So—remember those bulbs I buried hopefully in the fall? I thought you’d like to know—they survived the winter! And they’ve not only survived in spite of all prowling chipmunks, but are also growing steadily up in spite of, ahem, the wide variety of weather conditions that have comprised our spring thus far!
Today, while my sick children blessedly napped and I sipped tea to soothe my own racking cough, I looked at them all shivering out there in the flower bed, perky double-winged leaf shoots cupping the flakes of spitting snow as the wind whistles around the house. They were a quiet but poignant little reminder to me on a not-so-ideal day of this verse:
“…for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content…”
Some days, as Paul goes on to admit, are harder than others (and trust me, the hardships he had to face would make this unpleasant sick day at home seem like a picnic in the park!),
“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.“
But the key to it all?
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:11-13)
And for that, I am grateful.
Rejoicing Hills 
I have some of these little troopers in my garden too. Your words make me smile, Beth, thank you. Philippians 4:11 is such an encouragement.
You’re welcome, Aunt Vicki! It’s so amazing to me that they can survive all this cold weather!