Oh, Hello Sunshine

Well, well, well ... someone must have heard my complaining and sent the 50 degrees and sunshine.  

It's so nice that I opened the back door to let the winter germs out and some fresh air in.  The dog knows how to push open the screen door with her nose to let herself in and out but she has yet to learn how to shut it behind her.  She's enjoying the vitamin D as much as I am ... and I'm sorry if I complain too much.  I really do believe each season has its beauty and I am luckier than a lot of people but sometimes those thoughts pop in my head that it becomes hard to control.  But today, it's sunny and warm and there's no desire in my mind to complain.  

Saturday morning was still a bit bitter but that didn't stop any of us from traveling to another part of the county so Matthew could run in the second to last race of the winter series he signed up for.  That boy has made me proud with how hard he's working and he loves running.  Rob has also began running and has joined in on some of the (1 mile) races.  For an older man who deals with a lot of pain from arthritis the fact that he goes out there running and challenging himself is amazing.  Then there's Brianna, who has only taken dance classes as an extra curricular activity, but has now taken up an interest of being a runner as well.  She has yet to do a 3.1 mile run, which is required for cross-country but she did want to join in on the 1 miler as well.  I knew she could do it but I was nervous she'd have trouble and give up.  Well, I'm so proud of her!  She made it to the end with a smile on her face.  I couldn't have been more proud as I have been for all three of them.  As for me, I just stayed back and snapped pictures at the finish line.  I don't think I've ever ran a full mile in my life and although I had tried many times I have yet to accomplish it.  Maybe one day.  For now, I'm happy to be the photographer.  

And Saturday night ended with game night in the living room.  It had been awhile since we played Phase Ten and it took some time to recall how to play this card game but it was fun.  

Sadly, a terrible thing happened on Saturday morning at a hospital near my house.  It's all over the news and social media as more and more details come out.  It's always sad when hearing of incidences such as this but it's even more terrifying when it's close to home.  I hope the officers and hospital staff who were injured make a full recovery and I hope the witnesses can mentally heal.  I also pray for the family and friends of Officer Andrew Duarte who made the ultimate sacrifice that day.  Thank you for your service, Officer Duarte.  Our flag is half mast, which was ordered by our governor but it was something we are willing to do.  The least we could do.  

It's moments like this that remind us how precious life is and how it could end at any given time.  I'm not saying this to depress anyone but just want it to serve as a reminder to enjoy each and every moment.  

Sunday was a day of church, lunch served at church, and I got to take this pup on a drive to drop one of the cars off at the mechanic since we have no time to take it on Tuesday.  She loved having a chance to get out.  We also had dinner at Chili's and spent the evening attempting another card game and some family time before another week of school and work begins.  

Now here we are, Monday.  I have been busy with housework and enjoying the sunshine.  Here's to the last week of February!  A warm week expected.