Springtime weather has come to visit us, for a few days anyway! We've had days of beautiful sunshine and temperatures up into the 50s, and then - we've had days of cold rain and snow.  But - the sun's warmth with the longer days is winning, and our snow is slowly melting.  

This is a post that I cannot even believe I am having to write. For those of you who follow me on social media, you know that my world crumbled last Friday, March 3, 2023.  Our precious Annie-girl, my protector, walking companion, and snow-loving dog became acutely ill on Friday morning.  We had to let her go, and my heart was broken. 

Late Sunday afternoon, Riley and I took an impromptu hike out to our back property because the skies were lit up in such rich color, and although I've seen so many beautiful sunsets, my heart draws me to see the next one, because each one is individually beautiful! God's artistry in the skies is always fresh, new, and glorious. 

Here we are halfway through the month of February! As we celebrate the month of love, there are so many things around us to be thankful for and to love! 

This sunset enraptured my soul! As the sun's rosy rays dappled the mountain tops and dipped into the water, the sight was just so beautiful to see!

Our weather in January and February often is full of gray, overcast days.  But when the sun comes out, we get excited to see the warming rays of sunshine.  Yesterday morning it was exciting to see the sun coming up, as well as the moon shining bright in the lightening western skies! Both of them at the same time!   There was a small cloud that was lit up with sunrise colors just below the moon, and it made for quite a picturesque scene to see! The dogs & I went for a walk through our back property.  Sweet Annie was able to go, as there was still snow on the ground back there and the snow cushioned her paws when she drags her feet. 

The first day of February is here... and so we are getting closer to Spring, even if it may not feel like it in our neck of the woods!  About the middle of February, I begin to anxiously anticipate warmer days spent out in the garden! However, I am still contenting myself around the house, finishing up some organizing projects, cleaning and doing all kinds of chores that require my attention inside. I'm enjoying a cup of King Cole tea this afternoon, as I sit here sharing my thoughts and pictures with you! 

This picture was taken one morning as blue skies broke through - oh Hallelujah! {smiles}

 As the month of January draws itself to a close, I feel a bit sad.  Why you may ask? It is because -  for me anyway - January is a time of rest and reflection.  

I enjoy hot cups of tea in the afternoon, 

snuggling under my cozy afghan with our sweet kitties, 

catching up on some overdue book reading, 

creating new videos with pictures I've taken throughout the year, 

and I've also been busy organizing, decluttering, and just... well... puttering! 

I like to putter in January.  {smiles}

It is such a restful month after the busyness of the holidays.  

How about you? Is January a month of rest for you? 

Sunshine in January is a precious commodity! Indeed, I find myself chasing the light when it comes! Early in the morning on our walks, a few sunrises light up the mountains with gorgeous orange light.  Sometimes, the skies glow purple as sunset rays dim the horizon.  January's full Wolf moon rose bright and low on the horizon lighting up the darkness.  So whenever I see the streaks of light begin to fill the morning or afternoon skies, I head outside - knowing this may be the one time that day that I get to watch the light fill the skies. 

Early morning rays light up the distant mountain peaks over a neighbor's home.