The nastier the storms these days, the more beautiful the aftermath. I suppose there’s some justice in that. The cold last week was different from the cold we often experience here. I’m used to frigid weather and big snowstorms. But this one felt different; it seemed to change matter and freeze my flesh in a different way.

I just couldn’t be out in it for more than a few minutes.

I’m glad it’s over, I’m sure the animals are too. It was so cold the ground remains frozen, even two days later. The animals have emerged from their self-imposed lockup in the Pole Barn. The sun is flirting with us, but it hasn’t come out yet. The sky is especially beautiful this morning.

I’m heading out to have lunch with a new friend. I’ve decided to give up on my Ukulele work for now. Too much going on in my life, I’ll get back to it later, and I did get to play at the Mansion a couple of times.

Tomorrow we’re going to visit Bishop Gibbons. Maria will work with her sewing class, and I’ll interview a special needs refugee child who just got admitted to two different colleges. I’m happy for her and proud of her. She is one of Sue Silverstein’s “angels.” Sue has done it again, helping a deserving young refugee have her dreams come true.