February 13

The rose bushes to either side of our garage teem with white roses during the spring and summer months. In truth they're so productive that they wind up leaning heavily to one side under the weight of the many blooms.

But given that it's still February, I was a bit surprised to spy this early-comer this morning. The first bud of 2022.

Then again, I'm not sure why I was surprised, since if I've learned anything from this life, it's that God holds the pen, and if He wants to breathe life into the rose bushes a bit early --to create fragrant beauty before I think it's time for it to be-- He will. And for that, I am grateful.