Hello friend! Did you have a good Easter? It was storming here, and the rain poured down in sheets, making everything feel a bit dramatic. After church, we went out to lunch with my mom and my sister and her family, enjoying some delicious food and sharing stories that brought laughter to the table. We barely made it home when the sirens went off, a stark reminder of the tempest outside. Down to the basement we went; I didn’t mind, it’s a cool place to take a nap. We were supposed to get together with Mr. Handsome’s side of the family in the evening, but the weather was too bad, forcing us to postpone our plans. So, we will have to celebrate with them on a later date. Today my mind is swirling with many to-dos as the calendar fills up. Graduation is coming up for our son, niece, and for the many kiddos I have been a youth sponsor to over the years, and it’s a moment we have all been anticipating eagerly. The day after graduation for our son, we leave for vacation, so I need to have all of the stuff for his party finished before we leave. I also need to make sure I send out cards to all the kiddos whose parties we will miss; I want them to know we’re cheering them on from afar. We will also be missing Mother’s Day and my sister’s birthday as well, which adds to my list of things to manage. I need to find some time for those too, as each occasion deserves a celebration of its own. But before all of that, there is prom—two proms on different weekends. My sister’s retirement party is approaching as well. Oh, and Mr. Handsome and my anniversary are right around the corner, reminding me to carve out some time for us amidst the chaos. Goodness, so much to manage, but I know we’ll make it all work somehow!

I have been painting a few commissions, each one uniquely tailored to its recipient. I cannot show them quite yet as they are a surprise. I hope the recipients like them as much as I have enjoyed creating them.

I’m still growing cosmos and zinnias in my garage, nurturing them with care and watching them thrive under the gentle glow of the grow lights. Each day, I find myself becoming more anxious to put them in the ground, especially with the weather slowly warming up, but I will wait until May 1, even if I think all the frost is gone. I know how unpredictable spring can be, and the last thing I would want is to expose my beloved flowers to unexpected cold snaps. I have put quite a bit of work into them and would hate to see them all die before they bloom. The thought of their vibrant colors lighting up my garden fills me with anticipation, and I can already envision the stunning display they will create, attracting butterflies and bees, and bringing joy to everyone who passes by.

As always I’m glad you’re here.

Best,

Amy