TWO ALPACAS

I love this picture!  I loved taking it and it makes me smile every time I look at these TWO ALPACAS.  From the moment I saw these two, I could tell they were a couple.  Even amongst all the animals that were there with them, these two came across as true mates.  I think that is how it should be when we are with our own spouses; people should know without even asking that you and your spouse are one.

My husband pointed out the context of  Matthew 18:20 is forgiveness.  I thought this would be appropriate for Valentine's Day, for at the center of any good relationship is forgiveness.  I have seen people hold on to grudges thinking they were punishing the other person.  When in reality they are hurting themselves.  There is freedom in having a heart that can forgive.  Also, on the other side is the freedom to stop doing what it is that bugs your spouse.  Matter of fact, let it be a secret Valentine gift.  Then watch the peace you will also receive from giving the gift. 

SIX JOYFUL ROSES

It was a beautiful morning, the sky was blue, the birds were singing.  I looked forward to the day we had planned.  We would be packing the cooler with goodies, lemonade for our daughters and coffee for me and my husband.  All four of us would be bringing our cameras, it was always a family event.

We arrived at the gardens before anyone else.  The sun peeking through the trees and the morning dew that lingered, made us feel like we walked into a story book scene.  We walked quietly through the garden, savoring the time, not speaking a word.

The six joyful roses, as I like to call them, was but a piece of the memory of that story book morning.

Take time to come to the garden alone while the dew is still on the roses.