We moved here from the southern part of the country, where “deep” snow might be enough to reach your ankles. During our first winter living here, our kids were 4, 6, and 8 years old.
Imagine their wide eyes one morning when we awoke to a snowfall of three to four feet (around one meter) deep! There was celebration to be had that day, I tell you!
Here’s my dog, happy as can be, enjoying a snowy day on the beach two winters ago. I’m afraid she’ll have to wait a few more weeks to play in the snow this winter.
Our little piece of dirt sticks out into the ocean, which affects our seasonal weather. Warm water temperatures keep the frigid winter weather from arriving as quickly as it does farther inland.
Last week we had a bit of nasty weather, but we were far from the snow bands that blew through out west.
In the spring, ocean temperatures cause the opposite. When everyone else is warming up, the cold water keeps our air temperatures lower for longer.
The ocean is beautiful in summer, winter, sun and storm. But to be honest, I completely take it for granted. I may have been down to the beach two or three times this year. Crazy, right? I mean, it’s only 15 minutes away!
Yep, it’s gorgeous. But it’s always there, and I never have to wonder if it’s going to disappear one day. It’s just part of this place I call home.
I wonder if we treat God the same way.
Yes, he’s always there, watching over and caring for us. But do we really notice? Do we take even a few minutes out of our day to spend time enjoying him for who he is?
There is true treasure to be found in God if we’ll take the time to be with him. That can happen any time, anywhere–in the car, on the beach, standing on a mountaintop, sitting on the couch, drinking a cup of coffee, enjoying a sunset, even hanging out with friends.
God is only a thought away! Where will you enjoy a bit of time with him today?
Lauri Hawley 