LIONS IN THE WIND

As of a few days ago, the advent of March 1st, 2012 came roaring in like a "Lion" with wind.  Crisp winds are not the norm in sun drenched Arizona. Isn't that the way the children's rhyme goes? 

"In like a Lion and out like a Lamb?" despite  the usual monotone weather of Arizona?

For our family, "Lion" is something to celebrate. Our family surname, "Loewen", is German for "Lion" Both sides of my family hail from Dutch German Mennonites that immigrated from near Kiev, Russia at the turn of the 20th century to homestead in a large Mennonite Community in Hillsboro, Kansas. True, Kansas can be very windy which is the expected norm. My mother often bestowed upon my father "Lion" gifts like stone statues for his prolific garden. Dad took it even a step further and had me design a "Lion's" head for our family headstone for our final resting place, in Hillsboro. That task was completed and about two years ago my brother Ron, sister Tami and myself laid him to rest next to mother at that headstone. The winds still gently roll the wheat fields and build unbelievably beautiful cumulous skies. 

Father's Day has always been a huge celebration for the family. My uncle and aunt were winter visitors for several years and always were included in our celebration which often included a road trip. One trip really stands out to celebrate Father's Day when we visited a "Bird Sanctuary" near Tucson, Arizona and got TWO flat tires in the  same day! Luck be with us and we made it downhill to a nearby garage for repairs. 

After mom passed, it didn't take long for our father to find a significant other to accompany him for 10 years. Clariece loved to travel and our Father's Day treks where no exception. One year we ventured close to home to the "Four Seasons Resort" at Troon, north of Scottsdale. The lobby was filled with works of art deeming a place at "The Met" in New York City. The art work featured  life size horses  entirely beaded Indian style. Leisurely, time spent at the resort included dinner, swimming and venturing out to a Hot Air Balloon Ride in the desert. 

If the Hot Air Balloon ride had been in March, safely I can testify that the month went out like "A lamb" Gently, the balloon lifted and scanned the flora and fauna below. The only jarring "noise" was the fire that kept the balloon billowing and aloft.

We were in the hands of our Creator and loving every minute of the peace and tranquility. The Lion of Winds had become the Lions of Peace. 

---Cynthia Loewen