It has been a very cold winter here in Indiana so far with several nights of single digit and zero degree temperatures.

We have had some nights with wind chills as low as  -19 degrees.  That is just too cold!

I have been usually starting most days with a hot bowl of oatmeal and a mocha (hot drink for me, though the kids still ask for smoothies too, brrrr)  to help us get warmed up in the mornings.  It is really hard for me to drink something cold when I am cold.  So my stove has been working overtime to keep warm beverages and food ready throughout the day!

A precious lady we met at church a couple of years ago stopped by this winter with some beautiful homemade blankets for our family.  This is one of the most thoughtful gifts anyone has ever shared with our family.  She grew up in a farm house out in the countryside and she remembers how chilly it can get in the winter.

It must have taken her many long hours of her time to make a special blanket for each child.

I am so touched by her kindness and generosity to my family.

She also made one for my husband and I to share.

All these lovely colors were patiently put together by loving hands and given to us.  We are keeping warm, even in this cold winter, with these beautiful homemade blankets and I am grateful.