Easter Joy

"Do not abandon yourselves to despair. . . . We are the Easter people and hallelujah is our song."~Pope John Paul II

Happy Easter! Pope John Paul II's beautiful words reminds me of all of the blessing in my life: my supportive parents, my precious nieces and nephews, loyal friends, and work that gives me a sense of purpose. I am grateful to have hobbies such as reading and photography that give me a sense of accomplishment. And my Steve, my best friend and love of my life, continues to teach me what forever is all about.

It is a cold and blustery day here in Central New York State. The temperature barely reached 32 degrees F (0 degrees C) here today. The snow shower continue and the spring flowers are not in bloom yet. However, the laughter of my nieces and nephew here at my parents' house is like a light in the darkness. They really enjoyed their Easter egg hunt and I have a few photos for their scrapbooks.

One of my students gave me an orchid recently. I just had to take a close up photo of this beautiful bloom. Now I have another flower to add to my photography collection.

I hope that each of you had a joyous Easter. Thank you for visiting my blog. I treasure your friendships!

Blessings

Tonight I am going to try and think of the blessings that God has given to me in my life. It has certainly been a long, cold winter, but I know that there are better days ahead.

The most beautiful blessing are the people in my life. I have been thinking about how much my parents always done for me and my siblings. My parents were always home and spent time with us. I always felt safe when I was a child and that is a tribute to my Mom and Dad. They taught me such lifelong values as doing my best, treat others with kindness and respect, and celebrate the little things in life.

God also brought S, my love and best friend into my life. He listens to me, makes me laugh, and holds my hand. I feel so comfortable with him around, even when we are silent. And we can finish each others sentences. He has taught me about trust and forever love.

And there are my darling nieces and nephews. It is wonderful to see myself and my siblings in this next generation. It is a joy to see my parents with their grandchildren.

My very good friends are like hand picked flowers in a garden. My friend Mare is like a sister to me. And I have to thank my friends who read my blog for all of your support. You are wonderful!

I also find comfort in God's creation. I posted one of my favorite sunset photos above in order to remind me that there is beauty all around, even in the depths of winter. I look forward to being able to get out with my camera and photograph the natural world once again.