Seven Dogs

We have brooding sunrise skies this morning. I woke up entirely too early, but when I saw the cloud-filled sky out my window I knew the painter would be masterful with His canvas this morning and I didn't want to miss it. 

This Christmas, my parents went to Austin to spend it with Krista, and Lisa came from Austin to stay in their house and spend the holiday with us. It was a quiet time spent in much conversation and very little chaos. I loved every minute of it. We were watching Mom and Dad's animals, so we had a grand total of 7 dogs in the house, but even they seemed to resonate with the general spirit of calm. They just operated as a pack with almost no quarrels or irritations. I got to know the other three well and cherish the unique qualities each of them possess. 

Snack times and meal times for the dogs were a bit of a circus and highly popular events. :-) 

We haven't seen Lisa for over a year and I treasured every moment she was here. Watching her love on the boys is one of the most beautiful things I have ever beheld. I have been so deeply blessed to call her my sister these 23 years and that bond has only deepened, matured and become more profoundly treasured in my heart as time gallops by. 

As 2023 comes to a close, I walk forward to tomorrow, cautiously and with some great anticipation. It's confusing to feel this melding of dread and hope. Yet, above it all, there is peace in my heart, for I know that each day the sun will rise. I will cherish this borrowed breath as it is given, I will watch for the fingerprints of the Creator in all that I see around me. I will walk forward even when I grow weary because the strength is not my own. And I will hold onto these ever so quickly passing moments I treasure with the people I have been given to live alongside. 

And I will ride this wonderful horse every chance I get. :-)