Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. ¹⁸ He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.

James 1:17-18

For all those of you who appreciate a good seasonal change, here is the Maul segment of our cul-de-sac demonstrating its typical winter look. It’s cold here in Wake Forest, most of the leaves have fallen, and we may or may not get any snow between now and spring.

It’s also great weather for winter clean up work in the garden. If, that is you don’t have a busted up knee like yours truly!

However, Saturday morning it was Wake Forest Presbyterian’s Scout Troop 5 to the rescue, and a bunch of boys swarmed both gardens to pick up sticks, clear away leaves and pine needles, randomly blow debris at the “high” setting on their turbo-charged leaf-blower, and do their best to help us feel a little less out of control in the garden.

Max, of course, was delighted to have so many visitors. I believe he can genuinely sense goodwill and authenticity. He is a good judge of character and he gave this group of young people an unreserved “two paws up”!

It is always good to see love and generosity in action. And for that, we are grateful – DEREK