Of course, I am up early and embracing my cup of coffee.  I enjoy my morning quiet time.  We have a BIG winter storm warning today.  They are calling for 8 to 13 inches.  A quick peek out the window shows that it has not yet started.  Winter is coming!  I know there are lots of moans and groans out there because snow is cold and it makes driving sketchy and treacherous, but it IS winter in Michigan.

I was looking back at photos I had taken on my phone over the past months.  In October, Ted and I were taking care of a few winterizing tasks with our sailboat when I took this photo. 

Our boat was “on the hard” – meaning it was not floating but rather it was sitting on its cradle in the shipyard.  Other boats were tightly packed in and lined up with ours.  It was cool out and the leaves were changing colors.  Since that photo was taken, we have secured a tarp to cover the boat to keep leaves, rain, and SNOW off the boat.  When I went inside and below deck on our boat, it was dark and cold.  It was just not right.  Sailboats are about sunshine and summer breezes and clean white decks.  I found this bible verse from Proverbs 26 that makes my point:

Proverbs 26:1  Like snow in summer or rain in harvest, honor is not fitting for a fool.

That’s just not right!

I have a friend here in Holland who has a pool in her backyard and, like us with our sailboat, she has to close and winterize it.  It’s a bit sad to say good bye to the sailing season, and the swimming season, but we both agree that it is actually nice to take a break.  We pack the boat up and put it away and we don’t worry about it until the last frost is done and summer sailing beckons. 

In life, we experience many seasons.  Each comes with different “weather”.  Sometimes we face battles and storms.  Some seasons are cold.  Some are fair and mild, with little conflict.  It’s all part of life.  It’d be great if the ‘weather’ was always perfect.  But each season brings joys.  We may love our sailing, yet there are some who dislike the hot, humid weather.  There are some who abhor the freezing cold snow and winds, but for skiers and children who just want to build a snowman – the weather is perfect! 

Ted and I are ready for the winter storm.  We have plenty of food and actually have plans to have the grandkids over.   THAT will keep us warm! 

And no matter if you like or dislike the storm that is coming, may you prepare the best you can and remember that God will help you weather whatever comes your way.  Here in Michigan, we know that the weather can be like winter in the morning, and thaw to spring by afternoon.  Change?  Yep – that’s Michigan weather!

Ecclesiastes 3:1 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.

May you find the joy in today.

Just Laurel