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Drenching rain overnight and this morning could wash away most of the snow that fell yesterday and last evening. 

In fact, it was so drenching when I went out to do chores a while ago, I fed the horses in their stalls. 

Trying to maneuver a cart filled with hay through slush, lakes and uneven ground in the barnyard would have been nearly impossible. 

So, I gave myself and the horses a break.

We're probably all happy for that decision. 

Another decision early this morning has, no doubt, made hundreds of young people happy:  no school. 

It's a mess out there, and with just a half day on the schedule, twas a smart idea to refrain from putting those buses on the roads where plowing needs to be done. 

And, so Christmas vacation 2019 has begun.  

Last night I accompanied Debbie and Laura on a dicey drive to Bonners Ferry where Willie's Bulldog girls basketball team was taking on the Badgers. 

We watched a back and forth, scrappy game with at least three ties before the Bulldogs took charge in the last quarter and pulled away for a win. 

Another significant accomplishment for this team which has now won five out its last six games.  

Our drive back to Sandpoint was beyond dicey, but Debbie, who's an excellent and cautious driver, got us home safely. 

Today marks an anniversary I never forget.  It's been 35 years since our house burned down right before Christmas vacation. 

In my mind, many images come alive as if they were yesterday:  the silhouette of our big red barn with giant flames in the background, Willie's wide eyes watching the fire, Northside firemen doing what they could, neighbors like Pat Gooby attempting to remove contents from the house, etc. 

It was a life-altering experience, not only because we had to put the pieces of our lives back together but, more importantly, because of what we learned about the generosity of the community where we live. 

It's a continuous endeavor of giving as each tragic event happens within our community, reminding us that the true gifts of the Christmas season or any season are both tangible and intangible. 

I like to think that memories of intangibles like generosity, compassion, genuine, heartfelt concern and love tend to be forever etched in our minds. 

On the receiving end for all who endure tragedies comes eternal gratitude.

And, so this morning, I do think about how blessed we are to have a beautiful home, a phenomenal family, treasured friends and a community like no other. 

December 20 always reminds me of those blessings in BIG CAPITAL LETTERS. 

Thirty-five years later, we still say thank you to all who came to our aid.  We are forever grateful. 

Finally, home is especially important today because our Annie comes home to "her own private Idaho" tonight!

Let the holidays begin!

Happy Friday. 

   

https://bonnercountydailybee.com/regional_sports/20191219/sandpoint_bests_win_total_from_last_season_with_comeback_victory_