Mid February

Last week felt more like March than February. It's been warm, wet, and windy outside, and according to the weather forecast, we're in for another week of the same. I hope that everything won't rush to start budding too soon; we're almost guaranteed to have more freezing weather before it's all said and done. 

The birds and squirrels seem to love the break in the cold. The birds are much more active all of a sudden and they've become very vocal, especially first thing in the morning. Young squirrels (probably born last autumn) are scampering heedlessly all over the yard--just yesterday I startled two of them by walking around a corner while they were at play and not paying attention. They're so funny to watch.

Tomorrow is the beginning of Lent, and a lot of my Catholic friends will be giving up something that they enjoy from now until Easter. It occurred to me today that I've got a head start on them, since I've given up gluten since the beginning of the month. Tomorrow will be two weeks! Soon I should have some idea if gluten contributes to my skin condition. So far, I haven't had any big eczema flares, just a couple of  short episodes of mild itching. I can't decide yet if it's making a difference or not.

Tomorrow is also Valentine's Day! Not that it's a very big deal in this house. I usually cook a nice dinner and maybe buy some chocolate for dessert, but Wednesday is Gregg's night to work late. I'm not sure it will be worth it to go to extra trouble with a meal that we won't be able to eat until 8pm or later (on a work night). The special meal may have to wait until the weekend...or better yet, once I finish my gluten free trial. I miss bread so bad!!

Are any of you giving up something for Lent? Or have big plans for Valentine's Day? If so I'd love to hear about it!