RAMBLINGS...................February 2010

By Diane Sawdon

I, for one, am very glad the month of January has reduced itself to history. January lasted much too long. I know it was longer than the allotted thirty one days. The daylight hours were monotonous and tedious and the nights were seemingly endless. 

The month began with a birthday I would rather forget. Since the occasion was not too well observed, does this mean I am not another year older?? That would be a plus! Unfortunately, I do not think Mother Nature has that in her Grand Plan. But, the optimist in me knows that another year is a grand gift and I shall try to use it well. 

The weather, in January, was unforgiving, soggy, cold and waterlogged. Here is Nevada City we had it all----rain, wind, snow, sleet, slush, hail, fog----did I leave anything out?? I know we need water from above, and lots of it, to get us out of three years of drought, but ten days straight was enough to permanently bend my mind. I guess I am one of those humans who need to see Mr. Sun in the sky. I was thrilled to see my shadow when the clouds finally broke. It was good to know we are still joined at the hip.

The month ended with the loss of our beloved dog, Stella. She was our best friend and constant companion for over thirteen years. The hole in my heart is an abyss. Rationally, I know we made the correct decision, but my heart still aches. I know time will help to heal the acute pain of grief. I need the days to rush by and transport me to Spring and the season of rebirth. 

I look forward to February. The family will be celebrating birthdays of two very precious little girls. One will be four years old and the baby will be an official one year old. It seems like just a moment ago I was telling you about her birth. Watching them grow is a glorious and incredible gift. With their older sister, who is almost six, they remain the magic of my life. Their innocence and joy keep this old lady putting one foot in front of the other each morning. 

My wish is a February full of blessings for all------and thanks for listening!