More than Christmases can be white in Colorado. I have been stuck behind a snow plow in a July 4th weekend blizzard over Wolf Creek pass, and seen heavy snow at lower elevations in September. You never know what the weather can do in the mountains.
We had just flown back from NJ and Christmas with my parents. Theresa had wanted to live in a cabin by the lake-Vallecito, so we had moved in. Not knowing that it snows-a lot! And the first winter there had 500 inches of snow. That's over 40 feet, or more than your trip from the TV to the refrigerator. And the next winter wasn't much better. We landed in Durango around midnight, and drove back to our cabin-arriving at about 130am. Cold, about -30, and clear, it had snowed, so much that we had to slide the suitcases down the snow to our front door, about 100 feet away. As we waded almost armpit deep in the white stuff, if it wasn't for the light of the moon, we would have missed the front door. It had snowed so much that there was only about an eight inch gap between the snow and the roof! Digging our way through, remember it is cold, and we're exhausted, we finally make it to the front door at the other end of the porch. And it won't open! It is stuck shut, and it seemed no amount of banging or cursing it would budge it. Finally, a gift from God, as it opens-reluctantly. And we are greeted with a steam room on the entry porch, where it had to be over 100 degrees inside! A hot water pipe was misting out steam from a pinhole leak, probably for a long time as the next door was also swollen shut. And I'm not sure what was the worse weather, the minus 30 or the plus 100! But I can tell you when we finally got inside, where it was only about zero, the house within a couple hours had gotten into the 40's-we only had wood heat, and slept late-until the feeling came back in feet! And then finding out the next day they had had 96 inches of snow in 96 hours! Making our cabin on the lake at 8300' altitude a true winter wonderland. Just not at midnight with no heat, but with lots of steam! I am still in awe of how the door separated over 130 degrees in temperature! We'll look for the luggage later!
After heating with wood exclusively for six years, I must admit that wood stoves and fireplaces are more appliance than romance with us. But still nothing beats the warmth of a good wood fire, and is a great place to visit while drinking hot cocoa. And a great place to share testimonies. My prayer for your Christmas this year is simple-that Jesus Christ become more real in your life than ever before. When gathering, focus on Him. Whether at Starbucks with your overpriced, trendy hot liquid, or when bench racing with friends, include Jesus. Share precious times, and realize there are many precious memories to be made. When cold, remember He can warm up your life. When hot, there is no one cooler than Jesus. When stuck, He is the way out. And when all seems hopeless, He is hope in the form of a person. He brings the snow-but also the shovel.
2000 years in a barn, He was born. Today we celebrate it as Christmas-His birthday. Take the time to wish Him Happy Birthday-sing to Him, and spend time with Him. And discover that He is always with you, He never leaves you, and is the way to heaven. He loves you, in truth. May your fellowship with your loved ones include Him this Christmas, and all the days of your life.
From our home to yours, Merry Christmas-wise men still seek Him! The greatest treasure remains for those who seek Him now!
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com
