Has anyone ever heard the myth about persimmons? Something about the seeds inside forming a shape that will predict the winter? Since persimmons are popular around here, they have been the topic of many discussions. This year, every persimmon that has been opened up has the seeds shaped like a spoon. As the legend goes, this means a winter with a lot of snow. A spoon is symbolic of a shovel, like what you'll be using with the snow... I was doubtful of this myth/legend until we were driving home from visiting in-laws for Thanksgiving. To my knowledge, I don't think it has ever snowed in Northwest Arkansas in November. I was thrilled! I love snow! We only got about 1/2", enough to cover cars, roofs, and grassy areas. The roads were perfectly clear. Unfortunately, it all melted when the sun came out. I am hoping this isn't it for the winter, I am expecting a lot more snow this year.
I have also strayed from an old Fox family tradition this year. It's unavoidable and I hope my siblings won't shun me for this... Because we are both having surgeries this month with lengthy recuperation times, we decided that we wouldn't be able to care for a live tree this year. For the first time in my life, I have an artificial tree. It's a pre-lit 7' Douglas Fur tree. Looks great, but definitely not the same. I miss the pine smell, the dead needles falling everywhere, and the cats vomiting hairballs with pine needles in it... I figure that we can always use this tree if for some other reason we can't get a real one. Nonetheless, from a distance, it looks real enough and it sparkles beautifully!
On a side note, I just wanted to say how thankful I am for the Priesthood and the many blessings that comes with having priesthood holders in the home. On Sunday, before we left the in-laws, I asked for and received a healing blessing for my surgery given by my husband and his father. I am extremely grateful for this service. Theron will be getting his blessing on Sunday. I believe he asked the bishop. We'll see... His surgery is on Monday. Please pray that things will go well for us! I will update here more frequently as things progress!