deadleafIn South Texas, Winter is often more a word. than a season of bitter cold. But many times a few days after we have celebrated Christmas, Winter makes a sudden, although usually brief,  dramatic appearance screaming “Take me seriously!'”  Citrus and tropical plants on our back porch did not survive our recent episode.  We already talk of replanting, ordering seeds, replacing.  But we also hope, waiting to see what life will come back. I am thankful for comfort and good food and warmth for our family, for good hugs and kind touch.  I am thankful for talks beside the fire.  I am thankful for home.



Kindness is my word for 2017,  It is in the consisitent, repeated acts of kindness that it is best illustrated. If I ask what color is kindness, answers come from different directions.  I took a walk around the house and captured little things that might speak kindness.


Warm, glowing colors.  Stained glass that sings come in, worship, linger.



Candleglow and warmth and the fragrance of pine needles.


Light that shines from window panes at night.


Open arms and open hands.

What does kindness look like to you?  What does it feel like?