Tornados to Tulips

These vibrant, oh so colorful flowers have always been my favorite. Although they are very short lived, their incredible brightness always brings a smile to my face. As a kid I remember being mesmerized by them in my Mothers garden.



Friday, my home state endured terrible storms. Spending over an hour in tornado lock down at school, knowing the storms were headed in the direction of my husband and unable to location him for over two hours, makes for a very stress filled afternoon.

Honey, finally made it to me and the kids at school, so at least we are now together. The rest of the evening was spent glued to the TV, listening for instruction. Fortunately none came.

Sunday was an amazingly gorgeous day. The sun was shining, skies were blue and the tulips were smiling. As I stood in the kitchen, gazing out the window at my husband, with our two kids in the backyard together enjoying the day, I actually started to cry. I suddenly felt so overwhelmed with gratitude. The storm that struck our neighboring county and took lives was headed in our direction but some how went around us. My mind wondered to the families who had suffered losses and to the people whose lives had changed forever.

Just another reminder of how precious life is. How important it is to say the three little words that seem to be so difficult for so many. I know how blessed I am that my family is still intact and my heart and prayers go out to those whose aren't.

"Each day offers us the gift of being a special occasion if we can simply learn that as well as giving, it is blessed to receive with grace and a grateful heart."

-Sarah Ban Breathnach