Falls & Springs

Has the everlasting summer of Texas finally given way to fall and winter in the same week? The last couple of weeks it has still been hot -- in the upper 80s and even the 90s -- and for the first time I'm actually pining for fall & winter-like weather. In the mornings I have to put on a coat as I head to work. I dare not wear the coat home after work, lest I melt when I get in my "sun-baked" car.

This morning, however, it actually felt like fall. It was cool. The air was damp. As I walked out the door to head to work, it started to rain. While it was a frustrating commute (because people seem to forget how to drive when it rains), it was pleasant -- in a way. I got out of my car and smelled the rain. I was actually cool, but it was a good, damp cool feeling, like fall or winter should be.

The rain reminded me of the downpour that came the day my family and I buried my mom in April 2004. It was a morning like this, damp, cool, kind of dreary with a hint of hope. Her birthday is today, she would have been 55. She's on my mind every day. I can't help wondering how much different I might feel about today if she were still with us. If I could call her and tell her how much I love her and can't wait to see her again. Happy birthday Mom, I miss you.

"Be strong and take heart, you who hope in the Lord." (Psalm 31:24).

Fall back, spring ahead...