Wild as the Winds

Given that this is possibly the strangest winter of weather experienced in So. Cal as long as I've lived here, it's fitting that our family is experiencing a bit of the same, with wild winter days of ups and downs and complete 180-degree turnarounds. I'm not given to moodiness, but if I were, I'd have a touch of whiplash given the highs and lows we're experiencing around here lately. Much like our garden, it seems we are laid a bit bare for the hot sun one day and bitter cold winds the next.

We are in much transition right now: applying for lotteries for Kindergarten (who knew this stuff began 7 months before the kid actually goes to school?), turning five, potty training, sitting up, scooting and eating solid foods, turning thirty-five and starting a new management position that will require even longer work hours for all adults in our house. And all this along with very busy everyday stuff like preschool conferences, playdates, doctor appointments, ballet and swim lessons, beach days and haircuts. If it's an ebb and flow kind of thing, we're all flow right now.

Marvelous moment #1: Our (big) little girl turns 5!

There are lows that require much thought and prayer, like an extended family member recently diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, and there are highs like 35th birthdays with childhood friends rallying around and driving long miles to celebrate and cheer. Disappointments, like an upcoming visit with cousins (and nieces) we haven't seen in over a year now postponed 'til summer, and thrills, like the news I am awaiting of a dear friend's first baby girl arriving any moment now.

Marvelous moment #2: Surprising Paul on his 35th with his very best friends

My heart is so full yet so heavy. Much to love, much to celebrate, much to hold up high and rejoice. Much looking forward to quieter times when the melancholy mixes less with the marvelous.