Tall Tales from Kansas

sit, sip, write, think, listen, smile

Let's talk daffodils today shall we? I have been waiting and waiting and waiting some more for the arrival of bunches of them in the grocery store for the American Cancer Society's Daffodil Days. Finally, on Saturday morning, I found some!

I rushed them home, trimmed the ends, put them in vases, and placed them where I could enjoy them the most. 

Early this morning, more were open. So beautiful. 

Spring things are happening a little later here this year, but they are happening. I have a wonderful crop of buds on my redbud tree right now.

These will open into the most beautiful flowers very soon.  While I miss the 2 small cherry trees that formerly lived in this spot, I have been delighted so far with this redbud tree. 

This morning I made a solo venture to one of my favorite coffee shops. A signpost of recovery. It was wonderful to sit, sip, write, think, listen, smile, be happy to be here. 

Right as I got out of my car I spotted these slightly different variety of daffodils.

So beautiful against that lovely distressed brick background. 

And just like that the weekend is almost over. Tomorrow I am back to work again, feeling revitalized and ready. Lunches packed, uniform at the ready. The trend that started on post op day #30 is continuing. Thank every single one of you for your well wishes.

 

I am not counting any chickens...

May I suggest that if you have surgery, and are off for a month, the week you are going back to work you schedule a drive into town like you are going to go to work, but instead go out and have dinner with your friends? That's a confusing sentence, I know. So let me explain...

3 days before I had to go back to work, I met the Quails at Il Centro in KC to celebrate Mary Joan's birthday. I knew if I could do that, I would be ready for work. It was wonderful to be laughing with friends, the meal was great, and my endurance was on point. 

So, this past Friday, back to work I went. It was harder in some ways and easier in other ways than I anticipated.

When you walk in the office to this on your desk, the love and support does amazing things to get you through the day. The walking was hard, but do-able, being with patients was the best, no passwords were messed up, I did not forget how to do my job. Whew. Now that the first day has been conquered, the rest will fall into place. I work with some of the BEST people. I also have ice packs in the freezer in my office. 

Getting back into that groove seems to have helped me. Today Chris and I went for the best walk I have taken since surgery. It was only about a mile, but it was pleasant, mild soreness only - no serious discomfort.

I am not counting any chickens, but my fingers are crossed for more of the same! Oh it was wonderful to be out of doors with some sun and a breeze and the birds...

you don't know what you don't know, until you do

Prior to my surgery, I made sure I had all the supplies I would need for stitching, sewing, knitting, writing, and all other manner of projects I would be working on during my month of recovery. It makes me laugh to think how my pre-surgery mind thought my post-op recovery was going to go. Kind of like this... nap during surgery, wake up, work with therapy, go home, take a nap or two, do PT daily, read books, finish up all unfinished stuff, go back to work.  

What I did not anticipate was that I would be so tired.  Jeez. I have been napping like nobody's business. Seriously. After breakfast, in the afternoon, AND before supper - a quick lay down as well. Well you don't know what you don't know, until you do. 

Sister and I did a FaceTime call the other day and while she sketched amazing things, I worked on a bunch of hexies for a project. They are kind of addicting to make and I am a little over halfway through. 

They are going to turn into a pillow at a sewing get-together next month. Which gives me plenty of time to finish them. 

Kansas has been true to form this week with temps in the 60's one day and the teens the next with rain then snow. There are signs of spring approaching though. Chris and I got out and took a couple of walks on the nice days which was completely wonderful. 

Once again, I want to say how excellent it has been to get Marco Polo's, texts, e-mails, and cards from people checking in to see how I am doing.

I will be stocking up on feel-better cards myself to send to anyone and everyone who has a sniffle or a scrape in the future. 

What I have found is the first two weeks after surgery went by in a blur, a blur of just learning how to get in and out of bed, moving around the house, and being grateful surgery itself was over.  Weeks 3 and four seem harder because you want to push your fast forward button and get better more quickly. Except I can’t find the fast forward button on my internal remote control.  Getting good sleep at night is challenging because of the difficulty finding just the right position. I have a serious case of the princess and the pea syndrome and can feel every tiny wrinkle underneath me. All of this is just to normalize the recovery experience for anyone going through something similar. The other little secret that everyone says is normal but no one talks about, is feeling blue, sad, downright depressed in some moments. I am glad to have Chris around to be able to take off my “happy face” with him if I need to. My brother and I also FaceTime regularly and discuss the chapters in the books we are writing (in our minds) about the travails of recovery. 

Onward ho! 

whenever a healthcare provider moves into the patient role

French toast with blueberries and sausage is a very good breakfast when your body is knitting itself back together. It sends a message to new parts, that are getting acquainted with older parts, that the boss (you) are going to be treating them right. Plus, French toast is known to encourage the production of endorphins. 

I sliced the bread extra thick but neglected to take that into account when soaking it in the custard before baking. It was still quite acceptable on the deliciousness scale. 

The calendar tells me it has been 19 days since surgery. These are the thoughts that run through my mind in no particular order:
Will I be ready to go back to work in 10 days?
Should walking still be somewhat uncomfortable?
Why does it feel like I still need this cane?
Maybe I should use more pain pills?
And of course, the inevitable middle of the night, "hey what's that and why does it hurt?"

I am reporting on all of this because we humans just want to be sure we are "on track" don't we? We like to be sure that we are having a "normal" recovery. We change our expectations from having the fastest recovery ever in the history of this particular surgery, to being  in the "acceptable" range. 

Whenever a healthcare provider moves into the "patient" role, all our words of support, encouragement, and sound advice regarding how hard to push it and when to use analgesics play around in our heads. Chris asked me the other day if going through this will change anything I do as a part of my work. The answer is a resounding YES! What I will do a better job of is educating patients and their families about how they are going to second guess themselves at every single turn, driving themselves crazy with all of the uncertainty and expectations. Then I will hand them a card that says "You are YOU, different from anyone else that has ever had this done, YOU are going to recover at YOUR pace and no one else's, and when you start thinking differently, send me an email and I am going to lovingly remind you of this". There will also likely be a hug involved, depending on our relationship. 

I will then tell them that French toast with blueberries, sausage, and syrup can have a very soothing effect on whatever ails them.

the cognitive and emotional aspects of recovery from surgery

Today it has been 17 days since I came home from the hospital. How is that even possible? To mark this milestone, a lunch date was arranged with my wise counselor Marti Huff and her co-counselors who specialize in laughter and distraction therapy. Oh how wonderful to be out in the world carrying on like a regular person, granted with the aid of a trusty cane. 

Marti reminded me of what her mom used to tell her ,"everyday, in every way, I am getting better and better", which is a helpful mantra as one starts to second guess themselves regarding the speed of their recovery. There was also discussion about reminding ourselves in the middle of the night, when all things can seem like more than they are, that... "this too shall pass". When you have a counselor who is 99, and has lived through all the things that life has thrown at her, and is thriving, you feel great comfort in her wisdom. I sure do. 

We toasted ourselves with a glass of wine, discussed potential future outings, and enjoyed sweet potato wedges, Brussels sprouts, a lyonnaise salad, lentil and sweet potato Shepards pie, and an earl grey creme brûlée.  

The scheduling of outings is as important as solving 5th grade math problems when one considers the cognitive and emotional aspects of recovery from surgery.  

purring promotes healing

On post-op day #9 a corner was turned. The corner that put me out onto walking better street. A smoother glide. Of course there remain times of discomfort. Which I fully expect to continue for awhile. Here are some other things that are enhancing my recovery this week.  Photos of my great-niece Katharine. 

Naps in bed in the sunshine with books by the bed, friends sending me photos of quilts they are working on, ideas of things to create bubbling up all around, dreaming of the gooey butter cake I saw online this week and deciding when will be the right time to make it. It was a "St. Louis style" gooey butter cake. How could it be bad?

Chris procured a pill splitter for me so I could cut my pain pills in half and feel like I can get just the relief I need and not feel woozy the next day. Hurrah. I am a fan of the "lowest most effective dose" with the fewest side effects. Sometimes it takes a bit of practice to find that sweet spot. 

Regular video's and photos of my great fur niece and nephew from sister. I swear I can feel them right here with me. 

It's a well known fact that purring promotes healing.

 

Jarred the physical therapist

Thank you all so much for your ongoing comments and support as I recuperate from surgery. While I have been doing exercises at home, and had a full 45 minute session at the rehab place yesterday, I want you to know about some recovery techniques I am investigating to see if they add anything to the traditional plan.

Today there was a drive in the fresh air and sunshine while we slurped up a shamrock shake. Those who know me are aware I typically choose not to use my good calories on anything "fast food", but for some reason today it sounded good. We haven't had one for a few years and they are mintier, than they used to be, the green is more artificial if that is possible, and we both enjoyed it.  One is plenty to split between 2. They do have 10gm of protein by the way. Which is important in recovery. 

For my cognitive re-training, sister is sending me 5th grade math problems to see if I can figure them out. Math in 2023 is not the same as it was in 1967 or 68 which is when I think I was in 5th grade. I could turn that into a story problem but I won't. So far I have successfully completed 3 of the 5 she has sent. One was a real hard one that I got wrong because I had never heard of a "tape diagram" before, which you need to understand to be able to do. Jeez! I am taking great comfort in the fact that Marti Huff (one of the wisest people I know) got the same answer as me when I sent it to her to do. I am saving the last problem for later tonight after I take a nap then eat dinner.  Math problems are fun when you don't "have" to do them and you are not getting graded.  Sister always gives me lots of encouragement. 

P.S. I wish you could have seen my face on Tuesday at therapy when Jarred the physical therapist said our next exercise would be to "get up from a seated position without the aid of your arms". He promptly raised the level of the platform on which I was seated, which made it easier, and we are still getting along famously. 

2 nurses who stood out in a sea of stars

Good morning from Tall Tales Headquarters where I am beginning day 5 of post-op recovery. At this exact second I am sitting on the couch, ice packs in place, afghan covering my legs, cup of coffee in hand, relishing this moment of feeling things are healing in my body.

Thank each of you for all the good vibes you sent out into the universe for me. I have felt each one nudge me from the place you sent it from. Such comfort. How to fully explain the immensity of the loving kindness and concern I have felt surrounded by? The closest I can come is a feeling of light and protection enveloping me, Like I am moving through the world sheltered from any possible harm.  What a feeling. It makes my cry.

My hospital experience was top notch. I was at the KU campus at Indian Creek in Kansas City and the attention to my safety, comfort, and well being was amazing. Emma and Martha were 2 nurses who stood out in a sea of stars. How good it feels to be on the receiving end of such excellent care.

I am up, walking, have started therapy, am giving up the walker for the cane today. Chris has been on duty non-stop at home. Cooking wonderful meals and making sure I have every little thing I need. 

Please know that every single e-mail, text, call, Marco-polo, FaceTime, card, flower, book, and good wish have been, and continue to be appreciated. I shall be posting updates as “007” and I complete our bonding and prepare for all our future adventures together.

P. S.  Sister suggested the name 007 for my titanium/ceramic hip and as soon as she said it I knew it was right.

 

I'm not built that way

We had some big white snowflakes today in Lawrence. But just for about an hour or so. Nothing stuck to the ground. It was the perfect morning for a late breakfast, steel cut oats topped with big giant blueberries, walnuts, some yogurt and maple syrup. Coffee to sip. A glance through the paper. Nowhere to go. 

Cold weather makes me want to stay inside and make stuff. Coincidentally, I scribbled down a list in my journal the other day of things I want to get going on. Today I worked on three.  Let's begin with the triangle quilt. As you can see, it has not yet been started. 

I have wanted to make one since Pam Garrison brought her's to art retreat #3 (I think) in Palm Springs years ago. Solid triangles, sewn together in strips. She told me she got the idea from Elise Blaha and today I found her old post of a baby triangle quilt she made. It was fun to look at in preparation for embarking on mine. 

I made a few practice cuts on some scraps to be sure I understand how this is going to fit together. I'm glad I did. This stack of Kona Solids (fat quarters) was acquired a while back with just this purpose in mind... plus a few other projects I have thought of for using the scraps I am going to have afterwards.  

My needlepoint project also got some attention. I think I am just past the halfway point?

This cowl was also begun. Yarn purchased in Lincoln when we went over the summer. It's a combination of linen and silk and is very nice to work with. 

Sometimes I think if I just did one thing at a time, I would complete things more quickly. But I'm just not built that way. My hands and my mind like to skip to and fro and I feel compelled to go where they lead me. 

I am going with it

Daybreak on the first day of 2023 was foggy, quiet, gentle, atmospheric. 

End of day was the same, no fog, but still quiet and peaceful.

In between these 2 pictures, we did not hurry and we did not scurry.

There was brunch at home, after which we tested ourselves for COVID for the 1st time since the beginning of the pandemic. We have never had symptoms and never had a need to test before. Several family members have turned up positive since our Christmas get together and because we had tests on hand we decided to use them. To see what it was like? Because the tests are going to expire soon? For the experience? Whatever. We did it. 

Both negative, for which we are grateful. It would prefer not to start the new year testing positive. But in the back of my mind I still think it's likely that we will all get it sooner or later. Who knows? I don't dwell on it, a good mantra for 2023 is a favorite from Marti Huff... "don't trouble trouble, until trouble troubles you". I am going with it.  

carefully stored in an old dish from Mama Fina

On the very last day of 2022, as I looked through photos from the past year, I selected these as some of the great moments.

There was also Marco Polo'ing done with Peggy and Annette - dear friends since our days together at Marymount. We had a wonderful, hair-brained, hastily planned, 36 hour trip to Omaha in November and have been communicating using MP since then. So much better than texting. It's an ongoing conversation that can dangle and get picked up anytime one of us feels like it. Delightful.

Sister and I started talking about a lace curtain, which led to talk of Sweden and Norway, which resulted in getting out our Stockholm travel journals and doing video "flip through's" to send each other. Why don't I paint more? I loved every single thing I did in that journal. I will have to post that video here on the blog. Sometime.

I pulled out my "binding supplies" that are carefully stored in an old dish that I think Dottie told me belonged to our grandmother - Mama Fina. I don't think she kept sewing stuff in it, but she might have. I sat in the sun in the dining room and hand stitched some binding. I also dearly love that strawberry pin cushion that Pam Garrison made me more than a few years back.  

Looking back, that's what you do on the last day of the year right? Let memories filter through without any one getting stuck. We also played Clue and drank champagne. Chris and I have determined that Mr. Green is a serial killer and must be stopped. 

Happy last day of 2022 to all of you. I hope you are toasting in the new year in whatever way best pleases you. As for me, I am going to go and wash my face and put on my pajamas right this second. I will be raising my glass to all of you in complete and total comfort. That is what pleases me more than anything. 

time enough for that after the beginning of the new year

Having this week between Christmas and New Year's mostly at home (as in not working), is foreign and quite pleasant. I have never had a job where business was closed during this week. Sitting around and enjoying the decorations and music feels luxurious. But also there is a part of me thinking "shouldn't I be getting ready for something?" I continue to enjoy looking at the pictures Dottie sent.  One below from Christmas 1979. I am impressed with Angie's placement of greenery over the mantle. We never talked much about our shared love of decorating for the holidays. Just another one of those things you don't think about until it's too late. 

Chris and I pulled the Clue game out of the basement and figured out how to play it with 2 people.  This after trying to play CaseFile on Christmas Day and finding myself thoroughly confused. Sometimes it makes sense not to muck up a classic with too many gimmicks. Says the great-aunt anyway.  As of 12/29 at 3pm we are nose to nose with our skills of reasoning and deduction. 

Today I poured the last bit of eggnog into a glass and toasted the month of December.  With the coffee chaser to make the whole experience last just as long as possible.  Sip sip slurp.

I have been reading short stories, finishing up a hat and some fingerless gloves, moving along slowly on my needlepoint, going to bed early, sleeping in until 7:30, staring at the tree, wondering what everyone else is doing, hoping NOT to see anyone start getting virtuous or productive yet. There will be time enough for that AFTER the beginning of the New Year. Right now I am leaning deep into some serious loafing and am finding it has its merits. 

 

come little leaves said the wind one day...

Tonight it's a few favorite recent moments. Great moments, some brief, some longer, just the things that make life sweeter.  Lets start with a lunch out shall we?  I am giving Wheatfields high marks for a most excellent lunch with the Huffs last week.

The quiche, salad, sandwiches, bread, all delicious and I haven't even gotten to the lemon tart, the carrot cake, and the panne cotta. Marti told me about her old neighbor C.J. Doney, AND how her grandmother, every October, would recite this poem to her... 

    "Come little leaves, said the wind one day
    Come o'er the meadows with me and play;
    Put on your dresses of red and gold,
    For summer is gone and the days grow cold..."

Can you imagine anything more wonderful, than at 98 years old having this memory of your grandmother? Me neither. Except now I have THIS memory of Marti Huff reciting it in Wheatfields and every single trip there (especially in October) moving forward will be better for it. 

Somehow I missed uploading this purple daikon and watermelon radish (from Mellowfield farms) photo into my market post. No matter, now you have seen it. Once again, Mother Nature on display in her absolute finest. Which brings me to the butterfly on the zinnia out back before the cold snap. 

For a bit of complete escapism, with lovely characters, scenery, and a sweet story line, you may want to watch Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris.  Trailer embedded below for your viewing pleasure. We watched it on Amazon Prime for less than three bucks! 

The mums on my front porch below. I took 3 old pillow cases that were no longer fit for use, slit them up one side, and covered each pot with one. Secured on the side with a clothespin, voila! - they survived the frost.

Finally, real quick, Ohio street is where I "leaf peeped" after the farmers market this week. The colors this year are unrivaled. I think I say that every year. I always mean it too. 

When I looked up and saw the light in the leaves, it was like the a shot from a movie where some kind of a vision or spectral sighting happens. It didn't, but it sure could have. Right there on Ohio street. 

bought years ago at the grand bazaar in Istanbul

A hodge-podge view of the transition from summer to fall, in no particular order. Flowers left in the garden for the birds makes me happy. Seeing birds partaking of them makes me double happy. 

Nearing the end of the Zinnia season.

Neon Pothos clipped and brought in for wintering over. It did so great in pots with the caladiums this year. Hopefully it will root easily and I will not forget to add water to the jar over the winter. 

Halloween banner and other "trip-trap" put on the mantel.  

Jade plants and dracaena trifasciata pots moved back inside and gourds arranged on porch along with fall pillows.  I bought these years ago at the grand bazaar in Istanbul. They are badly faded, not meant to be left outside, but that's where I love them best. Maybe next fall will be the year for new pillow covers. There are so many fun fall and Halloween fabrics. 

Old cross stitch hung up.

It's time for pumpkin baking too, as soon as that last piece of banana bread has been consumed. Maybe I need a piece right now? I just saw a recipe somewhere for a hot toddy too. With honey and camomile tea - it called for Rye but Bourbon sounds better to me. Is it just me or is Fall feeling especially delightful so far this year?  

holding their wings open to dry in the sun

During my post-vacation return to the activities of everyday life I have been doing extremely important things.  Such as:

Meeting up with the Huff's for lunch. Stonefruit salad with kale, burrata, crouton, chopped hazelnuts. It was divine and only bettered by the piece of lemon meringue pie for dessert - the filling was tart and rich with an almost lemon curd quality to it. The meringue was whipped into a state of absolute creamy perfection and then torched. To. Die. For.  We discussed books, field sobriety tests and heel to toe walking. I think the topic of forgetfulness came up but I can't be sure. 

Washing my cantaloupe Hoka's. Which were beyond filthy. Wow did they come out clean!

Taking a morning walk, checking in with the natural world. There was a tree with a whole lot of turkey buzzards in it - holding their wings open to dry in the sun?  Not this tree that is falling slowly into the river, a big tall tree, it reminded me of the cormorants in their trees on the beach around Summerland

Making banana bread even though it is pumpkin bread season because these 3 bananas required using. Since the last batch I made, I  have become a firm believer in baking the bananas before putting them in the batter. Sort of the same way toasting nuts and roasting vegetables intensifies their flavor. 

Cutting zinnias.

There was other stuff, but this covers the highlights.

P.S. If there is a more divine color combination than pink and orange I would like to meet it. 

the combined collective energy of a group of like minded individuals invigorates me

In follow up from the farmers market last week let me just say this cantaloupe was flavorful, soft and firm (if that makes sense), and was the perfect addition to my lunches for work. I am a fan of pepper and a speck of salt on my cantaloupe. That's how Angie always ate it.

The bag of tiny potatoes was made into "smashed" crispy potatoes. Olive oil, salt, pepper, into a 375 degree oven for 20 minutes or so, slight cooling period, then coated with combination of melted butter, olive oil, chopped chives, grated parmesan, smashed with the bottom of a measuring cup, back in oven at 425 degrees for about 15 minutes or until crispy. Success! I made potato salad with the second half of the bag. Little potatoes are creamy and dreamy any way you make them.

There was an Oh My Gouache Art Zoom this past Sunday that was tremendously fun.  We painted together from parts near and far on ZOOM. Each of us working on what we wanted to...the combined collective energy of a group of like minded individuals invigorates me. Here is what I worked on. 

Flying birds, leaves, and a self portrait on toned paper with colored pencils. Good clean fun. 

Other activities this week have included a walk by the river and a "hot Indonesian" latte at La Prima Taza, one of the oldest coffee spots in Lawrence. 

Unbeknownst to me, there is a crowd of regulars that brings their chairs and sets up a coffee klatch on the sidewalk outside on Wednesdays at 9:00am. I can not say if this is a recurring weekly event, but I will say they all ordered "my regular" drink, and the barista greeted them by name. Just one more thing to love about Lawrence, Kansas. 

I accidentally on purpose took 2 stickers

What I did for fun recently:

1. Made biscuits and a few jars of pickled cucumbers and onions. I discovered recently that pickles and onions are a wonderful accompaniment to spicy beef and broccoli. The perfect foil to the whole soy/sesame/oyster sauce/umami thing.  

2. Went for an early morning walk and saw sunflowers at the middle school down the street. In that first morning light they were magnificent. Anything + early morning light = beautifulness. 

3. Went over to the county election office and voted in person early. I accidentally on purpose took 2 stickers that said I voted. 

4. Mixed up a wine spritzer of sorts so I could use up the last 4 strawberries before they went bad. 

5. Admired my very own patch of coneflowers. After pulling weeds. Which was NOT fun, but nonetheless required attention. 

Finding things to do that are "fun" is essential to living a contented life. For me. 

Helpful links:  Biscuit recipe here.

 

on a tuesday there was this...

An early morning walk on a weekday, with no expectations, yielded all of this.

I saw this quote on line today from Henry David Thoreau which seems made for this experience. "You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, find your eternity in each moment." Right on HDT. 

to understand them as a part of life that come and go

After almost an entire month of not being able to walk without discomfort (which totally took the mental health benefits out of it), I have been back at it for the past 3 days. Church of the glassy river, Baker Wetlands, pond down the street... how I missed you. 

Oh the mysterious ways of the body and the reaction of the mind. What is this? When will it go away? What should I do to make it better? Is this making it worse? You know the drill.  Can we talk about aches and pains for a minute? Not to roll around in them so everyone will feel bad for us, but rather to understand them as a part of life that come and go. Often with no rhyme or reason... not one that we can pinpoint anyway.  A cloud that has blown in that will surely blow away is a great metaphor from Tara Brach (or maybe Pema Chödrön) for the suffering in life.

This has been a great wake up call for me on the importance of STRETCHING and making time for it before and after walking. The next time I am plagued with some unpleasant sensations in the body my plan is this: acknowledge, accept, and remember it's a cloud. Then I will speed dial my massage and physical therapists, who by the way are my "team" as much as my primary care doctor and all the "specialists" out there. Fabulous women these two. 

We did. It was good. We were glad.

When Johnny and Annette were visiting Tall Tales Headquarters recently, we had Margaritas and Bloody Mary's. Not at the same time. 

The luxury of having your own personal bartender, who cleans up after himself, and has a wicked sense of humor, can not be overstated.

The fact that he is a dear friend and married to one of my dearest friends ... ok, enough said. 

In other news, these zinnias all re-seeded themselves from last year. Best crop of volunteers ever. I took care to break up the dried flower heads last year and throw them around at the end of the season. Seems like it paid off. It also helps that these zinnias are in my back garden where it is sunny and sort of protected from the harsh winds here in Kansas. 

I am very much enjoying listening to The Trojan Horse Affair podcast. I am not sure where it is going, but it's so interesting and a commentary of sorts on these times we are living in? If you like a podcast, give it a whirl. Excellent to knit along to. 

In addition to cleaning the bathrooms before our guests arrived, the sewing area got neatened up.  



This may or may not turn into a smallish pillow for the chair at my desk at home. Old jeans + scraps = real good fun. 

While we are on the subject of sewing, I reinforced a buttonhole on these yard-mowing shorts for Chris recently.

I told Chris they come with a money back guarantee. I am in love with the whole mending movement - in theory anyway. I need more practice which will of course make things closer to perfect

There was a meeting of the Huff Lunch Club recently. Items discussed included the universal appeal and good looks of a pair of Birkenstocks at any age, the importance of incorporating creative endeavors into a life, and carrot cake. 

That's all I have to report today. Did I mention that we ate carrot cake in addition to discussing it? We did. It was good. We were glad. 

you are so loved, already

Here's a quick update on the happenings at Tall Tales Headquarters this Memorial Day weekend.

I fell hook line and sinker for these groupings of fat quarters at Sarah's Fabrics in Lawrence - Here There batiks by Marcia Derse. 

This neck warmer, which is in no way needed right now, came off the needles and got blocked. It turned out exactly as expected. I asked the chair to model it for you and it was most obliging. Thrown over the head no extra looping, lays perfectly, wonderfully soft. Pattern is the Ensata Cowl by Amy Van de Laar from Brooklyn Tweed. Yarn is Peerie (fingering weight) also from Brooklyn Tweed. Colorway is Treehouse and is a bit greener than it looks in this photo. This yarn is a dream to work with. 



Because something always has to be on the needles, I started this Color Affection wrap by Veera Valimaki using these yarns that were in my stash and seem to go together pretty will... time will tell. Pattern available on Ravelry. 

My wonderful local bookstore, The Raven, won Publishers Weekly bookstore of the year and I couldn't be prouder. Yay for local bookstores and all those who shop there.

Strawberry season will not be lasting much longer... I am taking advantage of every local strawberry I can eat. 

Fabrics are being washed for cutting, pressing, sewing.

Succulent pots were planted out back today. All caution to the wind. Do what you want. It may work out, it may not. Angie's plastic birds that have lost their wings were added to the mix along with shells, rocks, and other morning walk finds. 

Amidst all the sadness in the world right now, the Mulvenon's have welcomed Maya Louise into the family. Hope springs eternal. Welcome to the world baby girl, you are so loved. Already. 

an unburdening

One might think that working part time instead of full time would translate to more not less blogging. What I am finding though, is that the extra time is going instead to sitting and thinking. Thinking about stuff like "No Mow May" which helps the bees.  

There is also the thinking and eating activities, as in how will I use the farmers market purchases. At this time of year it's pretty much just clean and eat. Strawberries with blueberries and yogurt, asparagus with greens and hard boiled eggs in a salad with a mustardy vinaigrette.  

Deciding if one piece of cake will make 3 desserts or only 2. This coconut/lime concoction may be my new favorite from the Chonky boys. Moist with a pop of lime in the frosting and the chew of the flaky coconut. 

The annual cleaning, filling, and plugging in of the fountain. 

Watching the rain on the hosta leaves. 



What I am actually finding is an unburdening. Letting go of the need to "do" without a reason. Especially some self-imposed rule that needs to be let go of. 

Chris and I are talking about a drive to Tulsa.  Who's been? On our agenda at this moment is The Philbrook Museum of Art, a botanic garden, and I just stumbled across Knit Stars which looks amazing. What else have you done there that we should investigate? Do tell. 

she told me I would get down on my knees and thank her

Weekends have a new freshness to them, when every Monday is not a work day. There is time for piddling. Selecting flowers for the first mini flower arrangement of the season, sitting on the front porch after pulling weeds. There is soil to be turned and amended, mulch to be laid, all in good time. 

My mind turns to thoughts of road trips to see Brother and Dottie and Sister. How would it be to jump in the car and go. Would I decide halfway to Albuquerque that it was a bad idea? No way to know except to try...

These are the week-old tulips right before I tossed them.  Let me age like a tulip please.  

I was a few minutes late for my date with the sun this week. It started without me, which was fine.

The tree sparrows are nesting in all the houses at the Baker Wetlands.



Green grasses are pushing up. 

Trails beckon and the wild phlox is blooming.



Oat milk lattes are a new favorite. Very creamy with a nice mouth feel. 

My finds from the beaches of California are sitting on my table and I am moving them around on different surfaces. It's addictive making patterns with different combinations.



In entertainment news, which you know will be old because Chris and I are the last one's to see whatever the new thing is. We started Atlantic Crossing last night. Gripping is how I would describe it. It is based on some thread of truth - how much I don't know, but I am seriously down a rabbit hole of looking up what was happening in Norway in WWII. We are watching on Amazon prime. There is only one season, 8 episodes. 

I was telling sister about it until she reminded me that she told me about it eons ago. She also told me I would get down on my knees and thank her when I followed her advice and watched Last Tango in Halifax and Seaside Hotel when we are done with this current series we are watching.

this sense of opening up

Spring weather in the midwest can translate to glorious skies. Here is a perfect example from last week. 

Looking up the river and across to the other side, the reflections of the remnants of the storm on the water were wonderful. 

Just straight up was pretty good too. 

Especially as I turned for home and the sky got blue. This year we have had a wonderful bloom on the redbuds which are native to the area. 

Really marvelous. 

This has not a thing to do with clouds or storms or redbuds, but the birth of a leaf is pretty cool when you can catch it. 

On this morning walk I ran into quite a few birdwatchers. They told me the migration websites had indicated conditions were excellent for spotting warblers. It's nice to talk to someone who is just completely delighted with what they are doing and happy to answer questions. 



After the walk there was time for a latte and playing around with my new brush pens. One of the nicest things about working part time is this sense of opening up, slowing down, making time for just hanging out. 

a box of whoppers

after a weeks worth of morning beach walks in california, easter sunday was a bit on the brisk side here in kansas this morning

but there was still good stuff to see and the bunny left me a box of whoppers in my basket

flowering trees and shrubs + candy + chris making easter dinner tonight = win, win, win

in true great-aunt Alice fashion

The very best thing about the snow on Thursday was not that it was pretty. Which it was. 

Nor was it the way this cardinal stood out among all the white and gray and brown.  Which it did. 

The BEST thing about the snow was when these 3 budding entrepreneurs rang the doorbell, shovels in hand, and asked if we needed the driveway cleared. Heck yes we need it cleared! Could we do it ourselves? Of course, but that is not the point. Not when you have 3 kids who want to make some money and are willing to work for it. 

They organized themselves quickly, one on the porch and front walk, the other two on the driveway. Within 25 minutes they had it cleared. I thought that was record time given that we had about 3 inches, and it was a bit on the heavy side.  We paid them what it was worth (more than they asked) and advised them (in true great-aunt Alice fashion) not to sell themselves short at the next house.

P.S. I might have told them to come back the next time it snows. Which could be tomorrow. 

wherever you are in the world

Happy Saturday ( or maybe Sunday by the time you read this) from Tall Tales Headquarters. I treated myself to the 12 dollar tulip bouquet from the grocery store today. Because I, like the rest of the world, am in need of comfort.  

I finished reading Crying in the H Mart last night. A memoir by Michelle Zauner, whose mom died when the author was in her early 20's. I think it was so insightful, at her young age, to realize that she may only have a short time with her mother, and she chose to go be with her for the last months of her life. I don't see a lot of people who do that. No judgement here, it's just hard when we are caught up in our own lives filled with work, kids, spouses, obligations... to just put all that on hold. 

Also, this book made me want to explore the entire world of Korean food. She describes it all so vividly, including how her mom taught her to appreciate it.  The book is recommended, if you are in a place where you are able to read about a daughter losing her mom to a terminal illness. Not everyone is right now. 

Is this photo below not the MOST adorable picture ever? I think it's the authors mother and aunt. 

On this regular Saturday there was a visit from my dearest of dear neighbor cats, Harvey. Talk about comfort. 

He was just enjoying the sun, sniffing the grasses, and was up for a giant squeezer hug from me. 

That's it tonight friends. Be well wherever you are in the world. 

moments of joy wrapped up somewhere inside it all

Over the holiday weekend, after it turned too cold outside for humankind, I made another mitten for the holiday garland, filled the bird feeder (twice), and examined the frost on the northeast facing bedroom window upstairs. 

Upon completion of those chores, sister and I did some Art Zooms where I engaged in tree painting and drawing, from ideas found on holiday cards and instagram. So many good ideas for having fun. 





After that I got the bright idea to hem up the new flannel shirt Dottie sent me for Christmas. You may think that's too many pins to use, but on an edge with curves, the more the better. For me. 



I drank many cups of hot tea to stay warm and tried to catch up on back editions of the the book review from the NYT. Sometime during all of that the idea of adding a tree to the pygmy forest worked it's way into my mind. 





The last very last page of Everyday Journal #7 was finished, a new one begun, and I took a photo of the Christmas tree for posterity. Do you recall where you have placed your Christmas tree in every home you have ever lived in? Nowadays, when we take photos of everything, most people could scroll back and look. But I can't remember where it was in our first home in Lawrence... back in the late 1980's. 







The tree was completed just in time for supper and now it's back to work tomorrow. Happy 2022 everyone, whatever it brings, there will surely be moments of joy wrapped up somewhere inside it all.  

isn't that a good thing

Tonight as we prepare to enter a new year, begin a fresh journey, one foot in front of the other, heading into the future... I can't help but look at a few good moments from the past year. So hard to only choose nine, and isn't that a good thing? 

Happy New Year's Eve from Tall Tales Headquarters where Chris is making pizza for dinner and our entertainment for the night is watching Holiday from 1938 with Cary Grant and Katherine Hepburn. After the movie, a book is waiting by the bed. I hope your plans are ones that bring you the same sense of simple satisfaction.  

until I see the next one

The astounding-ness of the fall colors continues. Unabated. Undiminished. 

But the winds do blow, and soon the leaves will be gone. So my eyes are open, pictures taken with each blink, stored in the albums in my mind. 

The variety does not disappoint. 

I think each one is my most favorite, until I see the next one.

a person easily satisfied simply with the contemplation of creating

My very, very, very, most, most, most, favorite thing about having a few days off in my immediate future is thinking about all the things that I could do. Whether they get done or not, does nothing to diminish the absolute pleasure in letting my mind flip through all the potential options. 

A few things that have been occupying days off recently have included updating my inspiration board, delighting in autumn window displays, and fall flowers on the table. 







There was also setting the table for dinner guests, something not done in a very long time. Enjoying in-person conversation with family over a meal of ham and beans and cornbread.   



Watching the leaves turn and fall off the trees, saying goodbye to the bougainvillea for another year, and cutting down some of the dried zinnias also got done. Chores don't necessarily top the list of things I am excited to do, but it sure feels good to get them done. 

I also stumbled upon the image below from Lion Brand Yarn, which fueled my long held desire to make a granny square afghan or throw or blanket of sorts.



I quickly sent the image to the Prairie Makers to see if anyone else would be interested in a granny square discussion/project. We shall see if anything comes to fruition. As I said at the beginning of this post, I am a person easily satisfied simply with the contemplation of creating. The large rolodex of ideas in my mind has unlimited storage space available.  And that friends, is a very good thing. 

ready to move ahead into whatever this fall is bringing

A few things of note lately on the local front.  Dashiel is loving his new digs on Massachusetts street. 

The blueberry scones are almost as good as the orange cranberry scones from Chonky Treats. I can't help it, I have a bad habit of loving my first love best. 

My latest knitting project is happening right in time to blend with the Halloween color scheme on my table. 

La Prima Taza - maybe the oldest (and certainly one of the finest) coffee shops in Lawrence has opened it's doors again. If you go when it's hot get the "Iced Indonesian" and if it's cool outside ask for it warm - I personally like it "half sweet" too.  It's a treat. 

The Dahlias are going strong. With a few added zinnias to fill in as the week went on. 

The Halloween banner is up and the rest of the decor will soon follow.  I like sitting in my living room looking around at all the treasures made and collected through the years. 



Finally, in the last 7 days, I have received my annual flu shot, a covid booster immunization, and a TDAP injection.  I feel invincible. Nothing more than a sore arm with each shot. I am ready to move ahead into whatever this fall is bringing my way.  I am dreaming of adventures near and far. Even when they only happen in my mind I like thinking about them. 

when I did not wax poetic for so long about the file cabinets in my brain or my theories about a good life

I heard a line today from someone about how it is easier to recall memories that are unhappy while sometimes the good ones glide by and are lost.  I wonder if that is so. Maybe?  I know I can recall with absolute clarity various incidents when someone has "done me wrong".  I could recount very specific details to you, even years after the fact. 

Wouldn't it be great if we could go in for a mind cleanse? A procedure of sorts where you could isolate things you would rather just forget about... if only you could let it go. Think about the space that would provide for your good memories to breathe and emerge renewed, with greater color and depth.  

I am forever on the path of trying to look for the good in the everyday, thinking this will lead to a more peaceful, satisfied life. It's just so darn easy to get tripped up by things we can't do a thing about. At least not in the present moment.  

Now this Brookie, pictured above, is something I do have control over, that is simple and delicious, can be eaten in several sittings and I am pretty sure when I recall it in years to come it will have grown even more epic in flavor and pushed some bad stuff out of my head.

It's kind of an example of more is more. A sharp contrast to last night's post when I did not wax poetic for so long about the file cabinets in my brain, or my theories about a good life.  In case you are wondering, the Brookie is an unusual combination of a crisp chocolate chip cookie, a deep, dark, moist chocolate brownie, and cream cheese frosting all rolled into one attractive package. It's available from those Chonky fellows at the Lawrence Farmers market. I think we have 4 or 5 more markets until the end of the season in case you were wondering. 

sometimes less IS more

The combination of the these zinnias and this little gourd, with a very long stem, is the very definition of serendipity. 

And maybe I'll just leave it at that tonight. Because sometimes less is more? 

how much my future self is going to love what I have done

Tonight it's pictures snapped here and there that are part of everyday life.  Regular moments that said "hey take a picture of me".  The moon setting out the back door in the very early morning. Cherry tomatoes on the counter. Blooming succulents. Mist rising from the pond on a 48 degree morning. Freshly washed dishes. The way this plant, whose name escapes me at this exact moment, has done so well all summer and seems to be getting pinker as the temperatures cool. 

Pretty soon (as in I should be doing it right now), the fall gardening tasks will have to be started.  Selecting succulents to winter-over, dumping out the pots of annuals, cleaning the pots before it gets cold, doing some weeding…. I always appreciate it in the spring when I have done a reasonably good job in the fall.  That's the thing - telling my current un-motivated self,  come April I will be paid back in dividends for the energy invested now.  I like trying to trick myself like that. Sometimes it even works. 

when planning an adventure in the mind the more detailed the better

Last night, in our imaginations, Dottie and Mary Ann and I planned a rendezvous on the Mendocino headlands. We were to meet at 6:30 am by the big tree in front of the white house and from there would proceed out to the trails that wind around the coast above the ocean.

After our walk we would make our way to the Good Life Cafe and Bakery where I would get avocado toast, Dottie the tofu stir fry, and either a strawberry danish or biscuits and gravy for sister. When planning an adventure in the mind the more detailed it can be the better. 

This was the walk taken instead. Which was equally glorious, though I would have appreciated the company of my sisters.





After a weekend of work it feels good to get up early and re-acquaint myself with the joys of an early morning ramble, especially when part of it involves a light sprinkle, and an encounter with 2 deer.

cloud study # 62

Sky with clouds. Sunday morning between 6:33 and 7:32 am. It was glorious.

Note to self: go outside and look up more often. 

I was raised to believe you can have more than one favorite of anything

This month's ordinary stuff has included walks,

Skimming through this wonderful book about birds which is packed full of little bits of things you have likely always wanted to know, in a format that does not get overly detailed and is beautifully illustrated. Check it out from your library to decide if you MUST own it. 

Evaluating the progress of the succulents that I thought would die from too much rain (they haven't) and showing them to sister who told me that my string of fishhooks was actually a string of dolphins. Which in hindsight seems pretty obvious. 

Wrapping packages, mailing cards.

Drinking latte's and bringing cold brew home. 

And... watching the moon, in the early morning. It's my favorite time to look at it. Except of course when I am looking at it at night, which is also my favorite time to look at it. I was raised to believe you can have more than one favorite of anything. 

I stopped in to pick up a loaf of seeded utility bread

A couple of real ordinary things that have made me smile lately include this sunflower upstairs by my computer. Just one. I like to rotate it 180 degrees, sometimes displaying the front and sometimes the back.

This mural on 9th street in Lawrence.

Swordfish served with cauliflower, squash, and saffron risotto. Pickled carrots and onion on top with micro greens. A dinner out with friends. Getting them in while the getting is good. 

A "skeleton" leaf seen on a walk. 

A wild riot of colorful zinnias snipped from my very own cutting garden. Truly there is nothing that feels more luxurious than this. 

Enjoying an iced coffee on the patio out back at 1900 Barker when I stopped in to pick up a loaf of "seeded utility bread". It makes the best toast for breakfast and is also perfect in the bread basket at your next dinner party. 

Helpful links: 1900 Barker

peace, love, and a whole lot of tamborine

Tonight I have some favorites with a slight twist to tell you about.
The first is the sun setting from my view above the clouds, on my plane trip home from Los Angeles, through a dirty window. Still spectacular.

Second is my new pajamas.  A "custom" set of capri pants with a short sleeved top from Print Fresh Pajamas. The thing is the short sleeved tops come with shorts but no capri pants. Unless you ask. Which I did, and they complied. How is that for great customer service.This print is called "camels courtyard", but I refer to them as "Midnight at the Oasis" as per the Maria Muldaur song from 1973. 

Thirdly is a new for me plant. Tillandsia aka the airplant. Which actually does need water to grow, but no soil. Sister had one and I saw several tucked in interesting places on neighborhood walks with gardens. It might become my new favorite plant, strategically placed alongside some sea shells and dried American lotus heads?  

New spins on old favorites. It keeps life interesting. Which is not essential, but does add a certain enjoyment to life.

P.S.  for those of you who NEED to hear Midnight at the Oasis - here it is, in the original, no twist. Still catchy. If this isn't emblematic of the 1970's, I don't know what is. Peace, Love, and a whole lot of Tamborine. 

I am going to NEED to know which of you remember this song fondly from "the day". I am picturing several of you in your hip hugger jeans, flowers in your hair. You know who you are. 

I hope in your life you will be lucky enough to be gifted a jar of strawberry butter

I am on hospital duty this weekend and won't make it to the market. Instead I present some favorite recent moments including poppies, clouds, and cardinals. 

I hope in your life (sometime) you will be lucky enough to be gifted a jar of strawberry butter. It's other-worldly in it's deliciousness. Not too sweet, with that hint of cloves and ginger, perfect on a well toasted bagel. It's not an apple butter substitute, nor is it a replacement for jam, it is something that can not be compared to anything else. It just IS simply spectacular. Thanks Meredith!

While we are on the topic of butter... how about this buttery yellow? Deep inside these white/pink peonies.

The fountain got turned on last week. Always a good moment. This particular pump is on it's 3rd year... maybe? I better order another one while I am thinking about it. I am so sad that our water garden store in Lawrence closed it's doors this year. It was so great to just walk in there and talk to someone about what you needed... and they could HELP you. 

While I am on the front porch, what is it about taking a cutting and trying to root it and start another plant from one you already have? 

Angie used to do this all the time. Sister takes cuttings too and so does Dottie. I'm sure it's not just a Moss thing. When it comes to plants, the urge to propagate is strong. Apparently. 

when it's hot enough to have to turn on the air conditioner to sleep at night

Way back in April when the Magnolia trees were blooming, and the sun was shining, I took these photos. But forgot about them.

I figure there is no reason not to put them up now.

I was going to tell you about the great ice cream sandwich I had for dessert tonight but I ate it before taking a picture. So you just pretend you are sitting in a glider looking up at these blossoms eating whatever your favorite brand of ice cream sandwich is, and call it good.

Consider this a public service announcement - when it's hot enough to have to turn on the air conditioner to sleep at night, it's time to stock the freezer with ice cream sandwiches. 

P.S. also, clearly this is a dogwood tree and not a magnolia, if anyone is keeping track of such things.

on the hit parade of the ordinary

On the hit parade of the ordinary this week, here are the top 8 on the charts.
A tiny flower arrangement,  

a Chinese fringe tree, 

a breakfast, 

an evening sky, 

rain on plants, 

a solitary coffee shop visit, 

this year's crop of iris, 

and just one more of Pam's peonies.

The End. 

P.S. I am also grateful for all catastrophes that might have occurred this week that were avoided. When you work in healthcare, you often think "that could so easily be me or my friends/family". The older I get, the more often I pause to breathe in and out and be grateful for my good fortune in THIS moment. 

buds on the new redbud tree were observed every few hours

This weekend was occupied with very important things that needed to get done. I was all prepared to complete my part of the work on the taxes until I heard the deadline has been extended until May 17th. This caused for a change in plans. No sense in being done early. 

Battleship was brought up from the basement. Have you played recently? Good clean fun. What's not to like about sinking your opponent's ships? 

A few areas in the flower beds were cleaned up. Last year's blooms clipped from the oak leaf hydrangea.

A mind clearing walk was taken. 

Biscuits were made. The kind that rise high, with many flaky layers. 

Biscuits were eaten. As is. The tops are brushed with butter before baking and the addition of honey, jam, jelly, more butter, would be superfluous. For me not to want honey on a biscuit is saying something. 

The buds on the new redbud tree were observed every few hours. Because I am beside myself at the thought of them blooming. 

We also watched Robin's Wish this weekend. A documentary about the discovery, after his death, that Robin Williams had Lewy Body dementia.  Definitely worth watching. It focuses much needed attention on the tragedy that is dementia and the accompanying symptoms. 

the not so ordinary, ordinary review

These eggs are not for Eastering. They are just for peeling and eating. Ready whenever I get a hankering for an egg, or need one to throw in some tuna salad. But do not, for one minute, think that just because they are not for decorating does not mean they are not pretty. As is. Completely unadorned. I love the way the light reflects off their smooth, shiny, wet, surfaces.

Chris photographed this cardinal recently out back. Notice how he captured the underneath side of the tail feathers.  Purple/blue with a pleasing pattern formed by the layers. 

It's daffodil time and I could not leave the grocery store without a bunch. Or two. 

The red sunset maple has started its transformation from buds to leaves. It's an annual, multi-step, routine, process. 

A green oxalis jumped into my basket this week. You have to get them while you can around these parts. I love a purple one for the front porch but wanted a green one this year too. Because why not. 

And that wraps up this edition of the not so ordinary, ordinary review. Brought to you by regular me, in celebration of consistent, reliable, average things that make life better.

throwing my desires out into the universe

This goldfinch and I had a staring contest the other day. So unusual that he did not take flight when I quietly crept  outside to take his picture. You can see he still has his winter colors on... but they are beginning to turn. We have been doing our best to keep these visitors supplied with fresh food all winter. 

Visitors that have been a wonderful distraction, and reminder that life goes on, no matter what. I told him to keep coming back and I will make sure Chris keeps filling the feeder. 

Which also reminds me that it's time to put up the square wreaths that go on the front windows in the spring. The ones the Robin's prefer to build their nests upon. 

Today it got up to 60 degrees here in Lawrence.  After 13 below last week. It's crazy. Crazy wonderful to think that spring is around the corner. I am dreaming of porch sitting. Wondering if my little redbud tree will have a good flowering this year. Thinking about traveling somewhere soon. Looking forward to regular visits with my Quail friends. Imagining the days when I can get up to watch the sun rise on a morning ramble. Hoping all my favorite coffee shops in Lawrence will re-open for my kind of Sunday morning church services after a walk. Sometimes just imagining that all this might be possible in the coming weeks and months is enough. 

In the face of no answers, conjuring up all the things that are good about the world seems right. Some might call it delusional, for me it's just throwing my desires out into the universe... all the better to make them happen. If you believe in that sort of thing. Which I do. Today. 

a sturdy, farmhouse cake, with a tart lemon flavor, moist crumb, and buttery undertones

Yesterday, when our temperatures dipped into the single digits, and it was generally unpleasant outside, we tucked ourselves in, cozied ourselves up, and stayed put.

There was this lemon meringue slab cake to make and heels to turn. No matter that the only color of reinforcing yarn I have is not a perfect match for these socks. It will remind me in years to come that I made them during the depths of winter in a pandemic and "made do". 

I haven't made socks in a year or so. It does make me feel especially clever when these non-intuitive aspects of knitting are accomplished successfully. 

There was also a ZOOM early birthday celebration for Chris and Ann. We each made our own cheeseboard, opened a bottle of wine, discussed exercise programs and ring lights and a new gluten free bakery, played the intitial game, and decided that this was a perfectly acceptable way to celebrate.

But back to the cake. It has been calling my name since I saw the photo on the magazine.  

It did not disappoint. In fact, it exceeded my expectations. A sturdy, farmhouse cake, with a tart lemon flavor, moist crumb, and buttery undertones. The meringue is life-changing. I do not believe I am overstating that. This recipe will be my new go-to meringue for Aunt Mabel's chocolate pie. It is thick and smooth, slightly sweet but not overbearing, the perfect consistency, it sticks to your lips when you take a bite causing you to lick them repeatedly as you murmur "mmmmm". 

Recipe enclosed in link above so you don't have to take my word for it. 

it seems like you should have an answer for that sometimes

The most productive thing I did on Sunday was flip the calendar from January to February. Yes, I roasted Brussels sprouts and cauliflower, made lunches for the week, paid the bills, sent out some mail, and changed the sheets. But I didn't really "do" anything. 

You know how on a Friday when everyone is so looking forward to the weekend and you are asked "what are you DOING" this weekend? It seems like you should have an answer for that sometimes. I am going to start making up responses. Things that are believable and possible but totally fabricated. Then I am going to write a book about it. It will be appropriately titled, This: 52 Completely Fictional Accounts of Weekend Plans. 

Other things of interest:
1. We watched the last episode of Poldark on PBS. I was thoroughly satisfied with the wrap up. 
2. Sister told me about Blackbird, a movie about a woman who has a debilitating terminal illness, and elects to take matters into her own hands while she is able. Free on Amazon Prime. Sister and I differed a bit in our opinions about some aspects of it, but completely agreed we liked it. 
3. There was a really interesting article about smell in the NYT magazine this weekend. Link follows if you are interested. COVID and the sense of smell. 

raising my glass to hope and health

While on my virtual art retreat this week, there were also lovely moments of just sitting, doing simple things. 

The satisfaction of hemming a top by hand, of recalling how to do a binding, of using up napkin scraps.

The honking of migrating geese overhead, Harvey coming to visit. 

Making muesli in the kitchen, morning sun hitting the clouds just so.

And on the very last day of my week off, being able to watch the inauguration. I have saved one last bottle of champagne for this very occasion, raising my glass to hope and health.  

the 5 day reset

I just completed my annual 5 day "re-set" program. You know, one of those things you challenge yourself to do for the heck of it. So you can see if your fortitude will win out over your desires. My re-set relates to eating and consists of trying to go very low calorie for 5 days in a row, no alcohol, plant based foods, and then at the conclusion resuming my usual eating habits but maybe being a bit more mindful of what I am putting in my mouth.

Food and I have a mostly healthy relationship but as with everything in life we also have our problems. I could never commit to giving anything up completely. The second I feel deprived things can go off the rails. Except with the 5 day re-set. That is a personal challenge to myself.

One of those things that is under my control, unlike so many things in the world.  The ability to focus my attention towards things that help me. That's what these seemingly unrelated photos all are. 

Strong emphasis on nature and the out of doors. 

Plus the indoor puttering and rituals that reflect the seasons. 

A good candle, fun matches, and a nice tablecloth can be very conducive to a healthy session of daydreaming.  

If you are someone who likes to collect yourself at the beginning of the year and do some kind of re-set, renew, recharge, I hope it sends you off in the direction you are aiming for.   

In a sturdy boat, with a spare oar, and a map of the stars to guide you.