It's been a long, long winter

The winter seems to be getting longer and deeper (especially the ice and snow), despite what Jimmy the Groundhog indicated a few weeks back (Despite the fact that I live in Sun Prairie, Jimmy's hometown, I still find myself relying on that groundhog from Pennsylvania. He just has a classier name... therefore more reliable!)

We've seen enough snow and ice for two winters by and we're working on three. I, like many, of the rest of you all feel very much like hibernating. You know, "...to spend the winter in close quarters in a dormant condition..." Put on a fire with a warm cup of beverage and just sit and stare, dreaming of the days to come (95 degrees outside, a lawn to be mowed and bushes to be trimmed.)

A cure-all for common winter blues and blahs is to spend some time with friends, taking a short trip, having some dinner together, or going to a movie. Families, its important to take these hibernating moments to wake up a bit and get some family energy a-stirring. Play some games, bake something together, or put in a classic movie while munching some lo-cal popcorn.

Like its important not to neglect family and friends when the temptation to hibernate comes upon us, it's also important not to neglect to have some time with God. When you're at home and feeling the winter blahs, its a perfect opportunity to, privately or with family, to offer a conversation to God about the many good blessings that you have. Equally important, as is even shown Biblically, is to take the time to walk into a community celebration of the wonders of God. Worship, at New Life, is just for this... God, family, friends, and one's soul.

Come into the house of God, bringing your praise and prayers, your delight and magnificence, your presence and commitments. And, when you do, you make a difference. And, even then, the winter can feel all that much shorter.

Bring a friend and put a little Sonshine in his or her life, too.