Commentary

What happened?  The snow melted, mud and viruses abound, and Sunday was gloomy.  That about sums up the last week; more like the last 3 weeks.

But that is too short of a post, so I'll tell you more about the pictures and life.

You know how the home cook with her last-minute meal can find substitutes for that one ingredient forgotten at the grocery store?  That's how I view Montana.   Substitutes.  Like sunshine, for example.

If you are seeking sunshine and cheer, up here in Montana, you have to find it tucked in the shy, sweet smile of a nephew; or the sing-song voice of your niece asking for more "those"; or accepting a hug from a shorter sister; looking at ultrasound your taller sister brings to the house . . .   Maybe it's from outside the family; being supercharged over the weekend at Fresh Life; creating a fun class for 8 four year olds; having a rabbit who has always hated you come look for a petting.

And wouldn't you know, sometimes the substitute can be just as good as or a refreshing change from the original.

My sister and I were just talking that we now have old memories in Montana.  Memories that come to mind, and you think to yourself, "Wow, that was a while ago; so much has changed."  One year and seven months has gone by like the whiff of fresh bread as you pass the bakery.  Enjoyable, evocative, but brief.  Time is simultaneously slow and racing by - theoretically impossible, I know.

Reminds me of a Christmas present. A necklace with the words,
Don't count the days.
Make the days count.

Be challenged with that this week. Make a day memorable, write it down and then visit it from the future and find encouragement in the amazing things God does.

Even if your outside is depressingly dull, seek a sparkle of sunshine in the treasures surrounding you.