Friday, January 7, 2011

The blessings of family

Today was an odd day. I worked just half a day and then went to my dentist in Tillsonburg to have a bothersome tooth checked. It was also a day of bits and pieces of good and things that stop you in your tracks.

Enroute to my appointment, I was lucky enough to see lots of barns - and I love barns. One particular shot (below) made me think of the nature of families, the trees seemed to be gathered 'round protecting the site, giving shelter. That's what good families do. They shelter and protect, praise and rejoice. There's a new wee bairn in this world tonight, his name is Oliver Weger and he's the baby brother of Owen. He will be sheltered and nurtured and there will be rejoicing.
I also thought of families that go through periods of great worry about each other, through illness and other trials, and marvel at how they keep putting one foot in front of the other to keep it all together. For them I wish them comfort and loving arms to protect them and, hopefully, the opportunity to rejoice as well.

7 comments:

  1. There are lots of great barns in the countryside here near Bellingham, but not so many up in Powell River. There are only a few places that can be cultivated with so much forest and mountain. - Margy

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  2. Yep! I've been on both sides of this family dynamic. It's good to be protected...and it's good to be worried about, in a good way...I also love how you worked the barns into your story. :-)

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  3. Those barns are works of art! So much nicer than the modern corrugated iron ones. And when families work together, there is nothing stronger in the world; but I suppose, like old barns, the links within them need to be maintained.

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  4. We will have to crown you the Barn Queen of photos. Love them!

    I hope you are curling up with Geoff and Gray to stay warm.

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  5. Elaine- this is one of my most favorite posts! The photos are stunning and the thoughts rang so true for me as well. A community is like a family- they should protect and take care of all those within. Congrats to the family of the new little one--
    Vicki
    These photos should be in your next calendar,

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  6. I enjoy your blog so much that I have given you the Stylish Blogger Award!--> http://poetesswug-thewugsbackyardblogspot.blogspot.com/2011/01/stylishwhome.html

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  7. I agree that this was an award worthy post. The pictures are stunning and I am so proud that you are part of my family. Tissue please.... Peace!

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