Frost

Unbelievable Frost Flowers

Varied designs

Like swans hidden in the underbrush. 
The attachment that came in yesterday telling of Frost flowers that are created in early winter.   Ice in thin layers is pushed out from the stems.   It has to be freezing weather but the ground cannot be frozen as water is sucked up into the stem.   The sap in the stem expands and linear fissures begin to form, cracks and splits open and water freezes and the petals form.  Some call them Ice Castles or ice blossoms or even crystollo-folia.  If you ever see one take a picture quickly as they shatter when the sun rises and they melt away.  I'd like to see some, wouldn't you?

 

At first I thought I agreed, but on second thought, I still care about what people think of me.   I think we all like to be admired for the good traits we share with others and that is a two way street.   We don't waste our time on 'stuff' that is not important but being well thought of is a big hug in life. 

Here is your laugh for today.   

A new week to plot and plan your seconds.    Son John has taken time out to travel up to New York to greet Erin and Donaleo from their long journeys.    He has taken them up to Rhode Island and showing them where the family roots began as the Sullivan men settled in Newport as did four hundred other Sullivan folks.    Some were related, but not all.    John and his siblings were born in Rhode Island with the exception of the youngest, Michael who was born in California.   They will enjoy some wonderful scenery, great meals and I hope they are introduced to Johnny cakes which are famous in R.I.   Son John is a caring thoughtful wonderful man who loves his family and doesn't mind showing it.    Erin will be taking pictures along the way so we will all share the experience when she returns home next week.   
So if you have time and can show a family member or two where there roots began, don't hesitate as a trip together will bring you closer in the sharing.    Maybe you cannot travel right now, but it is a plan to keep in mind when you can.     It really is a fun trip to go back to where you were born and visit the old haunts of yesteryear.    What's that old adage . . . 'curiosity killed the cat, satisfaction brought it back'!    Imagine going back and finding someone ancient who remembers you when you were very small.    All you have to do is smile and they will remember you, and you might hear a tale or two that will surprise you.    Have a great week and practice that smile.   Walk into a hug or two and 'give as good as you get'!    Love and Laughter just go together so enjoy lots of both and make your seconds meaningful.   Hugs to all.