the radio that a lowering was seen just a few miles of us and it was coming our way. In the pouring rain, I leashed Winston who did not want nothing to do with going out in it, grabbed my purse and camera and headed to the cellar. I listened as the sirens blew outside. Still across the radio there were reports of a funnel sighted. As the rain subsided and it became still I opened the door of the cellar. Facing west, the sunshine could be seen peeking from behind billowy white clouds. When I turned to the East, I could see the storm passing. The yard was covered with water. A total of 2 and a half inches fell in a matter of about 20 minutes. A pale rainbow could be seen on the north side of the storm as it left.

It was peaceful once again. Such fury in so short of time, yet such tranquility immediately after. The storms continued through the night further east yet were not as severe. In total 16 tornados touched down. Fortunately minor damage. Just another spring day in Oklahoma

Spring Weather - And All It Brings

Having lived in Oklahoma my whole life, I am quite familiar with a chance of spring storms and the occasional tornado. Oklahoma has definitely had their share. I myself have been blessed to never have had to live through the experience of such a taste of the fury that Mother Nature can give. As far back as I can remember, I have memories of being woken up in the middle of the night and rushed off to sleep the rest of the evening in the cellar while living on the farm. Back in those times the only warning one had was the flash of lightning in the sky allowing you to see the formation of the clouds. Also another sign was the eerie silence that came before all hell broke loose. Time passed and with it came new technology to help forecast the occurrence of such activity in a timelier manner. Although out our back door sits our trusty cellar, it is not used as often as in years past.

Last weekend an outbreak of tornadoes occurred over the southern states with Mississippi getting hit the hardest. The same front had passed through Oklahoma days earlier only bringing colder weather and rain. Yet when it reached further east it was not as kind. The tornado that meandered its way across a 250 mile path was said to be 1.75 miles in diameter at times. It drove a line of devastation for over 10 hours. In the end countless homes were destroyed, 10 people (including 3 children) were killed, and countless lives were changed forever.

Winds of 170 mph ripped through anything that lay in its pathway. The magnitude of the tornado was set at a F4 being only outdone by that of the F5. Some years back such a tornado traveled across Oklahoma. I remember it well even though I was not necessarily in its path. It tracked across the state for what seemed like an eternity; leaving the same path of destruction as did the tornadoes last weekend. It was categorized as the ominous F5. Lives were lost (44 in total), property destroyed and lives likewise changed. The strength was so strong in one of the strongest hit areas that the pavement itself was ripped from the ground. Trees were mangled to look like they were twigs whose tops had been twisted off. Metal from cars and other unidentified objects was intricately twisted in the fence that lined the highway. In some areas there was completely nothing left, not even debris. It was as if all evidence of anything was taken completely away.

I remember when I visited the area hardest hit to see the devastation for myself. The sheer power of the storm amazed me. The manner of it’s pick and choose method also baffled me. In one area where the pavement was no more as well as anything else, just a few hundred yards over sat a nursing home which had not been touched. It stood as if only a good thunderstorm had passed. In choosing as it had, so many lives were spared that day.

One of the hardest hit areas was a small community not far from where I live today. Bridgeport was almost completely destroyed by the storm. One of the smallest survivors was a little girl maybe 2 or 3. She had been lifted up from the storm and blown miles away. A highway patrol found her and at first thought she was a doll yet upon further examination realized it was a child. The video always brings tears to my eyes at the terror so evident in her as she tries desperately to cling to the man as he attempts to examine her to make sure she is ok.

http://feeds.newsok.tv/services/player/bcpid21813053001?bclid=21900638001&bctid=21837594001

It is amazing to me the force that this world has. Strength beyond what we can at times imagine. I always have a sense of caution in me during this time of year. It does not necessarily control my actions yet it still is ever constant in the back of my mind. Prediction of such events has excelled considerably over the years and yes, we do have the ability to prevent so much more than in earlier years. Yet still one never knows what Mother Nature may have up her sleeve. I have seen storms come to fruition in a matter of minutes giving those in its path little if any notice to react.

A matter of respect for her abilities perhaps… Or maybe it is just the fact that we should treat each moment of our lives as if it could possibly be the last. We should take every opportunity that befalls us to grab those moments that are so precious. This weekend once more has storms in the forecast. Once again it may just be rain; on the other hand I have lived here long enough to know that it has been 11 years since the last big one on May 3rd 1999. We Oklahomans know that the calm can not last forever.

Prelude to Spring

I heard a short piece last night on television that said if all went as it appeared it would that after tomorrow all 50 states would have snow on the ground.  Something that I guess is somewhat of an oddity.  This has definitely been a different year for many of us in regards to the weather of the winter season.  A number of areas have received record snowfall amounts , some of which have broken records that are over 100 years old.  I have not checked yet to see if the storm that passed over us yesterday and dumped 10 inches on Dallas Texas (which may I say is totally unheard of) continued with its mission as it crossed over the southern states.  The northern side of Floridia was even supposed to have snow. 

There are many who are eagerly awaiting Spring's arrival as they gaze out their front window only to see a mountain of snow in front of it.  Once again our place is covered with a blanket of snow and although we were forecasted a warm up of 40 and 50s through the weekend.  However starting this morning,  the skies are still gloomy and it is still cold outdoors.  I have decided to stop whining about the absence of the warmth of the coming Spring.  Definitely I have found that such behavior does not do any good in bringing it any quicker.  Mother Earth knows her plans and she is executing them as she sees best.  I have to trust this. 

I have decided to look for the good and the beauty in the current coldness.  No I am not able to go out and do the work in my yard as I would normally be doing, preparing it for the coming flowers, and planting new ones.  I have not been able to enjoy any afternoons on the back porch soaking up the early sunshine and just enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.  Yet, I have seen a tremendous abundance of birds this winter.  The weather has lured them into my feeders and they have become quite tame frolicking on my back porch throughout the day.  Each time I go and make my rounds filling the many feeders I have throughout the yard, they call to me and at times ask why it has taken so long.  The quail have even been lured out to beneath my little oak where I leave them cracked corn  and seed. 

Yesterday as I was in town purchasing feed for my many feathered friends, I noticed that the store has gotten their ducklings, chicks and baby rabbits in.  I am such a sucker for little animals.  If I had my way I would have all of them.... Spring is coming.  Her pace is steady and strong.  No she is not coming with a grand entrance or a gradual warming processional  yet still she comes.  One day we will wake up and realize she has already arrived.  The warmth of the sun will hit our face, the smell of the newly bloomed flowers will flow past our nose and our eyes will see she is everywhere. 

Eventually.........

The weatherman advised today that we are not quite out of the clutches of winter.  It appears that it will hold on at least for a bit longer, lingering through the end of February.  Fortunately we were blessed with a wonderful sunny day today.  I enjoyed it mostly indoors.  Although it had the appearance of warmth and sunshine, the wind had a bit of a bite and the temps barely rose out of the 20's.  Still the light was a welcomed sight.  Thursday the snow comes once again to  remind us that Old Man Winter is not quite ready to leave.  Yet the signs of spring are fast approaching each day. 

The days are getting longer.  The robins have returned in abundance.  The spring flowers are slowly starting to inch their way out of the ground.  The trees have put on their pre spring buds as if in anticipation for the departure of the colder days and the warmth that is fast approaching.  So many seem to be under the blanket of winter still.  It seems that just when we finally pull ourselves out from under its cover, we are covered again.  Although we have had an ample amount of moisture this winter the manner in which it has come is wonderful for the plants that will sprout and bloom in later months.  It has not been a gushing rain that washes away the soil yet a soft blanket of snow or covering of ice that has melted slowly allowing it to seep into the ground well.  It is still off in the distance yet I can feel it coming closer each day... It will not be long until we will welcome spring in all its glory...  In the meantime I urge you to go to Jaz's site - October Farm to see some absolutely beautiful photos of her snow.  Yes she got dumped on.. yet the pictures are simply gorgeous...

Monday Morning Rambles

I know that it is only the first of February and technically winter still has some time to go before it is officially over.  I should not hold such a bad attitude towards its pressence or its desire to show itself in such ways as it has this season.  I will admit that I was saying not that long ago how I wish we could have a winter like we had when I was younger.  The kind where we were dumped on with snow and all.  Well I have learned one thing... be careful what you wish for... Sometimes you really do get it.  As I should have known, the weathermen were wrong again and the sun decided to not visit us over the weekend.  Instead we had days filled with freezing fog.  The tempertures did rise above freezing yesterday however with the absence of the sun, melting was slow at best.  The trees still are hung over with the weight of the ice  I will admit that the fogs presence lends an erie look to the whole situation.  Much likened to what Narnia would be like if I were to ever visit I think.  At least in the time of the Ice queen.  I have enjoyed the sites yet am beginning to miss Mr. Sun.  I do not do well when he is away for long periods of time.  I am ready for his return. 

I did manage to get a few photos of the gingerbread baby out in the ice and snow.  I had so much time I even sewed a coat and hat for her so she would not get cold while I was photographing her... Now you know just how stir crazy I was.... No, really I sort of enjoyed it.  She definately had an adventure while she was here visiting... With all the help many of you gave with your stories and photos and more (thanks for the fairies Linda)  when I send her back this week she will be going with lots to tell Kylie and her classmates.  Thank all of you so much for taking the time so send the stories pictures and more to help out.... I appreciate it so much...

My little garden that I have started inside has given me some solace as it is sprouting nicely.  I have been amazed at how quickly some of the plants have grown.  I can only imagine how they will take off when the sun comes back out and is able to shine on them on a daily basis.  They tilt their heads towards the window each day as if to get all the light they possibly can.  It will be a while until any preperation can be done outdoors with all the moisture we received.  The ground was already quite satuated and as this last ice and snow melts it will take some time for it to soak in good.  I am still quite eager to get out and begin work.

Still I am reminded how it is all just a process and things occur as they should.  I have not read much on any others having too much bad weather.  Yet I will admit I have been busy doing other things and have not kept up as I know I should .  Although you would think I have enough time to do just that. I hope all of you have been able to stay warm and safe and steer clear of the brunt of the weather.  There is one good thing... or so it is a possibility as it has not occurred yet.  Seeing that the sun has kept himself away for some time... Maybe the groundhog will not see his shadow and will not be frightened back into his hole for 6 more weeks.... One can only hope.... I am longing for spring way too much..... I know in time it will make its way to us.  I have to wonder though... did I ask for patience recently..... because this sure feels like a lesson for it....

Surveying the Aftermath - The Beauty of Destruction

I finally ventured outdoors today to tend to the birds as well as to see the gifts that old man winter left me.  As I walked across the yard, it sounded as if I were walking across an icy lake that had been covered with snow.  The layer of ice we received at the beginning of our storm cracked beneath my feet as I made way through the ample layer of snow we received.  There was such a beautiful silence.  I could not help but love the sights and sounds around me.  I know that mother nature comes at times with such fury and leaves in her wake distruction, yet still there is such beauty in it also. 

The sun did not come out today as we had hoped it would, maybe tomorrow.  There was some melting yet it is very little.  I tended the birds with more food and some talk as I always do when I feed them.  The downy woodpeckers were glad to see me and the fresh suet cakes.  As well were the cardinals.  Their brillant red was such a beautiful contrast against the white of the snow and the crystal of the ice.   

I will light a candle tonight in preperation of Imbolc as well as full moon.  The cold moon they call it and rightly so.  It is living up to its name this year that is for sure.  I briefly saw it through the clouds last eve and its brillance shown across the snow on the ground.  Its light made the night look as day with the help of the snows reflective powers.... I love the nights after snow for that very reason.. Coupled with a full moon it is that much more brillant.   As the day winds down to the night, the sun in finally deciding to peek itself out briefly before slipping back under the western horizon.  Maybe I will see the moon this evening after all.  One can always hope. 

The Morning After

Well the first half of the storm is over.... We received about 1/2 to 1 ince of ice throughout the day yesterday.  We have been blessed to not have lost power for any long amount of time yet.  This is truly a blessing, as there are thousands all around us who have lost theirs.  The lights flickered a bit last night and was off for maybe 30 minutes yet came back on.  Mind you we could still lose it as it is not suppose to warm up past freezing until Sunday and the wind is picking up. 

When I woke this morning I was eager to see if any damage was done to any of the trees.  It appears that the willows are taking minor damage.  I guess the pruning we have done helped tremendously.  We did lose a large branch off of a small redbud in our front yard.  I am not sure if we will be able to save the whole tree as the branch that broke was a large part of the tree.  As I went outdoors this morning to survey the area, I cold hear the creaking of the trees under the weight of the ice.... A few snaps could also be heard.  This really is still too early to know how much damage we will have.  I am only hoping for minimal. 

I love how mother earth cleanses herself in such manners.  Much like the order of the land with the strongest surviving.  We usually think of such an example when we think of animals yet it pertains to the natural world also.  The clearing of the trees we had done earlier helped the others remaining to become stronger.  This is evident in the manner in which they are handling this ice storm.  I know that there will be loss again yet I also understand the need for it.  I do not question her  reason.  She knows what she does.  It is amazing how such death can be so beautiful.  Although I am eager for the sun to come out in the coming days so that it can melt and ease the burden that is being carried, I am also eager for the view.  There is nothing that is more brillant and beautiful then the warmth and life of sunshine against the icy cold of winter ice. 

In truth it is making Imbolc that more special and symbolic to all it is.  The turning of the wheel... the passing of the coldness of winter into the warmth of spring and the return of the sun.            

Pale winter sun lingers, lengthing each day

On twig and branch new buds begin to swell

Songbirds give voice, each striving to excel

Seed senses change in its deep bed of cold clay

Earth goddess weaves her magic to propel

Reborn cycle of her womb along its way.

Life returns in every tree's slow thought

In pond and stream the dance begins again

Spring flowers show their purpose to proclaim

A new season comes; winters reign is short

And darkness no longer exercises any claim

Green growth dispels grey moods it brought.

Imbolc by Ian R. Thorpe

And So It Begins

I awoke early this morning to the sound of rain falling.  Earlier the night before the weather men assured us that it would be a dry morning and that the majority of the storm to come would not be here until noon today... As usual they were wrong.  It was barely light outside yet as I glanced out the back door the porch appeared to be only wet.  As I made the morning coffee I could hear the rain continue.  The picture to the left is  only the beginning of what I know is to come as the day continues.  Even since I took the picture the ice has accumulated more.   Already there are reports of loss of power.  The rain is to continue throughout the day, not turning to sleet or snow until after dark.  For any of you who have encountered an ice storm, you know what this means.... There is a very good possibility for significant ice accumulation.  It will be a true miracle if we don't lose our power.  It is just a question of when it will happen and how long it will remain out.  Last storm like this it was a total of 4 days.  However this was nothing compared to others who were without power for close to 2 weeks.  Yet enough about this..... We will deal with it as it comes and with whatever it decides to give to us.  As we all know there is no stopping Mother Nature when she wants to do something. 

In some ways I am sort of eager for the cold and ice.  Strange isn't it.  I say this because I know that next week is Imbolc, the turning point of winter.  A day of welcoming the sun back and saying goodbye to the cold clutches of winter.  Although I know that winter can still take hold even after February 2nd, especially here in Oklahoma, I can not help but feel that it is symbolic of the beginning of the end.  One last hurrah...

Yesterday was a beautiful spring like day.  Temperatures in the mid 60s, fluffy white clouds with hues of grey and the brillant blue sky.  It was a day that you could not help but be outdoors doing something just so that you could enjoy it.  What a contrast from the weather we have today.  Cold blusterly winds, freezing rain, ice coating everything and anything that it lands on.  I told Vincent, it was likened to the day before giving birth.... You have all this energy and feel wonderful, then labor begins and hard stuff begins.... It was a blessing however, as it allowed so many, including ourselves to prepare for what was to come.

It seemed as if everything was active yesterday.

The birds yesterday played throughout the yard and trees yesterday as if themselves enjoying the warmth, knowing that today would not be as nice. Even the honey bees were out yesterday trying to eat from my bird feeders.  I knew that the weather to come would be bad as they were busily trying to eat anything they could to prepare.

Today  the birds  huddled around the bird feeders at first light,  scurrying to eat all they could before the frozen ice covered their access to their nourishment.   I always keep an bucket of seed in the house at times like these.  I am sure to toss some out occasionally across the back porch so that they will have something when the weather is inclement.  The wind blows them sliding across the wood as they try to eat the seeds that land near them.  They often huddled on the south side of the porch just under the window to where I write.  I am sure they will be there again today as the weather continues.

Although there is sorrow in the weather to come as I know that there will be trees that will suffer because of the weight of the ice they will bear.  I also know that it is  a time of cleansing.  When last our willows endured such a storm, I was heartbroken at the devastation they encountered.  From tall standing stately trees, that swayed so softly in the breeze, they were reduced to heavy laden trees whose arms now hung to the ground.  Some could not take the strain and gave in to the pain.  Others remained strong and as the ice melted rose once more to their stature.... This event however enabled us to take the weaker parts from the trees which in turn made them stronger.  I know that we will more than likely still lose some this time also, yet I am hopeful that they will not be as burdened as before.

As before I stated that there are others that this storm will effect, as this runs from New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee and beyond... Some will get rain, some snow, others ice... To all of you, stay warm yet above all stay safe... blessings

Preparing For What Is To Come

Well they have been telling us about it since last Friday.  Warning us that it was going to be a big one and that we had best be ready for a few rough days.  Monday came and the weathermen still urged us to prepare. Now they say that by this time tomorrow we will be under a full blown winter ice storm.  It appears that the brunt of it will pass directly over the top of us.  Something I am not too excited about.  They are predicting anywhere from 1/4 inch to 1 inch thick ice.  Plus the lovely wind is to be blowing at 20 to 30 mph so that will not help matters much.  Not sure if many of you have ever experienced an ice storm.  They are not that much fun.  The worse part is that you usually lose electricity.  Sometimes for weeks. 

The last worse ice storm here was 2 years ago in 2007.  We were without electricity for 4 days.  I can not complain too much with that time as there were many that was without it for much longer.  Yet what hurt me the most was the damage that it done to all the trees.  The weight of the ice is just too much for them to bear. Our willows were brave souls.  They had alot of give to them so they bent without breaking more than most trees, yet still the weight of the ice was too much in some cases.  It was at this time that much of our willows were harvested and pruned back somewhat.  I remember when I went outdoors on this morning.  The wind was blowing very little yet  even still it moved the trees slightly.  The sound they made was like moaning.  You truly could hear their pain and their sadness at what had happened.  Yet for some reason Mother Earth felt it necessary. 

This storm is suppose to be just as bad if not worse.  We have risen early to prepare for it as best we could.  The last storm and loss of electricity encouraged us to purchase a generator.  Vincent being the boy scout that he is of course got one that will run the entire house.  We will be able to stay at home with is a good thing.  We are off this morning to purchase the last few supplies; extra gas for the generator, water, and a few other things.  Hopefully the shelves will not be barren.  Some folks tend to go a bit crazy at times like this, yet it is better to be prepared.  Oklahoma has seen their share of ice storms and we know exactly what they can do.  I am sure there are a few more of you that will be effected by this coming storm... Linda in New Mexico, Steve in Missouri.... Karen in Arkansas... I wish you all well also and hopefully it will not be too bad.... There is also snow so that is not as bad.  I am hoping for at least a little snow as I am still waiting for my quiet still snow this year.... Not sure if I am going to get it.