The aroma of chocolate chip cookies baking brings memory of my maternal grandmother’s kitchen. She was a brittle diabetic, but always baked these fresh when we were visiting from another state. The scents in an apple orchard, in turn, bring memories of my other grandparents’ orchard, closer to home, where we climbed and played and of course tasted the goods in all phases of ripening, and then later in grandma’s homemade applesauce.

I am grateful for the creative array of animals that roam the earth, inhabit the waters and skies, and those that live in households as companions. I am grateful for my daughter’s service dog. I am a little annoyed that dogs are put in practically every tv commercial in order to sell products that have nothing to do with dogs.

When my family is all together. A walk in the woods, especially in the fall. Bodies of water: ocean, lakes, rivers. Birdsong in spring. Broadway musicals, especially Les Mis. The playfulness of children and dogs. Living in a place where there are 4 seasons.

Good music, food, and conversation. Spending time in woods and near bodies of water. Watching children just being themselves.

Blessings and healing to you, dear Alicia, in these when patience is a difficult practice. Thank you for thinking of us here. Holding you in prayer.

Dear Drew, I think I recall that you were looking for a diagnosis, as you never had a name for your situation before? If I am remembering correctly. Have they offered medication, or other suggestions to you? I hope that you will at some point be able to go back to Disney, or to other places you would enjoy.. Holding you in prayer and light. Thank you for being here in the lounge.

She sounds wonderful, Trish. And what a great name, Cordelia!

Ha! You gave me a laugh first thing in the morning – thanks!

Yes, Mary Pat … L.J. … thank you for lifting her back into my consciousness. I, too, prayed, worried, and watched, hoping she would let us know how she was doing. May she be safe and well, and among caring people.

Thank you, Patjos, for your wish for all of us.

Blessings to you, dear Diane! I love your idea of filling in a calendar gift with special notes! A wonderful surprise for your sister to find along the yearlong path. I looked on Amazon for the book you mentioned, but didn’t find that title. But I remember how meaningful his writing has been for you, and for so many others.
Blessings in this new year, practicing the hygge self-care that can be quite helpful while nourishing one’s soul.

Blessings to you, as well, dear Ann. Once again, I didn’t pay attention to the day of the week! I have been a bit discombobulated since the holidays …

Truly, Mary Pat, a lifetime has happened in that time. I am glad for those words, which leads me to ponder a good deal of what has happened and changed in my own life and that of the world. You have read by now of others still posting in this site; many others I remember fondly, as well. May you and your wonderful family be well, my friend.

It is a lovely surprise to find your name here today, Mary Pat! I hope all is well with you.

Dear Carla, I relate to feeling stuck in the process of surgical recovery. Each tiny step is a miracle, a victory, a surprise, a gift. Blessings as your process continues, my friend.

Thank you for thinking of me, dear grateful sea. Tears popped into my eyes as I scrolled down and found your kind words. I would welcome such a tea party with our supportive and encouraging friends here. Many blessings, my friend.

Take good care of yourself, dear Alicia, in as many ways as possible. Holding you in prayer and light during these challenging days.

Dear Diane, I would love to read your book!
So far this year, winter has been on the milder side, but often enough quite damp. My hand has become a human barometer, and looks rather like a claw. The surgical wound is nearly healed, which is good, but doesn’t bear a lot of weight. I thank you so much for your prayers and remembering. Many blessings, dear friend.