A God-Given Talent

Our grandson Jacob has always loved and appreciated music. Mrs. Jarrett, his piano teacher, helped him develop a special love of classical music.

2009 recital at Mrs. Jarrett's home

 In 2010 Jacob won his district's 

Bland Competition

2010 Bland Competition at VMI

Jacob practicing at home

Jacob Joseph's Junior Recital

Liberty University School of Music, April 23, 2016

The five pieces he played--all by memory--were:

     * Fugue in B-flat Major, BWV 955 by J.S. Bach (1685-1750)

     * Nocturne in B Major, Op. 33, no. 2 by Gabriel Faure (1845-1924)

     * Etude in C Minor, Op. 25, no. 12 by Frederic Chopin (1810-1849)

     * Allegro moderato ma energico by Jan Ladislov Dussek (1760-1812)

     * Un poco allegro, Op. 20 by Samuel Barber (1910-1981)

I am so proud of him I could just about pop. God gave him this talent. Jacob's passion for and love of music kept him interested. Thank you, Jacob. And thank you, God.

Hello Spring, Goodbye Winter

Spring is my favorite season--as are Summer, Winter, and Fall. I know, I'm a Fickle Season Person, and I'm glad; I enjoy every season. But Spring--oh, my--what beauty and pleasure she brings! 

Watching our ornamental cherry tree's leaves sprout and blossoms suddenly appear is something I look forward to every year. The Lake Writers organization gave us this tree in 2006 in remembrance of our grandson Jonathan, who died suddenly on January 13, 2006, from arterial venous malformation of the brain. Every year we remember and appreciate the Lake Writers' kindness and generosity. And, of course, we remember Jonathan and all the love he brought us. 

At first, I thought a weeping cherry tree would be the perfect choice when asked what kind of tree we would like, but then decided I wanted nothing that signified weeping or sadness. Instead, we settled on an ornamental cherry tree, a tree whose branches reached upward to heaven, to Jonathan. I think we made the right decision.

Every time we check the mail, fetch the newspaper, or drive in or out of our driveway we think of Jonathan because we have to pass his tree. And what a blessing that is.

The yard is also loaded with wild dogwood trees. I took this picture from our deck, even though the blossoms aren't in full bloom yet. Spring continues to excite me.

This year I'm glad to say goodbye to winter except for one thing: SOCKS! I'm serious. Helen, one of the three  friends I play bridge with every month, gave each of us a pair of socks for Christmas last year. These aren't just socks--they're SOCKS! Comfortable socks, soft socks, knock-that-chill-right-outta-your-bones-and-feet-and-legs socks.

This morning I grudgingly put them away. But next year, my excitement at winter's arrival will be made with a bigger smile than usual knowing that I will once again be able to wear my SOCKS.

Goodbye, Winter! Welcome, Spring!