Ah winter … a time of simple beauty, reflection and peace. For some.

But does it seem colder this year? The stats would say no. Experience and memory would say no. “Remember the ice storms of 19xx” say some, or “remember the collapsing roofs of winter 20xx?” remind others.

Indeed.

But still, there’s a chill. Maybe in my soul.

Hans Christian Anderson is remembered for children’s tales – full of simple goodness and pluck. He penned:

“To move, to breathe, to fly, to float,
To gain all while you give,
To roam the roads of lands remote,
To travel is to live.”

If it’s good advice for children, then it must be even better advice for me. Therefore … ergo … because of that: it is time to leave. For a while. To refresh …

… and rest in a fine old San Francisco home, in a peaceful and quiet neighborhood …

… and enjoy little treats (homemade don tot – hot out of the oven) that are very rare in other places …

… and spend lazy time with dear dear old friends, dining, laughing, recounting the wonders we have seen …

… and reflecting about how gracious God has been.

“… be joyful, grow to maturity, encourage each other, live in harmony and in peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you.”

Yes.

The chill has gone.