Spring has definitely sprung with today’s blue sky and fluffy clouds. Had a desire to plant a few veggie plants but knew the next few nights would be too cold. The yard symphony was drowned out by the modern day lawn mowers and leaf blowers. Was glad when all the yard work was done up the street so I could hear the song birds symphony and wind chimes choir.

Today has been a beautiful day with an unexpected visitor coming to spend the night. My niece called, she’d been hiking and taking photos at Mt. Cheaha, and wanted to spend the night here on the way to her mother’s home in Alex City. We sat on the porch, in the cool breeze, and talked and laughed. We had the best time remembering family stories. She remembered our wedding here. I think she was six years old then. Her mother is Chief’s sister. We lived next door to them for years till I moved back home to Roanoke. My children worshipped Chief’s sister and her husband and used to squabble over who got to spend Friday nights with them. It’s 12:30 AM and we’re still talking and laughing. Had to come in the house because the wind is cold.

Family is so important to me and to my happiness. My family is such an integral part of my life. I think dear friends are family, too. The intimacy of friendship binds our friends to our families. Our family rituals and time spent together are precious and priceless. Whether you live close by or far away, nothing is better than going home to family and relaxing and enjoying a meal together. Family bonds and relationships give us a sense of belonging.

I love this quote by Friedrich Nietzsche, “In family life, love is the oil that eases friction, the cement that binds us closer together, and the music that brings us harmony.”