Today seemed like a good time for some “quiet time”. While the snow and wind swirled together outside the sleet spotted windows, it was peaceful inside. The warmth and distant sound of the furnace was comforting. I still found the need to snuggle up into a blanket as I read our latest issues of a couple magazines. I really wasn’t cold, but it just seemed to bring comfort.
Every time I passed a window, I was drawn to look outside and see what changes had occurred in the landscape. The flakes were really big at times, and the trees down the road came in and out of sight depending on the moment. All was right with the world. No obligations to meet. No meetings to attend. As I stared out into God’s creation, it was worth my extra time to be still and truly see and appreciate a masterpiece being created right in front of me.
Winter can get long, but there is wonder in our changing patterns of weather. Thunder and lightening in the middle of an early March blizzard? A little startling! As I continued with my daily chores, I kept listening for that booming sound again. It was louder than my spinning washing machine. The flash of light came through the window as I watched a lonely brown squirrel scurry across the drifted yard. I wondered where he was heading for shelter, but he disappeared into the grove of trees before I found the answer.
Stillness and the winter storm seemed intertwined. As I watched the trees move and bend in the harsh elements of winter, I pondered how many years they had withstood the abuse of the weather. Yet they still stand firm and strong, seemingly forming a shield and protection for the place we call home. Watching the picture show of winter outside, through the windows of our home, was humbling to me. It was like observing an old fashioned silent picture film…looking at the action taking place, but with the silence insisting that I keep tuned to see what would happen next.
There is something inside me that loves a “snow day”. I know that term comes fondly from my teaching days, when the students loved them more than I did most of the time. But now that I don’t have to be so concerned with schedules in my retirement years, it is a joy for the world to come to a time when everything slows down. Events are postponed and God gives us extra time to enjoy His creation, along with quiet time, and the opportunity to enjoy them both.
I was supposed to be baking a cake to serve at the Pink Ladies meeting this week when the snow storm arrived. The weather and cancellations changed all of that. The friend who shared this recipe with me says it is refreshing and will keep its great flavor for several days. If you need something springy and colorful for St. Patrick’s Day, this will be just the ticket! Enjoy….
Lemon-Lime Jello Cake
One lemon cake mix
Two – 3 oz. pkgs. lime Jello
One can Sprite
One – 8 oz. cream cheese
One cup milk
One box instant Vanilla pudding mix
Make cake as directed on box and bake. While cake is baking, mix Jello, 1 1/2 cups boiling water and 10 oz. of the Sprite.
When cake is done, poke holes in the cake with a meat fork while still warm. Pour Jello mixture over all of the cake. Cool in fridge.
Topping
Mix together the cream cheese, milk, and instant pudding. Beat until smooth and creamy. Spread on the cooled cake.
(Best if made several hours before served for flavor and firmness.)
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